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The 17 best things to do in Bangkok, from street food feasts to monastery magic

Nov 26, 2023 • 14 min read

Bangkok is full of incredible experiences – here are our favorites © NeoPhoto / Getty Images

Bangkok is the Asian megacity incarnate. Its vast urban sprawl – home to 22% of the Thai population – is studded with gleaming golden wat (Buddhist monasteries), towering skyscrapers, teeming markets, multi-lane highways, and clusters of village-style houses that show just how far Bangkok has come over the last 50 years. Needless to say, there's a lot to see and do!

For travelers, Bangkok is a feast for the senses. The sense of taste is pushed to almost orgasmic levels by the lavish spices and complex flavors of Bangkok street food. The eyes are transported by the gleaming spires and rainbow mosaics of Bangkok's temples and monasteries, and the ears resonate with the roar of traffic, music and Buddhist chanting. Even the sense of smell gets a workout from the traffic fumes, incense , jasmine blossom and city pongs.

With so much to experience, you'll need to plan carefully to fit everything in. Whether you're here for the culture, the history, the food or the nightlife, here's our pick of the best things to do in Bangkok.

Feast on Bangkok's famous street food

Home to what could well be the world’s most vibrant street food culture, Bangkok offers travelers a mind-boggling variety of light bites and cheap meals, dished out on almost every street corner. From Thai-style fried noodles, dumplings in myriad flavors, platters of fiery curries and jasmine rice, meaty skewers sizzling on barbecues, fresh-cut tropical fruit or a vast array of deep-fried desserts, the choice of street food in Bangkok is endless.

Locals and visitors throng daily to the countless stalls and carts lining Bangkok’s roadsides, as sizzling woks perfume the city air with the scent of lemongrass, chili, kaffir lime leaves and galangal. In recent years, some of Bangkok’s boroughs have cracked down on informal food markets resulting in the closure of many stalls, but the collective street food movement still thrives and night markets start up across the city from around 5pm daily. Things are generally quieter on Mondays, though, when many stalls close for the day.

Browse thousands of stalls at Chatuchak Weekend Market

Possibly Asia’s biggest open-air marketplace, the vast Chatuchak Weekend Market – also known as JJ Market – is the ultimate shopping experience for those in the mood to burn some baht. Rows of pavilions, each housing hundreds of shops and stalls, are organized in neat sections beneath shady canopies, with each section dedicated to selling specific categories of merchandise. 

Garments, shoes, kitchen essentials, glassware, handicrafts, antiques, healthcare products, home decor, foodstuffs, gardening supplies, even live pets – pretty much everything can be found here. Needless to say, you'll want to schedule the better part of a day to immerse yourself in this hugely popular experience. ATMs and moneychangers are on hand to fuel impulsive purchases.

As its name suggests, Chatuchak opens for business only on Saturdays and Sundays. On other days, the market is fairly deserted, except for the nearby JJ Mall that operates through the week. The BTS Skytrain serves nearby Mo Chit station, from where it’s a 500m walk (about a third of a mile).

Marvel at the graceful majesty of Wat Pho

Alongside a veritable forest of mosaic-covered stupas and prayer halls, the 16th-century shrine of Wat Pho is home to a magnificent 46m (151ft) sculpture of the Reclining Buddha – gracefully adorned with gold leaf and mother-of-pearl inlays – that commands pride of place as one of Bangkok’s most iconic sights. The monastery is also the spiritual home of Thai massage; treatments are offered daily, and Wat Pho has its own massage school.

Unsurprisingly, Wat Pho is visited by hundreds of people every day who come to marvel at its jaw-dropping main Buddha image, or pay their respects at the many shrines that dot the peaceful grounds of this sprawling complex. It's worth lingering to spend some meditative moments in the silent corridors and prayer halls before returning to the ceaseless din of the city.

Given Wat Pho’s religious significance, visitors should dress modestly to gain entry into the temple complex. A 200B entry fee is applicable for adults, and this includes a complimentary bottle of water (a welcome bonus on a hot day).

Soak up the buzzing atmosphere of Chinatown

A photographer’s muse, a foodie’s dream, a shopper’s paradise and a cultural anthropologist’s fantasy – that's Bangkok's Chinatown . Packed into one of Bangkok’s oldest boroughs, the district is a riotous supernova of smoke-spewing food carts, gold-laden jewelry stores, atmospheric temples, vibrant food markets and quaint family homes. 

Walking down the area's main thoroughfare, Th Yaowarat, is a sensory overload. The nose tingles with aromas of burning incense, jasmine tea and burnt garlic oil, as the eyes feast on a colorful jamboree of flashy neon signage and rows of ornamental lanterns and streamers dangling above the streets. At any time of day or night, you'll find Chinatown bustling with a multitude of residents and visitors. 

During the Chinese New Year celebrations in late January or early February, a carnival spirit sweeps through the entire district, with lively dragon and lion dances and sumptuous food galas adding a festive touch to the proceedings. While Chinatown is a fabulous budget dining destination, it’s worth noting that most street food vendors here only operate in the evening (and remain shut on Mondays). At other times, you'll have to find a sit-down restaurant.

Admire the regal grandeur of Wat Phra Kaew & the Grand Palace

Spectacular and majestic, the royal complex made up of Wat Phra Kaew and the Grand Palace was established by former Thai kings as the nerve center of a capital city that soon expanded far beyond its original boundaries on the island of Ko Ratanakosin to become the modern-day Bangkok. 

Consecrated in 1782, the sprawling complex – which formerly served as the official residence of the Thai monarchy – is home to a number of imposing palaces, reception halls, temples and courtyards, and is easily the city’s biggest tourist attraction. The best reason to come here, however, is to visit the adjacent Wat Phra Kaew temple, home to Thailand’s most sacred religious artifact, the Emerald Buddha – actually made from jade and dating back to the 12th or 13th century.

The walls of the corridors lining Wat Phra Kaew’s courtyard feature the famed Ramakian Murals, originally painted in the 18th century and featuring lavish scenes from the Ramakian (the Thai version of the Indian epic Ramayana). Recently restored, these murals represent some of the finest religious art to be seen anywhere in the country.

Take a sunset dinner cruise on the Chao Phraya River

Ranging in mood from subtly romantic to humorously tacky, a dinner cruise on the swirling waters of the Chao Phraya River can be one of the most enduring memories you'll take home from a visit to Bangkok. 

Depending on your choice of vessel – options stretch from sophisticated teakwood boats with curated fine-dining facilities to hulking catamarans outfitted with flashy lights and loud onboard entertainment – you'll be treated to either an atmospheric candlelit dinner served up by a private chef or a raucous floating party with thumping music and a buffet to feed a few hundred guests. Either way, it’s worth an evening of your time, not least for the cool evening river breeze that blows away the discomfort of a hot Bangkok day.

These cruises are wildly popular with tourists, and boats – especially the top-end ones – tend to get booked out weeks in advance. It helps to reserve a table before you get to Bangkok to avoid disappointment. Most dinner cruises operate from the piers at the showy, antique-stuffed River City Mall , picking up passengers from around 7pm.

Book in for a pummeling Thai massage

Blending ancient healing techniques and natural products aimed at holistically reviving the mind and body, Thai massage is one of Bangkok’s top experiences. The city has an unshakeable reputation as the massage capital of the world, and a vigorous kneading, particularly after a long day of sightseeing, can be heavenly.

Ranging from inexpensive foot massages at street-side parlors to the full pampering wellness package at chic spas, Thai massage comes in many therapeutic flavors. Some massages incorporate aromatherapy oils or herb presses, while others simply focus on a mix of pressure and stretching moves to relax muscles and increase blood flow.

Several well-known spa chains across Bangkok – Health Land , Divana Massage & Spa and Asia Herb Foundation to name just a few – offer high-quality massages at reasonable prices. However, they can get crowded (especially on weekends), so advance reservations are a wise move.

Graze through myriad Thai flavors at a night market

Bangkok’s legendary night markets offer a delightful combination of guilt-free holiday shopping, socializing with friends, boozy drinks served in buckets, and feasts of waistline-expanding Thai food at outdoor food stalls. 

The legendary Talat Rot Fai Srinakharin night market in Northern Bangkok promises one of the city’s most satisfying after-dark experiences, while the fashionable Artbox on centrally located Th Sukhumvit draws young hipster crowds with arty creations, smooth jazz performances and an irreverently laid-back atmosphere. 

In contrast, the more disreputable Patpong Night Market is a curious mix of souvenir stalls, food carts, massage spas, pubs with live music, and go-go bars peddling various forms of  "adult" entertainment. It's popular, but won't appeal to everyone.

But you'll find night market food stalls springing up all over the city from around 5pm most nights, including along the backpacker hub of Th Khao San (Khao San Rd). The underground MRT is a convenient way to get to Talat Rot Fai Srinakharin, while the BTS Skytrain can drop you near both Artbox and Patpong Night Market.

Step into history at the Jim Thompson House

Jim Thompson, the American entrepreneur and silk mogul, used his traditional Thai-style home on the canal running between Banglamphu and Th Phetchaburi as a repository for age-old Thai treasures and art. When he vanished mysteriously in 1967, his teak-framed house was transformed into a captivating museum – and one that every visitor secretly wishes they lived in. 

Why? The rooms are adorned with his exquisite art collection and personal possessions, including rare Chinese porcelain and priceless Burmese, Cambodian and Thai artifacts, set in a garden that's a miniature jungle of tropical plants and lotus ponds. You can also buy lush Jim Thompson silks on site.

Feel the complex character of Banglamphu 

Easily Bangkok’s most charming neighborhood, Banglamphu is the city’s former aristocratic enclave. Once filled with the riverside mansions of diplomats, dignitaries and minor royalty, the old quarter is today dominated by backpackers seeking R&R on famous Th Khao San, civil servants shuffling between offices and lunch spots, and bohemian artists and students bringing new life to antique shophouses. 

Busy street food carts and classic Thai restaurants offer ample options for hungry travelers and the area also hosts some of the city’s best live music. By day and by night, the lanes of Banglamphu host eclectic street markets selling Thai souvenirs and trinkets, with bars that spill out into the street and pop-up cocktail stands that buzz until midnight, when the sale of alcohol is officially banned until the following day.

Throw yourself into a Bangkok shopping spree

Even those who vocally oppose consumerism may feel a moment of weakness in Bangkok. One minute they'll be touting the virtues of a life without material possessions, the next they'll be admiring the treasure troves of street merchandise and mapping out the route to the nearest night market to pack their bags with Thai silks, handicrafts and famous name fashions. 

In this shopping-obsessed city, malls daisy-chain into an almost continuous shopping precinct, and the pavements in between the malls serve as a spillover retail space for vendors without a postal address. As well as top international brands, Bangkok is a long-established destination for bespoke tailoring, and has its own emerging fashion scene.

