Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, known as Krung Thep Maha Nakhon in Thai, is one of the biggest and most vibrant cities in Southeast Asia. The city has many possibilities for sightseeing, shopping, eating, nightclubbing or just relaxing. This detailed Bangkok travel guide with Bangkok travel tips will help you discover the city and its best things to do.
Things to Do in Bangkok
The capital of Thailand is a large city and there are plenty of tourist attractions and other things to do in Bangkok for a traveller of any taste to be busy for at least several days.
Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew
The Grand Palace is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Thailand and a must-see site in Bangkok. The Grand Palace is an impressive complex of buildings located in the old city of Bangkok. The palace was an official residence of the Thai Kings for 150 years. Today the Grand Palace is used for royal ceremonies and other official functions.
Wat Phra Kaew, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, is regarded as the most important and sacred Buddhist temple in Thailand. The Emerald Buddha, the highly revered Buddha image, is housed in Wat Phra Kaew. The whole complex is usually full of tourists but it's still an amazing place to visit.
The most important places of interest in Bangkok can be visited independently by purchasing an entry ticket at the place or by joining Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew Guided Tour, which lets you know much more about two of Thailand's most popular landmarks and their intricate design and historic statues.
Temples in Bangkok
There are more than 400 Thai Buddhist temples or wats situated all around Bangkok. The most popular temples that you must see while visiting the city are Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha), Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha) and Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn).
These three temples are the most popular and most visited temples in Bangkok. If you are planning to stay longer, consider visiting Wat Saket for the views and some other temples from the list of the most impressive temples in Bangkok.
Three most important temples can be visited with an experienced, local tour guide on this popular City Highlights Temple and Market Walking Tour, which lets you immerse yourself in the cultural and historical heritage of Bangkok by exploring the Grand Palace, the Emerald Buddha Temple, Wat Pho, local markets and Wat Arun.
Bangkok Chinatown (Yaowarat)
Bangkok Chinatown, often referred as Yaowarat, is one of the most authentic spots in the capital of Thailand. It’s a colourful and exotic area lying along Yaowarat Road, with tiny lanes and narrow alleyways, full of market stalls and small shops.
Chinatown is an important food scene of the city. You can explore it and other surrounding areas on this evening tuk tuk tour, which lets discover the beauty of the city and local culture at night by combining temples, market areas, famous sights, tuk tuks and food.
Mahanakhon SkyWalk
King Power Mahanakhon Tower’s SkyWalk is one of city’s premium attractions. Found on the very top of King Power Mahanakhon, which is one of the tallest buildings in Bangkok, the incredible SkyWalk offers breathtaking panoramic views of Thailand’s capital. You can visit one of the highest points in the city at any time from 10:00 to 23:00 and enjoy the views of city’s skyline in the daylight or admire the lights of the city at night.
Mahanakhon SkyWalk is definitely one of must-visit attractions in Bangkok and it can be visited by booking online Mahanakhon SkyWalk Ticket.
In case you are looking for a more affordable way to enjoy impressive views of the city from high, go to Baiyoke Tower, where you can combine city's panoramas with lunch or dinner buffet.
Bangkok Chao Phraya River Dinner Cruise
Bangkok River Cruise along the Chao Phraya River is another must-do experience when you are visiting the capital of Thailand. During your dinner cruise you will have an opportunity to enjoy the beauty of the city’s stunning scenery and its famous historical sites while floating on the river, sipping drinks and enjoying food on board.
Detailed information about most popular Chao Phraya River dinner cruises can be found here: Bangkok River Cruises.
Massage in Bangkok
Like everywhere in Thailand, finding a place to get a massage in Bangkok is easy. You will find plenty of cheap massage parlours and luxury spas - just choose the most suitable for your taste and budget.
Normally you can get a significant discount by pre-booking your spa experience online. To get the best deal for your visit, check an extended list of vouchers at Top Bangkok spa & massages.
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One More Thai Massage & Spa is one of the most popular spas in Bangkok offering premium quality at great rates. By booking your spa visit online you get a discounted access to one of the best spas in the city that provide top class services without breaking the bank.
