bangkok best travel time

The best time to go to Bangkok

Apr 8, 2024 • 6 min read

Bangkok is an incredible destination year-round – don't miss the beautiful Loy Krathong festival in November © Johnce / Getty Images

It used to be that Bangkok ’s weather was defined by three clearly demarcated seasons: the “cool,” the hot, and the wet, but these days locals like to joke that there is only hot, hotter and hottest. While it may be true that the Thai capital runs on a sultry high-flame sizzle most days, there are definitely seasonal differences, as well as compelling reasons to visit year round.

You’re never going to have to worry about it being cold here, and if you like to travel with just shorts and t-shirts, you’ll be in your element, but your ability (or not) to handle the hot season heat or the high season crowds might influence just when you plan your visit. Here’s a breakdown of the three different Thailand seasons and how each can be best for planning a trip to Bangkok. 

November to February is the best time for comfortable weather

November marks the start of both Bangkok’s most comfortable weather as well as tourist high season, which runs until the end of February. While some refer to this period as the “cool” season, note that this is just a relative term. Temperatures still will be close to 30°C (86°F) or higher and there will be plenty of sunshine, while evenings can be quite pleasant, with lots of outdoor beer gardens opening up with no need for air conditioning. During this time you’ll even get a few cold snaps where the temperature will drop to 20°C (68°F) and all the locals will be bundled in down jackets and other winter-associated garb! This is also the one time of year when you have a chance to go sightseeing without being drenched in perspiration. 

Not only is this the most pleasant time of year weather-wise, it’s also a season of some of the top Thai holidays, like Loy Krathong, when everyone floats illuminated banana-leaf boats on the canals and Chao Phraya River. Loy Krathong is held during the November full moon, and is followed up by the large Christmas and New Year festivities. While not traditionally Thai, all the shopping malls are decorated with large trees and there are countless shopping sales and restaurant holiday promotions. All the holiday energy is capped off by a massive New Year’s Eve celebration that features fireworks across the city, buzzing outdoor beer gardens and countdown parties. Towards the end of this season is Chinese New Year, usually taking place in February, where you can see traditional Chinese opera performances and watch the streets of Chinatown come to life with fantastic food, dragon parades and other colorful happenings. 

While the weather at this time of year may be the ideal winter escape, you’ll be in fierce competition with plenty of other sun worshippers, as this is considered high season in Thailand. Hotels will be at a premium and often need to be booked well in advance, especially around Christmas, New Year and Chinese New Year. Tourist attractions and shopping malls will be packed, and all of the nearby beach escapes such as Pattaya or Ko Samet will be overrun. One pleasant exception to this is that during the days leading up to and after New Year, Bangkok empties out, with most people returning home or going on vacation for a week, meaning that you’ll get to experience the capital without gridlock, taxi queues or the usual crowds.

March to May is the hottest time of year

The beginning of March marks the start of the hot and dry season in Bangkok. It almost never rains during this stretch and temperatures soar, in recent years staying above 40°C (104°F) for prolonged stretches. It’s a challenging time to be sightseeing and traveling, although visiting from March to May does have some rewards. This is tourist low season, with far fewer visitors than at other times of year. If you’re into shopping and elegant stays, this can be an excellent time to come, as you’ll find plenty of ice-cold air conditioning in all the malls, hotels, and skytrain, plus some great promotions on accommodation. 

Coming here in mid-April (13-15) also means you can experience Songkran, the Thai New Year and world’s biggest water fight, where everyone takes to the street for a large water carnival. Wear some old clothes, wrap your wallet and cellphone in plastic, buy a squirt gun, and go out and join the fun. It’s another way to beat the heat and see Bangkok at its best. While Songkran accommodation reservations need to be made well in advance, you can pretty much just show up and still find great deals for the rest of the hot season, one of the perks of traveling during the heat.

June to August is the onset of the monsoon season

While the temperatures drop back down far below the April-May sizzle, the humidity goes up, so it can be pretty sticky. On the plus side, the rainstorms clean out the smoggy Bangkok air, and this can be the least-polluted time of year to experience the capital. As this is the summer for Europeans and North Americans, there will be more tourists than during the hot season, but nowhere near the crowds of November to February, and you’ll still be able to find great deals on hotels and travel, especially at nearby beach resorts like Hua Hin or Pattaya.

September to October is the rainiest period, great for budget travel

While the initial onset of the monsoon season tends to see short heavy rains, the end of the monsoon is when it gets really wet. September and October are the rainiest months in Bangkok, the only time when you will really see some days when it rains consistently or all day long. The area around the Chao Phraya River is often flooded, although hotels and restaurants put up sandbags to mitigate the damage and assist guests with getting in and out, but prepare for traffic to be at full gridlock and you’ll need an umbrella with you throughout your stay.

On the plus side, if you don’t mind the wet you’ll be here at the quietest time of year for tourism, with no need to book in advance and plenty of deals to entice, which is great for budget travelers. Older travelers may appreciate this season, as September marks the return to school in Europe and North America, meaning less young visitors in Thailand. Additionally, there are several really excellent festivals in September and October; the Vegetarian Festival, a 9-day celebration where people refrain from meat-eating, wear white and throng the Chinatown temples where there are opera performances, parades and plenty of vegetarian food, followed by the Moon or Mid-Autumn festival, where families carry lanterns through Chinatown and exchange mooncakes.

Despite the rain, for many visitors, the cleaner air, green countryside and few tourists makes this the optimal time of year to plan a trip to Bangkok.

Keep planning your trip to Bangkok:

Keep things thrify with the  Top 10 best free things to do in Bangkok Plan a big night out with  The best bars and clubs in Bangkok Explore more of Thailand with  The 6 best day trips from Bangkok

This article was first published Mar 12, 2021 and updated Apr 8, 2024.

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Bangkok   Travel Guide

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Best Times To Visit Bangkok

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

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Popular Times to Visit Bangkok

Tourism volume is estimated based on in-market destination search query interest from Google and on travel.usnews.com in 2015-2016. Hotel prices are sourced from a sample of U.S. News Best Hotels rates through 2015-2016.

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Best Time to Visit Bangkok: Month-by-Month Guide

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on May 29, 2024

Renowned for its stunning temples, delicious street food and pounding nightlife, Bangkok is one of the most popular cities to visit in the world. While Thailand’s cosmopolitan capital is a rather crowded, chaotic place, that doesn’t stop countless millions from visiting each year.

As it is the cool season and its relentless heat and humidity aren’t quite so bad, most people head here between November and March. Despite the strong monsoon rains, both July and August also see an uptick in visitors due to the summer holidays in Europe. The odds of you getting soaked at some point are pretty high though!

To help you plan your trip, let’s now take a look at what the weather is like month-by-month in Bangkok and what big events are going on. You can then decide whether you want to visit for Songkran and Chinese New Year or give the rainy and hot seasons a skip.

What’s the Weather Like in Bangkok?

While temperatures are pretty consistent, averaging between 31 and 35°C (88–95°F) each month, Bangkok has three distinct seasons – these are the hot, wet and cool.

The most comfortable months weatherwise are from November to February when the city is a bit cooler and there is less humidity. Their dry, sunny days are best for sightseeing with its night markets being a great way to relax afterwards.

March until May is the hot season when its heat and humidity are quite unpleasant, at times soaring into the 40s (100s°F). As wandering about is so tiring, you’ll have to spend a lot of time cooling off in air-conditioned shopping malls.

From mid-May onwards, the monsoon season starts, only letting up in October. August and September are the rainiest months, averaging 19 and 20 days of rain. During this period, its days are quite overcast with thunderstorms mainly tipping it down in the late afternoon.

Best Months to Visit Bangkok

By far the most popular months to explore the massive metropolis are November through to January. This is when Europeans fleeing the cold head here for Christmas and countries like Australia and Singapore have their summer holidays. Chinese New Year also takes place during this period.

As a result, its hotel prices and airfares are more expensive. Although it is the ‘cool’ season, you’ll still need to dress lightly, hydrate regularly and take breaks from the scorching sun.

Both February and March also see lots of people visit but the heat and humidity are already creeping up again. After this is the off-season though April does have its wild, wet Songkran celebrations to take part in.

While July and August are very wet, some Western travelers still venture here during their summer holidays. Prices are cheaper and the city is a bit cooler and less crowded.

Bangkok in January

After December, January is the most popular month to visit Bangkok as loads of people have holidays, the weather is dry and there is less humidity. With nine hours of sunshine a day and average temperatures of 32°C (89°F), sightseeing can still be quite tiring. As the nights are cooler, dropping around 10 degrees, spending time outside in the evenings is very pleasant.

Due to the influx of visitors, prices are higher with its main temples and tourist sites being a bit more crowded. To be honest though, the capital’s streets are pretty much always chaotic and congested. If Khao San Road gets overwhelming, you can always take relaxing cruises along the Chao Phraya River. Its nearby beaches and Ayutthaya’s archaeological sites will be pretty packed though during this high season.

Bangkok in February

If Chinese New Year doesn’t fall in January, then February is when all its fun celebrations are held. Red lanterns are strung up everywhere with dragon parades, dance performances and acrobats all creating an amazing ambience in its Chinatown. Large crowds pour into the city to celebrate with many Thai also heading to the countryside to see their families.

As it is still peak season, expect to pay more for accommodation though flight fares should have come down a bit. While February is slightly hotter and more humid, its sunny, dry days are still some of the best for ambling around the capital. The Buddhist festival Makha Bucha also has lovely candlelit processions and large groups of worshipers express their gratitude at its many temples.

Bangkok in March

Before the worst of the heat and humidity hit, March is the last main month that people visit Bangkok until July. As its crowds have subsided somewhat, this is a good time to explore its temples, palaces and floating markets. Make sure to take breaks and hydrate often though as it can be uncomfortably hot during the day with even the evenings not being so cool now.

As March is the shoulder season, prices for hotels and flights fall further as less visitors head here on holiday. If you avoid the hottest hours of the day, it is the ideal month to sunbathe and swim at the country’s islands and beaches as there is barely a cloud in the sky. Towards the end of it though, the high temperatures are a bit extreme, especially for sightseeing.

Bangkok in April

The hottest month of the year, April is almost unbearable at times as averages of 35°C (so 95°F) during the day don’t get much better at night. While hotels are cheaper, you’ll want to book one with a pool. You can also cool off in Lumphini Park or at one of its air-conditioned malls. Sightseeing is tiring and not that enjoyable with the humidity also not helping.

On the plus side, you can find some great travel deals and there won’t be any crowds at its main attractions. Floating along the Chao Phraya River is also very pleasant. Loads of people also pour in to celebrate Songkran when massive water fights break out all around the city. Many businesses shut as residents head back to their hometowns for the Thai New Year.

Bangkok in May

This sweltering heat and humidity continues into May with most visitors staying away as a result. The approaching monsoon creates a muggy, oppressive feeling with the rainy season usually arriving around the middle of the month. Due to the uncomfortable conditions, May sees the least amount of tourists arrive.

While prices are low and there are no crowds, the weather really isn’t great for exploring the city. As well as the high temperatures, there are 15 days with quite a lot of rain. This does at least cool things down a bit. If it doesn’t fall in June, then Visakha Bucha is celebrated at its temples. Devout Buddhists make offerings and perform rituals commemorating the birth, enlightenment and passing of the Buddha.

Bangkok in June

A bit better weatherwise, June is less muggy than May with its heat and humidity also being more manageable. While it does rain 15 days on average, its showers are not as strong and tend to pass quickly. You’ll still want to take an umbrella around with you though and spend time in its air-conditioned malls – many of which have discounts as it is the low season.

Both its airfares and accommodation prices remain very affordable with its main attractions also being devoid of crowds. Other than traipsing around CentralWorld, it’s worth heading to Wat Arun and the Grand Palace while no one is around.

Bangkok in July

Although July averages 17 days with torrential tropical downpours, there is a smallish spike in visitors as Europeans head here on their summer holidays. While flights tend to be more expensive, hotel prices remain roughly the same as tourist numbers are so low.

As Bangkok’s temples, palaces and museums are pretty quiet, July isn’t a bad month to see its sights. Most of the rain usually falls in the afternoon or around dusk so try and bear that in mind when you’re out and about. During this wet period, there is a mix of sunny days and cloudy ones, short, sudden showers and rainstorms that last almost all day.

Bangkok in August

August is even wetter in Bangkok, particularly towards the end of the month when the rains really pick up and some roads even flood. Despite the endless deluges, plenty of Europeans visit on their summer holidays. While flight prices are again a bit pricier, you can still pick up some fantastic deals on hotels.

In addition to exploring its historic temples and floating markets – with an umbrella in hand of course – there are some fun events to enjoy. Its Mid-Autumn or Mooncake Festival usually takes place in August with loads of stalls selling traditional treats. This is an excellent month to take Thai cooking classes or watch kick boxing bouts – anything to shelter from the rain!

Bangkok in September

After Europeans’ summer holidays are over, the number of visitors arriving plummets as the monsoon really sets in. September is the wettest month of the year with it raining a lot for 20 days on average. As well as its heavy rain and thunderstorms, there is a lot less sun with the skies often being overcast.

Even though the airfares and accommodation options are cheaper, September is one of the worst months weatherwise for wandering about the city. While the rain does make averages of 32°C (89°F) more comfortable, you’ll want to spend a lot of time indoors at its museums and malls. If you don’t mind getting wet or are a bit flexible in terms of sightseeing and day trips, this is one of the cheapest times to visit Bangkok.

Bangkok in October

Once mid-October comes around, its fierce downpours finally start to decrease a bit. It does still rain though for 16 days on average. As it is the last month before huge crowds pour in, it can be a great time to experience Bangkok’s lively markets and nightlife spots. After this, they get too busy and hotel prices shoot up.

Still quite hot and humid for the most part, October has a number of fun festivals to attend. While parades, dragon dances and fireworks displays are held in Chinatown for its traditional Vegetarian Festival, there is also its International Festival of Dance and Music going on. Lots of terrific plays and ballets then take place at its state-of-the-art Thailand Cultural Center.

Bangkok in November

Now that the rains are over, the skies are clear and days are sunny, November sees massive numbers of visitors arrive in Bangkok. While hotels and airfares are more expensive, the dry weather is perfect for sightseeing or sunbathing and swimming at its nearby beaches.

Happening areas like Khao San Road and Chatuchak Market are packed with queues forming at its main attractions. Other than sipping cocktails at rooftop bars, you can take part in its lovely Loy Krathong festival. Thousands of small candlelit vessels are released along its river and canals, creating a very magical ambience. Lots of fun games and holiday food can also be enjoyed at its Golden Mount Temple Fair.

Bangkok in December

As it is the most popular month of the year to visit, Bangkok is very crowded and even more chaotic in December. Prices are at their highest as everyone heads here for the holidays to enjoy the good weather. With 8 hours of sunshine, no rain and averages of 31°C (88°F), the cool days are some of the best for strolling about the city and taking trips along the river.

Besides the King’s Birthday celebrations, there are also the Trooping of the Colours military parade to watch. Christmas and New Year’s also have various festivities taking place with its rooftop bars being a great spot from which to admire the fireworks displays. Many shopping malls have huge discounts towards the end of the month to entice the holiday crowds.

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Best Time to Visit

The Best Time to Visit Bangkok

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The best time to visit Bangkok is in November when monsoon season is ending, but busy season and temperatures haven’t yet peaked. Also during November, you’ll get to see Loi Krathong, one of Thailand’s most loved festivals .

Although Bangkok can be enjoyed at any time of year , factors such as monsoon season, busy festivals, and heat with high humidity can affect your time there. Songkran, the traditional Thai New Year celebration, is the wildest and most festive time to visit Bangkok. But to participate in the world’s largest water fight, you’ll have to deal with extreme heat in April that precedes monsoon season.

Key Events and Festivals

Although not as disruptive as they are in Chiang Mai, Songkran and Loi Krathong (Thailand’s two busiest holidays) bring even more chaos than usual to Bangkok’s streets.

From April 12-15, neighborhoods such as the Khao San Road area in Banglumphu will be in the throes of the largest water fight in the world. Unless you happen to be a monk or hide indoors for four days, you’re going to get drenched during Songkran. Protect your passport and electronics!

Lunar New Year (January or February) is another exceptionally busy time to be in Bangkok. Both airports become inundated with Chinese travelers taking advantage of the holiday. Although Suvarnabhumi becomes clogged, the older Don Mueang Airport gets hit the hardest. Wait times at immigration can be more than two hours as queues snake throughout the airport.

Thailand is one of the few countries in the world where travelers should pay attention to the moon phases. If you’re traveling to islands in the Samui Archipelago , know that transportation from Bangkok will be affected just before a full moon. Tens of thousands of travelers head south to Haad Rin on the island of Koh Phangan to dance on the beach during Full Moon Parties. Afterward, there is a mass migration north to Bangkok.

The Weather in Bangkok

Unless extreme air conditioning in massive mega-malls is the cause, you’ll never be chilly in Bangkok. Middle-of-the-night lows in January, often the coolest month, are still in the mid-70s F. Temperatures feel warmer and the air thicker due to urban humidity trapped by pollution.

Daytime averages usually range between 82-89 degrees F. Highs during the “hot season” from March to May can surpass 100 degrees F with more than 70 percent humidity.

Monsoon Season

Monsoon season gives Bangkok a much-needed cleaning from May to October . The finale in September and October is usually the rainiest time to travel in Thailand. September receives 12.3 inches of rain on average. Even during the peak of the rainy season, you’ll still have plenty of days without rain to explore Bangkok. Enjoy, but be ready for pop-up downpours on most afternoons.

The Chao Phraya River is subject to flooding during monsoon season (especially in August and September). Although engineering measures have been taken since the record-breaking floods in 2011, parts of the city remain inundated every year. Closed streets and halted taxi-boat service on the river exasperate traffic problems.

Peak Season in Bangkok

First, prepare yourself: Bangkok is always busy . In fact, Thailand’s capital often lures in more annual travelers than any other city in the world, including London and New York. Over 23 million tourists traveled to Bangkok in 2018. You’re going to have to share the delights, especially at top tourist attractions such as the Grand Palace and floating markets .

As mentioned, Lunar New Year and big Thai festivals cause the number of travelers passing through Bangkok to surge. If your plan is to get out of Bangkok quickly , try flying into another port of entry (e.g., Chiang Mai, Phuket, Krabi, or Koh Samui) instead to avoid congestion.

With an average temperature of 82 degrees F, January is one of the coolest months in Bangkok. It’s also one of the busiest. Practically no rain and tolerable temperatures draw more travelers than ever, especially during Chinese New Year. If you don’t mind entering the fray of peak season, January is one of the best times to visit Bangkok.

Events to check out:

• Bangkok is home to one of the largest ethnic Chinese communities in the world. Unsurprisingly, Lunar New Year is a busy event every January or February (dates change). Base yourself near Chinatown to see the most lion and dragon dances.
• To witness island hedonism at its wildest, the January Full Moon Party in Haad Rin is often the biggest of the year.

February is also a peak, high-season month to visit Bangkok. Temperatures average a toasty 85 degrees F, and humidity can reach 70 percent. Although that doesn’t sound very “cool,” February is the last cool month before Mother Nature really turns up the heat.

Lunar New Year sometimes occurs in February. Check dates if you’ll be visiting Bangkok in February.

March is the start of hot season in Bangkok. Although rainy days are still rare, temperatures and humidity climb. Highs average in the 90s F but can top 100 degrees F during the afternoon. Nights are warm and muggy.

Pack plenty of extra tops ; you’ll need at least two a day. Use the heat as an excuse to take advantage of the excellent shopping in Bangkok.

April is the hottest month in Bangkok and the last month of dry season. High temperatures hover between the mid-90s F and 101 degrees F.

At this point, locals and tourists alike are ready for monsoon season to bring some relief next month. Fortunately, the Songkran celebration gives everyone a great excuse to dump ice water on each other for a few days.

• Songkran (April 13-15) is hands down the largest, rowdiest celebration in the country. Expect to get wet every time you walk out of the hotel. Arm yourself, and splash some strangers.

May is the first month of monsoon season. Although at least 15 of May’s 31 days are rainy, precipitation isn’t overly disruptive . Temperatures barely budge. The air is (thankfully) much cleaner but remains stubbornly hot and humid.

• Coronation Day on May 4 is a public holiday celebrating the crowning of King Vajiralongkorn. Tourists won’t see much of the action.
• The Royal Ploughing Ceremony (dates change) kicks off the rainy season. Rituals and formal ceremonies are held at Sanam Luang, the parade ground next to the Grand Palace.