Start the retail adventure in megamalls such as Siam Paragon , centralwOrld , MBK Center and Emquartier . Post-shopping, pause for a cocktail at a rooftop bar with a city view – Red Sky , atop the Centara Grand at centralwOrld, Moon Bar atop the Banyan Tree in Sathorn, and Brewski at the Radisson Blu Plaza near Th Sukhumvit are all top choices.  

Ride the Chao Phraya River

Bangkok's most important waterway, Mae Nam Chao Phraya – the Chao Phraya River – is always teeming with activity. Hulking freighter boats trail behind dedicated tugs, river-crossing ferries skip across the wake, and children practice cannonballs into the muddy water that laps against the side of boat jetties and stilt houses.

You can witness soothing river vistas from the shore (ideally from Ko Ratanakosin or Thonburi), but it's more fun to get out on the water on a chartered long-tail boat or cruise along the river on the Chao Phraya Express Boat . Regardless of your vantage point, as the blinding sun slips below the horizon, briefly silhouetting the gleaming spires of temples and palaces against streaks of red and gold, Bangkok suddenly looks beautiful and serene.

Learn to make green curry at a Thai cookery school

Don't let a happy tummy be the only souvenir of a culinary visit to Thailand. Instead, spice up your life – and your future dinner-party menus – by learning to create the kingdom’s zesty dishes at a Thai cookery school.

Cooking schools in Bangkok range from formal affairs for amateur chefs to home cooking for the recipe-phobic. Everyone always has a grand time – visiting a wet market, fumbling with ingredients, tasting the fruits of their labor and trotting home with new cooking techniques.

Dive into the vintage universe of Papaya

What began as a personal antique-collecting hobby for the reticent owner of  Papaya has snowballed over the years into a mind-boggling collection of vintage 19th- and 20th-century objects that occupy every inch of a warehouse-size exhibition space off Th Lat Phrao in northern Bangkok.

Art-deco furniture, 1960s beer signage, superhero statues, Piaggio scooters, typewriters, movie projectors, love seats, TV sets, VHS players, wall clocks, storefront mannequins, lampshades – the list goes on and on. Many objects are technically for sale, but the owner prices them astronomically just to keep his collection from depleting, so treat it more as a museum of recent history.

Walk the SkyWalk at King Power Mahanakhon

Offering an unparalleled 360° view of the Bangkok cityscape, this two-tiered observation deck is perched atop King Power Mahanakhon , currently Thailand’s tallest building. Stepping onto the dizzying SkyWalk – a glass-floored balcony dangling 78 floors and 310m (1017ft) above the earth – is a hair-raising experience, but you can soothe your nerves afterward with a stiff sundowner at the open-air bar one flight up on the skyscraper's pinnacle. An indoor 74th-floor observatory offers a less vertiginous experience, for a cheaper entry fee.

Cheer on the fighters at a Thai boxing match

Almost anything goes in the quintessentially Thai martial art of moo·ay tai (also spelled Muay Thai) – more commonly known outside Thailand as Thai boxing or kickboxing. If you don’t mind the full-contact physicality, a Thai-boxing match is well worth attending for the pure spectacle, the wild musical accompaniment, the ceremonial beginning of each match, and the frenzied betting.

The best of the best compete at Bangkok’s two boxing stadiums. Built on royal land at the end of WWII, the art-deco-style Rajadamnern Stadium is the city's original stadium, and it has a relatively formal atmosphere. The other main fighting stage, Lumpinee Boxing Stadium , has moved from its eponymous 'hood to a modern home north of Bangkok. Admission fees vary according to seating; we recommend sitting in the 2nd- or 3rd-class seats for maximum fan atmosphere.

Plunge into the backpacker mayhem on Th Khao San

Th Khao San, better known as Khao San Road, is genuinely unlike anywhere else on earth. It’s an international clearing house of independent travelers either entering the liberated state of traveling in Southeast Asia or pausing for one last party before returning to the comfortable normality of "real life" back home. Its uniqueness is probably best illustrated by a question: apart from airports, where else could you share every inch of space with the citizens of dozens of countries at the same time?

Strolling down this market-stall-crowded thoroughfare, you'll see everyone from first-time backpackers scoffing banana pancakes to 75-year-old grandparents sipping G&Ts, and everyone in between, including hippies, hipsters, nerds, glamazons, package tourists, global nomads, weekend trippers, gap-year explorers and other travelers of every color and creed.

Th Khao San is perhaps the most high-profile product of the age of independent travel, but the bedbug-infested guesthouses of old have been replaced by boutique hotels, and downmarket TV bars showing pirated movies have been transformed into hip design bars thronged by flashpackers in designer threads. No visit to Bangkok would be complete without a wander along this famed street.

This article was first published Jun 3, 2021 and updated Nov 26, 2023.

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19 Best Things to Do in Bangkok

By Diana Hubbell and Katie Lockhart

One of Southeast Asia’s most popular destinations, Bangkok is an ever-changing, always-bustling cosmopolitan capital with much more on offer than incredible street food (although there’s plenty of that). Chaos covered in a hazy combination of charcoal grills, incense, and motorbike exhaust, it’s home to culture and history alongside luxury hotels, Michelin-star restaurants, cozy cocktail bars and a surplus of good times. Overwhelmed? That’s normal. After a day of temple hopping, hit up Chinatown for old-world architecture and some of the city’s best bars. Or go green with a stroll through the city’s coolest parks, followed by a multi-course meal aboard an antique barge or tucked inside a century-old shophouse. Here are our picks for what to do in Bangkok.

Read our complete Bangkok city guide here .

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

The Jim Thompson House Arrow

The home of American Jim Thompson, who made a fortune in the mid-20th century selling Thai silks, has been transformed into a museum displaying the businessman's collection of antiques, artwork, and religious artifacts. The canal-side property is made up of six traditional teak houses from Ayutthaya, the former capital of Thailand, surrounded by a verdant garden. Known for more than just its art collection, the property was also a legendary spot for high-society parties.

Lumphini Park Arrow

Bangkok is the ultimate concrete jungle, and most of its green spaces have long been gobbled up by developers adding condominium towers to the skyline. But smack dab in the center of the city is leafy Lumphini Park; often called the "Central Park of Bangkok" and named after the Nepali birthplace of Buddha, this an urban respite for many Bangkokians. The geographical heart of the park is an artificial lake where you can rent swan-shaped paddle boats.

The Grand Palace Arrow

The land for the Grand Palace was designated in 1782—the same year the capital of Thailand moved from Ayutthaya to Bangkok—and today it's home to various royal throne and ceremonial halls, as well as the sacred Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Although the Thai royal family moved out by 1925, this sprawling complex remains an important structure for Thais, one that's also a central stop on the well-trodden tourist route.

Chinatown Arrow

Market lanes, glittery gold shops, phenomenal street food, temples with golden Buddhas, Daoist temples clouded with incense smoke, street art, history, and a neighborhood setting that feels untouched by time and modernization: Welcome to Bangkok’s enchanting Chinatown, one of the largest Chinatowns in the world. You don’t need tickets or reservations, just an appetite for Thai-Chinese street food and a penchant for getting a little lost in the name of exploration.

Jessica Puckett

Lee Marshall

Meaghan Kenny

Wat Pho Arrow

The main draw at Wat Pho is the country’s largest reclining Buddha, a 150-foot long sculpture occupying nearly every inch of the building and leaving guests to observe its gold-plated form from all angles. Beyond the Buddha, an expansive compound has the largest collection of Buddha images in Thailand. The complex was Thailand’s first center for public education; people came to study its 1,360 marble inscriptions to learn about medicine, history, and liberal arts.

The Siam Arrow

Compared with many of its rivals, this Bangkok stalwart doesn’t have a location that’s wildly convenient: the postcard sights need a boat transfer, and most top tables are more than a 30-minute taxi ride away. But for me, and the legions of other loyal fans of this monochrome masterpiece by hotel guru Bill Bensley, that’s the point. Pitched up on a lush riverside plot in the hushed Dusit district, The Siam feels like a portal to a bygone Bangkok. Even though it opened a decade ago, it’s easy to imagine it as a plush playground for the city’s erstwhile big guns, the mid-century movers and shakers whose heirlooms—vintage Pan Am posters, tattered travel trunks and chipped ceramics—adorn the marble-floored hallways. I’d be hard-pressed to point friends to a lovelier lunch spot than the hotel’s Thai restaurant, set between the timeworn pillars of three ancient teakwood houses, where butlers in dressy black sarongs deliver the kind of classic Thai hospitality—lilting “sawadee ka” greetings and tables set with fresh orchids—that’s becoming harder to find. None of which is to say that the hotel is stuffy—there’s a tattoo parlor in the spa. An ongoing refurb is keeping suites and private-pooled villas looking fresh. And with the opening of a Jim Thompson homeware boutique in the wooden house the illustrious silk magnate helped procure for its former owners, things have come full circle. The Thai capital’s five-star hotel scene gets plusher every year, but this timeless beauty remains in a league of its own. From $618. —Chris Schalkx

Chatuchak Weekend Market Arrow

Known as JJ Market to most locals (the official name, Chatuchak, is pronounced with a J sound), this is the granddaddy of all markets: With 15,000 stalls, it's among the largest outdoor markets in the world. Everything is buyable, from practical stuff like home décor, art, clothing, accessories, and cooking equipment, to trinkets and oddities like knock-off Nikes and Beats by Dre, iPhone covers, and—yes—even live animals. Despite its sheer size, though, the market is very well organized, with goods arranged by type and a large map posted near the entrance.

Wat Arun Arrow

Of the more than 37,000 temples, or wats , throughout Thailand, Wat Arun is one of the most iconic. The 269-foot tall prahng, a Khmer-style tower, juts out from the banks of the Chao Phraya River, and the temple complex is illuminated in a golden glow at night. This is one of the few temples in Thailand that you can climb; once you've ascended the steep and narrow stairs, you're in for a great view of the river and surrounding temple complex.

Smiling Albino Arrow

The peeps behind Smiling Albino have been at it since 1999, so you can rest assured they know what they’re doing. Their offerings fall in the custom luxury category: private experiences in Bangkok, cultural visits, and trips to nearby villages. They also organize weeklong trekking journeys in northern Thailand, cycling in Nepal, and motorcycling in Vietnam. Each trip is custom-made to your interests: no coaches and explanations shouted through a microphone, but rather personal guides and drivers.

Manohra Dinner River Cruise Arrow

This six-course dinner served aboard an an antique wooden rice barge is an excellent crash course in both Thai food and Bangkok's must-visit destinations along the river. Book it to get your bearings on what you'd like to explore during daylight—while eating fantastic dishes like a gold leaf-topped curry amuse bouche, a dry-ice play on mango sticky rice, and a creamy coconut and turmeric soup with charcoal-cooked chicken. The warm service rivals any fine-dining establishment on land, and the experience is perfect for a relaxed, romantic evening on the water.