Muay Thai fights in Bangkok
Bangkok is the place where you can find the most important venues of Muay Thai, which is Thai national sport. Explore the best places to watch Muay Thai Fights in Bangkok.
Exciting real Muay Thai fights can be witnessed at one of the oldest and greatest boxing stadiums in Thailand. Rajadamnern Stadium is a perfect place to experience one of Thailand's most exciting traditions as it’s very popular with locals and tourists with Muay Thai events scheduled every evening. You will have an opportunity to see several different Muay Thai fights in one evening. Be prepared to cheer and roar with the crowd of locals for approximately 4 hours.
Lumpinee Boxing Stadium is another place to consider, if you are planning to visit Bangkok on weekend, as there you can watch equally impressive Muay Thai fights cheaper.
You can also learn the basics of Muay Thai while visiting the capital of Thailand, as some of best Muay Thai gyms such as Watchara Muay Thai Gym are located in the city.
Parks in Bangkok
You can find peaceful green spots for relaxing even in such a chaotic city that Thai capital is. Visit one of the Parks in Bangkok and you will find a place for breathing fresh air or joining outdoor activities with locals.
You can discover the largest green area of the city and the small communities of the area on a bike tour through Bang Krachao.
Zoos, Animal Parks and Aquariums in Bangkok
If you like seeing animals, the capital of Thailand gives you opportunities to see elephants, tigers, crocodiles, snakes and even sharks. In Bangkok you can find aquariums of SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World, an interactive zoo Safari World, the largest in the world Samut Prakan Crocodile Farm, snake shows at Snake Farm and rescued elephants at Bangkok Elephant Park.
For more information about the places to meet animals in Bangkok check here: Zoos, Animal Parks and Aquariums in Bangkok.
The best way for meeting elephants in an ethical elephant park from Bangkok is joining this Elephant Sanctuary & Erawan Waterfall Tour, which takes you to interact with elephants before visiting Erawan National Park to see the seven-tier waterfalls.
Amusement Parks in Bangkok
The capital of Thailand has plenty of family-friendly attractions and Bangkok amusement parks are among the best things to do with kids in the city. You can easily spend a day with your kids in one of the parks as visiting them is a really fun thing to do. Choose Siam Park City, Dream World or Pororo AquaPark and have fun!
Museums and Galleries in Bangkok
If you like art, visit one of art galleries in the city, like Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC) and The National Gallery.
If you're fond of history, outdoor museum Ancient Siam and The Erawan Museum with its ancient treasures should be your bet.
None of these are your interests? Head to Madame Tussauds museum and you will have lots of fun while taking wonderful photos with worldwide known celebrities.
For more information about the galleries and museums in Thai capital check here: Museums and Galleries in Bangkok.
Shopping in Bangkok
There are many options for shopping in Bangkok - from huge, modern, air-conditioned malls, to the famous buzzing street markets. You can always head to one of the biggest in the world Chatuchak Weekend Market or daily open Pratunam Market offering bargain clothing. Otherwise, you can opt for a more local shopping experience and visit city's night markets and floating markets around Bangkok. Explore the list of the best markets in Bangkok to find the most popular and attractive shopping venues in the city.
Chatuchak Weekend Market
Chatuchak Weekend Market, also called Jatujak Market, is one of the largest weekend markets in the world, covering an area of 27 acres. The market is divided into 27 sections and contains more than 15,000 stalls selling various goods for local prices. Chatuchak Weekend Market is very popular between Thais and tourists, attracting over 200,000 visitors each day on the weekends.
Almost everything can be found at the market and it’s the best place in Bangkok for buying your gifts from Thailand.
Night Markets in Bangkok
For local shopping experience on any night out in the city you should head to one of the best Bangkok night markets.
Our favorite night market in the city is Talad Rot Fai Srinakarin. If you're visiting Bangkok for a few days and your stay here includes the weekend, don't be put off by the distance as this market has a really special atmosphere.
Due to its convenient location in the city center, Jodd Fairs is one of the most popular night markets for tourists. The nearby The One Ratchada, which is a new night market opened in 2022, is also worth a visit.