As rain continues in June, temperatures finally begin to dip slightly. Despite the rain, tourist arrivals remain relatively high. Backpacking students take advantage of summer break to travel. Winter in Australia sends residents north to Southeast Asia.

July temperatures are in the mid-80s F as monsoon season continues. At least one out of every two days will be rainy.

King Vajiralongkorn’s birthday is observed on July 28.

Temperatures remain consistently in the mid-80s F throughout August. Average rainfall dips a little, perhaps gathering for a final deluge in September and October.

August 12 is the Queen's Birthday and Mother’s Day in Thailand.

With an average of 21 rainy days, September is the peak of the monsoon season . Rain nearly tops 13 inches, triggering flooding in low areas.

September is arguably the worst month to travel to Bangkok in terms of weather. But far fewer tourists will be clogging up popular temples and attractions.

The Mid-Autumn (Moon) Festival usually occurs in September. You’ll see mooncakes for sale throughout the city.

October is usually the second rainiest month in Bangkok. It’s also the last month of monsoon season. At this point, most people are ready for drier weather and busy season to begin. Temperatures average 85–90 degrees F.

• October 13 is observed as King Bhumibol’s Memorial Day.
• The Phuket Vegetarian Festival (dates vary in October) is a week of chaotic processions and bodily mutilation.
• For some quirky fun, go check out the creative costumes shown off by locals in the Khao San Road and Soi Rambuttri area on Halloween.

November in Thailand marks the start of dry season and buildup to high season. Temperatures climb a little as rain (usually) begins to subside around mid-month. The number of wet days plummets to five or six for the month.

• Loi Krathong is the second largest holiday in Thailand . Colorful, candlelit floats are placed on the Chao Phraya River for blessings. Cultural performances can be enjoyed throughout the city. The famous sky lanterns often seen in photos are restricted in Bangkok. They are actually a part of Yi Peng in Northern Thailand.

The tourist floodgates really open in December as high season feels official. Many European travelers take their Christmas holidays in Thailand . The "winter" weather is enjoyable with temperatures and humidity among the lowest felt all year.

• December 5 is the anniversary of King Bhumibol’s birthday. Although Thailand’s longest-reigning monarch passed away in 2016, he’ll still be remembered with candlelit vigils and memorials.
• New Year’s Eve is a public holiday. Many of the nightlife venues and rooftop bars will host countdown parties to lure in expats and holiday travelers.

The best time to visit Bangkok is in November, during the end of monsoon season, but before Thailand's busy season. It's during this month that you can also experience Loi Krathong, one of Thailand’s best cultural festivals.

In Bangkok, the rainy season (or, "monsoon season," as the locals call it) lasts from July through October.

It is customary in Thailand to wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees (for both sexes). Long shorts, capris, pants, and midi skirts are acceptable, as well as any shirt that's not a tank top or crop top.

Weather Spark. "Average Weather in Bangkok, Thailand, Year Round." Retrieved March 11, 2021.

Bangkok Metropolitan Administration. Department of Drainage and Sewerage. "Flood Mitigation and Management in Bangkok Metropolitan Area."

The Jakarta Post. "Bangkok Tops in 2018 for International Visitors: Report." September 5, 2019.

Britannica. "Bangkok - The People." Retrieved March 11, 2021.

Bangkok Post. "Restrictions on Sky Lanterns During Yi Peng Festival." November 7, 2016.

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Your Ultimate Guide To The Best Time To Visit Bangkok

Unwrapping Bangkok’s seasons and the perfect time to embrace its vibrant essence.

The energy of Bangkok always screams “Dynamic!” and if you are eagerly waiting to dive right into the epicenter’s rich cultural dynamism then prepare to plan your adventure as you take yourself out on a limb and into the metropolis that is always bustling with its enchanting streets.

Prepare to experience Bangkok at its finest as we spill the season to season beans.

This place is adored by travelers and tourists alike, globetrotting influencers swear by Bangkok too. This destination’s design was made to cater a balance between modernity and holistic tradition. So we call out to the wanderlust- filled travelers and the foodie on the great flavor hunt, we call out to the seekers of spirituality and those with a thirst for enlightenment, let Bangkok satiate all your needs as we uncover t he best time to visit bangkok

But when is the prime time to bask in Bangkok’s glory? Today, we will  unravel season by season, guiding you to the ultimate pinnacle of your Bangkok experience.

Table of Contents

But First, Why Bangkok?

Why Bangkok? You ask? Because this busy metropolis is more than just a city—it’s a spirited ensemble of commerce, culture, and ardor that thrums with energy at every second of the day. From morning to evening, Bangkok calls out to travelers with an entrancing charm, the possibilities here are endless.

The very nucleus of Bangkok has distinctive experiences that are poised with grace and speak thoroughly of an abundance that is cutting-edge. You could be on a leisure window-shopping spree looking for gift cards or you could be seriously shopping for the newly released electronics. The extravagance of this city is not concealed and you will never run out of things to do in Bangkok.

The packages you can find here in Bangkok are curated with taste and to the liking of the travelers. Each one caters to the special needs of the visitors if you make a note of the best time to visit bangkok. Bangkok also invites couples and honeymooners to experience budget friendly luxurious retreats like never before. 

Knowing the best season to visit this destination is key to having a great experience. The options at hand are boundless and you can get to enjoy your stay at the best price if you are a bit smart about when you will visit.

Bangkok And Its Seasonal Symphony, Optimal Times To Savor The City’s Charms

Having the ability to navigate and choose the perfect month to visit Bangkok is crucial skill, one must note that Bangkok is a perennial destination- meaning it has the all-year-round  amazingness that you are free to bask in, travelers who have been here for more than one season will be able to gauge the ideal seasons very easily, they might even be drawn to the  comfortable temperature in Bangkok around November through February. These months are truly ideal to indulge in the city’s sights and sounds as Bangkok reveals itself under the benevolent sun and azure skies that are so open it refreshes you on sight.

Imagine yourself venturing into Bangkok between June and October, this is the time you will truly discover the treasure trove that this place is, this is the best time to visit bangkok if you are someone that loves exploring sporadically, the discounts that rain on you along with the gentle kisses of the rain itself will leave you having a warm and fuzzy feeling inside your tummy! The random deluges that drench the cityscape are a sight one will instantly fall in love with.

If you love festivities then April and November are the ideal time for you to indulge in heavy revelries, Thailand’s festival scene is very big and they take their culture very seriously, the holiday season just begins during this time and you can see April heralding the arrival of Thai New Year, also known famously as the Songkran Festival, it is celebrated wildly marked by joyous festivities. November is the time the locals are getting ready to usher in the Loy Krathong festival, candles are seen floating over the gentle waterways and casting spellbinding glow upon the night skies– a sight to behold.

The irresistible bargains of Bangkok are too tempting to miss and you will definitely enjoy navigating the labyrinthine markets or shopping malls here.

The Best Time To Visit Bangkok: Deciphering Bangkok’s Seasonal Splendor

Discerning the pinnacle of Bangkok’s allure requires finesse in the intricate tapestry of its climate, Bangkok weather can sizzle with intensity yet the rainy season emerges as a hidden secret, it offers a reprieve from the endless scorching heat. The gentle downpours from July to October are the quieter, more serene days, that beckon you to embrace the outdoors, enthusiasts of the great outdoors can revel in its splendor without the usual throngs of tourists. However, a word of caution: Counterbalance the humidity by ensuring your accommodations boast adequate air conditioning.

Book Now: Bangkok Night Lights: Temple & City Tour by Tuk Tuk

Peak Season: (November To February)

November to February is the peak season of Bangkok, The temperatures here are soaring at 23 to 39 degrees. The city is brimming and boasting with warmth and sunshine, most of the travelers love to visit during this time because the temperatures are favorable and it seems more happening. However, the one drawback of this season is also that the crowd is increasingly high and so are the prices, everything is double the prices. From accommodation to food and packages, everything is expensive. If you are someone who cares about a good experience regardless of budget, then this season is the best time to visit bangkok for you as it also promises a lovely journey that is full of life and vibrancy.

Dynamic Offerings: Christmas and New Year’s celebrations, followed by the exotic vibe of Chinese New Year in February. Grand Palace is in full bloom this time and a must see.Wat Pho, and Wat Arun, each a testament to the city’s rich cultural heritage. Lose yourself in some splurging at the bustling markets of Chatuchak and Pratunam, or venture to floating markets and green spaces for a nature-filled escape.  Bangkok’s vibrant nightlife scene is one to look out for as night falls, offering the best partying experiences. 

Shoulder Season: (March to June)

This is the transitioning season and is greeted with a very unique type of travelers. Bangkok offers better experiences during this time around and it extends from March to June. There are a few nuances that come with this season though –The temperatures begin to rise during this season and it gets very hot, Songkran festival is in full bloom and the festivities are still beginning during this season so that is a plus. The energy is surging and so is the excitement despite the soaring temperatures. Vibrant water fights are a joyous sight to behold, it is also a part of the festivities.

As you progress further into the season of May to June, Bangkok reveals another face – The number of visitors can be seen to be decreasing when compared to the peak season, if you are someone who enjoys secluded and serene getaways then this is the perfect season for you to visit bangkok and its hidden gems in as its the time this city speaks of tranquility.

This season can be a very good opportunity to dive deeper into the city’s soul, where streets are quieter, there are fewer crowds and they offer a chance for genuine connections and authentic experiences. You can be seeking refuge from the heat in the cool confines of a temple or just want to listen to the rhythm of the rain as it dances upon the city streets. Bangkok’s shoulder season promises a journey filled with delight of another kind.

Dynamic Offerings: Absolutely captivating boat tours along the majestic Chao Phraya River, offering a transfixing glimpse into the central heart of Bangkok’s bustling metropolis. Give your palate a treat and your senses a high through the culinary odyssey, the selection is so diverse here, Haute cuisine establishments catch your attention and humble street food stalls satiate your soul. Each offering a tantalizing array of flavors and aromas that embody Bangkok’s rich culinary heritage.

Low Season: (July to October)

At this point, you can see a decrease in the tourist footfall, Bangkok sheds its bustling facade, offering a respite from the usual hustle and bustle. During this time, the city’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems reveal themselves in all their splendor, inviting the intrepid travelers to commence on a journey of discovery without getting distracted by crowds and noise.

Moreover, the low season presents a once in a blue moon opportunity for budget-conscious travelers to thoroughly enjoy Thailand’s sights at very low prices.

Accommodations and flights are available at very affordable rates, the visitors can explore Bangkok’s variety of attractions without breaking the bank, making it a tempting prospect for those who do not wish to compromise on their budget and yet want to have a fulfilling experience.

Dynamic Offerings: National Museum Bangkok is a must visit during this time, Perfect time to indulge in traditional Thai cuisine with cooking classes or rejuvenate with Thai massages. Also it is the perfect time to enjoy the vibrant nightlife in renowned clubs. Happening festivals during this time are the Phuket Par Tor, Candle, or Lantern. 

The Cheapest Time To Visit Bangkok

The savvy travelers who are seeking wallet-friendly vacations, the low season is very ideal from July to October as it presents an amazing opportunity to explore Bangkok without breaking your bank! There are very few tourists at this time and you can find accommodations at slashed prices. This allows you to stretch out your budget for other things.

Most Expensive Time To Visit Bangkok 

Bangkok’s peak season from November to March is called the peak season for a reason. The crowd is bustling at the speed of light and so are the prices! Sure, the dry and pleasant weather is amazing to be here but the zenith of prices are equally high.

In essence, the best time to visit bangkok and its charm for us would be in the delicate balance between the weather in Bangkok and the ambiance. It’s really an art to decipher the optimal time to visit the place. All we can say is: Tailor your trip in such a way that it coincides with the vibrant events and experience the land of smiles. This exceptional destination has something happening in every single season.

It really depends on individual preferences, when you wish to visit Bangkok can depend on your personal liking towards a certain climate or even the number of people you are comfortable around.If you are someone that enjoys dry and warm climate and is okay with crowded and expensive packages then you can go for the peak season. If you are someone that likes serenity and doesn’t care about the crowd at all then the dry season is for you.

The hottest month in Bangkok is typically April, the temperatures can soar to the highest levels, often reaching up to 35-40 degrees.

The rainy season in Bangkok occurs from June to October. The city receives the highest rainfall during this season.

There is a lot to explore and see in Bangkok, we would recommend you to visit the place for at least 15 days to get the worth of the effort.

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Which Month is Best to Visit Bangkok?

The Best Times In Which To Visit Thailand’s Capital

Bangkok, like the rest of Thailand, enjoys a tropical climate year round, but there are some months that feature less intense weather than others. Those months are usually from November to March when the head and humidity take a much-needed break. However, despite these months featuring milder weather, it is still important to remember that such conditions still have a mind of their own.

Between November and March, the daytime temperatures can range from the mid-70s (fahrenheit) and climb up to the low 90s. As these months are considered the ‘high season’ or ‘winter’ for Thailand, the weather is usually at a prime temperature from December to January. Daily temperatures can dip towards the 60s, especially in the evening, making it a great time to enjoy the night markets. If you are planning a trip to Bangkok, these 2 months are the best time in which to visit. Keep in mind, however, that flights will also be at their highest for these times, as they are the most popular times to visit Bangkok and the rest of Thailand.

During the high season, there are many events that may lure travelers to Bangkok. Some popular events include:

November: Loi Krathong and the Golden Mount Temple Fair. Celebrate Loi Krathong at Bangkok’s Lumphini Park or alongside the famous Chao Phraya River in Bangkok’s Old Town.

December: The King’s Birthday is December 5. This is also known as Father’s Day in Thailand. The New Year is also a largely-celebrated event in Thailand, as December 31 will see many firework shows and parties. If you want to see the best firework shows, visit Central World Plaza or the Chao Phraya River for some spectacular, end-of-year celebrations that truly light up the entire, night skyline.

January: Chinese New Year (Bangkok features the largest Chinatown in the world!) Celebrate on Yaowarat Road, which is the main road running through Chinatown.

February: Makha Bucha

Traveling to Bangkok During the Low Season

If you are looking to save money on a flight to Bangkok, the best deals and hotel rates are between April and October. Although these months are known to be the hottest, most humid, and rainiest, experiencing this Southeast Asian country how locals do will surely be quite memorable for more daring travelers. And, although the low season features monsoons, it may not be what travelers expect. Such a rainy season is actually a mix of overcast weather and rainstorms in the afternoons that eventually clear up.

Just like other tropical countries, Thailand’s rainy season features short bouts of daily rain, only to be diminished by the warming sun. Thus, it is still enjoyable to venture out and go sightseeing despite the average expected amount of rainfall. Temperatures will spike to around 90 degrees during the day, with rain showers temporarily cooling off the daily heat. Crowds will also be less dense if you visit Thailand’s capital during these months. So, bring a nice rain jacket and some rain boots while you enjoy Thailand’s rainy summer as the monsoon season (from May to October), yields refreshing rain. And, if you are interested in celebrating the Thai new year of Songkran, April is the month in which you should visit to experience a citywide waterfight.

During the low season, some of the best events can be experienced in Bangkok. Such events include:

April: Thai New Year (Songkran). Celebrate the yearly waterfight at Silom Road or Khao San Road in Bangkok.

May: Visakha Bucha and The Royal Ploughing Ceremony (date based on lunar cycles for a profitable harvest).

September: International Festival of Dance and Music and the Moon Festival

Despite the obvious benefits of visiting Bangkok during the high season, any time of year is really a treat when visiting one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the world. Bangkok has consistently been featured as the most-visited city on Earth, and once you arrive, you will see why. From bustling and fragrant streets to mega malls that can take all day to walk through, there is plenty to do and see in Bangkok without needing to spend a lot of time outdoors. Kids also love the endless amount of activities available for them in Thailand’s capital. Free museums, floating markets, cinemas, arcades, gymnasiums, Muay Thai lessons, waterparks, and zoos can all be great entertainment for the entire family.

If you plan to visit during the high or cool season, just be sure to expect more crowds and higher prices for flights and hotels. Along with that, however, you can enjoy lower temperatures and humidity to make outdoor adventures all the more fun! For those wanting to experience the low season, along with smaller crowds and accompanying prices, don’t forget to pack a quality raincoat and be prepared to get soaked during Songkran as the water fights are, indeed, the best way to wash off the old year and ring in the new one!

For more information concerning current travel restrictions to Thailand, you can check the latest updates here.   And, if you are looking for a guide to the current ASQ hotels, check out our current information here.

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Asia , THAILAND

Best time to visit bangkok, thailand.

Well well well, so you’re heading off to explore Southeast Asia are you and wondering what the best time to visit Bangkok is?

Good for you!

It is, after all, one of those classic destinations, everyone should experience at least once in their lives.

A veritable mecca for backpackers, culture vultures, temple traipses and food market lovers, there’s no question this region ranks high in many people’s travel books and unsurprisingly, it’s still a big crowd-puller!

And at the heart of the region – or at least a city that you’re likely to stay in at least once – is the mighty Bangkok, the capital of Thailand.

Generally acknowledged as the international hub of the region (save Singapore and Kuala Lumpur, which are further south), Bangkok offers some of the most reasonable flight fares from Europe and North America, which is why many people find themselves starting their SE Asia adventures here.

Plus of course, the fact that it’s BANGKOK!

The infamous, fabled, stuff of legends mega-city that refuses to judge and be judged in return, if you’re heading there soon, then here’s my guide for the best time to visit Bangkok…

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When to Visit Bangkok?

Ok, so let me start off this article by saying there is both a short and long answer as to when the best time to visit Bangkok is!

Because the high season, or the best weather season, or the festival season, may seem like the obvious answers on the face of it, but dig a little deeper and they might just not be the answers you are looking for!

So let’s keep it simple in the beginning by exploring when the best time to visit Bangkok is weather-wise.

And the answer is, during this city’s coolest and less humid months of course!

And when I say less, I mean it’s still hot and humid af compared to many places on the planet, but just not as much as other times of the year in this sweltering tropical region – a region in which you can literally sweat out of places you didn’t even know you had!

Sorry, went slightly off-piste there, but getting back on track, the time to visit Bangkok when you’ll be the least hot and sweaty (note least, instead of not) is during the cooler season which runs from November to February.

This is Bangkok’s high season, the time when most tourists choose to visit thanks to the nearing-reasonably weather situation and, let’s not forget the fact that the northern hemisphere is cold at this time and many people there have some time off work thanks to Christmas.

So in general yes, November to February is the best time to visit Bangkok, as well as the other destinations in Central Thailand such as Ayutthaya.

But as I’ll explain as this article goes on, with this being the most popular time, it’s also the time when the prices are highest and the crowds thickest – a situation not helped by the fact that many of the country’s holidays fall within these months too.

At festival / holiday times the country pretty much comes to a standstill and travelling around can become impossible for several days at a time.

There’s also the climate in other areas of Thailand (if you’re travelling beyond the capital), as well as other countries in Southeast Asia (if you’re travelling the region) to contend with too.

This means that the best time to visit Bangkok for you, may also involve taking into account other destinations that may have different climatic patterns.

So you see what I mean when I say it’s not straightforward!

To explain more, I’ve firstly going to give you a rough breakdown of the Bangkok climate so that you’re armed with as much info as possible.

Let’s jump in…

Bangkok’s Climate

Here’s a short breakdown of the annual climate patterns you’re likely to experience in Bangkok and other factors that might influence when in the year you decide to visit.

November – February: Technically the winter season, this is when Bangkok is at its coolest and least humid. Rainfall is low during these months, making it high season for northern hemisphere tourists especially. The highest prices can be found at this time, and the major holiday of Chinese New Year usually falls within this time period, so be sure to research that.

March – May: The shoulder season months are good for visiting Bangkok if you don’t mind heat and humidity and are keen to dodge the heavy crowds! Mid-range prices makes things attractive at this time, as do blue sky days, but burn-off season at the end of this period can really drag down the air quality. Songkran, the Thai New Year, usually takes place within these months too, when the whole country comes to a standstill. If you’re visiting at this time, be sure to research when it falls and plan accordingly. This can be a really fun festival to witness, but you’ll need to book everything in advance and be prepared not to move during this time.