Wat Prayoon (Prayurawongsawat Worawihan) Arrow

Sitting on the quieter Thonburi side of the Chao Phraya River, Wat Prayoon is a crowd-free, surprise-filled temple compound with plenty of moments for peaceful solitude. Visitors can spend an afternoon here exploring the towering white chedi —it's rare to find one in Bangkok you can actually enter—or watching the turtles and monitor lizards in the Khao Mo garden. It's an excellent spot for families with young kids and temple-lovers looking for something besides a giant gold Buddha (although it's got one of those too).

Blue Elephant Cooking School Arrow

Bringing home a taste of Thai food is high on the list of most travelers, and in the always-hungry capital, there are lessons for newbies and pros alike. Blue Elephant’s half-day lesson is a good middle ground, where experienced cooks won’t be bored and novices won’t feel lost. At the morning lesson, small groups gather at the elegant colonial-style house before making their way to the multiethnic Bangrak market; the afternoon session, meanwhile, dives right into cooking.

The Jam Factory Arrow

Architect Duangrit Bunnag’s fingerprints are all over the revival of Bangkok’s waterfront. Savvy travelers will also notice his handiwork just across the Chao Phraya at Warehouse 30 . Down Charoenkrung Road in the former General Post Office lies the reopened Thailand Creative & Design Center (TCDC), which Bunnag co-founded. The Jam Factory is at the core of his vision to shift the city’s gravitational center back to where it once lay: on the so-called River of Kings. He built this stunning complex anchored around an ancient Bodhi tree to house his firm’s main office, along with a hip restaurant, a gallery, and more.

100 Tonson Foundation Arrow

Over the past decade, Bangkok’s art scene has mushroomed from a few scattered galleries into a vibrant, thriving community. Much of that transformation has to do with Aey Phanachet’s groundbreaking contemporary art space in Ploenchit. In 2020, Tonson Gallery became a non-profit and changed its name to 100 Tonson Foundation.This was the first Thai gallery to participate in Art Basel, the Switzerland art fair, and it’s been a champion of Southeast Asian artists ever since. Despite its high-powered reputation, the gallery is open to casual art-lovers as well as collectors.

Wat Pariwat Arrow

Bangkok’s temples are truly a wonder to behold, but after a few days of battling the crowds, the appeal of gilded Buddha statues may start to wear thin. When you’ve conquered the major attractions, hop in a taxi to this Wat Pariwat, a one-of-a-kind temple down the Chao Phraya River. Sometimes nicknamed the David Beckham Temple for its statue of the famed soccer star below the main altar, Wat Pariwat is both an active place of worship and a hodgepodge of pop culture references.

Nusara Arrow

Follow the outdoor neon sign that says "Only Kids Drink Milk" to this fine-dining speakeasy that ranks 10th on Asia's 50 Best Restaurants list. Head to the back of Mayrai Pad Thai and Wine Bar, go up the spiral stairs and past the open kitchen, and find a small dining area set for 12. One of Bangkok's most exclusive reservations, the restaurant serves a 12-course set menu of Thai chili–laden dishes that are an ode to Chef Ton Tassanakajohn's grandmother, Nusara. Highlights include peanut relish with seasonal vegetables and shrimp paste water perfected over the course of 80 years.

Pak Khlong Talat Arrow

Bangkok’s bustling 24-hour flower market is a feast for the eyes and the nostrils—and one of the best places for jet-lagged travelers awake at odd hours to do some sightseeing. The highlight of the market is visiting the vendors along Chakkaraphet Road and watching locals prepare sacred temple offerings at lightning speed. They’re folding back the delicate petals of lotus blossoms, stringing fragrant jasmine into garlands known as malais, sorting through bags teeming with marigolds, and creating elaborate arrangements for funerals and weddings. Under the market’s tin roof, merchants sell bundles of orchids, button carnations, roses, green bananas still on the stem, towering stacks of prickly pineapples, and pre-made temple offerings. Across Chakkaraphet Road, don’t miss the elaborate ready-made bouquets and stacks of colorful orchids for 20 baht (60 cents) each.

Warehouse 30 Arrow

The creation of Warehouse 30 is the latest creative project in a string of artistic spaces in rehabbed historical buildings along Charenkrung Road. Under the artistic and watchful eye of Duangrit Bunnag, a founder of the Thailand Creative & Design Center (TCDC) and Thailand’s best-known architect, an abandoned block of World War II-era warehouses have become a bastion for local designers and artists. Ever-changing exhibition spaces, independent boutiques, a coffee shop, and more are all part of the new development. And while the shops and the vibe are new, the exposed beams and wood flooring are original.

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Thailand rated among world’s top post-pandemic destinations

Visa global travel intentions study listed the kingdom as the fourth most attractive travel destination in the world..

Bangkok, 8 May, 2022 – The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is pleased to announce that Thailand has been rated as the fourth most attractive travel destination in the world post-pandemic, with Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai, and Hua Hin being the top Thai cities global travellers look up online, according to Visa Global Travel Intentions Study 2021.

The study, which was carried out during January-October 2021, analysed data from over 7,000 keywords searched by travellers from 62 countries as well as Thailand’s travel information, to five Thai tourist cities and travellers’ sentiments regarding the pandemic’s impact on travel situation.

According to the study, top three motivations for global travellers intending to visit Thailand are leisure pursuits (30%), the chance to escape and relax (25%), and outdoor adventure (18%). This demonstrates visitors are looking for stress-free holidays that provide optimum opportunities to relax, get outdoors, and leave the worries of the pandemic behind.

The study also revealed that, when in Thailand, tourists are most likely to head for activities and attractions that have made Thailand famous. The top activity preferences are going for a famous Thai massage, eating Thai food at cafes and restaurants, spending time at their resort, and embracing Thai culture; such as, visiting a Buddhist temple.

Visa cited a study by the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) that Thailand’s tourism industry is showing signs of recovery with increasing visitor numbers over the next three years expected to reach around 46.96 million by the end of 2024. The ongoing relaxation of tourist entry requirements throughout the year should make it easier for tourists to return to Thailand.

TAT Newsroom

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Thailand is adding a tourism tax on foreign visitors

Starting in June, visitors can expect to pay a small tax to enter the country

A trip to Thailand is about to get a little more expensive. Starting June 1, the country will impose a tourism tax on international visitors, the government approved Tuesday.

Those who arrive by air will be taxed 300 baht (roughly $9, which will be added into airfare) and those by land or water transportation will be charged 150 baht ($4). The year-round tax will only apply to those staying overnight in the country, children under 2 or those traveling on diplomatic passport s or work permits.

What to know about traveling to Asia

The tax, which was proposed by the National Tourism Policy Committee and has been under consideration since before the pandemic, has been criticized by the local tourism industry, the Bangkok Post reported.

Government officials say it will help offset medical costs tourists accrue at public hospitals, which totaled between $8 million and $11 million from 2017 and 2019, the tourism and sports minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn told reporters on Tuesday. It will also support domestic tourism development. This year alone, the tax could generate more than $115 million.

Marijuana is now legal in Thailand. What does that mean for tourists?

Beyond the upcoming tourism tax, there are no restrictions for U.S. leisure travelers to enter Thailand, other than having a passport with at least six months of validity from your arrival. Americans don’t need a visa for stays fewer than 45 days , but Thai immigration officials or airline staff may require proof of an onward or return ticket. All coronavirus restrictions have been lifted .

Tourism in Thailand is seeing a major rebound, which is resulting in the country increasing the number of immigration counters and taxis at Bangkok’s airport to keep up with the recent surge. Thailand’s tourism authorities expect to welcome 25 million visitors in 2023.

Since Thailand reopened for tourism, Angela Hughes, owner of Trips & Ships Luxury Travel , has had significant interest from clients to visit. But as tourism numbers climb, she’s concerned for the return of overtourism to country’s most popular travel destinations, namely its beaches.

Overtourism has been an ongoing issue for Thailand. The country had to close destinations such as Koh Tachai and Maya Bay (made famous by the 2000 movie “The Beach”) to rehabilitate them from tourism damage.

Hughes recalls scenes of Ko Phi Phi Don island choked with thousands of tourists before the pandemic and is now encouraging clients to explore beyond the beach. “I’m shifting people north to Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai,” Hughes says.

Jason Martin, U.S. branch director for InsideAsia Tours , says his company is also sending travelers north and avoiding places like Pattaya , the beach city on Thailand’s eastern gulf coast known for its nightlife, which he says has been destroyed by overtourism. But clients are showing interest outside of Thailand’s “beaches and beer” culture on their own, too, requesting vacations that dive deeper into the country.

Thailand will join other popular travel destinations implementing visitor entrance fees. Europe is planning to launch its European Travel Information and Authorisation System (or ETIAS) in November, which will require a 7 euro fee for visitors 18 to 70 years old. Venice has postponed a new tourist entry fee but it’s expected to launch this year. Bhutan reopened last year and now requires a $200 daily visa fee.

A previous version of this story incorrectly stated that Americans can stay in Thailand without a visa for 30 days. It's 45 days. The article has been corrected.

More travel news

How we travel now: More people are taking booze-free trips — and airlines and hotels are taking note. Some couples are ditching the traditional honeymoon for a “buddymoon” with their pals. Interested? Here are the best tools for making a group trip work.

Bad behavior: Entitled tourists are running amok, defacing the Colosseum , getting rowdy in Bali and messing with wild animals in national parks. Some destinations are fighting back with public awareness campaigns — or just by telling out-of-control visitors to stay away .

Safety concerns: A door blew off an Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 Max 9 jet, leaving passengers traumatized — but without serious injuries. The ordeal led to widespread flight cancellations after the jet was grounded, and some travelers have taken steps to avoid the plane in the future. The incident has also sparked a fresh discussion about whether it’s safe to fly with a baby on your lap .

Chinese tourist dies in Hong Kong after fall off cliff on landmark Lion Rock

PUBLISHED : 13 May 2024 at 10:36

WRITER: South China Morning Post

HONG KONG: A hiker died on Sunday after he plunged off a cliff at Hong Kong's Lion Rock.

Police said they were alerted to the incident about noon and were told the man, a tourist, was unconscious.

A Government Flying Service helicopter airlifted the man to Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital, but he was later pronounced dead.

The victim, 37, from mainland China and who has not been named, was said to be part of a group of about a dozen friends who started  out  on a hike on the city landmark in Kowloon at about  10am  ( 9am  Thailand time).

Hiking accidents in Hong Kong have become more common after many of the most scenic destinations have gone viral on mainland social media.

Two mainland tourists were found floating unconscious in the waters off a cape in Shek O in January after going for a hike with family members.

Marine police pulled a woman, 57, and a man, 55, from the water but the pair, a brother and sister, were later pronounced dead by doctors.