Floating Markets in Bangkok
Thailand’s floating markets are called “talat nam”. They are the most photographed attractions in the country. Going to floating markets is well worth putting on your list of things to do in Thailand. There are quite a few floating markets around Bangkok even if most of them can only be visited on weekends.
The most popular floating market near Bangkok is Damnoen Saduak Market floating market, which is visited on this popular tour to Damnoen Saduak Market and Maeklong Railway Market.
Shopping Malls in Bangkok
If you love shopping in style, there is a huge selection of shopping malls in Bangkok, where you can find finest fashion stores, global brands, specialty stores and all kinds of luxury designer lifestyle goods.
And don't forget, in Thailand shopping always comes with eating so you will never be short of the options to try some local delicacies while shopping. Pier 21 Food Court at Terminal 21 is the best place to eat cheap while shopping in Bangkok.
Nightlife in Bangkok
Bangkok nightlife is one of the main reasons why people like visiting the capital of Thailand. Nightlife here is varied and unforgettable as everyone can find something for their own taste.
Rooftop Bars
There are many sky bars and rooftop restaurants in Bangkok offering lovely rooftop views throughout the year. Just choose your favourite rooftop bar for the night out and admire the skyline of Thai capital while sipping some cocktails. The list of the best rooftop bars in the city can be found here: Best Rooftop Bars in Bangkok.
Khao San Road
Khao San Road is a small street and the historical centre of the tourist area that is located near the old city of Bangkok. Khao San Road is the most concentrated tourist area in Thailand where travellers from every corner of the world meet to discuss their travels or just to party.
During the night Khao San Road comes alive when tourists fill up the street and its numerous restaurants and bars.
Red Light Districts
Sightseeing, shopping and relaxing is not for you?..
The capital of Thailand is well known for its entertainment nightlife and go-go bars. There are three main red light districts in Bangkok.
Ladyboy Cabaret Shows
Visiting ladyboy cabaret show in Thailand is a unique experience. Ladyboy cabaret venues can be found in all touristy destinations like Phuket, Koh Samui, Pattaya and the capital of Thailand is not an exception. Bangkok ladyboy show is a colorful music and dance performance performed by talented transgender artists and it is really fun to watch.
The most famous ladyboy cabaret shows in Bangkok are Calypso Cabaret, Mirinn Cabaret and Golden Dome Cabaret Show.
Detailed guide to the best nightlife spots in the city can be found here: Places to go in Bangkok at Night.
Eating in Bangkok
You will never be short of options for eating in Bangkok. Here you can find reviews of places to eat in Bangkok.
If you are new to Thailand, get familiar with must-try Thai food dishes and Thailand fruits.
Bangkok food tours
For a special culinary experience, enjoy 15 tastings around the backstreets of old city by joining this popular Bangkok Backstreets Food Tour led by foodie guides, and try satay chicken, shrimp dumplings, tom yum soup, and more.
Fine dining in Bangkok
There are also countless places for fine dining in Bangkok. If you are fancying of visiting one of Michelin-starred restaurants in Thailand capital city, make sure to pre-book your visit in advance.
Cooking Thai Food
In case you like not only eating but also cooking by yourself, Bangkok is definitely one of the best places for taking a Thai food cooking class.
Learn how to prepare and cook traditional Thai food during a fun Bangkok cooking class. Awaken your culinary creativity, explore the world of Thai flavors, and enjoy a lot of healthy Thai food!
Where to Stay in Bangkok
Our recommendations for choosing the best area to stay in Bangkok can be found here: Where to Stay in Bangkok.
In case you don't know where to stay in the city, we would highly recommend you to choose one of the amazing Bangkok hotels with rooftop pools to take a dip whilst admiring the bird's eye view of the stunning city skyline.
If you want to stay in central location which is well connected with all important areas of the city by public transportation, you should choose a hotel in Sukhumvit area. There are plenty of attractions, restaurants, shopping malls and entertainment spots in the area.
Another popular area to stay in the city is Khao San Road neighborhood. You can find many budget accommodations in the area by exploring hotels in Khao San Road.
To get the best deal on accommodation, make sure to compare hotel deals on Booking.com with often better special offers on Agoda.