June – October: Low season to travel in Bangkok (and Thailand more generally) with prices at their cheapest and crowds at their thickest. This is due to the high rainfall levels during these months, which marks Thailand’s rainy season. Being in the tropics, it doesn’t generally rain here all day, but with heavy downpours in the afternoon a regular occurrence and flooding sometimes common, the weather can still hamper your plans. If you plan to scuba dive from the islands too, the underwater visibility can be dramatically reduced at this time.

Best Time to Visit the Thai Islands

Which leads me nicely onto the next sub-topic, namely, when is the best time to visit Thailand’s islands – after all, most people who venture to Bangkok usually enjoy a few days elsewhere in the country too.

And with their paradisical appearance, relaxed vibes and great outdoor activities, it’s no surprise the Thai islands tend to be a hot choice.

Thankfully, the islands, which are in Southern Thailand, below Bangkok, tend to largely follow a similar weather pattern to the capital, making it easy to combine these 2 destinations into a great trip at the same time of year.

The only nuances however are that, being close to the Equator (and the further south you go, the closer you get), the islands have more of a 2 seasonal climate rather than 3.

Loosely this means there’s a dry season, which usually runs from November to May, and a wet season, which generally runs from May to October.

And I say generally, because this can also be affected by whether you’re staying on an island on the east or west sides of the Thai peninsula.

This is down to the monsoon cycles which operate slightly differently on either side (as they also do in Malaysia), but without going into too much detail here, the basic essential info is that high season to visit the Thai Islands, like Bangkok, is November through April.

The beginning half of this period around Christmas and New Year will also be the busiest with the highest prices and crowds, while the tail end here will be the optimal time for spotting some of the best marine life – namely mantas and whale sharks.

Depending whether you want to snorkel and scuba, or simply sunbathe and party, will likely have the biggest bearing on when the best time to visit the Thai Islands is for you.

Best Time to Visit Northern Thailand

But this is where things start to get interesting because, if you’re wanting to really explore the diversity of Thailand, then moving beyond the islands of the south and central area of Bangkok, to the northern highlands of the country is a must.

Up here you’re at a much higher elevation, which means things can be cooler… and also hotter…. great!

In general, the range in temperatures is bigger, which means if you don’t have warmer clothes packed with you, you might need to think more carefully about when you head up here… or at least buy a few additional items!

The main thing to know however is the rainfall and thankfully this does come mostly at the same time as the rain in Bangkok – namely June through October.

Honestly, I’d avoid the mountain region at this time as many spots can be cold, damp and impassable – not a lot of fun!

Just before that season is the mega-hot season in the north of Thailand, which runs from February through May – this is when I visited the north of Thailand and can certainly attest to it being a sweltering affair.

However, even towards the tail-end of this, I still managed to get out hiking, which means it’s not so stifling here you can’t do anything.

In contrast, the main problem was the burn-off.

This is when farmers use slash and burn techniques to rejuvenate the land after the harvest. Sounds like a good idea in theory, but the smoke created from so many fires is catastrophic for the environment and the air pollution.

Honestly, some days I was in northern Thailand in May, the air pollution was too bad to even go outside and mask-wearing was a necessity.

Not very pleasant or happy to travel in I can tell you!

Between November and January is therefore the best time to travel in the north of Thailand in my opinion.

And this fits well with expanding your trip beyond Bangkok if you wish.

Best Time to Visit Southeast Asia in General

And this season also fits well with many other parts of Southeast Asia too – a welcome message if you plan to travel beyond Bangkok and other parts of Thailand into neighbouring countries.

Yes generally across many places in the region including Cambodia, Laos, South Vietnam and the Malay peninsula, the best time to visit weather-wise is also during the months of November through to March.

This means that covering quite a lot of ground in Southeast Asia is generally easy as, during these times, you’ll experience a dry, cooler climate with blue sky days and plenty of opportunities to get out for activities and sightseeing.

The countries in Southeast Asia that don’t conform so well to this weather pattern are the central and northern parts of Vietnam, as well as the Malaysian Islands – if you plan to travel to these destinations, but don’t presume November through March is the best time!

Cheapest Time to Travel to Thailand

But now that we’ve established November to March is probably the best time to visit Bangkok, as well as the islands and north of the country as a whole, and even to other countries in Southeast Asia too, we do need to consider the cons to travelling at this time as well as the pros.

Well we know the pros are the weather, but the cons (as I’ve outlined before) are the number of other tourists, the festivals that can make getting around during certain weeks difficult and, most crucially for us budget travellers, the price!

Yes given this is high season and both the Christmas and Easter holidays fall within this period, prices are definitely the highest at this time of year and things need to be booked in advance too.

It therefore pays to be organised during this season as you’ll certainly want to reserve accommodation and book flights ahead of time too.

If you tend to be more disorganised, or if your budget is tight, then the shoulder season of April through May might suit you better.

Best Overall Time to Visit Bangkok

Overall then, it’s the shoulder months of April and May or September and October that gets my vote as the best time to visit Bangkok.

During these months, the prices are good, the number of other tourists bearable and the temperatures across the country are manageable.

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Bangkok Mini Travel Guide

How to Get to Bangkok?

Now it’s time to move on to discussing how to get to Bangkok.

First up flying, which is probably the preferred option for most travellers, especially those who are coming from further away.

The main international airport in Thailand is handily situated in Bangkok, and it is clean, well-serviced and easy to access – transport from the suburbs of the city can be easily arranged through ridesharing apps.

As always, I recommend you check out Skyscanner to get the best deals on your flights to Thailand no matter where you’re heading in from.

Alternatively, if you’re arriving into Bangkok from any nearby countries i.e. those within the Southeast Asia region, then it’s true that travelling overland i.e. by bus, might be the easier (and will certainly be the cheaper) option for you.

Common routes include between Siem Reap and Bangkok, and Thailand also has several open land borders with Myanmar, as well as Laos and Malaysia too.

When to comes to booking your bus transport for travel to Bangkok or anywhere in Southeast Asia, I highly recommend 12Go .

Their secure online booking platform allows you to compare and book buses easily across the region in English – hoorah!

And finally, if you’re not totally comfortable with travelling this country independently, then a small group or guided tour is a great option that will have you seeing the best of Thailand safely, securely and easily.

Check out these top picks for some super ideas and prices.

How Long to Spend There?

I think 3-6 days is a good amount of time in Bangkok.

It’s a big city, with a lot to see and do, but can be quite hectic and tiring after all while!

Travel Insurance for Thailand

Alternatively, if you’re a long-term traveller, digital nomad or frequent remote worker seeking travel health cover, check out Safetywing’s Nomad Insurance policies.

Top 5 Packing Items for Your Bangkok Trip

#1 Lonely Planet Guidebook – The Bangkok Lonely Planet is excellent and very helpful for any trip to this city with lots of top tips and good practical information.

#2 Walking Shoes – There’s likely to be a lot of walking in Bangkok especially as the traffic here can be so bad. As such, I advise packing a pair of good runners, like these New Balance trainers , which are perfect for city strolling.

#3 European & British Power Adapters – Bangkok has a mix of power outlets, but generally opts for a combination of the European and British ones, so make sure you come prepared with a Skross world adapter .

#4 Camera and Lens – I love my Sony A6000 mirrorless , which was ideal for capturing this crazy capital at its best.

#5 Travel Scarf – A great multi-purpose travel item that can be used to safely store valuables and cover your shoulders while you explore Bangkok’s temples.

Best Place to Stay in Bangkok

As opposed to staying on or near the Khao San Road, which is honestly one of the worst places I’ve ever had the pleasure of spending a full 3 minutes before I turned on my heels and fled, can I suggest you stay in the Sukhumvit area of Bangkok instead.

Having stayed there myself as a solo female, I can definitely say I felt a lot safer there walking around at night by myself than anywhere else, and there’s an excellent choice of accommodation in this bustling part of the city too.

And when it comes to my recommendations, especially if you want to treat yourself, then look no further than the Mercure Bangkok Sukhumvit 11 .

Ideally located, with huge, clean and comfortable rooms (some of which include a bath!) and some of the most helpful staff I’ve ever encountered, this place is an absolute haven amongst the hustle and bustle of Bangkok.

The gorgeous pool and daybeds are a dream when you need to relax away from the sweat and urban chaos of the city, and the bar and several restaurants onsite here will make your stay easy, convenient and stress-free.

Where to Travel After Bangkok?

If you want to stay within Thailand, then the southern destination of Krabi or the northern cites of Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai were my favourites.

Otherwise, it’s an easy hop, skip and a jump across the border to Cambodia and the magnificent temples of Angkor Wat.

Learn all about how to cross from Bangkok to Siem Reap – the city closest to Angkor Wat – in this post I wrote, as well as the top things to do in Siem Reap here .

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Creator of Big World Small Pockets, Stephanie Parker is a travel addict! Originally from Jersey in the Channel Islands, Stephanie adventures the world collecting tips, advice and stories, to share with a smile

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Best & Worst Time to Visit Thailand 2024, Rainy Season

The best time to visit Thailand is between November and March when the weather is cool and dry . However, it is also prime tourist season, and hotel and flight prices reflect the surge.

Thailand experiences very hot weather between April and June . The rainy season in Thailand occurs between June and October . One exception is the south's east coast (including Koh Samui), which experiences heavy rainfall from October to December.

Ready to plan your trip? Explore the ultimate guide to the best and worst times to travel to Thailand, complete with insider tips, recommended destinations, and curated activities for each season and month.

• 1. Best Times to Visit Thailand
• 2. Worst Times to Visit Thailand
• 3. Thailand Weather Month By Month

Best Times to Visit Thailand for Great Weather, Beaches, Festivals, and Low Prices

As mentioned above the best times to visit Thailand are from November to March. However, this can depend on your Thailand holiday purposes, budget, and weather preferences.

Best Time for the Best Weather

To bask in Thailand's finest weather, plan your visit between November and February. During these months, the country from the north inland to the south islands experiences cool and dry conditions, offering a delightful escape from extreme heat and rain. Perfect for exploring with clear skies and comfortable temperatures.

Best Time for Beaches and Islands

If you are a beach/island lover, November to March is the best time to visit beaches on the west coast of Thailand like Phuket, Koh Phi Phi, Similan Islands, and Krabi. Meanwhile, Koh Samui, nestled on the east coast, is good to visit from January to March and July to September.

Get more ideas on planning a family trip to Thailand .

Best Time for Low Prices

For budget-conscious travelers, the monsoon season from May to October offers lower prices and fewer crowds. Despite frequent rain showers, this period offers unique opportunities to secure significant discounts – up to 50% – on accommodation, flights, and tours.

Best Time for Thailand Festivals

For an authentic experience of Thailand's vibrant festivals, plan your visit in November for the enchanting Loy Krathong and Yi Peng Festival or in April to immerse yourself in the lively Songkran Festival. Additionally, many couples opt to celebrate their honeymoon or anniversary at the captivating Yi Peng Festival.

Get more tips in our article: How to Plan Your First Trip to Thailand — 7 Easy Steps .

Or tell us your interests , and we're glad to share the perfect timing and activities.

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The Worst Times to Visit Thailand

Avoiding the hot season if possible.

Thailand's hot season, from April to June, brings soaring temperatures and intense humidity, peaking in April and May at over 40°C (104°F). If you're not a fan of the heat, be sure to avoid those months.

Tips for Travelling during the Hot Season:

• Explore northern regions like Chiang Mai, where the climate is generally cooler compared to the southern parts of the country.
• Engage in water-based activities to cool off, such as visiting coastal areas or islands.

Avoiding the Rainy Season If Possible

While the rainy season (July to October) graces Thailand with lush landscapes, it also brings short afternoon showers and potential disruptions due to monsoons and storms.

However, you can revel in the perks of serene locales with fewer crowds and attractive prices.

Tips for Travelling the Rainy Season:

• Explore eastern and northern regions during the rainy season, as they typically receive less rainfall compared to the southern areas.
• Keep an eye on weather forecasts and plan indoor activities on days when rain is expected.
• Consider the sun-kissed beauty of Bali as a radiant alternative when Thailand is drenched in rain.

If you are going to visit other countries in Southeast Asia, you can read the Best Times to Visit Southeast Asia .

Thailand Travel Guide by Month

Click the sign of each month to check the travel guide information.

Thailand Weather in January: Nice Weather

• Northern Thailand (Chiang Mai): 15–25°C (59–77°F)
• Central Thailand (Bangkok): 25–32°C (77–89°F)
• Southern Thailand (Phuket): 26–32°C (79–89°F)

January offers great weather conditions, whether for city sightseeing or beach holidays.

It is a popular tourist season in Thailand, especially in tourist hotspots, such as Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Phuket, and Koh Samui. Expect larger crowds at popular attractions and book accommodations in advance.

Events and Festivals

The key festival, when it is in January, Chinese New Year, is celebrated right across the country, especially in Bangkok's Chinatown.

Suggested read: Thailand in January: the top 5 places to visit, costs, and crowds .

Thailand Weather in February: Nice Weather

Similar to the weather of January, February's weather is still nice, warm, and dry.

Good weather means almost anywhere is a good place to plan your holiday.

Beautiful islands and beaches are also good places to go — Phuket, Krabi, Khao Lak... All kinds of water activities enjoy ideal conditions.

Thailand Weather in March: The Heat Builds

• Northern Thailand (Chiang Mai): 20–30°C (68–86°F)
• Central Thailand (Bangkok): 28–35°C (82–95°F)
• Southern Thailand (Phuket): 28–34°C (82–93°F)

March is still a fabulous month to visit Thailand, especially in the first half of the month, though it starts to heat up in March. It's advisable to stay hydrated, especially in the central region with warmer temperatures.

During this season, you can go literally anywhere in Thailand thanks to the low rainfall. Water-related activities in the southern islands are enjoyable.

Suggested read: Thailand in March: top places to visit, costs, and crowds .

Thailand Weather in April: Hottest

• Northern Thailand (Chiang Mai): 25–35°C (77–95°F)
• Central Thailand (Bangkok): 29–35°C (86–97°F)
• Southern Thailand (Phuket): 29–35°C (84–95°F)

April is the hottest month in Thailand. It is not unusual for temperatures to exceed 30°C (95°F) all day and night!

The heat in Chiang Mai during April gets even more oppressive than in Bangkok. Chiang Rai is slightly cooler by 1 or 2°C but is still hot nonetheless.

For beach lovers, you are almost guaranteed some blue skies and clear seas. Staying in a beach resort will be at least 4 or 5°C cooler than in Bangkok or Chiang Mai.

Festivals and Events

Thai New Year (Songkran Festival) is the biggest, longest, and most enjoyable festival in Thailand. It is a 3-day-long water fight that takes place throughout the country!

Suggested read: Thailand in April: top places to visit, costs, and crowds .

Thailand Weather in May: The Rains Start

• Central Thailand (Bangkok): 31–36°C (88–97°F)

May is still hot and starts to be wet with it, as Thailand begins its rainy season. The rainy season is in full swing by the end of the month.

The weather in Bangkok and other cities in May starts to get extremely humid. Koh Samui is better than Phuket and Krabi to go because rainfall during May is much lower on the Gulf of Thailand than on the Andaman Coast.

May sees the end of the high season, which means that prices on hotels and flights begin to drop, bringing great value for visitors.

Suggested read: Thailand in May: top places to visit, costs, and crowds .

Thailand Weather in June: Wet and Hot

• Northern Thailand (Chiang Mai): 28–38°C (82–100°F)
• Central Thailand (Bangkok): 29–35°C (84–95°F)
• Southern Thailand (Phuket): 27–33°C (81–91°F)

Thailand can expect an average of 15 to 22 days of rain in June. However, the rain is usually short-lived, occurring in short bursts in the afternoon or evening.

This tourism low season is the best time to travel to Thailand for prices and quietness, with more choices of accommodation and various different promotions.

For beachgoers, Ko Samui and Hua Hin are the best destinations as they are not so affected by the rains at this time.

Suggested read: Thailand in June: top places to visit, costs, and crowds .

Thailand Weather in July: Wet

• Northern Thailand (Chiang Mai): 28–36°C (82–97°F)
• Central Thailand (Bangkok): 28–34°C (82–93°F)
• Southern Thailand (Phuket): 27–32°C (81–89°F)

July experiences heavy rainfall, so be prepared for wet conditions.

The southern islands are affected by the monsoon in July, which brings heavy rains and turbulent waves to the west coast.

However, the east coast (Koh Samui, Koh Tao, etc) experiences fewer showers during this season and has relatively good weather in July. You can still enjoy sunny days at the beach on these islands.

Some urban areas, such as Bangkok, remain hot and wet. Staying refreshed with indoor swimming pool visits and cold showers will help relieve any discomfort.

Suggested read: Thailand in July: top places to visit, costs, and crowds .

Thailand Weather in August: Wet

• Northern Thailand (Chiang Mai): 27–35°C (81–95°F)
• Central Thailand (Bangkok): 27–33°C (81–91°F)

Like July, August is one of the best times to visit Koh Samui and the surrounding islands. Though there are some brief rains, it is much better than the other side of the peninsula in Phuket, Krabi, Koh Chang, and the Phi Phi Islands.

A trip to Thailand in August can be a cost-effective opportunity to enjoy scenic spots and quiet beaches without the crowds.

Suggested read: Thailand in August: top places to visit, costs, and crowds .

Thailand Weather in September: Wettest

• Northern Thailand (Chiang Mai): 25–32°C (77–89°F)
• Central Thailand (Bangkok): 26–32°C (79–89°F)
• Southern Thailand (Phuket): 26–31°C (79–88°F)

September is the wettest month in Thailand. But actually, only some rural areas are significantly affected by the rains during the wet season, such as the mountainous north around Chiang Mai.

Destinations like Bangkok offer travelers plenty to do and see, even when it's raining outside. Koh Samui is recommended for beach holidays in September as it is less affected by the rains.

Rains do not disrupt the travel experience too much for some, as it seldom rains all day long.

Suggested read: Thailand in September: top places to visit, costs, and crowds .

Thailand Weather in October: End of the Rains

• Northern Thailand (Chiang Mai): 22–30°C (72–86°F)
• Central Thailand (Bangkok): 24–31°C (75–88°F)
• Southern Thailand (Phuket): 25–30°C (77–86°F)

Thailand experiences high or very high rainfall again in October, except in Northern Thailand where the rainy season already tails off to moderate levels.

The monsoon rain eases off with less rainfall and lower temperatures by the end of October in most of Thailand. However, Koh Samui begins its peak rainy season at this time.

Some visitors come to Thailand at the end of October to wait for the annual grand Thailand Lantern Festival in early November. Bangkok and Chiang Mai are the main venues.

Suggested read: Thailand in October: top places to visit, costs, and crowds .

Thailand Weather in November: Peak Season Starts

• Northern Thailand (Chiang Mai): 18–28°C (64–82°F)
• Central Thailand (Bangkok): 23–30°C (73–86°F)
• Southern Thailand (Phuket): 24–30°C (75–86°F)

Thailand's peak travel season starts from November. The rains and heat are gone or going from most of the country.

You can venture out without any worries of getting drenched, EXCEPT on the east coast, which receives a massive half a meter of rain in November.

Islands on the Andaman Coast (Phuket, Krabi, Phi Phi Island, Similan Islands, etc.) are ideal places to go, by contrast, with only moderate rainfall.

Bangkok and Chiang Mai, with low rainfall, are the most popular cities in November for the Thailand Lantern Festivals .

Suggested read: Thailand in November: top places to visit, costs, and crowds .

Thailand Weather in December: Coolest

• Central Thailand (Bangkok): 22–31°C (72–88°F)
• Southern Thailand (Phuket): 23–39°C (73–84°F)

December is the coolest month in Thailand, but it's still warm everywhere but in the cool/mild mountainous north.

December is a great time to visit most areas in Thailand (Koh Samui is still in rainy season though) and is also the country's busiest month for tourism.

There are celebrations on Christmas and New Year's Eve in Thailand. Shopping malls in Thailand have big sales from late December to early January. If you're planning a trip to Thailand over the Christmas and New Year period, try to book as early as possible. Popular hotels are usually booked up 3-6 months in advance.

Suggested read:

• Thailand in December: top places to visit, costs, and crowds .
• The Ultimate Guide to Spending Christmas / New Year Holidays in Southeast Asia
• Planning a Family Holiday to SE Asia? 20 Expert Tips for Christmas

Thailand Weather/Temperature Month by Month

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Best Time To Visit Bangkok

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• Best Time To Visit

Muay Thai Master Class

The ancient art of Muay Thai - also known as Thai boxing - is an integral part of the country’s culture, and there’s no better place to learn about it than in its birthplace. For this two-hour masterclass, you’ll be collected from your hotel by an English-speaking guide and driven to one of Bangkok’s most important boxing stadiums. If you’re a Ryan Gosling fan, it might just look familiar; it was one of the locations for the action film Only God Forgives, in which he played the lead role. During the training session, you’ll learn some of the principles of “the art of eight limbs”, before trying out some basic moves for yourself under the supervision of an expert instructor. Afterwards, you’ll be taken back to your hotel for a well-earned rest.