A 61-year-old, another brother, injured his foot but was able to return to shore on his own.

Authorities have highlighted Lion Rock as one of the most dangerous hiking spots in the city after a string of fatal accidents.

A middle-aged man fell from a 50-metre cliff last August after he lost his footing.

His body was not found until two hours later and he was certified dead at the scene.

Another man died after a cliff fall near the peak of the rock in September 2022.

A rescue team later found his body about 80  metres  below the cliff face.

Hiking experts have warned that Lion Rock is not suitable for beginners because of its rugged terrain.

They also warned fog was common, which reduced visibility and made routes treacherously slippy.

Police said the investigation into the latest tragedy continued.

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24 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Bangkok

Written by Meagan Drillinger Updated Mar 20, 2024 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Bangkok is everything you'd expect from the capital of Thailand: it's noisy, crowded, colorful, exciting, infuriating, and simply magical. Bangkok is a microcosm of what makes Thailand so special. Centuries-old temples and ancient sites sit side by side with 21st-century shopping malls that have a kitschy, yet high-end ambience. Bangkok can be overwhelming, but it's also a fascinating city that represents Southeast Asia's tension between the developed and developing worlds.

Bangkok also serves as a gateway to many other parts of Thailand . From here, you can hop a short flight to Phuket, Chiang Mai, Koh Samui, and other popular destinations. You can also board a train or hop on a bus for little money, and visit national treasures such as Ayutthaya , Lopburi, and many other gems around the country.

Discover the best things to do in this bustling city with our list of the top attractions in Bangkok.

1. Admire the Beauty of the Grand Palace

3. wat arun, 4. wat traimit, temple of the golden buddha, 5. wat suthat, 6. giant swing, 7. national museum & wang na palace, 8. stock up on authentic souvenirs at chatuchak market, 9. shop by boat at the damnoen saduak floating market, 10. discover khao san road, 11. jim thompson house, 12. walk around lumpini park, 13. shop at terminal 21, 14. experience street food stalls, 15. take a river cruise, 16. step inside the temple of the emerald buddha, 17. pass through wat mahathat, 18. explore chinatown, 19. ride the skytrain, 20. shop at iconsiam, 21. take a muay thai lesson, 22. visit kalayanamit, 23. indulge at a spa, 24. check into a luxury hotel, where to stay in bangkok for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to bangkok, map of tourist attractions in bangkok, best time to visit bangkok, thailand.

If you only visit one major historical tourist attraction in Bangkok, this should be the one. The royal compound lives up to its name, with spectacular structures that would put the most decadent modern monarchs to shame.

Built in 1782, the grand palace was the royal residence for generations and is still used for important ceremonies and accommodating heads of state. Dress modestly when visiting the Grand Palace, which basically means covering your arms and legs and avoiding any sloppy attire.

To avoid any hassle and to make the most of your visit, take the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew Tour . This is a half-day sightseeing tour, either morning or afternoon, with pickup from your hotel and a local guide to put what you are seeing in context. Without a guide, it's easy to miss important features or not fully understand the relevance of what you are seeing, and the hotel pickup makes the whole experience that much simpler.

Location: Na Phra Lan Road, Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon

• Read More: Exploring Bangkok's Grand Palace: A Visitor's Guide

Located immediately south of the Grand Palace precinct, Wat Pho makes an excellent addition to your palace tour, provided your feet are up for more walking.

The temple was built by King Rama I and is the oldest in Bangkok. It has long been considered a place of healing, and was famous centuries ago for its pharmacy and as Thailand's first "university"-both established by King Rama III. You can get a Thai or foot massage at the traditional medical school on the premises, but the prices are significantly higher than what you will find at massage parlors elsewhere in the city.

Today Wat Pho is best known for the Temple of the Reclining Buddha , where you'll find a statue so big (45 meters long and 15 meters high), it cannot be viewed in its entirety but only appreciated in sections. The soles of the feet, inlaid with a myriad of precious stones, are particularly beautiful. Look also for the long earlobes signifying noble birth, and the lotus-bud configuration of the hand to symbolize purity and beauty.

Address: 2 Sanamchai Road, Grand Palace Subdistrict, Pranakorn District

Wat Arun is something of a triumphant complex, dating back to the time of ancient battles between the former Siam and Burma. Having fallen to the Burmese, Ayutthaya was reduced to rubble and ashes, but General Taksin and the remaining survivors vowed to march "until the sun rose again" and to build a temple here. Wat Arun, the Temple of the Dawn, was that temple. It is where the new king later built his royal palace and a private chapel.

If you climb to the top of the prang just before sunset, you will be rewarded with an unforgettable view as the sun sinks over the Chao Praya River. Even if you don't plan on doing any climbing, sunset is really the time to take in this place in all its glory.

Address: Arun Amarin Road, Bangkok

Sheer luck (or lack thereof) makes this attraction special. During the 1950s, the East Asiatic Company purchased the land around the temple.

A condition of the sale was the removal of a plaster statue of Buddha, but the statue proved too heavy for the crane being used. The cable parted and the figure was dropped, being left overnight where it fell. It happened to be in the rainy season, and when next morning some monks walked past, they noticed a glint of gold shining through the plaster. The coating was removed, revealing a 3.5-meter Buddha cast from 5.5 tons of solid gold.

All attempts to trace the origin of this priceless statue have so far failed, but it is assumed to date from the Sukhothai period, when marauding invaders threatened the country and its treasures, and it became common practice to conceal valuable Buddha figures beneath a coating of plaster. No one knows how it came to Bangkok, but here it stands, available for the admiration of visitors from all over the world.

Wat Suthat, adjacent to the Great Swing , is one of the oldest and most beautiful of Bangkok's Buddhist temples. Three kings had a hand in its construction: it was begun soon after the coronation of Rama I (founder of the Chakri dynasty) in 1782, continued by Rama II, and completed 10 years later by Rama III.

Apart from its delightful architecture, the temple boasts some exceptionally interesting wall paintings. Wat Suthat is less popular than some of the other temple complexes in the city, so you'll enjoy a more peaceful and intimate experience here.

Address: Bamrung Muang Road, Sao Chingcha, Phra Nakhon

In the center of the busy square in front of Wat Suthat stands one of Bangkok's most eye-catching sights: the 27-meter-high teak frame of the so-called Giant Swing. Built in the 1700s to be used as part of traditional Brahmin (Hinduist) ceremonies, the swing was later damaged by lightning and became just decorative.

This used to be the focus of a religious ceremony held every year in December after the rice harvest. Teams of three took turns to balance on a dangerously narrow board and be swung 25 meters or more off the ground "up to Heaven," at which point they would attempt to catch a bag of silver coins in their teeth. King Rama VII banned the contest in 1932, following a number of fatal accidents.

History buffs will want to devote at least half a sightseeing day to the national museum. Until the mid-1970s, this was Thailand's only museum, which explains why its collection is so big and diverse.

Fortunately, just about every exhibit is labeled in Thai and English and guided tours are also offered in English, so you won't miss out on any of the country's fascinating ancient and contemporary history.

King Rama I's Wang Na Palace, located within the grounds of the museum, remains essentially as it was, and stands as a testament to Thai history. Visitors can see regalia, religious and ceremonial artifacts, ceramics, games, weaponry, musical instruments, and the Viceroy's throne, as well as an impressive collection of Buddha figures arranged according to period.

Address: Na Phra That Road, Bangkok

This sprawling semi-outdoor weekend market is the largest in the world and one of the top things to do when visiting Bangkok. Shoppers can find everything from jewelry and religious icons to pet supplies, paper lamps, and delicious street food here. Chatuchak Market is home to over 15,000 stalls offering just about anything you can dream up-even better, any souvenir you might want is probably available here at a much cheaper price than anywhere else in Bangkok.

This is a great place to mingle with locals and immerse yourself in everyday Thai life, so arrive early and clear your schedule for the rest of the day if you want to do this place justice.

The market is adjacent to the Kamphaengpecth Station (MRT), about a five-minute walk from Mochit Skytrain (BTS) Station and Suan Chatuchak (Chatuchak Park) Station (MRT)

For an even more interesting market experience, you can arrange a tour to Damnoen Saduak, a famous floating market located in Ratchaburi (about 1.5 hours outside Bangkok). The popularity of floating markets once earned Bangkok the nickname "Venice of the East."

Keep in mind that floating markets are now highly touristic enterprises, so don't expect an exclusive morning of shopping by boat – but you will be able to buy fresh and delicious foods and interact with locals in an authentic way.

The best way to reach the market is to join a tour such as the Floating Markets Cruise Day Trip from Bangkok , which takes about six hours and includes pickup right from your hotel and transport in an air-conditioned coach.

This is Bangkok's infamous backpacker district, a neighborhood jam-packed with guesthouses, food vendors, clothing stalls, and travelers from every corner of the globe. You'll need to tap into your patience when hanging out here, because while it is colorful and exciting in its own way, the crowds and scents and blaring music can test even the calmest soul.

All that said, Khao San Road is also a great place to pick up a few pairs of baggy fisherman pants, the perennial staple of every backpacker's wardrobe when trekking through Thailand; browse the treasures in a used bookstore; and dig into some delicious Indian food from a neighborhood restaurant.

The historic home of a "self-made American entrepreneur" who disappeared while traveling in Malaysia now stands as a relic of an older time in Bangkok. Jim Thompson settled in Thailand after spending time there as a serviceman around the end of WWII and quickly became a well-known name in the Thai silk industry.

Thompson was awarded the Order of the White Elephant, an important honor given to foreigners who have made significant contributions to Thailand. Thompson's home has been turned into a museum offering insights into his life and business, as well as the history of the city and the Thai silk industry.

Address: 6 Soi Kasemsan 2, Rama 1 Road, Bangkok

Lumpini Park provides visitors with a green oasis amid the traffic and chaos of Bangkok. Hang out on one of several lawn areas, enjoy the shade of a Chinese pagoda, or take a boat out on the lake. Lumpini Park is a great place to spend an afternoon enjoying the contrast of the tranquil park with the skyscrapers rising all around it.

Note that the park has been the site of anti-government protests that have occasionally turned violent in the past, so be sure to check on the current political situation before visiting. Keep an eye out for the massive Asian water monitors as well-they can often be found taking a stroll around the lake.

Location: Rama IV Road, between Ratchadamri and Witthayu (Wireless) roads

Don't let the airport-like name fool you. This shopping mall is one of the best places to visit in Bangkok if you're looking for a mix of local and international brands, as well as plenty of unique buys.

Terminal 21 is unique in more ways than one – even by Thailand's shopping standards. Every floor of the mall has been themed to a different international city. Enter at the level of the BTS station and you'll be in Paris; go up a floor and it's Tokyo; another floor and you're staring at the iconic red phone booths of London. The Caribbean, San Francisco, and Istanbul also figure into the design theme.