Bangkok Transportation
Bangkok is the largest city and the main transportation hub in Thailand so you will never be short of options for getting there from abroad and for reaching any destination in the country by different means of transportation.
Public Transportation
Public Transportation in Bangkok is decently developed as the city is served by several rapid transit systems: the elevated BTS Skytrain, the underground MRT (Metro), BKK Airport train called Airport Rail Link and commuter train SRT Red Line. New city train lines and line extension have recently expanded the train network in the capital of Thailand.
The network of public transport is supplemented with Bangkok bus routes, making it possible to reach more distant areas of the city.
For more exotic way to travel around the city you can use water transportation as there are regular service of Chao Phraya River Boats and Canal Boat Service that are mainly used by locals.
City's public transportation doesn't have one ticket system but at least on the most popular systems such as BTS you can use Rabbit Card as your transportation ticket. With this card you can save lots of time that is normally wasted in lines for buying single trip tickets.
Airports
There are two international airports in Bangkok. Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) is Thailand’s main travel hub that is mostly used for long-haul and full-service flights, while Don Mueang International Airport (DMK) is city’s second airport well connected with all Thailand regions and other Southeast Asian countries by low-cost carriers.
Wondering, which airport would be the most convenient for your trip to Thailand? Discover detailed comparison of Bangkok airports that should help you to make a decision.
Bus Stations
There are 3 main bus terminals in Bangkok and you need to choose one depending on your desired destination.
Eastern Bus Terminal (Ekkamai) is serviced by buses and minivans running to the provinces in Eastern Thailand such as Rayong, Chonburi, Trat, Chanthaburi and tourist destinations such as Pattaya, Sriracha, Sattahip, Koh Chang or Koh Samet.
Northern Bus Terminal (Mochit) is used by buses and minivans departing to the provinces in Northern Thailand (Chiang Mai, Sukhothai, Chiang Rai), Northeast Thailand and few other central and eastern destinations such as Ayutthaya, Lopburi, Chonburi (including Pattaya), Trat (including Koh Chang) and others. Minivans leave from the nearby Mochit Van Terminal.
Southern Bus Terminal (Sai Tai Mai) is served by buses and minivans departing to the provinces in Southern Thailand such as Phuket, Krabi, Surat Thani, and provinces in Central Thailand such as Kanchanaburi, Samut Songkhram and others.
Railway Stations
Bangkok Railway Station (Hua Lamphong) was the main railway station for traveling domestically from the capital city to the rest of the country for a long time. Previously almost all Thailand train lines were starting at Hua Lamphong Railway Station.
However, recently the new main train station Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal station was opened and most of long distance trains were moved there. Only several ordinary trains a day depart from Hua Lamphong.
The lines that goes to Kanchanaburi and the River Kwai starts and ends at Thonburi Railway Station, which is located on the other side of the Chao Phraya River.
Transport Tickets
Tickets for all kinds of transport can be booked by using this search form.
You will find more useful tips on using city's transport system in our list of articles related to Bangkok Transport.
Weather in Bangkok
Between November and May the weather is mostly dry with little rain expected for much of this time. The dry season in Bangkok is broken up into the periods of cool season (November to February) and hot season (March to May), when it is not unusual for the temperature to reach up to 40°C.
Wet season in Bangkok is from May to November. The rain usually comes in the form of short showers, lasting an hour or two. As the rainy season progresses, the rain can become heavier and more constant, traditionally reaching peak levels in August and September.
Cool season lasting from November to February is the best time to visit Bangkok.
For more detailed information about the weather in the capital of Thailand check here: Weather in Bangkok.
Time in Bangkok
Thailand is in the UTC+7 time zone.
Next Destination after Bangkok?
From the capital of Thailand you can easily reach any destination in Thailand so it all depends on your preferences. Pattaya is the nearest large beach destination infamous for its wild nightlife, Koh Samet is a tranquil island that can be easily reached, Ayutthaya is home to ancient temples, while Kanchanaburi has historic WWII sites and wonderful nature.
While all of these destinations have plenty of things to do for a stay of several days, they can also be visited on a day trip from Bangkok.