• Duration: half day (class is 2 hours) • Time: 8am to midday • Daily departures • Operates year round • Private experience

Good to know Soft drinks, coffee, water and all the boxing equipment you’ll require are provided, but you’ll need to bring a towel and wear suitable sportswear.

Bangkok's Highlights in a Day

For those who like to pack the maximum into each day, this trip will take you to some of Bangkok’s most famous sights in comfort. The first stop of the morning is Wat Traimit, home to a three-metre-high statue of a seated Buddha made from solid gold; from here, you’ll travel to another temple, Wat Pho, with another statue of Buddha - this time reclining - that’s a massive 46 metres long. Next on the itinerary is the Grand Palace, a former royal residence, and the temple of the Emerald Buddha, though the statue is actually made of jade. After lunch, you’ll board a traditional boat to cruise along some of the city’s canals, taking in the sights of daily life along the way, before disembarking at your final temple of the day: the riverside Wat Arun, known for its distinctive multicoloured spire.

• Duration: full day • Time: 8am to 3pm • Daily departures • Operates year round • Private experience

Good to know You’ll need to dress appropriately for visiting the various temples: that means long trousers - not leggings - or skirts below the knee, and covered shoulders. Carry a lightweight, though not see-through, cover-up if you want to be more casual the rest of the day.

Bangkok By Night

In the evening, temperatures drop and there’s less traffic, so it’s an ideal time to discover a different side of Bangkok. On this fascinating tour, you’ll travel by tuk tuk from the departure point at Lebua State Tower, a luxury hotel with amazing views from its various bars, to Chinatown for a herb-infused cocktail (or soft drink) and a Thai meal. Afterwards, you’ll whizz around the city’s historic heart past some of its most famous sights, including the Grand Palace - all lit up to spectacular effect. You’ll stroll through the grounds of a temple to admire the illuminations and explore bustling areas known for their amazing street-food scene. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to try some local sweet treats such as kluai thot - deliciously sticky pieces of deep-fried banana coated in sesame seeds - the perfect way to round off the evening.

• Duration: evening • Time: 6.30pm to 10.30pm • Daily departures • Operates year round • Private experience

Good to know The tour is not suitable for children under 10. As for what to wear, you’ll need smart casual clothing if you want to visit the Lebua State Tower before the tour and suitable clothing for visiting temples. It can get surprisingly cool zipping around at night in an open-sided vehicle, so you’ll be grateful for the extra coverage. Transfers to departure point not included

Bangkok Your Way (Private Driver and Guide) - Half Day or Full Day

Whether you know precisely what you want to see or are looking for some suggestions from someone who knows the city like the back of their hand, there’s no better way of exploring Bangkok at your own pace than with a private guide and chauffeur. With the help of their insider tips, you’ll be able to get unique insights into the city’s most famous sights, discover hidden gems you’d never have stumbled upon on your own and learn about the country’s culture along the way. With stops wherever and whenever you want, and the ability to change course on a whim, it’s a superb option for those travelling with children and those who want a tailor-made immersion in the history and culture of Bangkok.

• Duration: half day or full day • Daily departures • Operates year round • Private experience

Good to know You’ll have to pay locally for parking fees and tickets to any attractions you visit, and for any refreshments.

Ayutthaya’s Highlights In A Day

If you have a passion for history and a love of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, you won’t want to miss the chance to explore Thailand’s ancient capital. The city of Ayutthaya was one of the world’s most important urban areas from 1350 to 1767, before being sacked by the Burmese, and its ruins are a fascinating place to wander. On this engaging private experience, you’ll travel by train from Bangkok to Ayutthaya. Here, you’ll hop on one of the distinctive local “kermit” tuk-tuks - so-called because of their frog-green colour - to enable you to explore every corner of the Historical Park effortlessly, something that families, in particular, will appreciate. Soak up the views of crumbling temples, ancient statues and romantic towers, before boarding a riverboat for a restful, and scenic, return to Bangkok.

• Duration: full day • Time: 6.30am to 4pm • Departures every Wednesday to Monday • Operates year round • Private experience

Good to know Proper clothing is required for visiting temples. Includes roundtrip transfers.

Bangkok Street Food

Thailand is known for its delicious street food, and one of the best places to sample it is in Bangkok’s historic Rattanakosin district, also known as the Old Town. On this four-hour tour, you’ll head off on foot with a local English-speaking guide to explore the narrow streets and alleyways of this atmospheric area, stopping at family-run shops, tiny cafés, street vendors and market stalls to sample their wares and learn about how they’re made. Sip a cup of old-style coffee, the thick and sweet kafae boran; feast on Chinese chive dumplings and succulent roast duck; and try typical sweet treats such as sticky-rice dumplings filled with mung-bean paste. Be sure to leave room for some coconut ice cream, handmade by the same family for generations.

• Duration: half day • Time: 8.30am to 1pm • Daily departures • Operates year round • Group experience

Good to know Suitable for children aged 12 and upwards. The tour includes visits to a temple and shrine, so dress appropriately. Transfers not included

Bangkok’s Floating Market

One of Bangkok’s more colourful attractions, Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is rightly on many visitors’ not-to-be-missed lists. Heading out in the cool of the early morning, you’ll stop at iconic Wat Bang Kung, an ancient temple almost completely surrounded by the roots of a vast banyan tree, to soak up its unique atmosphere and learn about its not-always-peaceful history. From here, you’ll carry on to the floating market itself, which occupies a maze of narrow canals (khlongs) crowded with narrow wooden sampans piled high with produce. You’ll venture out on the water in your own boat, where you’ll have plenty of opportunities to take some superb photos and bargain for typical snacks. Your final destination is the extraordinary Rom Hub Railway Market, whose stalls lie on either side of an active railway track, meaning that the vendors have to pull everything out of the way every time a train goes past - which is quite a sight!

• Duration: half day • Time: 6.30am to 1pm • Daily departures • Operates year round • Private experience

Good to know Not recommended for families with younger children.

River Kwai Highlights In A Day

Symbolising the horrors of World War II in Asia, the bridge on the River Kwai at Kanchanaburi is almost a place of pilgrimage for history buffs, film aficionados and anyone curious about the relatively recent past. On this poignant trip, you’ll learn all about the building of the infamous bridge that was designed to link up a direct railway line from Bangkok to Rangoon (now Yangon) to support the Japanese occupation of Burma (now Myanmar) in 1943. You’ll visit the graves of members of the Allied Forces on a tour of the Kanchanaburi War Cemetery, before looking at historical photographs and paintings at the JEATH War Museum, both emotionally moving experiences. To complete your day, you’ll take a memorable ride on the Thailand-Burma Railway itself, also known as the Death Railway because of the thousands of POWs and forced local workers who lost their lives during its construction.

• Duration: full day • Time 6.30am to 6.30pm • Daily departures • Operates year round • Private experience

Good to know The trip is suitable for all ages.

Best time to visit Bangkok

Bangkok has a tropical climate, meaning it is steadily warm and humid throughout the year and prone to rain. The best time to visit Bangkok is November to February which is known as the ‘cool season’. While it’s still warm during the ‘cool season’ with average temperatures of 28⁰C, these are the driest months in Bangkok with only some typical sporadic shows expected and pleasant conditions for city sightseeing and combining with Phuket, Khao Lak and Krabi on the west coast. From March to June, temperatures rise to average highs of 34⁰C and the heat combined with the intense humidity can be too much for some. The start of the south-west monsoon season in May brings more frequent showers which can provide temporary relief from the heat. Lasting until October, the monsoon season usually means humid weather with an average temperature of 30⁰C and heavy showers. If you don’t mind the rain, there are great offers to enjoy during Thailand’s low season and far fewer crowds. By October, the rain will begin to subside but can still be unpredictable.

Bangkok Weather

Bangkok weather by month.

Bangkok in January January is one of the best, and most popular, months to visit Bangkok. There are around eight hours of sunshine with clear skies and the weather is mostly dry (though there’s always the chance of rain in a tropical climate). Being the ‘cool season’, temperatures are warm at an average of between 25⁰C and 34⁰C. Humidity won’t feel as high either so it’s a great time to go sightseeing before combining with other destinations in Thailand.

Bangkok in February February is another great month in Bangkok and is similar to January, with more pleasant weather and temperatures around 25-34⁰C. We recommended visiting now while it’s still comfortably warm as temperatures begin to rise in March.

Bangkok in March Bangkok begins its hot season in March. Days will start to feel particularly humid and temperatures average around 30⁰C. With rising temperatures and considerably dry weather throughout the country, this is a great month to combine Bangkok with some sunbathing on the beach either in the Gulf of Thailand (Koh Samui and Koh Phangan) or the Andaman Coast (Phuket and Khao Lak).

Bangkok in April April is typically the hottest month in Bangkok. There’s eight hours of sunshine and it will feel humid with more rain expected – around 110mm in the month. It’s recommended to keep well hydrated as days can get sweltering with highs of 37⁰C. The Thai New Year, Songkran, is a three-day national celebration in April, most notably marked by the huge street water fights – a welcome refreshment from the scorching heat.

Bangkok in May May is another hot month in Bangkok. As the start of the rainy season, it is wetter than April with an average of 180mm of rain. May continues to be intensely humid and average temperatures fall between 27⁰C and 35⁰C. The beginning of Thailand’s low season brings plenty of great offers and fewer crowds, so a short stopover in Bangkok can be combined with sunshine and little rain on east coast islands like Koh Samui.

Bangkok in June Bangkok in June is rainy and humid with similar conditions to May. There are six hours of sunshine and 180mm of rainfall. Days feel hot with average highs of 33⁰C and there are still good-value offers to take up. Islands in the Gulf of Thailand like Koh Samui still have hot and mostly dry weather if you’re mainly after a beach break during the school holidays.

Bangkok in July In July, Bangkok is rainy and humid with a slight drop in temperature and five hours of sunshine. Showers are likely but often come in short, sharp downpours, with periods of rain getting longer as you approach August. Beaches on the east coast still have good weather in July if you’re combining Bangkok with Koh Samui or Koh Phangan.

Bangkok in August There’s plenty of humidity and rain in Bangkok in August. It’s the middle of the wet season, so rainfall can be expected throughout the month both in light spells and heavy downpours. Bangkok welcomes tourists throughout the year and the wet season is still a good time for a leisurely stopover, especially as the tropical rain more often falls in bursts rather than all day. If you don’t mind the weather, you can make the most of your hotel’s facilities spa with a massage or do some shopping in one of Bangkok’s modern shopping centres.

Bangkok in September Bangkok in September is usually the wettest month of the year with 220mm of rainfall. Temperatures are still warm at 29⁰C and while Bangkok’s attractions are always busy, the crowds are considerably smaller thanks to the inclement weather.

Bangkok in October October marks the end of the wet season in Bangkok. There’s a strong risk of rain throughout the month although the weather is more unpredictable. Each day can bring anything from bright blue skies to grey clouds and torrential rain. For those who don’t mind chancing the weather, there’ll be plenty of great-value accommodation as the low season ends.

Bangkok in November Bangkok in November is noticeably drier at the start of the cool season. There’s just 40mm of rainfall and an average temperature of 28⁰C. It’s a great time to visit Bangkok as there’s eight hours of sunshine and generally skies are clear and bright. If you’re looking for a city and beach multi-centre, Khao Lak and Phuket off the Andaman Coast are also starting their dry season so there are fewer showers and warm weather of around 29⁰C.

Bangkok in December December is another excellent month to visit Bangkok. There are nine hours of sunshine and minimal rainfall at 10mm. You can expect great weather throughout most of Thailand, making it a great and popular time to visit most of the country, particularly Northern Thailand, Phuket, Khao Lak and Krabi.

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Insider’s Guide: Best Time to Visit Bangkok (The Heart of Thailand)

Welcome to the vibrant and bustling city of Bangkok, the heart of Thailand. Famed for its golden palaces, floating markets, and majestic porcelain-laid spires, Bangkok is a travel destination like no other.

However, with the city’s diverse climate and seasonal events, timing your visit can significantly impact your experience. This comprehensive guide is here to help you navigate and identify the best times to visit Bangkok based on various factors.

Table of Contents

Bangkok’s Weather

Bangkok, being in the tropical region, is graced with a monsoon climate. The city experiences three primary seasons: the cool season (November to February), the hot season (March to June), and the rainy season (July to October).

The cool season, despite its name, is pleasantly warm, with average temperatures ranging between 20°C and 30°C. The hot season, on the other hand, can be incredibly scorching, with temperatures often soaring above 30°C and sometimes even reaching 40°C. Lastly, the rainy season brings in heavy but sporadic showers, often in the afternoons or late evenings, while still maintaining a warm temperature averaging around 28°C.

Best Time to Visit for Weather

The cool season, from November to February, is generally considered the best time to visit Bangkok weather-wise. The temperatures are more comfortable, and the humidity is less intense compared to the hot season. It’s an ideal time for outdoor explorations and sightseeing tours around the city.

The hot season, while sweltering, allows for trips to Bangkok’s plethora of shopping malls, museums, and indoor attractions. It’s also a good time for water-related activities, like visiting water parks or taking boat tours. However, the heat may be oppressive for some visitors.

Visiting during the rainy season comes with its pros and cons. On the downside, rain can disrupt outdoor activities and create transportation difficulties. However, the rainfall often comes in short bursts and leaves the city refreshed and cool. If you don’t mind a bit of rain, this season can be quite enchanting, especially for photography enthusiasts who can capture the city in a different light.

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Best Season to Visit Bangkok

High season: november to february.

The high season in Bangkok, from November to February, is considered the best time to visit for most travellers. The weather during this period is relatively cooler and more comfortable, making it ideal for exploring the city’s outdoor attractions. The skies are clear, and rainfall is minimal, ensuring bright and sunny days.

This season coincides with the festive period, including Christmas and New Year celebrations. Bangkok transforms into a magical wonderland with dazzling decorations and a vibrant atmosphere. However, it’s important to note that this is also the peak tourist season, so popular attractions may be crowded, and prices for accommodation and airfare tend to be higher.

Shoulder Season: March to May and September to October

The shoulder seasons, from March to May and September to October, offer a mix of advantages and disadvantages. March to May is characterized by hot and humid weather, with temperatures often reaching their peak. However, if you can tolerate the heat, you’ll find that the city is less crowded, and prices for accommodation and flights are more affordable compared to the high season.

September to October is another shoulder season worth considering. While there may be occasional rain showers, the weather is generally pleasant. This period offers an opportunity to experience local festivals such as the Vegetarian Festival and Loy Krathong.

Low Season: June to August

The low season in Bangkok, from June to August, is marked by heavy rainfall and higher humidity levels. While this may discourage some travellers, it presents a unique opportunity to explore Bangkok with fewer crowds and significantly lower prices for accommodation and airfare. The rain showers are often short-lived, and you can still enjoy sunny intervals throughout the day.

Best Time to Visit for Festivals and Events

Bangkok’s festivals and events are a significant part of its cultural allure. If your travel plans are flexible, consider aligning your trip with one of these occasions.

Songkran, the Thai New Year , is celebrated in April with much fanfare. The streets come alive with water fights, parades, and a festive atmosphere.

Loy Krathong , usually held in November, is another notable event where people gather around water bodies to float “ krathongs ” – little boats made of banana leaves, decorated with flowers and candles.

Chinese New Year , Christmas, and New Year’s Eve are also celebrated with enthusiasm, and visiting during these times can provide a unique experience.

Best Time to Visit for Lower Tourist Crowds

If your preference is to avoid tourist crowds, the rainy season, particularly the months of May, June, and September, might be your best bet. While the rains could be a slight inconvenience, the city is considerably less crowded. You can enjoy major attractions without having to navigate through throngs of tourists.

Best Time to Visit for Budget (Cheapest) Travelers

For an affordable visit to Bangkok, consider travelling during the hot season, which spans from March to May. During this period, temperatures soar to an average of 90°F, making it the hottest time of the year.

However, this season also offers the advantage of fewer crowds compared to the cool season, making it the most cost-effective time to explore Bangkok. Accommodation, flight fares, and attraction prices reach their lowest points during this period.

Moreover, the intense heat and humidity may appeal to certain travellers, as it provides an opportunity to relish the city’s warm climate without facing excessive crowds. Notably, April hosts Thai New Year, known as Songkran, offering an excellent chance to immerse oneself in local culture and partake in lively festivities.

If you prefer a more authentic and less tourist-oriented experience, April presents an ideal month to visit Bangkok, particularly if you are less inclined to explore the city on foot.

Other Factors to Consider

Your ideal time to visit Bangkok might be influenced by personal preferences and flexibility. For example, if you are an avid shopper, you might enjoy visiting during the hot season when indoor malls provide respite from the heat, or in June when the Amazing Grand Sale occurs.

Also, consider global events or situations. For instance, during a pandemic, it’s crucial to keep abreast of the latest travel advisories and regulations.

Airfare and Accommodation Prices

The cost of airfare and accommodation can vary significantly depending on the season you choose to visit Bangkok. During the high season, prices tend to be at their peak due to the increased demand. It’s advisable to book your flights and accommodations well in advance to secure the best deals. On the other hand, the low season offers substantial discounts, allowing you to save on your travel expenses.

Crowds and Tourist Traffic

Considering the level of tourist traffic is crucial when selecting the best time to explore Bangkok. The high season attracts a large number of tourists, resulting in crowded attractions and longer queues.

If you prefer a more relaxed and less crowded experience, the shoulder or low seasons would be better options for you. Exploring the city during these periods allows you to enjoy the sights and attractions with greater ease.

Exploring Bangkok’s Attractions

Regardless of the season, Bangkok offers a wealth of attractions to explore. From the iconic Grand Palace and Wat Arun to the floating markets and vibrant street markets, there’s no shortage of experiences to discover. Take the time to visit the numerous temples, indulge in the local cuisine, and immerse yourself in the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Tips on the Best way to get around Bangkok

Navigating Bangkok can be overwhelming, especially for first-time visitors. Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your trip:

Use public transportation: Bangkok’s traffic can be notoriously congested, so it’s best to utilize the city’s efficient public transportation system, including the BTS Skytrain and MRT subway.

Dress appropriately for temples: When visiting temples, dress modestly and cover your shoulders and knees as a sign of respect.

Stay hydrated: With the hot and humid weather, it’s important to drink plenty of water and stay hydrated throughout the day.

Try street food: Bangkok is renowned for its street food scene. Don’t miss the opportunity to sample local delicacies from the bustling street stalls.

Bargain at markets: When shopping at markets, bargaining is a common practice. Negotiate the prices to get the best deals.

Choosing the best time to explore Bangkok is essential for a memorable and enjoyable trip. Consider factors such as the weather, festivals, airfare, and accommodation prices, crowds, and your personal preferences. Whether you opt for the high season, shoulder season, or low season, Bangkok will captivate you with its vibrant energy, rich culture, and incredible sights.

Follow-up Articles:

• Bangkok’s 20 Most Popular Cafes
• 12 Most Popular Shopping Places in Bangkok
• Thailand’s Top 10 Popular Honeymoon Resorts
• Top 15 Famous Restaurants in Bangkok
• 10 Famous Thailand Destinations to See in November 2023
• Thailand’s Popular Places to Visit in October 2023
• Thailand Shopping Guide: What To Buy And Where
• 10 Places to Visit in Thailand in March 2024
• Top 11 Destinations to Trekking in Thailand
• 10 Places in Thailand to Visit in December 2023
• Connecting Asia: The Kolkata-Bangkok Highway – A Road Trip Coming Soon

1. Is Bangkok safe to visit?

Bangkok is generally safe for tourists. However, it’s always recommended to take standard precautions and be aware of your surroundings.

2. What is the currency used in Bangkok?

The currency used in Bangkok is the Thai Baht (THB).

3. How can I get around in Bangkok?

Bangkok has an extensive public transportation system, including the BTS Skytrain, MRT subway, and buses, making it easy to navigate the city.

4. What should I wear when visiting temples in Bangkok?

When visiting temples, it’s best to dress modestly and cover your shoulders and knees as a sign of respect.