Other malls of note include the high-end Siam Paragon , and adjacent Siam Discovery , which has more moderately priced chains; fun cafés; and the super luxurious Virgin Active Siam Discovery , self-dubbed "the largest gym in Southeast Asia." Here, visitors can rock climb, try anti-gravity yoga, or visit the unique "Sleep Pod" rooms for the ultimate in relaxation.

To really experience Bangkok, you have to try the local cuisine. You haven't really "done" the city without chowing down on grilled meats and fish, spicy noodles, fresh fruit, and curries. If you think you know Thai food, you're in for a surprise. Whatever you've tried before is nothing like the dishes you'll find here.

You'll have no trouble at all finding vendors to tempt you with treats all around Bangkok and help you live through a quintessential Thailand experience, tucking into a delicious (if mysterious) meal, surrounded by the chaos and heat of the city.

Surprisingly, some of the best street food in Bangkok is on Khao San Road – both in the little stalls lining up the street and in the small shacks and restaurants just off the main road selling pad Thai, pad see ew, and mango sticky rice.

The Chao Phraya River is Bangkok's heartline. Known as the "river of kings," this major waterway will allow you to discover some of the city's most stunning temples and monuments from a completely new angle.

In the evening, you can jump on a dinner cruise to see the lit-up city skyline as you sail along the Grand Palace and Wat Arun and under the Rama VIII Bridge.

During the day, take advantage of Bangkok's many ferries and express boats, which depart from Sathorn Pier and will stop right at the ports of major tourist attractions, including Wat Arun and Ratchawongse. Local canal boats (khlong Saen Saep) are used by the locals to commute to work and are a great way to see the real Bangkok, as the boats zigzag through small canals and behind residential buildings.

The Temple of the Emerald Buddha, or Wat Phra Kaew, is located on the grounds of Bangkok's Grand Palace. It is regarded as one of the most sacred Buddhist temples in the Kingdom of Thailand. The temple itself is simply spectacular, as is the Buddha statue itself, which is carved out of bright green jade.

For such a massive reputation, significance, and shrine, the statue itself is rather small. But it has been sitting on its perch since 1784. Hundreds of thousands of tourists and pilgrims pass through the gates to the temple every hear in order to view the statue.

Prior to taking up residence here at the Grand Palace, the Emerald Buddha traveled for centuries across Southeast Asia, from India and Sri Lanka to Cambodia and Laos. It was one of the most important treasures for King Rama I, who reigned from 1782 to 1809. In fact, when the capital of Thailand was moved from Ayutthaya to Bangkok, it was partly done so that this statue had a permanent home.

Not far from the Grand Palace is one of the most important temples in Thailand: Wat Mahathat. Not to be confused with the temple of the same name in the historic city of Ayutthaya, Bangkok's Wat Mahathat is deeply significant to the culture and history of Thailand – in fact, it is the final resting place of King Rama IX.

The temple was constructed before the city of Bangkok was founded. Built in 1782, today it is home to one of the largest schools of Buddhism, dedicated to the Mahanikai school, Thailand's largest monastic order.

The temple complex is rather large and may appear confusing, as it is home to several school buildings and offices, but if you press on towards the center, you'll find the temples, which are packed with golden images and statues of Buddha. In fact, it has one of the largest collections of Buddha's image than most other temples in Bangkok.

Of Bangkok's many colorful and diverse neighborhoods, Chinatown stands out as one of its most exciting. In fact, Bangkok's Chinatown is one of the largest Chinatowns in the world, and, as it so happens, one of the best.

The main artery of Chinatown is Yaowarat Road. This energetic thoroughfare and its side streets are slammed with restaurants, food carts, gold stores, cafés, herb shops, fruit stalls, and so much more. If you've come to Chinatown to eat, then you'll want to wait until the sun sets, when the entire neighborhood explodes with food stalls overflowing with mouthwatering treats.

Chinatown is slowly revamping, as well. Today you'll find more "fine dining" dim sum houses and swanky hotels than before. Still, the energy is always swirling and chaotic, but it's always one of the most beautiful parts of Bangkok.

Bangkok is famous for many things, and one of them, unfortunately, is the traffic. To go a short distance can sometimes take upwards of half an hour. Fortunately, visitors to Bangkok have a very easy, convenient, and time-efficient option: the Bangkok Skytrain.

Bangkok's BTS Skytrain is truly a game changer. It opened in 1999 and has quickly become the most popular way to get around the city. Travelers love it for its speed, cleanliness, air-conditioning, and price.

The Skytrain does not go everywhere in the city, but it does cover two of the most important areas: Sukhumvit and Silom. Silom will take you from the National Stadium through Silom and Sathorn and out to Bang Wa in the suburbs. Th Sukhumvit line will run from Mo Chit in the north to the eastern province of Samut Prakan.

You can purchase individual tickets, or use a Rabbit Card, which is a pre-paid card that can be loaded as often as you need it.

The BTS Skytrain is absolutely better than sitting in Bangkok traffic, but just be aware that it does not go everywhere in the city, and it stops running at midnight.

Bangkok loves its luxury shopping centers, but none is as popular (or large) as the riverfront ICONSIAM. Perched on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, the 750,000-square-meter mega-mall is a destination in its own right.

The mall is divided into three main sections: ICONSIAM, ICONLUXE, and Siam Takashimaya. Inside each section are further zones that have been designated to highlight parts of Thailand's culture and design. SookSiam, for example, has brought together art, culture, tradition, and food from its many different provinces. It houses more than 3,000 local businesses from all over Thailand.

The facility also has seven dining zones, outdoor park space, and retail devoted to fashion, beauty, health & fitness, Thai crafts, and more. Visiting ICONSIAM is so much more than a day of shopping. It really is a Bangkok (and Thailand) experience.

Address: 299 Charoen Nakhon Rd, Khlong Ton Sai, Khlong San, Bangkok 10600

Official site: https://www.iconsiam.com/th

Thailand's national martial art, Muay Thai, is famous around the world. Also known as "Thai boxing," the combat sport is known as the "art of eight limbs" because it uses combinations of shins, knees, elbows, and fists.

It's a complicated and challenging sport, but those who practice are devoted to the art. If you're coming to Bangkok, it is the perfect place to get your feet wet in the sport and learn from those who have mastered it.

Many gyms across Thailand, but in Bangkok in particular, offer May Thai training. It is a mecca for May Thai fans, where you will find the best stadiums, gyms, and gear. Bu you'll also find gyms suited to beginners, as well.

Gazing across the Chao Phraya River at Wat Arun, another beautiful, sprawling temple complex may catch your eye. What you're looking at is Wat Kalayanamit. This historic temple was founded in 1825 by a nobleman and a friend of King Rama III.

The most eye-catching structure from across the river is the ordination hall, inside of which sits a massive Buddha image. It is one of the largest images of Buddha in the city. The temple is a combination of both Chinese and Thai architecture, including chedis, pavilions, and statues.

Though not one of the most-visited temples by tourists, it is certainly beautiful and worth a visit because of its historic architecture, the massive Buddha statue, and a 13-ton bell in the bell tower, which is the largest bronze bell in Thailand. It is still an active temple, as well, with monks that live on the site.

One of the many things Thailand is famous for is its affordable spa culture. Whether it's a casual pop-in for a stretchy Thai massage or a full-on day of bliss at a luxury spa, Bangkok has a facility to fill whatever you're looking for.

A traditional Thai massage is the best introduction into Thai spa culture. This style of massage has been around for more than 2,000 years. It's a dry massage, meaning it does not use oils. Instead, the therapists use stretching and rocking techniques to improve flexibility, relieve tension and promote blood circulation.

Thai massage can be used to help alleviate many ailments, from headaches and back pain to flexibility and joint stiffness. You can find affordable Thai massage parlors all over the city of Bangkok. Most massages will be less than 300 Thai baht.

Or you can check into some of the more high-end options for entire menus of treatments, body scrubs, and wraps. Clinique La Prairie, for example, has opened a new treatment center in Bangkok in The St. Regis Bangkok . This wellness center combines both wellness programs with nutrition and medicine to help patients achieve a more well-rounded, balanced life.

Speaking of high-end and luxury, if you can swing a stay at one of Bangkok's many luxury hotels it will be a game-changing experience. Bangkok has no shortage of opulent five-star hotels, from the historic and classic Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok to the sleek, chic, newer Capella Bangkok .

Bangkok has plenty of budget-friendly options and hotels across the spectrum, but there is something about a luxury hotel stay in Bangkok that truly makes the experience magical. Many five-star hotels in Bangkok have world-renowned restaurants, like the two-Michelin-starred Le Normandie by Alain Roux at the Mandarin Oriental. Others have fabulous spas, gorgeous pools, and rooms with spectacular views.

Whether on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, or overlooking Lumpini Park, Bangkok has dozens of five-star hotels that will make your visit a trip to remember.

Bangkok is a big city with many areas where visitors can stay and still have good access to sightseeing, shopping, and dining. Many of the top-end hotels are in the historic Riverside area. Not far away, budget-minded travelers and backpackers often frequent the Khao San Road area, which lies in close proximity to some of the major sites, including the Grand Palace, Wat Phra, Wat Pho, and museums.

Sukhumvit is a more modern area with good shopping and easy access to other parts of the city on the Skytrain. This is a good place to find mid-range hotels. Below are some popular hotels in these key areas:

Luxury Hotels:

• One of the best hotels in Bangkok is the ultra-posh Mandarin Oriental in Riverside, with a great location, beautiful pools, and several restaurants, including the Riverside Terrace overlooking the Chao Phraya River.
• Still luxurious but more affordable is the SO/ Bangkok , with great rooms and amenities in a decent location.
• For luxury accommodation in Sukhumvit, the popular boutique hotel, Ariyasomvilla , is a good choice with a variety of room styles, all tastefully decorated. This is a modern hotel with old-world charm in a tranquil setting with a lovely pool and grounds.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• A more reasonably priced option in Riverside is the Chatrium Hotel Riverside , overlooking the river. This hotel has a beautiful infinity pool and several restaurants.
• The Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel & Towers offers well-appointed rooms and world-class service at a very affordable price. There's also two outdoor pools and five on-site restaurants to enjoy here.
• Also popular is the Glow Pratunam , with a convenient location and decent prices.

Budget Hotels :

• For location, it's hard to beat the Adamaz House , just a short walk off Khao San Road and close to some of the city's most important attractions. The hotel has basic but clean rooms.
• The Phranakorn-Nornlen is a very popular budget to mid-range hotel with a good location and a bed-and-breakfast feel.
• Located in Sukhumvit is the Smart Suites , with budget prices and quality rooms.
• Consider a Tour: To spare yourself the trouble of bargaining for everything and trying to find a taxi that will actually take you where you want to go, a guided tour might be the most practical option. It will save you both time and aggravation-and you'll also get the benefit of having a knowledgeable guide along for the adventure. To see the most famous temples, including the reclining Buddha at Wat Pho, take a Private Guided Temples Tour .
• Be Prepared to Bargain : This applies as much to taxi rides as market shopping. Taxi drivers in Bangkok are notorious for overcharging, so agree on a price before getting in. You can also insist that they use their meter, but then watch it carefully to make sure it's not jumping around, as some have been rigged to run faster than they should.
• Take Advantage of Public Transportation : Even with an honest cabbie, rides can get expensive in Bangkok's traffic. Bangkok has a good public transportation system, with both above-ground and underground trains covering a good portion of the city. Buses can take a while because of traffic jams, but trains provide a quick, easy, and cheap way to get around. The system is user-friendly, very affordable, and takes little time to figure out, so take advantage of it while you're in town.
• Be Prepared for the Brutal Heat . There's no sea breeze here to help with the burning temperatures, and no break from the humidity when you're walking the streets of Bangkok. So if you're out for the day, plan on mixing some indoor shopping along the way for some air-conditioned relief. Stay hydrated at all times and wear plenty of sunblock. Choose cotton and linen clothing and grab an umbrella or hat when you're at Chatuchak Market for some extra sun protection.
• Watch Out for Scams: As mentioned above, taxi drivers often try to overcharge or insist that their meters don't work. Use your judgment and walk away from anyone who doesn't seem trustworthy. Another scam to watch out for involves a driver or supposed tour guide who agrees to take you one place and starts making stops along the way, usually at a gem store or a tailor. Drivers get a commission when they bring in tourists, but these places are often overpriced and not worth visiting. Insist that the driver takes you to your original destination, or tell them you're leaving. This will usually get things back on track, but if it doesn't, you'll find another cab quickly enough.

Bangkok's weather is tropical all year-round, which translates to long, hot days no matter what time of the year you arrive. If you'd like a bit of a break in temperatures (high 20s instead of high 30s Celsius), December and January are the best time to visit Bangkok weather-wise . But overall, you will not be disappointed with the weather if you visit Bangkok between November and March. Because Bangkok is still very much a tropical destination, the weather can often have a mind of its own. The heavy monsoon rains taper down in early November, and the holiday crowds don't arrive till late December, so you'll see slightly cooler, drier weather and smaller crowds. Bear in mind, however, that the time between November and January is high season, so hotel rates and airfare will be at their highest.

If your plan is to head south to the islands after a stop in Bangkok, arriving between November and April guarantees the best beach and water conditions. In Bangkok, where everything's air-conditioned, and many of the attractions are at least partially indoors, there's no such thing as "the worst time to visit." For example, arriving during the wettest months might seem inconvenient, but it guarantees shorter lines at the main attractions and lower prices almost everywhere.

If you want a peek into local culture, the two major Thai festivals occur in April and November. April is the Songkran festival , which is Thailand's most famous festival. It's the traditional Thai New Year festival, and it's a time when the entire country erupts with celebration. November hosts the Loi Krathong, which is the time to thank the Water Goddess for her abundance, as well as ask forgiveness for the human pollution of the bodies of water. It's a beautiful festival held all over the country, marked by thousands of lanterns that are released into the night sky. In December, all the major shopping areas in Bangkok get decked for Christmas, even though it's not traditionally celebrated in Thailand.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Bangkok & Beyond: No visit to Bangkok is complete without a proper tour of the Grand Palace, the former residence of kings and now a massive museum. For tips on what to see inside the palace, take a look at our article, Exploring Bangkok's Grand Palace: A Visitor's Guide . Ready to explore outside Bangkok? Find out how to get to popular Ayutthaya in our article, From Bangkok to Ayutthaya: Best Ways to Get There .

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Thailand plans to ease quarantine rules for tourists, Bangkok post says

Thailand plans to relax quarantine rules for foreign visitors from next month as part of a series of steps being considered to revive the nation’s tourism sector, the Bangkok Post reported.

The Center for Covid-19 Situation Administration is set to consider on Monday a proposal that will allow foreign visitors to leave their hotel rooms after three days of a mandatory two-week quarantine, the newspaper reported. The so-called area hotel quarantine will still require tourists to confine themselves to the properties, it said.

The quarantine relaxation, discussed at a meeting chaired by Tourism and Sports Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn on Saturday, will initially be considered for top five tourist destinations such as Phuket and Krabi, the Post reported. The Covid panel will also discuss a proposal to waive the quarantine requirement for vaccinated visitors, it said.

Thailand is betting on a revival in tourism, which accounted for about a fifth of the country’s gross domestic product pre-pandemic, to return Southeast Asia’s second-largest economy to growth. The local tourism industry has called for mandatory quarantines to be lifted from as early as July 1 so it can open to potentially millions of vaccinated visitors.

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1946 - 1955

Nation mourns death of the King

9 June 1946

Nation mourns death of the King.

1 August 1946

Bangkok Post is launched

Bangkok Post is launched.

16 December 1946

Siam becomes 55th member of the UN

Siam becomes 55th member of the UN.

Khuang forced to resign

6 April 1948

Khuang forced to resign.

29 September 1948

Siam joins the ranks of the World Bank

Siam joins the ranks of the World Bank.

6 October 1948

King Bhumibol injured in car crash

King Bhumibol injured in car crash.

US envoys converge to discuss ‘red threat’ in Asia

16 February 1950

US envoys converge to discuss ‘red threat’ in Asia.

24 March 1950

The Return of the King

The Return of the King.

20 July 1950

Troops deployed in Korea, UN accepts offer of Thai forces to help in Korean peninsula

Troops deployed in Korea, UN accepts offer of Thai forces to help in Korean peninsula.

Elephants check in for long-haul flight to London

3 January 1952

Elephants check in for long-haul flight to London.

25 March 1952

Don Mueang boasts new 13-million-baht terminal

Don Mueang boasts new 13-million-baht terminal.

28 July 1952

An heir is born: Prince Vajiralongkorn

An heir is born: Prince Vajiralongkorn.

Bangkok Bank opens first overseas branch

24 June 1954

Bangkok Bank opens first overseas branch.

4 October 1954

Capital’s population swells to over 1 million

Capital’s population swells to over 1 million.

13 October 1954

Death for Chaleo, Chit, Butr Supreme Court ruling brings curtain down on six-year trial

Death for Chaleo, Chit, Butr Supreme Court ruling brings curtain down on six-year trial.

First US Embassy opens in Bangkok

First US Embassy opens in Bangkok.

8 November 1947

Coup Group topples Thamrong government

Coup Group topples Thamrong government.

3 December 1947

State tries to quench Mekhong whisky thirst

State tries to quench Mekhong whisky thirst.

All aboard for the ‘summer capital’ of Hua Hin

29 March 1949

All aboard for the ‘summer capital’ of Hua Hin.

11 May 1949

Siam officially renamed Thailand

Siam officially renamed Thailand.

24 May 1949

Nation pays homage to King Rama VII

Nation pays homage to King Rama VII.

Jim Thompson establishes the Thai Silk Company

1 February 1951

Jim Thompson establishes the Thai Silk Company.

29 June 1951

Premier taken hostage

Premier taken hostage.

1 November 1951

National carrier Thai Airways born via merger

National carrier Thai Airways born via merger.

Pepsi starts ‘war’ with Coca-Cola

18 March 1953

Pepsi starts ‘war’ with Coca-Cola.

9 April 1953

Rain-makers get green light to seed the clouds

Rain-makers get green light to seed the clouds.

12 December 1953

New bridge over Chao Phraya to ease traffic

New bridge over Chao Phraya to ease traffic.

SEATO’s first meeting held in Bangkok

23 February 1955

SEATO’s first meeting held in Bangkok.

24 June 1955

First TV channel airs, first 1,000 television sets arrive from the US

First TV channel airs, first 1,000 television sets arrive from the US.

23 November 1955

Thai-Japan trade returns to normal status

Thai-Japan trade returns to normal status.

1956 - 1965

The King and I’ banned in Thailand

18 October 1956

The King and I’ banned in Thailand.

22 October 1956

King enters monkhood

King enters monkhood.

12 November 1956

Prince Wan voted president of the UN

Prince Wan voted president of the UN.

Thanom plans to link seas

27 January 1958

Thanom plans to link seas.

10 July 1958

New highway opens a gateway to Isan

New highway opens a gateway to Isan.

26 November 1958

Thai-Cambodian relations suspended over temple dispute

Thai-Cambodian relations suspended over temple dispute.

New organisation to protect tourists Government sets goal of 1 billion baht for tourism industry

18 March 1960

New organisation to protect tourists Government sets goal of 1 billion baht for tourism industry.

16 April 1960

Pone takes world flyweight title

Pone takes world flyweight title.

THAI flies to foreign skies

THAI flies to foreign skies.

Khao Yai National Park opens to public

10 February 1962

Khao Yai National Park opens to public.

14 May 1962

Silpa Bhirasri, founder of Silpakorn University

Silpa Bhirasri, founder of Silpakorn University.

15 June 1962

Temple ruling shocks Thailand International Court awards ancient temple to Cambodia

Temple ruling shocks Thailand International Court awards ancient temple to Cambodia.

Air conditioner arrives at the Grand Palace

Air conditioner arrives at the Grand Palace.

‘Toyota opens assembly plant in Samut Prakan

10 February 1964

‘Toyota opens assembly plant in Samut Prakan.

17 May 1964

Bhumibol Dam cuts power bills

Bhumibol Dam cuts power bills.

18 August 1964

Bangkok Planetarium opens

Bangkok Planetarium opens.

14 December 1964

Japanese royals make first state visit

Japanese royals make first state visit.

‘The dirtiest election ever’ Seni Pramoj calls for nullification, Premier Plaek denies poll fraud allegations

26 February 1957

‘The dirtiest election ever’ Seni Pramoj calls for nullification, Premier Plaek denies poll fraud allegations.

12 May 1957

2,500 years of Buddhist era

2,500 years of Buddhist era.

15 December 1957

Sarit’s coalition wins a majority Only 30 percent of eligible voters cast ballots in national election

Sarit’s coalition wins a majority Only 30 percent of eligible voters cast ballots in national election.

Up in smoke: opium banned Sarit hails the dawning of a new, ‘civilised’ era

1 July 1959

Up in smoke: opium banned Sarit hails the dawning of a new, ‘civilised’ era.

24 November 1959

Bangkok, Thon Buri merged into single city

Bangkok, Thon Buri merged into single city.

17 December 1959

Bangkok hosts SEAP Games

Bangkok hosts SEAP Games.

Ringleaders of ‘communist plot’ executed Convicted plotters taken by police to their home village in Sakon Nakhon to be shot

31 May 1961

Ringleaders of ‘communist plot’ executed Convicted plotters taken by police to their home village in Sakon Nakhon to be shot.

1 July 1961

Americans set up first Thai stock exchange

Americans set up first Thai stock exchange.