5. What are some must-visit attractions in Bangkok?

Some of the must-visit attractions in Bangkok include the Grand Palace, Wat Arun, Wat Phra Kaew, Chatuchak Weekend Market, and the floating markets.

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The Best Times to Visit Thailand for Great Weather, Low Prices, and Fun Festivals

Here are the best times to go to Thailand based on what you want to see and do.

Anne Olivia Bauso is a travel writer and hotel expert based in New York City. She has written hundreds of hotel reviews, from 5-star Ritz-Carlton properties to treehouse eco-resorts in the jungle.

The Best Times to Visit Thailand for Smaller Crowds

The best times to visit thailand for great weather, the best times to visit thailand for lower prices, the best times to visit thailand for festivals, the best times to visit thailand for scuba diving, the best times to visit thailand for island-hopping, the best times to visit thailand for shopping, worst times to visit thailand.

Thailand is one of the most accessible and well-loved travel destinations in Southeast Asia. It's a great place to visit any time of year, but there are better times than others for specific activities like scuba diving and island-hopping.

"Thailand is a tropical country with two distinct seasons," says Jack Tydeman , a Travel + Leisure A-List travel advisor and Southeast Asia specialist for Audley Travel . "It is typically warm all year round. However, the winter months from November through March are the peak dry season and are considered the best time to travel to the majority of the country. April is the hottest month in Thailand before the country moves into the wetter season from May through October."

Here's a breakdown of Thailand's main travel seasons:

• High Season: November to March
• Shoulder Seasons: April to June and the month of October
• Low Season: July to September

Before you book your jungle tree house and island boat tour, learn about the best times to visit Thailand.

Michela Buttignol/Travel + Leisure

Thailand's low season coincides with monsoon season. With the exception of the Thai islands, which draw students from Australia and Europe during their college breaks, the wet and muggy climate keeps many tourists away between July and September. Going during this quiet time has its perks: you'll get cheaper accommodations, better access to restaurants and activities typically inundated by vacationers, and potentially more of a local experience. At the same time, there are limitations. Rains could come in brief cloudbursts, or they could come in days-long downpours that affect boat service and island access. Tours are less abundant, and some hotels even close during the off-season, so be sure to plan ahead if you're considering a trip in the summer.

For ideal weather, visit Thailand during the dry season, which runs from November through March in most of the country, sometimes even lasting until April or May. A major exception is the Lower Gulf — home to the islands of Koh Samui, Ko Pha-ngan, and Koh Tao — which is rainiest from September through December.

On the Andaman coast, the coolest, most comfortable weather is around November to February, with average temperatures in the 80s and little chance of rain. This means clear, blue waters and gorgeous vegetation quenched from monsoon season.

As for the low season, it's best to temper your expectations. "It is possible to travel over the summer months. However, you may see some short, sharp showers," Tydeman says. "As the east coast of Thailand has its own unique weather patterns, summer is actually the drier season there."

Thailand is a relatively affordable destination throughout the year, though travelers may find the steepest discounts on flights, accommodations, and tours during the low season, July to September.

"The low season does have its advantages, as it's quieter and the rates are typically lower. This makes Thailand a great-value destination during the summer," says Tydeman. While this time of year is generally wetter, you might even get better natural scenery. "Summer is now commonly referred to as 'green season' due to the rains turning the countryside green and filling the rivers and waterfalls."

Travelers should try to experience at least one of Thailand's many festivals, which celebrate everything from flowers and fruit to monkeys and elephants. Two of the most beloved are the late-November lantern festivals: Yi Peng, during which participants release thousands of rice-paper lanterns into the sky; and Loy Krathong, when banana-leaf baskets are filled with flowers and burning candles and released onto lakes, rivers, and canals. Chiang Mai is the Yi Peng epicenter, and Loy Krathong is celebrated across the country.

The Chinese New Year in January or February turns Bangkok's Chinatown into a sea of dragons, drummers, worshippers, and visitors, all under the glow of firecrackers and red lanterns. Also in February is the three-day Flower Festival in Chiang Mai, which features a parade of elaborately decorated floats.

Songkran (aka the Water Splashing Festival) ushers in the Thai New Year in mid-April with parades, parties, and performances across the country. Songkran turns Thailand into "one big water fight," Tydeman says. "It also coincides with the hottest month of the year, so it's a perfect excuse to get wet."

The Vegetarian Festival takes place in late September or early October and commemorates a nine-day abstinence from meat in honor of the Nine Emperor Gods of Taoism.

Divers from all over the world flock to Thailand to explore the country's famous underwater sites and stunning marine parks. Thailand's east coast is largely dive-friendly throughout the year. If you plan an excursion to the Andaman Sea, home to the extraordinary Similan and Surin Islands, time the trip between November and April, when the seas are calm and visibility is clearest. Also keep in mind that Similan and Surin marine parks close from mid-May to mid-October.

Boating from one jungle-topped limestone island to another is a great way to explore Thailand, but downpours between May and October can put the kibosh on nautical fun. Some southern Andaman resorts even close for the rainy season.

"The islands off the west coast, like Phuket, are best to visit in the winter months, whereas the islands off the east coast, like Koh Samui, are great to visit in the summer," says Tydeman.

This means you should time your bouncing around Phuket, the Phi Phi Islands, Ko Lanta, and other Andaman isles between late October (when the rains taper off) and May or June. Conversely, Gulf of Thailand idylls Koh Samui, Koh Tao, and Ko Pha-ngan are at their rainiest and windiest between October and December.

No matter what time of year you visit Thailand, try to fit in at least one weekend in Bangkok so you can experience the vast Chatuchak Weekend Market . Many of the stalls are covered, so you can visit even on a rainy day. Tydeman also recommends visiting Bangkok's night markets, which offer "everything from original artwork and designer bags to kitschy souvenirs and secondhand books."

Chiang Mai 's weekend markets deserve a look as well. Every Saturday night, Wua Lai Road (just south of the Old City) closes to traffic and hosts silversmiths, wood carvers, clothing purveyors, sketch artists, and performing musicians. On Sundays, the scene essentially repeats itself along the length of Ratchadamnoen Road, which bustles with artists, food vendors, and massage stations.

There is no objectively bad time to visit Thailand. Each season has its benefits, but most people avoid traveling during the heaviest monsoons, which can disrupt public transportation and make exploring Thailand's stunning natural sites wildly uncomfortable (if not impossible). Forget renting a motorbike or riding ferries during the wet season. Though you're more likely to snag accommodations for cheap, you're liable to spend more time at your hotel than you bargained for, waiting for the downpours to pass. If you're averse to heavy rains and thick humidity on vacation, avoid planning a trip to Thailand in August and September.

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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.

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Best Time To Visit Bangkok

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What is the best time to visit Bangkok?

The best time to visit Bangkok is from November to February. It is the dry season in Bangkok when the weather is generally cooler and less humid, and the temperature ranges around 23 - 30 degrees Celcius. You can explore outdoor attractions comfortably, enjoy festivals like Loy Krathong, and engage in cultural activities without the sweltering heat. However, it is also the peak tourist season, so the prices are a little high. Bangkok has a tropical climate and remains warm and sunny throughout the year. The wet or rainy season in Bangkok is from July to October, when the temperature ranges around 26 - 34 degrees Celcius. While it's the least popular tourist season, it can still be a good time to visit if you're prepared for occasional rain. March to June is the hot summer season in Bangkok. The temperature during this time reaches a high of 40 degrees Celcius. This is a great time for tourists who don't mind the heat and humidity. It's the shoulder season between the cool and rainy periods.

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More about best time to travel to bangkok, bangkok in cold season (november to february).

• Royal Barge Procession plays out during November around the Grand Palace. Make sure to book tickets in advance to score a great viewing spot.
• Every year, Loy Krathong is celebrated on the 4th of November to pay respects to the water goddess. The sight of thousands of candles floating in the water is one to behold. The most popular points to view the ceremony are Asiatique, Wat Saket and Phra Athit Pier.
• Bangkok will host the Trooping of the Colours ceremony on the 5th of December. The royal guards and the Royal Thai Navy, the Royal Thai Army, and the Royal Thai Air Force wear colourful uniforms and retake the oath of allegiance towards their nation.
• Christmas in Bangkok is crowded with most restaurants and hotels offering exciting deals and discounts.
• New Year?s Eve in Bangkok is marked by fireworks and exciting events and parties across the city.
• Bangkok Symphony Orchestra hosts many free open-air concerts in Lumpini Park on Sunday throughout January.
• Bangkok celebrates National Children?s Day on the 13th of January. Nobody does New Year better than the city of Bangkok. Make sure to catch the spectacular fireworks at Central World Square.
• Bangkok Symphony Orchestra?s open-air concerts continue to be held until the second week of February.
• Bangkok celebrates Valentine?s Day on the 14th of February by offering deals on accommodations and food.
• Chinese New Year is celebrated on the 16th of February. Chinatown in Bangkok is all decked up. If you want to see explosions in the sky and dragon dancers, head to Chinatown.

Bangkok in Wet Season (July to October)

• Thailand Oil and Gas Roadshow 2019 will be hosted by Bangkok this year on July 11. July 19 and 20 are public holidays on account of Asana Bucha and Khao Pansa. The former celebrates the day of Buddha?s first sermon while the latter commemorates the onset of the Buddhist Lent.
• August 12 is celebrated as the Queen?s birthday.
• Apart from this, the Short Film and Video Festival is held in mid-August.
• Chinese Ghost Festival is celebrated on the 15th of August.
• YOLO Run Bangkok is a reputed marathon that will take place on the 23rd of September.
• The Moon Festival is celebrated across Bangkok on the 13th of September.
• Starting on the 8th of October, the Vegetarian Festival is a 9-day long event which draws both vegetarians non-vegetarians to Bangkok during this time of the year. This fest is celebrated on a grand scale.
• The 4th World Summit and Expo on Food Technology will be hosted by Bangkok this year on the 24th and 25th of October.

Bangkok in Hot Season (March to June)

• Bangkok invites you to Sing Sing Theater to catch Gab Rhome on the 27th of March. DEMO will host a Jam Party Series where DJs and music artists from far and wide will descend in Bangkok on the 29th of March.
• The Red Cross Fair is a biannual event whose mission is to raise funds for the Thai Red Cross Society. Hosted in March, you can participate in raffles, games, and ride on the giant wheel.
• The city hosts Linaro Connect on the 1st of April. This 5-day long biannual event sees industry experts from the tech field gather to discuss new tech developments.
• The event coincides with Synnex Partners Connect, another tech symposium, which will be conducted at Avani Riverside Bangkok Hotel.
• Songkran Festival in Bangkok will be observed from 13th to 15th of April.
• Bangkok invites you to the annual Songkran Splash Away Pool Party on the 13th of April. The event will take place at W Bangkok. 
• The Global Azure Bootcamp, a community event for Microsoft Azure users, will be conducted on the 27th of April.
• Bangkok will host the Royal Ploughing Ceremony on the 10th of May.
• 15 June marks the onset of the Amazing Thailand Grand Sale at shopping malls across Bangkok. It is a month-long festival which is sponsored by Thailand Tourism.
• NEPCON Thailand, an electronics manufacturing symposium, will take place on the 19th of June in BITEC, Bangkok.

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Plan your trip during best season to experience the best of this stunning destination

The best time to visit Bangkok is during the winter months of November to March as the weather is pleasant and enjoyable. Traveling during summers or monsoon requires withstanding extremely high and humid weather, thereby restricting travelers largely indoors only. Bangkok is the second most visited city in the world. Beautiful historical places and temples along with pleasant Bangkok weather, make it one of the most loved destinations for holidaymakers, looking to travel the world while keeping their worries aside. Therefore, given below is some crucial information about the best time to visit Thailand , Bangkok.

Peak Season

The months from November to February are known as the high/peak season in Bangkok for tourism. Any time during this period can be the best month to visit Bangkok for tourists. It is the time when spring is ending and winter is set to begin. Most of the tourist attractions are usually crowded during this period, also because of Christmas and New Year. If you are planning to visit during the peak season, make sure to reserve your flight tickets, holiday packages and accommodation in advance. 

Shoulder Season

The months between March and June, September and October are seen as the shoulder season in Bangkok. It may not be the best time to go to Bangkok , but a good time to avoid crowds in the city. The weather remains wet as rain is frequent during these months. Carry your rainwear and other essentials if you are visiting Bangkok during this time. Prices at restaurants will be cheaper and you will easily find indoor places available at cheaper rates. 

The months of July and August mark the offseason in Bangkok . The weather remains cold, humid and wet for most parts of the day. Rainfall may also occur during this period. August is the best month to visit Bangkok if you are looking for a budget holiday. There is less crowd in most of the famous tourist attractions so you will have quiet time to enjoy at ease. Make sure to carry your seasonal essentials to survive the cold weather. 

Climate in Bangkok

Summer season in bangkok.

Summer in Bangkok is very hot. This season is from April to June. Bangkok weather in May becomes hot and humid and the temperature soars up to 40 degrees C. The Thai New Year also falls during this period, and people enjoy it with a water fight that goes on for three days. Though one may need to stay indoors while visiting Bangkok during this time of the year due to the extreme temperatures, there are many water activities that one can enjoy with friends and family. Boat cruises, shopping in air-conditioned malls and enjoying the Thai cuisine at rooftop bars and lounges are some of the best things to do in Bangkok during the summer season.

Monsoon Season in Bangkok

This season in Bangkok falls between July and October. This is the leanest tourist season in Bangkok because of the hot and humid weather. During this season, the prices for hotels and other water activities are heavily discounted. This is the cheapest time to visit Bangkok when travelers get flight tickets, hotels and shopping experience at very low prices. The place experiences uneven rainfall patterns with light showers from time to time. Bangkok temperature during monsoons is suitable to partake in many indoor activities, which include visiting shopping malls, entertainment complexes, aquarium, temples, and the like.

The best time to visit Bangkok for shopping is from mid-November to mid-December. During this period, the city is sparsely crowded. The shopkeepers prepare for the peak season. Therefore, the prices are very reasonable as compared to those during January, February, and March when all the services and products are offered at much higher prices due to heavy tourist footfall. To save money on flights and hotels, one can visit Bangkok during the rainy season when the weather is not very hot, as it is a lean time for Bangkok tourism industry.

Thus, the best time to visit Bangkok is the winter season, i.e., during November and December when Bangkok, Thailand weather is pleasant, and prices are low.

Winter Season in Bangkok

Winters in Bangkok are cold with frequent light showers. Bangkok winter season lasts from November to March. The cold and calm weather makes this season the best time for   Bangkok travel . The weather in the city is delightful during this season, and tourists get to see some of the most beautiful sceneries. On an average, there are two days of rainfall in a month during this season. December is the coldest month and the temperatures at night can fall by almost 20 ? C. Bangkok weather in December witnesses increased prices by vendors and hotels. So the overall cost of the trip might escalate a little in comparison to what one might have budgeted for.

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FAQ's of Bangkok

When is the best time to visit bangkok.

December to February is the best time to visit Bangkok as the weather is delightful. March to May is the summer season and can be really hot. May to October is the rainy season and perfect for a budget vacation as the fares are lower during this time.  

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Best Time to Visit Bangkok

Best time to visit bangkok.

The weather in Bangkok is tropical. The country has three main seasons namely summer which extends from March to June, the monsoon or rainy season from July to October and the relatively cooler winter season which runs from November to February.

The winter is the best time to visit Bangkok. The days tend to be cooler and the evenings much more pleasant. If one is looking to spend time at the beaches or taking a boat cruise, then summer is possibly the best time to visit though bear in mind it can get beastly hot. 

The monsoon season is not the best time to visit for a variety of reasons, primary amongst these the bouts of torrential rain which can take apart any itinerary one has drawn up. Shopping is the one activity that can best be enjoyed at this time though.

Bangkok in March to June 

Temperature: 30 – 40 degrees

Bangkok's hottest time is between March and May, when temperatures soar as high as 40 degrees. The average temperature stays in the mid 30s for the entire season, though the months of May and June start getting showers which offer some respite from the intense heat. During the ‘Hot Season’, boat cruises, mall shopping, rooftop bars and lounging on the beach or by the pool come highly recommended to escape the intense Bangkok weather. It will still be quite warm, with an average high temperature of 32°C, and, when combined with the rain, the humidity can be excruciatingly intolerable, though the rains do help cool things off a bit. April by far the most unpleasant month temperature wise. 

Significance:  

This is when the Thai New Year, Songkran, takes place and the country embarks on a three-day water fight. While many go away for the vacation those who stay celebrate with high velocity water guns, buckets and hoses to spray water as part of huge water fights. Tourists and businessmen are often the top targets.

Visakha Bucha, the holiest of all Buddhist holidays is also commemorated on the full-moon day of the sixth lunar month which normally falls in May. On this public holiday, Thai Buddhists visit the temple to make merit in addition to making an extra effort to uphold the Five Precepts of Buddhist teachings 

Why you should visit now: 

While external activity and sightseeing is not recommended during this season, the popular “Amazing Grand Sale” commences in June and sees large crowds.  Shopaholics would definitely see June as the best month to visit Bangkok. Also in the middle of March The Bangkok International Fashion Week is held. This five-day event showcases a variety of products, including clothing and cosmetics, jewellery, leather products, bridal and handicrafts and generally takes place at the Impact Exhibition & Convention Center. 

If you love sea food and crabs in particular then this is the best time to visit too. The annual Crab Festival held at Central Plaza Rama in the middle of June offers the chance to taste fresh crab from Bang Khun Thian, a sea side district of Bangkok. It also features a number of exhibitions, including international cooking demonstrations.

Given you have the requisite skin protection, it is also a great time to loll on the beach and get a great tan in this season.

Know before you visit:  

With the heat being extremely oppressive, from an activities perspective it is highly suggested you stay indoors. Some things you could do include visiting temples, aquariums and entertainment complexes aside from shopping.

With lesser crowds visiting the tariffs on rooms as well as other services tends to be much less and you can strike some good deals.

Further on Visakha Bucha, many bars and clubs are closed for the day, and the few that do remain open keep the music at lower levels and only serve alcohol in a very discreet manner. 

Tips: 

More important than time of year when visiting Bangkok, try to visit the most popular attractions early in the morning for the smallest crowds, coolest temperatures, and best experience.

In such oppressive heat protection from the sun is critical. Take as much sunscreen as you can. While minimal clothing is good, shorts and tank tops aren’t appropriate for the city, particularly in the temples and palaces - loose and light long pants and comfortable, short-sleeve tops are the way to go. 

Ensure you have an air conditioned room – the cooling is much wanted after being out in the heat. The heat can be oppressive during the day, so ensure if you want to do any sightseeing or trips, you do these in the late afternoons or early evenings particularly if your skin is sensitive to the heat. 

Also ensure you take regular breaks from the heat and intake a large amount of fluids.

Bangkok in July to October

Temperature: 26 - 34 degrees

Also called the Low Season, the monsoon occurs between July and October. Low reflects the mood and this is because of the largely due to the wet and humid weather in Bangkok. While it is is still hot, the city is also prone to bouts of rain, which why this is not the best season even more so if you are looking for a beach holiday.

Typically on a monsoon day there can be light rain, torrential 30-minute showers, with a mix of clear skies and overcast days with little to no rain. September and October are Bangkok’s rainiest months.

While the monsoon can play havoc with plans and movement, given the relative paucity of crowds it can be a great time to visit sites a little more peacefully.

July is also the month for the famous Pattaya marathon.

The off-season weather isn’t completely intolerable, and the trade-off of considerable savings for more elbow room is likely to be worth the bit of discomfort.

The Grand Palace is Bangkok’s No. 1 must-see attraction, drawing millions of tourists annually. During the monsoon however, there are times when you can enjoy it in relative peace. A good idea is to come early in the morning during the peak of the rainy season. 

By far, this is also the best time for shopping in Bangkok.  The “Amazing Grand Sale” of Bangkok is at its peak in July and August. Shops offer discounts between 10 and 80 percent on a variety of items including clothes, electronic items and jewellery allowing shoppers to stock up on dream purchases at a fraction of the price.

There are some important festivals and occasions that also take place in September. These include the Chinese Mid-Autumn Moon Festival and the International Festival of Dance and Music. The former is an exciting time for food lovers. Chinatown is filled with food stalls promoting mooncakes in every possible flavour. The International Festival is Bangkok’s largest annual arts festival featuring top or second-tier opera, classical music, dance, ballet and jazz in a star-studded program. 

Know before you visit: 

Expectedly given the erratic weather, there again are not too many crowds, putting on offer some of the best deals on hotels and excursions. 

Like in summer, when it rains heavily, tourists can enjoy a wide range of indoor activities or just continue shopping.

Asana Bucha and Khao Pansa are two important Thai Buddhist holidays that fall next to each other in July. Asahara Bucha commemorates the day Buddha preached his first sermon to his five first disciples, while Khao Pansa is the beginning of the Buddhist Lent, when the monks’ three-month rainy reason retreat starts and alcohol is banned all day. Lay people too abstain from cigarettes, alcohol or meat. A Buddhist Lent Festival takes place, featuring celebrants that make huge candles and parade them through the streets along with floats depicting scenes from Buddhist and Hindu mythology.

Bangkok in November to February

Temperature: 23 - 39 degrees

The best weather in Bangkok is experienced between November and February. These are the ‘cool months’ when discovering the city by foot will not result in drowning perspiration. During the evenings at this time of year temperatures have been known to drop to around 22 degrees Celsius. 

There is very little rain during this season. This is when the city is often at its most pleasant, though you may still need protection from the sun in the form of sunscreen, as well as loose, lightweight clothing. December is Bangkok’s driest month, with just 9 mm of rain. As always, you’ll need light, loose clothing and sunglasses as well as a jacket or a cardigan for indoors, but you can do away with that umbrella.

Significance: 

This is peak tourist season, and the coolest time of the year. There’s a more happening nightlife too. 

The season is extremely festive. Aside from Christmas and New Year which are celebrated with a lot of reverence and gusto, the World Film Festival of Bangkok is held in early November. The festival screens more than 80 international films from across the globe. Add to that, the Beer Garden Festival which marks the start of the country’s annual beer garden season, where tables and chairs are brought out onto the street and Singha, Heineken, and a host of other beers are available on tap. Food stalls, live bands and a humungous variety of beers can be found at plazas, bars and malls. There is also Loy Krathong Festival which is one of the most picturesque festivals in Bangkok taking place on the first full moon day of November, In the evening, Thai people buy or make a krathong, which is like a small boat made of banana tree and banana leaves, with flowers and a candle in the middle. They then gather around lakes, rivers and canals to pay respects to the goddess of water. 

The weather is obviously the key reason. While it won’t make a huge difference, late November and early December is the best time to visit Bangkok, when the city is drying out from the monsoon season and experiencing a slight cool down, and the holiday crowds have yet to arrive.

The best weather for Thailand’s beaches and islands are December to March. Combining Bangkok with a visit to one of the southern islands would be a good idea at this time.

Chinatown which is Bangkok’s most chaotic, colourful district, and a little city in its own right is definitely worth a visit. Around the Chinese New Year in late January or early February is when Chinatown is at its best.

In this season, particularly from the second half of December onwards, it is virtually impossible to explore the city without banging into several other tourists and the outdoor beer bars are packed with them.

Tips : 

Prices across the board rise steeply and accommodation and all else fills up quickly. It is imperative to book well in advance.

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13 Essential Tips for Your First Time in Bangkok

If there’s one thing you’ll notice the moment that you arrive in the city for your first time in Bangkok, it’s that Bangkok is chaos.

It is sprawling, sweltering, smelly, sophisticated, and spunky. This is a city that has a vibe, an attitude, a life of its own.

It was hard for me to love it at first, but once you get the hang of Bangkok, there’s nothing quite like it.

We visited Bangkok twice during our time backpacking Southeast Asia.

By the time that we left on our second visit, I had gone from saying, “This is so overwhelming!” to “You know, I think I really like Bangkok.”

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Want to make sure that you adore Bangkok by the time you leave?

These Bangkok travel tips will help you appreciate the city in all of its overwhelming magnificence.

Table of Contents

Bangkok Travel Tips for Your First Trip

Where we stayed in bangkok, proceed slowly..

The #1 trick to falling in love with Bangkok during your first trip? An old, simple strategy: one bite at a time.

We didn’t rush anything during our visits–a temple here, a movie there.

This was the city of jet lag, at least on our first pass through, and we wanted to keep it manageable.

Even without jet lag, though, Bangkok is inherently overwhelming and attacks all the senses.

Avoid exhausting and overheating yourself, especially if you only have a few days in Bangkok , and take it step-by-step.

As Bangkok is generally the starting point for most Thailand itinerary options, you want to make sure you’re not exhausted by the time you leave!

Don’t overload on temples.

Temples are amazing , and Bangkok has some incredible ones. Don’t waste your time trying to visit all of them, though: just like visiting churches in Europe, eventually, all but the truly remarkable ones will start to blur together.

We visited the temples at the Grand Palace and Wat Pho for our first visit to Bangkok. On our second visit, we climbed to the top of Wat Saket and received stunning views of the Bangkok skyline in return.

We highly recommend all of those, but three was enough: we had the rest of southeast Asia to look forward to!

If you want to squeeze in another temple, Wat Arun is also popular and located almost directly across the river from Wat Pho.

Concentrate on one section of Bangkok at a time.

Bangkok has great public transportation, including both the BTS Skytrain, the MRT subway, riverboats, and, of course, taxis and tuk-tuks.

Easy access doesn’t necessarily mean fast, though: Bangkok is gigantic.

To get from Khao San Road to the Chatuchak Weekend Market is more than an hour’s commitment, from the Grand Palace to the shopping mecca of Siam is about 45 minutes.

One of our best Bangkok travel tips is to keep this in mind when planning out your day, and try to group activities by geography.

Know that the Grand Palace is never closed.

The Grand Palace is open from 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM daily. If you ask some tuk-tuk drivers, though–it’s never open.

This very common Bangkok scam is a way to get tourists to agree to let tuk-tuk drivers take them to “other” temples.

Unsurprisingly, this ends up being an expensive waste of time.

We were warned about this scam by an expat we sat next to on the plane into Bangkok, several internet articles, a masseuse, and the owner of our hostel.

We certainly weren’t in any danger of falling for it–but that sure didn’t stop a few dozen tuk-tuk drivers from trying.

Jump on a local boat.

There are two types of riverboats in Bangkok: “local boats”, which cost about $0.40 to ride, and “tourist boats”, which cost about 10x as much to take you to the same place.

The “tourist boats” have slightly better seating and a loudspeaker, but the local boats are perfectly comfortable and dirt cheap.

The tourist boats are more prominently placed, of course, but be sure to look around until you find the local one during your first trip to Bangkok–it’s worth it.

Don’t skip the malls of Bangkok.

Clustered around Siam station on the BTS Skytrain are some of Bangkok’s largest and best-known shopping malls: Siam Paragon, Central World, Siam Discovery, and MBK.

We visited all of them except for Siam Discovery, and for two people that normally avoid malls–we had so much fun.

MBK is the best for bargain hunting. It has some storefronts, but there are far more stalls and counters that were set up in the open space.

Siam Paragon is the fanciest mall that I have ever been in, perhaps with the exception of Milan. Jimmy Choo, Lamborghini, and Rolls Royce are among the storefronts there. Rolls Royce even had a couple of models of yachts, which apparently you could custom design on site.

Central World is the largest mall in Bangkok and the second largest in Thailand–which is saying something because both MBK and Siam Paragon could comfortably fit three or four standard US malls inside them.

Go see a movie.

I confess: we saw not one, not two, but three movies in Bangkok. It was a little excessive–but there’s no better way to enjoy some a/c and cool off between sightseeing stops.

Going to the movies in Bangkok was a fantastic experience–if you are short on time, it may not be worth it, but after a couple of months of traveling, Jeremy and I more than welcomed the air-conditioned break.

We saw a movie at MBK (Star Trek Beyond), Siam Paragon (Suicide Squad), and Central World (Jason Bourne). MBK was the best bargain ($13.76 for two tickets, a large popcorn, and a drink) and Siam Paragon was the fanciest.

Personally, my favorite thing about Bangkok’s movie theaters was the fact that they stocked flavored popcorn: your choice of cheese, caramel, or barbecue.

Wake up early and watch the monks.

From about 5:00 AM to 7:00 AM, the monks will be out and about in their orange robes, collecting alms.

On our very first day in Bangkok, the jet lag caused us to be outside at 6:30 AM, so we got to see the relatively quiet streets almost exclusively populated by monks. It was a fascinating sight.

Keep a respectful distance, and don’t touch them–but to see this vastly different, calmer side of Bangkok is worth getting up early at least once.

Explore some of the markets of Bangkok.

Markets are one of the best ways to explore the hustle and bustle of Bangkok’s city life.

You can find any number of them, from those that cater strictly to tourists to those that are almost exclusively for locals, and anything in between.

We skipped the famous floating market after multiple people telling us that it was more of a tourist trap than anything else these days–if we have more time in Bangkok one day, we may still check it out.

Our favorite market, by far, was the Chatuchak Weekend Market. If you’re in Bangkok on a Saturday or Sunday, this market should be at the top of your list.

Devour the street food.

I fret a bit about food safety and definitely am not the world’s most adventurous eater (it took me until I was 17 to enjoy rice–feel free to judge), so street food took a little getting used to–but it is worth it.

Eat pad thai until you turn into fried noodles. Eat chicken on a stick. Eat spring rolls on a stick. Eat anything on a stick. Try noodle soup. Try curry. Try fried rice.

Drink more fruit shakes than you ever thought it was possible to drink and love every sip.

If you love passion fruit, get your fill of it here–it was nonexistent in Laos and has been much less common in Cambodia . 

If you’re anxious about street food, I love this article by Adam at Getting Stamped. He uses his history in the meat processing industry to help the rest of us decide what we should and should not eat on the streets.

Go to a rooftop bar for great views of Bangkok.

Sadly, we didn’t end up doing this, and it is my biggest Bangkok regret. 

Bangkok is a city worth viewing from the top, especially at night. Oodles of rooftop bars have opened up shop to take advantage of the opportunity to combine cocktails and ridiculous heights.

On our next trip to Bangkok, this is at the top of the list.

Get a Thai massage.

… Or, you know, four of them.

Massages are dirt cheap in Thailand (we normally paid about $6/person for an hour), and are incredibly relaxing after a long day of sightseeing in the hot weather.

Thai massages are a bit like assisted yoga–there’s a lot of pushing and pulling involved.

It is amazing, but if you go in expecting a Swedish massage, you’ll be a bit surprised.

Know that you won’t be able to see it all.

We covered so much ground in Bangkok: from temples to shopping malls, markets to mansions, we learned tons about the city.

… And there are still so many things to do in Bangkok that we haven’t gotten to yet (we never even set foot on the popular Khao San Road !), not to mention the many possible day trips from Bangkok .

Don’t get overwhelmed trying to see everything your first time in Bangkok, and don’t take up precious space on your itinerary for something that you’re “supposed” to see if you would really rather be doing something else.

Whether you want to hit up the most iconic sites or get off the beaten path in Bangkok , you’ll have plenty of options of your first trip to the city.

One thing is certain: no matter where your interests lie, it is impossible to ever be bored in Bangkok.

There is no shortage of places to stay in Bangkok, from budget hostels to luxury skyscrapers to Bangkok hotels perfect for families –here were our picks for our first two trips to Bangkok.

One of our travel tips for Bangkok is to prioritize where you stay: choosing a far-flung neighborhood may seem like it will save money, but you could also end up spending hours (yes, literal hours) on public transport each day as a result.

We loved both of our hostels for different reasons, but ultimately, we loved staying in the Siam Square area and can see ourselves staying there again on a return visit to Bangkok.

At both of these locations, we stayed in a private, air-conditioned room with access to shared bathrooms.

Chan Cha La 99 Hostel — On our first trip to Bangkok, Annie took great care of us at this hostel.

This lady knows what she is doing! The hostel is clean and efficient, and Annie is a wealth of information about Bangkok.

The hostel is roughly 5 minutes from the BTS. The downside? It’s a little out of the way–you’ll spend about 40 minutes getting to any major sites.

Check rates & book your stay at Chan Cha La 99 Hostel!

Lub D Bangkok — Siam Square — This hostel is actually one of several in a chain, and we adored it.

The rooms were clean, the bathrooms spotless, and the location was perfect for us–right in the heart of Siam, easy walking distance to MBK or the Jim Thompson House.

It doesn’t have the personal touch that Annie provided, but we wouldn’t hesitate to stay here again on our third visit to Bangkok.

Check rates & book your stay at Lub D Bangkok Siam!

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

9 thoughts on “13 Essential Tips for Your First Time in Bangkok”

Excellent list! Definitely ate all the street food during my visit 😉

Amen to that, I miss the street food so much already! I’m still trying to find Pad Thai as good as the stall in front of the 7/11 on Koh Tao…

This is all really great advice. I went to Bangkok last year but didn’t end up falling in love as I had expected. I chalked it up to two things 1) not staying long enough and 2) staying in the wrong area (a friend of a friend chose this crazy luxury place out in the middle of nowhere – not my cup of tea or my usual price range at all….) I didn’t even get to really try the street food when I was there which is the biggest shame of all! So now I need to go back to Bangkok and do it properly 🙂

Thanks, Allison! Location really is key… on our first stay we were out in the middle of nowhere too (took an hour to get absolutely any of the major sites!), and I think that it had a huge impact on my initial lukewarm reaction. We stayed right across from MBK the second time, steps away from the BTS, and had a much better time.

Well written & wonderful points! Exactly what I tell friends & family when visiting Bangkok. Glad y’all had a great time during your visits in Thailand!

Thanks, Astra! We’ve been missing Bangkok lately–may be almost time for a third visit!

I like this review of Bangkok.

Thanks Gerry!

Good list, however I would still recommend the tourist river ferries (blue flag). They are only 50baht and cooler and less packed than the standard ferries (orange flag). They are still mostly used by locals who don’t want to be packed in tight.

There are now electric powered ferries (purple flag) and whilst are considerably better for the environment, are completely enclosed and provide a much less more diluted experience.

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4D3N Bangkok Itinerary: 34 best things to do in Bangkok 2024

Explore top attractions, hidden gems, and exciting things to do in Thailand’s vibrant capital city 🇹🇭✨ Here’s the ultimate 4-day Bangkok itinerary that’s perfect for travellers seeking the best things to do in Bangkok.

Say sawasdee ka to Bangkok – Thailand’s lively capital that’s a tapestry of vivid colours, enticing aromas, and the perfect blend of tradition and trendiness. The jewel of Thailand is the perfect short getaway whether you’re looking to indulge in affordable Thai food, go on a shopping spree, or simply melt your stress away with a good Thai massage.

Looking for the best things to do in Bangkok? We’ve curated a 4-day Bangkok itinerary to help you plan a memorable trip, inclusive of the best food spots, trendy new locations to check out, as well as must-visit attractions and historical sites! Keep reading to be inspired ✨

Photo credit: Ryan Le (Unsplash)

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4-Day Bangkok Itinerary: Best Things to Eat, See, and Do

Day 1: eat, roam, and take it easy.

Start your Bangkok trip right by taking it easy on your first day! It’s always a good idea to keep your itinerary open on the day you touch down so you don’t find yourself scrambling to check things off your list from the moment you arrive.

Lunch at Wattana Panich

There’s no better way to begin your Bangkok adventure than having a good first meal. Make your way to Wattana Panich upon dropping off your luggage – this legendary 50-year-old establishment is renowned for its slow-braised beef noodle soup that hits all the right spots. The broth is extremely fragrant and meats are tender (they’re apparently stewed for 8 hours every day ✨) – you can also opt to pair it with rice if you’re not in the mood for noodles.

Explore theCOMMONS

After lunch, walk off your calories with an easy 15-minute stroll to theCOMMONS , a trendy community mall located in the hipster Thonglor neighbourhood. theCOMMONS exude a refreshing vibe that’s unlike the many enclosed malls in Bangkok – it’s definitely a lot more chill, laid-back, and fun to explore! You can spend some time checking out its various artisanal shops, quaint boutiques, and open-air community spaces. If you’re craving a drink, there are plenty of bars and cafes here where you can grab a cup of whatever you fancy.

Treat yourself to a massage

Photo credit: @letsrelaxonsen.official (Instagram)

If there’s one thing you shouldn’t leave Bangkok without doing, it’s getting a good massage! Rid your travel fatigue at Let’s Relax Onsen and Spa Thonglor , located just a 5-minute walk away from theCOMMONS. Let’s Relax Spa is one of our favourite spots to get a good massage in Thailand – besides being experts at Thai massages, you’ll also get to melt your stress and worries away in their onsen tubs, sauna, hot stone bed baths, and steam rooms.

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Dinner at Jeh O Chula

Photo credit: @jeh_o_chula (Instagram)

As the sun sets, treat yourself to a hearty dinner at Jeh O Chula , where the tangy and spicy flavours of their renowned tom yum Mama noodles will transport you to the heart of Thai cuisine. Do note that the Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant is extremely popular, especially during dinner time and on weekends, so it’ll be best to secure a reservation ahead of time if you can.

Afterwards, catch the metro to Jodd Fairs , the vibrant night market that emerged post-pandemic (it’s basically a transformation of the once-popular Ratchada Train Night Market!). Jodd Fairs has been a popular evening hangout spot amongst locals and tourists alike since its opening in 2021. Immerse yourself in live entertainment, chill vibes, and tons of street food options, whether you’re up for some refreshing fruit juice, grilled skewers, or banana nutella roti .

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Drinks at Tichuca Rooftop Bar

Photo credit: @tichuca.bkk (Instagram)

Think the night’s still young? If you’re still not sleepy, make your way to Tichuca Rooftop Bar , one of Bangkok’s trendiest and most popular rooftop bars today. This jungle-themed rooftop bar spots a picture-perfect LED-lit “tree” that looks straight out of an Avatar scene (chances are you’ve seen it countless times on your IG feed) and offers panoramic views of the sprawling city. Sip on a refreshing cocktail while soaking in the glittering nightscape before calling it a day.

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Day 2: get a taste of art and culture

Breakfast at kope hya tai kee.

Photo credit: @kopehyataikee (Instagram)

Begin your second day with a traditional Thai breakfast at Kope Hya Tai Kee , a local coffee shop that has been serving its signature kai-krata (Thai-style pan-fried eggs served with a baguette sandwich) and iced coffee for over seven decades!

Check out the Royal Grand Palace

If it’s your first time in Bangkok and you’d like to see some cultural sights, the Royal Grand Palace is a must-add to your itinerary. Located less than 10 minutes away from Kope Hya Tai Kee, the Royal Grand Palace is often ranked at the top of the best places to visit in Bangkok for first-timers. Marvel at the intricate details and vibrant hues that adorn this opulent complex, once the official residence of the Kings of Siam.

Be sure to also venture into the sacred grounds of Wat Phra Kaew , home to the revered Emerald Buddha, and soak in the serene atmosphere that permeates these hallowed halls.

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Cross the river to Wat Arun

Up for more cultural immersion? Walk a short distance to the Tha Tien Pier and catch a quick ferry to Wat Arun , another must-visit attraction that’s located within close vicinity. Wat Arun may be touristy but it’s still stunning and fun to explore. If you’d like, you can even rent a traditional Thai costume to take some cute photos at the temple ✨

P/s: Wat Pho , known as the Temple of the Reclining Buddha is also located not too far away. If you’re interested in ticking off different temples in Bangkok, you can also add it to your Bangkok itinerary!

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Catch the ferry to ICONSIAM

After you’re done with Wat Arun, you can head back to the pier and look out for the ferry service to ICONSIAM – the ferry ride takes only a bit over 10 minutes, and costs a mere 30THB (~S$1.10) ! ICONSIAM is Bangkok’s popular riverside high-end shopping mall that boasts breathtaking views of the Chao Phraya River. Besides plenty of popular retail outlets, it’s also known for its sprawling basement food court themed after floating markets in Bangkok, where you can grab lunch at.

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Get dessert at After You Dessert Cafe

Photo credit: @afteryoudessertcafe (Instagram)

For dessert, catch the escalator up to the 6th floor to get to the popular After You Dessert Cafe ! If it’s your first time here, you won’t go wrong with the Mango Sticky Rice Kakigori or Shibuya Honey Toast 🍯🍞

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Day 3: shop to your heart’s content

Ready for day three? Put on your sturdy shoes and get ready to shop – time to go on a mission to fill up all that luggage space 🛍️

Start it off at Chatuchak Weekend Market

Start your day bright and early at the Chatuchak Weekend Market , Bangkok’s must-visit outdoor bazaar that stretches as far as the eye can see. Immerse yourself in the vibrant chaos as you browse through endless stalls offering everything from affordable clothing to intricate handcrafts and mouth-watering street food.