20 July 1961

‘Thailand’ to be retained as name of country

‘Thailand’ to be retained as name of country.

‘The Ugly American’ premieres

25 March 1963

‘The Ugly American’ premieres.

16 July 1963

Automatic lights set to tame traffic chaos

Automatic lights set to tame traffic chaos.

8 December 1963

Sarit Thanarat passes away Ruled with an iron hand, but won respect for his patriotism

Sarit Thanarat passes away Ruled with an iron hand, but won respect for his patriotism.

Now the world’s top rice exporter

30 April 1965

Now the world’s top rice exporter.

25 July 1965

18-year-old Pook wins Miss Universe

18-year-old Pook wins Miss Universe.

31 July 1965

Puey honoured for public service

Puey honoured for public service.

1966 - 1975

King completes solo dinghy voyage

19 April 1966

King completes solo dinghy voyage.

Thai forces head to Vietnam

Thai forces head to Vietnam.

12 November 1966

Flyover and overpass open to unblock traffic

Flyover and overpass open to unblock traffic.

First satellite station in Southeast Asia opens

First satellite station in Southeast Asia opens.

15 July 1968

Siamese twins split for first time in Thailand

Siamese twins split for first time in Thailand.

1 October 1968

Last nine trams reach the end of the line

Last nine trams reach the end of the line.

Hotel is capital’s tallest building

1 February 1970

Hotel is capital’s tallest building.

17 March 1970

‘Baby Bomb’ sparks family planning rethink

‘Baby Bomb’ sparks family planning rethink.

18 October 1970

Riding high in Pattaya

Riding high in Pattaya.

Britain’s Queen Elizabeth II visits, Pomp and ceremony mark first-ever trip by reigning British monarch

9 February 1972

Britain’s Queen Elizabeth II visits, Pomp and ceremony mark first-ever trip by reigning British monarch.

3 August 1972

Thai team puts some spin on ping-pong diplomacy

Thai team puts some spin on ping-pong diplomacy.

28 December 1972

The investiture of the Crown Prince

The investiture of the Crown Prince.

Women’s rights group demands equality

8 March 1974

Women’s rights group demands equality.

4 July 1974

Bedlam in Chinatown, Plabplachai riots claim 33 lives

Bedlam in Chinatown, Plabplachai riots claim 33 lives.

18 July 1974

Government seizes assets of the ‘Three Tyrants’

Government seizes assets of the ‘Three Tyrants’.

Thompson vanishes in jungles of Malaysia

26 March 1967

Thompson vanishes in jungles of Malaysia.

24 June 1967

Television explodes into colour

Television explodes into colour.

8 August 1967

Southeast Asian nations form Asean

Southeast Asian nations form Asean.

National elections helds

10 February 1969

National elections helds.

8 August 1969

Thanom launches a campaign against mini-skirts

Thanom launches a campaign against mini-skirts.

1 November 1969

US starts pullout from Thailand

US starts pullout from Thailand.

Open university launched 50,000 freshmen sign up to study at Ramkhamhaeng

15 May 1971

Open university launched 50,000 freshmen sign up to study at Ramkhamhaeng.

5 October 1971

Jumbo welcome for new jets Larger Boeing 747s to open Thailand to increased tourism

Jumbo welcome for new jets Larger Boeing 747s to open Thailand to increased tourism.

17 November 1971

Unexpected coup as government declares martial law

Unexpected coup as government declares martial law.

Rice exports banned, Economy in dire straits

2 March 1973

Rice exports banned, Economy in dire straits.

14 October 1973

More than 70 protesters killed by soldiers

More than 70 protesters killed by soldiers.

27 December 1973

Chatichai visits Beijing

Chatichai visits Beijing.

First trade made on stock exchange

30 April 1975

First trade made on stock exchange.

30 June 1975

China, Thailand friends, Mao says Thai communists are nothing to fear

China, Thailand friends, Mao says Thai communists are nothing to fear.

11 August 1975

Monk honoured for healing drug addicts

Monk honoured for healing drug addicts.

26 August 1975

First foreign Khunying honoured by King Rama IX

First foreign Khunying honoured by King Rama IX.

1976 - 1985

Payao punches his way into Olympic history

7 August 1976

Payao punches his way into Olympic history.

6 October 1976

Dozens slaughtered at Thammasat, government toppled

Dozens slaughtered at Thammasat, government toppled.

5 November 1976

Pattaya gets status of independent city

Pattaya gets status of independent city.

China’s Deng Xiaoping arrives on historic visit

6 November 1978

China’s Deng Xiaoping arrives on historic visit.

20 December 1978

Asian Games ‘a success’

Asian Games ‘a success’.

30 December 1978

Central wins bid for new shopping centre

Central wins bid for new shopping centre.

Mass rally over surging oil prices

9 February 1980

Mass rally over surging oil prices.

29 February 1980

Prem is prime minister, Kriangsak Chomanand resigns from top post

Prem is prime minister, Kriangsak Chomanand resigns from top post.

19 November 1980

New Siam Water Park making waves

New Siam Water Park making waves.

Shoppers head to Chatuchak

2 January 1982

Shoppers head to Chatuchak.

21 January 1982

Drug lord Khun Sa ousted

Drug lord Khun Sa ousted.

6 April 1982

Bangkok bicentennial

Bangkok bicentennial.

Pope makes inaugural visit

10 May 1984

Pope makes inaugural visit.

14 August 1984

Tawee grabs silver medal

Tawee grabs silver medal.

4 October 1984

First local HIV/AIDS case confirmed

First local HIV/AIDS case confirmed.

Investors offered a 10-year ‘tax holiday’

24 January 1977

Investors offered a 10-year ‘tax holiday’.

26 March 1977

Leader of abortive military putsch, Gen Chalard, executed

Leader of abortive military putsch, Gen Chalard, executed.

5 December 1977

Princess Sirindhorn given new royal titles

Princess Sirindhorn given new royal titles.

Kampuchea (Cambodia) collapses, Thai-Kampuchean border is closed to stem exodus

7 January 1979

Kampuchea (Cambodia) collapses, Thai-Kampuchean border is closed to stem exodus.

8 March 1979

Historic bus company rides no more

Historic bus company rides no more.

22 April 1979

Samak scores a surprise election victory

Samak scores a surprise election victory.

Commandos storm hijacked Garuda jet

31 March 1981

Commandos storm hijacked Garuda jet.

1 April 1981

Prem has last laugh as ‘April Fool’s Coup’ is quashed

Prem has last laugh as ‘April Fool’s Coup’ is quashed.

12 September 1981

A major step towards energy independence

A major step towards energy independence.

Thailand enters the oil age

6 January 1983

Thailand enters the oil age.

2 February 1983

Pope makes Thai a cardinal

Pope makes Thai a cardinal.

24 March 1983

First automatic teller machine installed

First automatic teller machine installed.

First McDonald’s opens in Bangkok

23 February 1985

First McDonald’s opens in Bangkok.

26 June 1985

Time up for Mae Chamoy, Secret stashes of gold and cash discovered

Time up for Mae Chamoy, Secret stashes of gold and cash discovered.

14 November 1985

Chamlong elected governor

Chamlong elected governor.

1986 - 1995

Telephones go wireless

9 July 1986

Telephones go wireless.

25 September 1986

Child sex offenders to face life sentence

Child sex offenders to face life sentence.

8 November 1986

Runaway train smashes into Hua Lamphong leaves four dead

Runaway train smashes into Hua Lamphong leaves four dead.

Eastern Seaboard Development Plan commences‌

23 January 1988

Eastern Seaboard Development Plan commences‌.

24 May 1988

Porntip wins Miss Universe crown in Taipei

Porntip wins Miss Universe crown in Taipei.

20 November 1988

Ancient city of Sukhothai opens to modern eyes

Ancient city of Sukhothai opens to modern eyes.

Saudi gem thief arrested, fake jewels and police cover-ups begin decades-long saga

10 January 1990

Saudi gem thief arrested, fake jewels and police cover-ups begin decades-long saga.

Green light for more international schools

Green light for more international schools.

1 September 1990

Seub Nakhasathien, Wildlife sanctuary chief commits suicide

Seub Nakhasathien, Wildlife sanctuary chief commits suicide.

Confusion greets VAT duties

1 January 1992

Confusion greets VAT duties.

17 May 1992

Troops fire on unarmed protesters

Troops fire on unarmed protesters.

13 June 1992

Farewell to the country music queen

Farewell to the country music queen.

Truck bomb found near the Israeli Embassy

17 March 1994

Truck bomb found near the Israeli Embassy.

8 April 1994

‘Friendship Bridge’ opens

‘Friendship Bridge’ opens.

10 June 1994

Night owls hooting over longer hours

Night owls hooting over longer hours.

King‌ ‌Bhumibol‌ ‌‘The‌ ‌Great’, Forty‌ ‌million‌ ‌Thais‌ ‌vote‌ ‌on‌ ‌new‌ ‌title‌ ‌in‌ ‌nationwide‌ ‌poll‌

King‌ ‌Bhumibol‌ ‌‘The‌ ‌Great’, Forty‌ ‌million‌ ‌Thais‌ ‌vote‌ ‌on‌ ‌new‌ ‌title‌ ‌in‌ ‌nationwide‌ ‌poll‌.

31 August 1987

Plane ‘shatters’ in the sea

Plane ‘shatters’ in the sea.

22 November 1987

Celebrations for King peak Marathon, Royal Barge Procession highlight birthday pageantry

Celebrations for King peak Marathon, Royal Barge Procession highlight birthday pageantry.

Chalerm Thai’s final curtain‌

15 January 1989

Chalerm Thai’s final curtain‌.

6 October 1989

Plane hijacked by Burmese

Plane hijacked by Burmese.

4 November 1989

Typhoon Gay cuts swath of destruction; more than 500 dead

Typhoon Gay cuts swath of destruction; more than 500 dead.

Generals seize total power

23 February 1991

Generals seize total power.

27 May 1991

223 dead in Lauda Air crash

223 dead in Lauda Air crash.

15 October 1991

Queen Sirikit Convention Center open for business

Queen Sirikit Convention Center open for business.

“The world is watching you”, Nobel Peace Prize laureates unite against Myanmar junta

17 February 1993

“The world is watching you”, Nobel Peace Prize laureates unite against Myanmar junta.

24 August 1993

‘King of Pop’ on Dangerous Tour

‘King of Pop’ on Dangerous Tour.

18 December 1993

First Thai broadcasting satellite launched

First Thai broadcasting satellite launched.

Princess Mother passes away at the age of 94

18 July 1995

Princess Mother passes away at the age of 94.

12 September 1995

Cabinet approves subway proposal

Cabinet approves subway proposal.

9 October 1995

A pillar of democracy MR Kukrit Pramoj, respected scholar, statesman, dancer

A pillar of democracy MR Kukrit Pramoj, respected scholar, statesman, dancer.