Head to the Siam Area

After you’re done with Chatuchak, we recommend catching the BTS Skytrain to the Siam Area, Bangkok’s premier shopping district. Packed with sprawling malls where you can get literally anything, you can take your pick from the iconic CentralWorld to the upscale Siam Paragon and the affordable MBK Center – it really depends on what you’re looking for.

Check out Siam Square

Photo credit: @tresfashion.co (Instagram)

Of them all though, our favourite spot to shop is none other than the laid-back Siam Square . Unlike the multi-storey, sparkling malls all over the Siam Area, Siam Square is an open-air shopping boulevard sprinkled with trendy boutiques, quaint little indie stores, cute cafes, and more. It’s especially popular amongst the younger crowd, including local university students.

Some of our favourite lil’ boutiques and retail outlets here include TRES, Matchbox, Daddy & the Muscle Academy, Frank Garcon, and Gentlewoman! You can get everything from cute outfits to accessories, stationery, and more at Siam Square.

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Lunch at Inter Restaurant

Photo credit: @intersiam1981 (Instagram)

When you feel your stomach rumbling, make your way to Inter Restaurant , a popular local eatery in Siam Square. Despite being located in the heart of one of Bangkok’s most bustling areas, you can enjoy a delicious and affordable meal at this iconic restaurant that’s been around since 1981. Must-try dishes here include their fried rice, stir-fried morning glory, pad see ew (Thai stir-fried noodles), and oyster omelette.

Continue your shopping spree

Once you’re ready to continue your shopping spree in a different area, you can consider hopping on a train to Terminal 21 or EmQuartier , two other shopping malls with their own unique charm ✨ Even if shopping’s not your thing, these malls are lots of fun to explore and window-shop at due to their unique interior.

Dinner at Khao San Road

End your long day with dinner at Khao San Road , a lively street that’s often deemed one of the best things to do in Bangkok at night. Whether you’re looking for a plate of spicy pad thai or mango sticky rice, you can find them here at Khao San Road. The area is also lined with many bars, where you can wind down with a refreshing glass of beer to end the day.

Do note though that Khao San Road can be a rather overwhelming and rowdy area, so if you’re travelling with family or would prefer less crowded places, you can skip this! Alternative areas similar to Khao San Road for an authentic and affordable dinner include Yaowarat Road (Chinatown Bangkok) and Sukhumvit Road .

Day 4: enjoy a tranquil respite before heading home

Good times always fly by, but that shouldn’t stop you from making your last day in Bangkok worth every minute ✨ Similar to how we love keeping our first-day schedule fluid, the last day of travel is also best kept flexible so you can truly enjoy the last hours before flying home.

Coffee and croissants at Factory Coffee

Photo credit: @foyer_69 (Instagram)

If you like coffee, we highly recommend starting your day at Factory Coffee , one of our favourite coffee shops located in Phaya Thai right next to the BTS station. The award-winning baristas at Factory Coffee whip up some really creamy coffees. They also serve delicious croissants (the Salted Egg Croissant and Charcoal Thai Tea Croissant are oh-so-good)! The queues here can get crazy though, so definitely pop by early if you can.

Get some fresh air at Lumphini Park

Next, seek respite in the tranquil oasis of Lumphini Park , a verdant oasis amidst the urban jungle. This picturesque city park is a beautiful green space that’s perfect for a relaxing stroll on days of good weather – you can even rent a swan-shaped paddle boat for a peaceful excursion across the serene lake if that’s your sort of thing.

Explore Ari

If you’re up for further exploration, make your way to the Ari neighbourhood . Ari is Bangkok’s hip neighbourhood located in north-central Bangkok, a short distance away from major tourist attractions. While it’s rising in popularity in recent years, Ari is still a relatively undiscovered gem that’s overlooked by the typical tourist.

Photo credit: @thongsmith (Instagram)

Some spots to check out in the area include the zen Nana Coffee Roasters (if you’re up for another cup of coffee!), Landhaus (a cosy bakery with freshly baked goods), and Gumps Ari Community Space (a cute Instagrammable area with trendy selfie booths and a selection of dining establishments). If it’s time for lunch while you’re here, you can pop by Thong Smith for some delicious boat noodles!

Lunch at Phed Mark

Photo credit: @phedmarkbkk (Instagram)

Alternatively, hop on the BTS and get to Sukhumvit for lunch at Phed Mark , American food vlogger Mark Wiens’ IG-famous little pad kra pao (basil stir fry) restaurant 🤤 P/s: pick your spiciness level at your own risk and have a bottle of water on standby – you’ll need it 🌶️

Take in the cityscape from the top of King Power Mahanakhon

As your last day draws to a close, ascend to the top of King Power Mahanakhon , an iconic skyscraper boasting a state-of-the-art observation deck that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Bangkok city skyline. Witness the golden hues of the setting sun paint the sky in hues of amber and crimson, a memorable sight to mark the end of your Bangkok adventure on a high note. Alternatively, you can consider hopping on a river cruise to see Bangkok from a different perspective! ✨

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A Summary of Best Things to Do in Bangkok

You’ll never run out of fun things to do in Bangkok, whether it’s your first or fifth time here! To summarize our 4D3N Bangkok travel guide , here are 35 of our recommended spots mentioned above, plus a few bonus attractions suited for family trips!

• Wattana Panich (slow-braised beef noodle soup)
• theCOMMONS (hipster community mall)
• Let’s Relax Onsen and Spa Thonglor
• Jeh O Chula (Michelin Bib tom yum mama noodles)
• Jodd Fairs (popular night market)
• Tichuca Rooftop Bar (jungle-themed rooftop bar)
• Kope Hya Tai Kee (traditional Thai breakfast spot)
• Royal Grand Palace
• ICONSIAM (riverside shopping mall)
• After You Dessert Cafe (must-try kakigori spot)
• Chatuchak Weekend Market (popular outdoor bazaar)
• CentralWorld
• Siam Paragon
• Siam Square
• Inter Restaurant (affordable local restaurant)
• Terminal 21
• Khao San Road
• Yaowarat Road
• Sukhumvit Road
• Factory Coffee (coffee and croissants to start the day)
• Lumpini Park
• Ari neighbourhood
• Thong Smith (boat noodles)
• Phed Mark (popular pad kra pao)
• King Power Mahanakhon Skywalk (iconic skyscraper)
• SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World (popular aquarium located in Siam Paragon)
• Safari World Bangkok (consists of a Marine Park and Safari Park)
• Dream World Bangkok (family-friendly theme park)
• Asiatique The Riverfront
• Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
• Bangkok Art and Culture Center

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Ready for your Bangkok adventure?

We hope that this 4-day Bangkok itinerary helps you plan your trip and gives you a better understanding of the city’s allure. Psst , don’t forget to bring your trusty YouTrip card along for the best Thai baht rates all day!

As Singapore’s favourite multi-currency wallet, we aim to get those pesky fees out of the way and help you save on your travels. With the best foreign exchange rates, no longer will you have to deal with those long queues at money changers !

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Until next time, safe travels and happy adventures!

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Up to $12 off at FairPrice Online!

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23 Helpful Tips for Traveling to Thailand with Kids

W e already knew a lot about travel in Thailand, having previously lived in Bangkok teaching English and visiting multiple times on holidays.

It’s a country that we know well, and have found it to be an easy place to travel to whether you’re alone, or as a family.

We thought we knew what to expect when travelling to Thailand with kids and felt prepared for the adventure, but that was until we got there and realized there were a few things we could have done to make it a bit easier.

Thailand is one of our favorite destinations in Southeast Asia , and so we want you and your family to fall in love with it the same way we did.

To help you out, and to make your trip run a little smoother, we’ve listed our top tips for traveling Thailand with kids so you can know what to expect and can plan ahead.

1. Get organized and plan ahead

2. get a direct flight to thailand, 3. time it so you arrive in thailand for your children’s bedtime or before, 4. make your first day in thailand a relaxing day with the kids, 5. if you can, save visiting bangkok until the end of your trip, 6. allow for several days before your children adjust, 7. only do one big activity a day in thailand with the kids, 8. if you have a toddler, take an umbrella stroller, 9. if flying out of the old don mueang airport, save money for a taxi, 10. for toddlers, make sure you check your hotel room has baby cots, 11. visit one or two cities in thailand with kids, 12. pack homely comforts, 13. know it’s rare to find a seat belt, let alone a baby car seat in thailand, 14. ease them into thai cuisine, 15. keep your children hydrated with plenty of water, 16. duck into places with a/c often, 17. stay at family-friendly resorts with entertainment, 18. have lazy beach or pool days or mornings / afternoons, 19. involve your children in activities they will enjoy, 20. be prepared for your children to be adored by the thai people, 21. don’t go to too many temples, 22. be mindful of elephant sanctuaries, 23. there’s no shame in going to a theme park, best time to visit thailand with kids, family travel planning toolkit, thailand travel with kids videos:, where to book thailand tours, more travel tips for thailand, save on pinterest:, tips for traveling to thailand with kids.

Below you will find our top tips for traveling with kids in Thailand to help you plan a trip to Thailand with kids with ease. Some of these tips will require you to plan ahead, so my first tip for you is…

I highly recommend you book flights, accommodation and key tours you want to do beforehand. Not only does this save you money but it also means you will have more options available to you.

Not every hotel has a family room, and the good vacation rentals get booked up well in advance thanks to the boom of digital nomads.

If you want a good place to stay, and you want to ensure you are booked on tours, you need to plan ahead these days.

It also helps your kids prepare for the trip too. Knowing what’s going to happen can ease their anxiety and help them settle into this new experience in Thailand.

We flew from Sydney via Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia (4-hour wait) and it was too long a journey for the girls and an unnecessary extra leg of travel each way.

Airports tend to be a stressful environment for kids if they are waiting around for too long. Most of airports don’t offer much in the way of entertainment, and there’s only so many toys you can pack with you.

Sorry Air Asia, but I think our “long haul” relationship with you is over. Yes, you were cheaper, BUT next time we will fly direct and pay the little bit extra to avoid the airport meltdowns.

You can find cheap deals on flights by searching on SkyScanner. Read more of our tips for finding cheap flights.

We FINALLY checked in to our hotel in Bangkok at 2.00 am (Australian time). This was a little too much for the girls to handle and they were exhausted by the time we arrived.

With a little foresight, we should have timed it so they had time to unwind in the hotel before going to bed.

It also helps if they can sleep on the plane.

Going to the crowded Grand Palace the morning after an extremely long day of travel and tiring flight was the cause of a meltdown in the most important temple in Bangkok.

The first day you will all be tired, not just the kids. Don’t rush straight into the itinerary and have an easy day into adventuring.

Use the first day as an orientation day. Go for a walk, try some local Thai food, and relax. You might also need to get used to the tropical climate!

Most tourists tend to fly to Bangkok start the trip there. But you can also find direct flights to Phuket, which is a much more relaxing environment than Bangkok .

If you can, save Bangkok to the end when the kids have adjusted to Thai culture.

Bangkok can be a little too crazy for a young, fresh-to-the-country mind to absorb first up. Plus, you won’t have to carry all your “shopping purchases” around with you.

It’s also hot and humid in Bangkok, so you’ll find it easier if your kids have got used to the weather before spending a day exploring Bangkok’s attractions .

One of the best parts of travel is experiencing new cultures, weather, and experiences.

But for kids, it takes time for them to get used to the new time, temperature and culture.

Don’t stress if they are still not used to it by the third or fourth day. Allow them at least a week to settle in.

The easiest way to tire your kids out and cause a tantrum is to pack too much into your day. Don’t try to visit too many attractions in one day, pick one big one to visit and make it in the morning while they are fresh.

Relax more in the afternoon, play by the pool or go to a play park. Try to incorporate some of your “normal life” into your trip too so they don’t feel too much outside their comfort zone.

They will be lighter and easier to move around the crazy, uneven streets. They will also offer protection from the hot Thailand sun.

There are two airports in Bangkok, Suvarnabhumi airport (BKK) which is the main international one, and Don Mueang airport.

If you are flying into Suvarnabhumi then you don’t need to worry, there is a fast and easy to use Skyrail direct to the city, plus several buses.

But if you fly to Don Mueang, then save for a taxi to and from the airport in Bangkok into Siam because the public transport is long and a hassle. It is worth the spend.

You have to get the shuttle bus from the airport to Chit Lom sky train station, and then into the city, and then figure out where your hotel is.

Not all sky train stations have escalators, and don’t connect to every part of the city. If it’s a scorching hot day, or raining, it can be tiring with your kiddies and all your luggage climbing stairs.

For the rest of your time in Bangkok, the Skytrain (BTS) is awesome! Also kids love riding around in tuk-tuks. They are expensive but would be a fun first day activity.

Read more: A guide for getting around Bangkok

These are not always available in Thailand, so unless you co-sleep, be sure to request a rollaway crib beforehand.

It is not common and you don’t want to be chasing a toddler around the room at 4 am.

Read more: tips for travelling with toddlers

Moving around a lot is too taxing for your children and you. I recommend you visit just one or two cities, and don’t try to pack in a full Thailand itinerary.

Kids cannot travel like backpackers, they need time to adjust and every time you take long-haul transport you can expect it to tire them out.

Pick a couple of places you want to visit, and stay for at least 5 days before moving on to somewhere else.

Check out this 10 Ideas For What to Do in Bangkok With Kids

Most baby essentials are easy to find across the country, but if you or your child is fussy to a certain brand then pack enough supplies.

Having a few things from home that your child associates with home can help them feel at ease.

It can be as simple as a few snacks that they like, to their favorite toy or blanket, or even a familiar brand of soap.

It’s a simple trick to ease their anxiety.

Be prepared to wrestle your toddler the whole trip, or bring your own car seat if you are that concerned (not sure how you will go hooking it up though!).

If you are travelling in a van or a bus, you may be lucky enough to have enough space to pop in your pram with your baby strapped inside (what we did).

Read More: 30 best travel gear for kids to keep them happy and safe

You’ll be able to find Western food easily enough, but if you want your child’s taste buds to explore then we recommend Pad Thai or Pad See Ew as an easy way to start.

Other foods might be a little too spicy for your child’s stomach. You can ask for a dish to be not too spicy ( nid noi ) which means little bit in Thai.

Read more : 10 must-visit Places to eat street food in Bangkok and Thai cooking class in Phuket with kids

7/11 stores are EVERYWHERE and you can buy bottled water for cheap.

Fresh coconuts, if they like the flavour, is great for hydration (and cheap too compared to here in Australia).

Read more : Tips for travelling with kids in the heat

Shopping malls, 7/11 stores or even Starbucks are a great place to go for a little A/C cool down.

This can really help your child readjust to the heat and give them a break. Hot children can turn into cranky ones fast.

If you are staying in a resort hotel , they often have babysitting and kids club services. And the Thai’s are GREAT with kids. Use it once or twice for a break.

It’s not just your kids holiday, but yours too, so take some time for yourself.

This is another easy way for your kids to relax and have fun.

If you plan to visit Phuket, you’ll find many white sand beaches for them to play on, or if you visit Koh Samui or Koh Phangan, many of the beaches there have shallow water that’s ideal for kids to paddle in.

Most beaches in Thailand have entertainment options – mostly kayaks and canoes for rent, or snorkel gear to go snorkelling. Some may even have inflatable toys or obstacle courses (Koh Samui is known for having these).

You can even take them to some waterfalls for an alternate break from the beach.

• 15 Stunning Phuket Beaches Not To Miss
• Things to Do in Phuket in 48 hours

There are plenty of fun things for kids to do. Kalyra loved doing the Thai cooking class with me and she was fascinated learning about preparing coconut and rice, and of course drinking Thai condensed milk tea and coconut milk sweets.

She also loved getting her hair braided.

Thai people are so friendly and love children, so be prepared for your kids to receive a lot of attention. You will find the locals will want to pick them up, cuddle them, photos taken with them, and playing games with them.

This was actually a really great way for mom and dad to relax. It was like free babysitting and allows you a moment to breathe!

There are many buddhist temples in Thailand that are world famous, such as the White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) in Chiang Rai, Doi Suthep in Chiang Mai, or Wat Pho in Bangkok, home to the famous reclining buddha.

But temples are not exactly exciting for kids. They might be tired after one or two.

Our kids love wildlife and so we always try to fit in some time to see the animals when we travel, but be mindful that in Thailand not all animal tourism is ethical tourism.

If you plan to visit elephant sanctuaries, do some research into an ethical one and make sure it’s safe for kids.

Some of the ones in Chiang Mai allow you to feed, bathe and play with the elephants, which gives me anxiety thinking about my little ones standing next to one of these huge giants.

You may find it better to do a wildlife safari or jungle walk in Khao Sok National Park instead, where you can observe but don’t get too close.

You might be thinking that you’re in Thailand, one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world and known for its incredible nature and unique culture, why spend it in an amusement park?

Thailand has a lot of great theme parks and amusement parks, and kids love them.

Dream World in Bangkok is a great theme park for kids and you could easily spend a full day there.

Thailand is warm and sunny all year round, which makes it a popular destination for travelers.

But if your kids are not used to the heat, then a good time to visit would be in November, December or January.

This is high season in Thailand and is when there is the most amount of tourists, so while it has the coolest and most comfortable weather, it also has the crowds, so book in advance.

March, April and May are not great times to travel with kids as they are the hottest months of the year. It’s also when the farmers are burning their fields in the north which brings pollution across the whole country.

June to September (sometimes into October) is the rainy season. It won’t rain all day, but it will probably rain every day, which can make planning your activities difficult.

Want to have the ultimate toolkit for planning travel with kids? Click the image for immediate and free access to the toolkit.

When it comes to saving money and stress when traveling, you may want to plan ahead and book tours.

Get Your Guide is a place where you can find many Thailand tours and attractions tickets , which are operated by local tour operators and businesses.

They have no booking fees or hidden charges and are perfect for family travelers wanting to be organized.

You can pre-book tickets and  skip the line at top attractions  and cancel up to 24 hours before if you change your mind.

Some best-selling tours are below:

Need more inspiration for your trip to Thailand? Check out these other guides…

• How to Plan a Trip to Thailand with Kids
• Things to do in Bangkok
• Ayutthaya Day Trip From Bangkok [A Complete Guide]
• Complete Guide to the Grand Palace, Bangkok
• 8 Unmissable Things To Do In Chinatown Bangkok (A Complete Guide)
• 10 Must-Visit Places to Try Thai Street Food in Bangkok
• 13 Places To Visit in Bangkok that offer Serenity

Have you visited Thailand with kids? What tips can you share? Let us know in the comments.

Expect a record-breaking number of travelers on Fourth of July week: How to avoid traffic

• An estimated 70.9 million people will travel for the Fourth of July holiday, a record-breaking number.
• The most popular domestic destinations are Seattle, Orlando, Anchorage, Honolulu and Miami.
• The worst times to drive for 4th of July week are July 3 and 4 between 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.

If you’re one of the projected record-breaking 70.9 million travelers going on a Fourth of July trip, get ready to pack some patience. 

“With summer vacations in full swing and the flexibility of remote work, more Americans are taking extended trips around Independence Day,” said Paula Twidale, Senior Vice President of AAA Travel, in a statement. “We anticipate this July 4 week will be the busiest ever with an additional 5.7 million people traveling compared to 2019.”

Whether you’re going by airplane or car, traveler numbers are hitting historic highs. An estimated 5.74 million people will fly to their Independence Day destination, a 7% increase from 2023. (We can thank domestic airfare being slightly cheaper this year for that.)

This year, 2.8 million more people will travel by car than last year, for a total of 60.6 million travelers. According to AAA partner and rental car company Hertz, cities like Dallas, Los Angeles, Denver, and San Francisco are showing the highest rental car demand. 

Here’s everything you need to know about Fourth of July travel. 

Learn more: Best travel insurance

Planning your summer trip? Where to go and how to save on summer vacations

What are the most popular destinations for Fourth of July week?

Many travelers are headed to the coast for their Independence Day trip, with states like Hawaii and Florida topping the list. With the best time for Alaskan cruises in full swing, cities like Seattle, Vancouver and Anchorage are popular among travelers. As expected, beloved European destinations like London and Rome earned spots on the list as well. 

Most popular domestic destinations:

Most popular international destinations:

What are the best times to drive for Fourth of July week?

As is typical with holiday travel, the early bird will catch the worm, which means encountering the least traffic. Drivers should depart on their Independence Day road trips before noon on July 3 and 4. To return home, drivers should leave before 11 a.m. on July 7 and after 7 p.m. on July 8. 

What are the worst times to drive for Fourth of July week?

“Drivers in large metro areas can expect the worst traffic delays on Wednesday, July 3, as they leave town, and Sunday, July 7, as they return,” said Bob Pishue, transportation analyst at INRIX, in a statement. “Road trips over the holiday week could take up to 67% longer than normal.”

On July 3 and 4, drivers should avoid being on the road between 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., when traffic will be most congested. On Friday, July 5, the worst traffic will be between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. 

On Saturday, July 5, the worst traffic for travelers returning home will be between 10:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. The worst traffic is anticipated to be on July 7, so drivers should avoid the road between 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. 

“Travelers should monitor 511 services, local news stations, and traffic apps for up-to-the-minute road conditions,” Pishue said.

Peak congestion times in major US cities

• Worst route: Birmingham to Atlanta via I-20 E
• Worst day: July 7
• Worst time: 6:30 p.m. 
• Estimated travel time: 3 hours, 36 minutes
• 42% increased travel time
• Worst route: Boston to Hyannis via Pilgrim Hwy S
• Worst day: July 4
• Worst time: 1:45 p.m.
• Estimated travel time: 1 hour, 51 minutes
• 31% increased travel time
• Worst route: Fort Collins to Denver via I-25 S
• Worst day: July 8
• Worst time: 2:45 p.m. 
• Estimated travel time: 1 hour, 37 minutes
• 56% increased travel time
• Worst route: San Antonio to Houston via I-10 E
• Worst day: July 6
• Worst time: 1:30 p.m. 
• Estimated travel time: 3 hours, 48 minutes
• 41% increased travel time

Los Angeles

• Worst route: Bakersfield to Los Angeles via I-5 S
• Worst time: 2:15 p.m. 
• Estimated travel time: 1 hour, 47 minutes
• 29% increased travel time
• Worst route: Jersey Shore to New York via Garden State Pkwy N
• Estimated travel time: 1 hour, 25 minutes
• 40% increased travel time

San Francisco

• Worst route: San Francisco to Monterey via Santa Cruz Hwy S
• Worst day: July 2
• Worst time: 5:45 p.m. 
• Estimated travel time: 2 hours, 31 minutes
• 19% increased travel time
• Worst route: Ellensburg to Seattle via I-90 E
• Worst time: 4:30 p.m. 
• Estimated travel time: 2 hours, 19 minutes
• 35% increased travel time

Washington, D.C.

• Worst route: Baltimore to Washington D.C. via Balt/Wash Pkwy S
• Worst time: 3:15 p.m. 
• Estimated travel time: 1 hours, 1 minute
• 67% increased travel time

Kathleen Wong is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Hawaii. You can reach her at [email protected] .

The Key Points at the top of this article were created with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and reviewed by a journalist before publication. No other parts of the article were generated using AI. Learn more .

Every product is independently selected by (obsessive) editors. Things you buy through our links may earn us a commission.

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The 7 Very Best Handheld Consoles

In this article

• Best handheld PC
• Best Nintendo handheld
• Best OLED handheld
• Best cloud-gaming handheld
• Best retro handheld
• Best mobile handheld

The latest handheld gaming consoles can play full-blown console and PC games like Skyrim or Fortnite, keep a whole library of retro classics like Pokemon Red and Blue and Battletoads always handy , and in some cases even pull double duty as a tablet. While the Nintendo Switch doesn’t do any of those things, it is the undisputable giant in this space due to its portability and long battery life, the steady flow of new Switch-only games like The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, a large library of third-party games, and detachable controllers that allow it to transform from a handheld to a home console with the simple addition of a dock. It’s also been around since 2017.

Since that year, however, Nintendo hasn’t done much to upgrade it, aside from adding an OLED screen in 2021. Its processor isn’t as powerful as what you can find in other handheld consoles, or even your smartphone, but Nintendo does a good job designing games that work well with it. It’s the third-best-selling gaming console — and not just handheld ― of all time. As for those other handheld consoles, all of them together make up just a tiny share of the market in comparison to the Switch.

So that’s all just to explain why we don’t have a best overall pick here. If you’re looking for a well-designed, fun handheld gaming console that’s ready to play right out of the box and you don’t already own a Switch, then you should probably get a Switch (and you can read on for the better of the two options available). If you’re looking for the latest in mobile PC gaming, I tested seven to find the best ones.

What we’re looking for

Consoles running Windows can play games from the Steam Store or Epic Games Store, as well as direct downloads for games from indie publishers and cloud services. Android consoles can play anything available on the Google Play Store, as well as cloud-gaming services through a browser. The Nintendo Switch and Steam Deck both run proprietary systems, and you can only install games from the company’s respective stores (without fiddling with the software).

The heavier a handheld console is, the less time you’ll be able to play it before it starts to strain your hands (but if you mostly plan to use it while in the dock at home, this may not be an issue). Devices with larger screens and more processing power tend to be heavier. Lighter devices are obviously more convenient for travel.

Screen size and resolution

Most handheld consoles have at least seven-inch screens, and their resolutions range from 1280 x 800 up to 1920 x 1080. Games look good even on lower-resolution screens, so it’s not a dealbreaker, but if you’re going to play games with a lot of details and in-game text, a higher resolution will produce a clearer image.

Screen type

The two main types of displays that these consoles use are LED and OLED. The biggest difference is that LED displays have one backlight behind the pixels, so the entire screen illuminates. OLED screens have a light behind each pixel, so for areas of the screen that are black, the pixels aren’t lit up at all, which gives you blacker blacks that make just about any game look better. Overall, though, LED screens have better color reproduction and visibility in bright rooms, plus they’re less susceptible to screen burn-in .

The Switch is the only console on this list that uses physical cartridges in addition to running downloaded games. The rest all run games you download to the console’s internal drive or stream through the cloud. For handhelds with expandable storage via microSD, 256 GB should be the bare minimum, as games like Baldur’s Gate 3 require over 100 GB. Even if you’re not installing huge games like that, you may still accumulate a large library over time.

Battery life

The Switch lasts longer than most handheld consoles with a battery life of up to ten hours, but you can expect roughly two to four hours out of any handheld running Windows, and close to nine hours on Android consoles made for cloud gaming. This will vary depending on what type of game you’re playing, so assume that the more graphics-heavy a game is, the shorter the battery life will be.

The more USB-C ports a console has, the more peripherals (like external monitors, keyboards, and controllers) you can use (even while charging the device). Having extra ports may not be as important if you’re mostly using it on the go, but if you plan on gaming from your couch or desk, the added inputs will come in handy.

Best handheld PC gaming console

Platform : Windows | Weight : 1.41 pounds | Screen size and resolution : 8.8-inches; 2560 x 1600 | Screen type : LED | Storage : 512 GB | Battery life: 2-4 hours | Ports : USB-C (2)

If you’re willing to forgo Nintendo-exclusive titles, I think most people are better off getting the Lenovo Legion Go. It quickly earned its place as my favorite handheld console earlier this year thanks to its great features and uniquely versatile design. Compared to the other handhelds I’ve tested, it can connect to more peripherals, it’s the only console that’s not a Switch to feature removable controllers, and you can use it as a Windows tablet.

Lenovo included a bunch of features in the Legion Go that make it more enjoyable for game playing than competitors like the ASUS Rog Ally or Steam Deck. Its 8.8-inch screen is the largest of any handheld console, and the screen looks great with a higher resolution than any other model on this list. There’s an adjustable stand on the back that you can use to prop the Legion Go’s screen up at nearly any angle. The controllers, which are on either side of the screen, can be removed and used in the same way as the Nintendo Switch’s Joy-Cons. With the two USB-C ports, you can plug in third-party accessories such as external GPUs or a monitor while charging the console.

The Legion Go’s screen shines with games like Baldur’s Gate 3. Movement looks smooth, details are bright, and items are easy to spot even when zoomed out. I wouldn’t recommend playing this game on low graphics settings, though, as things get too choppy to be enjoyable. Even less graphics-heavy games like Dave the Diver and Stardew Valley benefit from the Legion’s crisp display, and colors pop, but not quite as much as on the Steam Deck OLED. Despite having a larger screen than consoles like the ROG Ally and Steam Deck, Lenovo’s handheld doesn’t feel significantly bigger, though the added weight is just enough to be noticeable and result in slightly shorter play sessions.

The controls on the Lenovo are more comfortable to hold than the Steam Deck’s or ROG Ally’s, even when removed from the device, and work great with the Legion Go when using its stand, which can prop the device up at nearly any angle. I’ve used it to play a bit of Slay the Spire at a coffee shop, and on an airplane tray over the holidays. No other handheld console is as flexible with how you interact with it. To do the same thing with the Steam Deck or ROG Ally, you’d need third-party accessories like a stand and wireless controller, and the Switch’s flimsy plastic stand only works at one angle.

Because its controls are detachable, the Legion Go works as a Windows tablet when the controls are removed. You can even pair a Bluetooth mouse and keyboard with it.

As with the other handhelds that can play PC games, battery life can be quite short. The Legion Go can only run on battery power for about four hours maximum, and that’s with very conservative graphics settings. Playing games like Baldur’s Gate or Call of Duty will eat through the battery much faster — in just about two hours — but it’s enough to get through a short flight.

Best (less-expensive) handheld PC gaming console

Platform : Windows | Weight : 1.34 pounds | Screen size and resolution : 7-inches; 1920 x 1080 | Screen type : LED | Storage : 256 GB; microSD card slot (1) | Battery life: 1-4 hours | Ports : USB-C (1)

The ASUS ROG Ally — the only other handheld on this list to come installed with Windows — is like a smaller Legion Go with a more gamer-focused design but fewer bells and whistles. It has a smaller, lower-resolution display than the Legion, and it’s a tad bit lighter. You can’t detach the controls, and it lacks a stand, but playing games works the same. Among all the consoles I tested, this one also has the best on-device sound: Audio sounds clear even at full volume, and dialogue is easier to hear than on any other device.

The ROG Ally is just as comfortable to hold as the Legion Go. Its buttons are responsive, and the joysticks move smoothly, but there isn’t a trackpad on either side, which both the Steam Deck and Legion Go have for more precise movement and cursor control. While I wish the Ally had removable controllers, I appreciate that Asus made its handheld light enough to not be strenuous on the arms. In fact, when I traveled with the Legion Go over the holidays, I missed the lighter Ally.

The Ally’s display looks bright, crisp, and responsive even in action-focused games. Its LED display doesn’t produce the same vibrant colors as the Steam Deck’s OLED display, but games still look good on it.

Performance on the Ally is similar to the Legion Go, as it’s powered by the same chip. That said, battery life is slightly worse. When playing less demanding games like Dave the Diver , I could squeeze just about four hours of gameplay out of the ROG Ally, but that dipped down to just over an hour while playing Baldur’s Gate 3 . You can manage this by using lower performance settings, which are easily accessible via an on-device button.

Although technically the Ally, like the Legion Go, supports external GPUs for better graphics, it only works with one ASUS makes. It’s more expensive than other third-party options, and the Legion Go doesn’t have this limitation. And even if you do plug in an external GPU, you’d have to use the only USB-C port on the Ally, so you can’t charge it simultaneously. It’s also worth noting that there have been several issues with the ROG Ally damaging microSD cards, so it’s best to only use the on-device storage with this one. ASUS has announced a new console that will hopefully address this issue, and we’ll be updating this guide after I’ve tested that model.

Best handheld Nintendo gaming console

Platform : Not listed | Weight : 0.71 pounds | Screen size and resolution : 7-inches; 1280 x 720 | Screen type : OLED | Storage : 64 GB | Battery life: 4.5-9 hours | Ports : USB-C (1)

I’ve been playing games on my Switch since 2017, and have used it everywhere from the seats of San Francisco’s BART trains to an uncomfortable airplane seat to my couch. Since it weighs under a pound, I hardly notice it in my bag, and I can lift it out one-handed. While I do wish it had access to more AAA titles like Baldur’s Gate , the Switch is still my main travel companion, as I don’t have to keep a close eye on the battery like I do with the Legion Go or Ally.

Aside from an upgrade to an OLED screen in 2021, Nintendo hasn’t significantly updated its flagship console since its debut in 2017. That’s mainly a testament to the strength of its design . The screen — especially on the newer OLED model — still looks good, even if it’s not as sophisticated as some of the others on this list, and that’s because the games available on the Switch are designed to work well on it.

The Switch is the only way to play Nintendo-exclusive games, including The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom , and old games from consoles like the SNES if you’re subscribed to Nintendo Switch Online (you can do this on other consoles via emulators, but the Switch is the only official way to play old Nintendo classics). You won’t find games like Elden Ring , but indie titles like Celeste and Hades are available and run just as well as on any other platform. There are over 10,000 titles in the Nintendo Store, so though it’s not as vast a library as Steam’s, there are plenty of excellent games to try out.

The Joy-Cons are light and easy to hold, and they can be snapped into a controller mold that allows them to be held in a more traditional grip. I prefer using Nintendo’s Switch Pro controller when my Switch is in its dock, but the Joy-Con controller mold works just fine.

The Switch is one of only two devices on this list to feature a stand, but unlike the Legion Go’s stand, the Switch’s is plastic and only works at one angle. It’s not nearly as stable as the Lenovo’s, and its angle isn’t the most convenient to look at. It’s better than not having one at all, but the stand on my personal Switch from 2017 is quite flimsy despite limited use.

Best OLED handheld gaming console

Platform : Custom Linux | Weight : 1.47 pounds | Screen size and resolution : 7-inches; 1280 x 800 | Screen type : OLED | Storage : 512 GB | Battery life: 2-5 hours | Ports : USB-C (1)

Valve’s Steam Deck is not quite as versatile as the Legion Go, but it’s the closest a handheld console that plays PC games gets to feeling as polished as the Nintendo Switch thanks to its custom interface and direct integration into the Steam store. Both the Legion Go and ROG Ally, on the other hand, are complicated by running Windows.

The Steam Deck’s operating system is designed to boot straight into your games library, much like a traditional console. You can also easily navigate to the store and buy new games. Conveniently, Steam will tell you if the game is Deck compatible or not. The interface is the most elegant and easy to navigate of any console I’ve tested, and if you’re familiar with the company’s desktop software, you’ll be a whiz at getting around the Deck in no time. Even if you’re not, it won’t take long.

Just like with the Lenovo and ASUS, there are a ton of settings to tinker with and fine-tune your device’s performance; the Deck just has a cleaner interface and more convenient features. For instance, you can set a frame-rate cap on a per-game basis rather than having to fiddle with your settings every time you launch a different game. Games performed well on the Deck, including The Elder Scrolls: Skyrim and Baldur’s Gate 3 , but the battery usually lasted just shy of two hours. It lasted longer while playing games such as Stardew Valley and Terraria , and I could get just about five hours of gameplay with similarly resource-light games. That’s better than on the Ally or Legion Go.

Controls on the Deck are comfortable to hold, and the buttons are neither too mushy nor too clicky; in fact, they feel identical to the buttons on the Legion Go. Each side of the device has a joystick and a trackpad, a four-button array (directional pad on the left, letter buttons on the right), and two shortcut buttons on each side. The Steam Deck’s OLED screen is more pleasant to look at than the LED displays of the Legion Go or ROG Ally thanks to its brighter colors, but its lower resolution produces fewer details.

It’s mostly a strength, but the Deck’s direct integration with the Steam platform can be limiting as well. Without diving into advanced settings and installing things through funky methods, you can’t run games from outside the Steam Store on the Deck, leaving out things like emulators or games like Fortnite that aren’t on Steam.

Best handheld gaming console for cloud gaming

Platform : Android | Weight : 1.02 pounds | Screen size and resolution : 7-inches; 1920 x 1080 | Screen type : OLED | Storage : 64 GB | Battery life: 10 hours | Ports : USB-C (1)

Cloud gaming has come a long way, and with a decent internet connection, you can stream AAA games like Fallout 4 from a browser. Logitech’s G Cloud doesn’t have the power of the ROG Ally or Steam Deck, but because all the games are running on a server, it doesn’t need it. Instead, the G Cloud runs a custom version of Android that lets you sign into cloud-gaming services like Xbox Game Pass or Nvidia Cloud Gaming. That means you’ll need to be online in order for this device to play games usually restricted to more powerful consoles. But because it runs Android, you can also install games from the Google Play Store for offline play, like Stardew Valley and Hades (via a Netflix subscription), and you can pop in an SD card to store more media than the onboard 64GB can hold.

You won’t be able to see as many details on the G Cloud’s 1080p screen as you would on the Legion Go, but this console’s resolution is higher than that of the rest of the consoles I’ve tested, and even playing games over the web, it looked great as long as my connection remained stable.

My favorite thing about using cloud-gaming services is that, unlike when playing games from a store like Steam, you don’t have to wait for things to download. That, of course, means you’ll need an internet connection whenever you want to play, but it’s nice being able to launch a game for the first time without having to wait two hours for a 60 GB file to download over Wi-Fi.

Battery life on the G Cloud lasts hours longer than that of any other non-Switch console I tested, maxing out at about ten hours.

Removable controllers aren’t necessary for a portable console, but the G Cloud is one I do wish had them. Since it runs Android, it could be used as an Android tablet, and you can install apps like Netflix or the Kindle app, but because the controls are fixed in place, the G Cloud is hard to hold when doing anything other than gaming.

If you’re looking for a large-screen device that’ll let you stream games from the cloud, no device does that in a more straightforward way than the G Cloud. You can access the same cloud services from the Legion Go or ROG Ally, but they’re more expensive and their batteries won’t last as long performing the same activities. The G Cloud will also work with any emulators that are on the Google Play Store, and since it’s lighter than the Steam Deck, Legion, and Ally, it’ll serve as a better emulation machine than any of them.

Best handheld gaming console for retro gaming

Platform : Custom Linux | Weight : 0.65 pounds | Screen size and resolution : 3.5-inches; 640 x 480 | Screen type : OLED | Storage : 64 GB | Battery life: 10 hours | Ports : USB-C (1)

You can play games from old-school consoles on several other consoles we recommend, but none of them bring the nostalgic feel of the classic handhelds like the Game Boy, and they can’t fit in your pocket. The Anbernic RG35XX, on the other hand, is designed to look like the original Game Boy, with a higher-resolution display and support for games from consoles like the SNES and Dreamcast.

Everything on the Anbernic gets stored on an SD card (you choose the size of the included one when you check out, but you can swap for a larger card at any time), and it comes preloaded with a ton of games like Pokemon Ruby and Battletoads . They’re all organized by console, including all the Game Boys up to Advance, and even PS1. I felt like a kid rifling through a box of old games as I flipped through the folders of games in the Anbernic, unearthing both classics I’ve missed over the years and those I never got a chance to play. You can download and install your own games as well.

It’s impressive how many games this tiny console can play, but I do wish its casing felt less plasticky. It doesn’t feel cheap (though the device is surprisingly affordable by gaming standards), but a slightly nicer plastic would’ve made it feel more like an actual Game Boy.

Best mobile-gaming console

Platform : iOS, Android | Weight : 0.3 pounds | Screen size and resolution : N/A | Screen type : N/A | Storage : N/A | Battery life: N/A | Ports : N/A

Dedicated consoles are the best way to play games, but if you need something lightweight and don’t want to add another device to your bag, the Backbone One can turn any iPhone or Android phone into a Switch-like gaming device. The controller slides out so you can dock your phone into it (there are USB-C and Lightning versions of the Backbone), and it stays securely in place until you remove it. This controller doesn’t have any batteries — all the controls are powered by the phone — and there’s no pairing necessary, just dock and play.

Like with the G Cloud, using your phone will allow you to access any games on the App Store or Google Play Store, all while taking up less space. If you’re using an iOS phone, though, cloud gaming is a bit trickier as you can’t install an app for any of the cloud-gaming services directly onto your device. Instead, you’ll have to access and play the games through Safari. It works, but it’s not as nice of an experience.

Mobile gaming won’t give you access to the same level of games as a true console, but there are plenty of games on iOS and Android that are just as good as some games you can find on Steam, Xbox, or Playstation. (The iOSgaming subreddit has some particularly thorough roundups if you need some guidance). You can also install an emulator on either platform to play the same games as on the Anbernic, though you’ll have to find downloads of the games yourself.

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