1996 - 2005

The First Supermarket in Thailand in 1996

1 January 1996

The First Supermarket in Thailand in 1996.

27 March 1996

The ‘Bangkok Post’ enters the Internet age

The ‘Bangkok Post’ enters the Internet age.

4 August 1996

Boxer strikes Olympic gold

Boxer strikes Olympic gold.

28 October 1996

Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip visit

Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip visit.

Thai Rak Thai Party established, offering ‘new choice’ in politics

31 May 1998

Thai Rak Thai Party established, offering ‘new choice’ in politics.

8 June 1998

Thailand first in Asia to approve Viagra sales

Thailand first in Asia to approve Viagra sales.

17 July 1998

First Starbucks coffee shop opens in Bangkok

First Starbucks coffee shop opens in Bangkok.

Karen ‘God’s Army’ rebels seize Ratchaburi Hospital

24 January 2000

Karen ‘God’s Army’ rebels seize Ratchaburi Hospital.

19 April 2000

New airport at Nong Ngu Hao tapped

New airport at Nong Ngu Hao tapped.

‘Ghost buildings’, a reminder of the past

‘Ghost buildings’, a reminder of the past.

20,000 Thai millionaires and rising

19 June 2002

20,000 Thai millionaires and rising.

26 November 2002

‘Tongdaeng’ is a national sensation

‘Tongdaeng’ is a national sensation.

1 December 2002

Thousands of medical tourists flock to Thailand’s hospitals

Thousands of medical tourists flock to Thailand’s hospitals.

Southern separatists increase attacks, martial law imposed in three border provinces

4 January 2004

Southern separatists increase attacks, martial law imposed in three border provinces.

13 April 2004

Thousands rush to ride Bangkok’s first subway

Thousands rush to ride Bangkok’s first subway.

26 December 2004

OCEAN TSUNAMI, 8,000 killed in Thailand, 230,000 in region

OCEAN TSUNAMI, 8,000 killed in Thailand, 230,000 in region.

Asian financial crisis

1 January 1997

Asian financial crisis.

30 September 1997

Cabinet rules Hopewell project hopeless

Cabinet rules Hopewell project hopeless.

11 October 1997

Hopes high as King approves ‘People’s constitution’ hailed as a new beginning for Thai democracy

Hopes high as King approves ‘People’s constitution’ hailed as a new beginning for Thai democracy.

Sino-Thai relationship ‘getting healthier’

2 September 1999

Sino-Thai relationship ‘getting healthier’.

1 October 1999

Burmese rebels storm Myanmar Embassy, taking 89 hostages

Burmese rebels storm Myanmar Embassy, taking 89 hostages.

5 December 1999

Bangkok residents welcome SkyTrain, passengers struggle with unfamiliar systems

Bangkok residents welcome SkyTrain, passengers struggle with unfamiliar systems.

BTS opens its first rail

BTS opens its first rail.

Child rebel leaders surrender in the jungle

16 January 2001

Child rebel leaders surrender in the jungle.

1 April 2001

‘30-baht healthcare’ scheme introduced

‘30-baht healthcare’ scheme introduced.

6 December 2001

PTT’s record day on the stock exchange

PTT’s record day on the stock exchange.

Thai Embassy torched in Phnom Penh

29 January 2003

Thai Embassy torched in Phnom Penh.

12 October 2003

Festive crowd greets pandas

Festive crowd greets pandas.

3 December 2003

One-Two-Go: budget airline industry takes off

One-Two-Go: budget airline industry takes off.

Thaksin wins by a landslide

6 February 2005

Thaksin wins by a landslide.

12 April 2005

Government encourages use of alternative fuels

Government encourages use of alternative fuels.

18 November 2005

Anti-Thaksin drive building Sondhi goes mobile with graft-busting talk show

Anti-Thaksin drive building Sondhi goes mobile with graft-busting talk show.

2006 - 2015

World’s monarchs pay tribute to King, country abuzz with celebrations to mark the 60th anniversary of HM’s accession

9 June 2006

World’s monarchs pay tribute to King, country abuzz with celebrations to mark the 60th anniversary of HM’s accession.

19 September 2006

Coup topples Thaksin

Coup topples Thaksin.

28 September 2006

Suvarnabhumi Airport (finally) opens

Suvarnabhumi Airport (finally) opens.

Kingdom mourns the loss of a princess

2 January 2008

Kingdom mourns the loss of a princess.

30 April 2008

Telegraph service closes after 133 years

Telegraph service closes after 133 years.

15 December 2008

Parliament elects Democrat leader Abhisit as prime minister

Parliament elects Democrat leader Abhisit as prime minister.

Government bombs out

1 February 2010

Government bombs out.

27 February 2010

HM good and well

HM good and well.

Fatal clashes between forces and red shirts

Fatal clashes between forces and red shirts.

Tourism revival takes wing

1 January 2012

Tourism revival takes wing.

29 May 2012

Three world leaders visit Thailand

Three world leaders visit Thailand.

5 December 2012

Public appearances by His Majesty gladden Thai hearts

Public appearances by His Majesty gladden Thai hearts.

Digital TV shakeup

1 January 2014

Digital TV shakeup.

22 May 2014

Gen Prayut leads a military coup

Gen Prayut leads a military coup.

12 December 2014

Royal consort Srirasmi renounces status

Royal consort Srirasmi renounces status.

‘Magical’ Jatukham talismans set off national craze

9 April 2007

‘Magical’ Jatukham talismans set off national craze.

31 May 2007

Thai Rak Thai disbanded, Democrats survive poll fraud charges

Thai Rak Thai disbanded, Democrats survive poll fraud charges.

1 November 2007

Demand for pink polo shirts soars

Demand for pink polo shirts soars.

Nightclub blaze kills 66

1 January 2009

Nightclub blaze kills 66.

11 April 2009

Protesters storm Asean Summit

Protesters storm Asean Summit.

28 May 2009

Economy enters a recession

Economy enters a recession.

Three army helicopters crash in one month

16 July 2011

Three army helicopters crash in one month.

5 August 2011

Yingluck Shinawatra becomes the country’s first female leader

Yingluck Shinawatra becomes the country’s first female leader.

7 October 2011

Massive flooding in Bangkok and several provinces

Massive flooding in Bangkok and several provinces.

Unstoppable increase in Chinese tourist numbers

1 November 2013

Unstoppable increase in Chinese tourist numbers.

Amnesty bill passage ignites mass street protests

Amnesty bill passage ignites mass street protests.

11 November 2013

Preah Vihear ruling

Preah Vihear ruling.

Commercial surrogacy banned

30 July 2015

Commercial surrogacy banned.

17 August 2015

Bomb at Erawan shrine

Bomb at Erawan shrine.

10 December 2015

Bike for Mom, Bike for Dad

Bike for Mom, Bike for Dad.

2016 - 2025

Referendum for the new constitution

7 August 2016

Referendum for the new constitution.

29 August 2016

Country’s new tallest building ‘Maha Nakorn’ opens

Country’s new tallest building ‘Maha Nakorn’ opens.

12 October 2016

Gross National Happiness Centre inaugurated

Gross National Happiness Centre inaugurated.

13 October 2016

Passing of King Bhumibol Adulyadej

Passing of King Bhumibol Adulyadej.

Bupphaesannivas (Love Destiny) boosts vintage vibe

1 February 2018

Bupphaesannivas (Love Destiny) boosts vintage vibe.

OR IPO journey makes SET history

OR IPO journey makes SET history.

11 July 2018

All Wild Boars saved

All Wild Boars saved.

30 September 2018

Dusit zoo closed and moved

Dusit zoo closed and moved.

Curfew in place to combat Covid-19

3 April 2020

Curfew in place to combat Covid-19.

21 May 2020

Thai Airways loses state enterprise status after stake sell-off, moves to sell Patong-go

Thai Airways loses state enterprise status after stake sell-off, moves to sell Patong-go .

4 August 2020

Green light to grow marijuana

Green light to grow marijuana.

Yingluck’s great escape

25 August 2017

Yingluck’s great escape.

26 October 2017

Thais unite to bid farewell

Thais unite to bid farewell.

26 December 2017

Toon finishes run, donations at B1.1 billion

Toon finishes run, donations at B1.1 billion.

B.Grimm launches IPO

B.Grimm launches IPO.

Election under new charter results in 19 coalition parties

24 March 2019

Election under new charter results in 19 coalition parties.

Royal coronation of King Rama X, King sets out goals for reign

Royal coronation of King Rama X, King sets out goals for reign.

22 November 2019

Pope Francis visits Thailand, his compassion, humility wins over many Thais

Pope Francis visits Thailand, his compassion, humility wins over many Thais.

1 December 2019

Thailand hosts first FEI Championship in Asia

Thailand hosts first FEI Championship in Asia.

Central Pattana celebrates 40 years of Growth & Sustainability

1 January 2021

Central Pattana celebrates 40 years of Growth & Sustainability.

1 April 2021

Thailand crowned top durian exporter for 2021

Thailand crowned top durian exporter for 2021.

Covid-19 deadly third wave

Covid-19 deadly third wave.

New rule makes GrabCar legal

New rule makes GrabCar legal.

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.

The Thai government has lifted COVID-19 restrictions for tourists. Travelers are only required to present the usual border requirements like passport (and visa if applicable). No proof of vaccination required.

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.

* This section is as of January 2023

Is Bangkok safe?

Yes, Bangkok is generally safe and tourist-friendly. Of course, you should still use common sense at all times, and don’t flash your gadgets in the open or leave your valuables unattended.

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?

Bangkok’s scams are more organized than they appear. One widespread modus operandi involves people loitering by the gate of temples (or other tourist spots) and approaching tourists. I almost fell for this on my first trip. They are very friendly, and they usually introduce themselves as teachers. They claim that the site you’re about to visit is closed because it is a holiday and that they know a more beautiful place that is not on tourist maps. They then hail a random tuktuk (which isn’t random at all for the driver is part of the scam) and tour you around. You will be taken to a jewelry store selling overpriced gems and accessories. The tuktuk may also overcharge you for the ride.

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?

November to February , when the temperature and precipitation levels are kind and low. But because of the pleasant weather, it is also the peak season. High season begins in November and ends in April, around Songkran Festival (Thai New Year, April 13-15). If you’re visiting within this period, prepare to share the city with millions of other tourists.

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?

Tipping is NOT mandatory in Bangkok, but it is surely appreciated.

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?

Bangkok has countless money changers, but most of them have poor rates, especially those at the airport. Trust me. I made that mistake and lost a lot in the conversion. If you really need to do so at the airport, exchange only a little or enough to get you to the city center.

At the city center, find a SuperRich Thailand branch. SuperRich has the best rates, make sure it’s a legit SuperRich branch.

What is the power socket used in Bangkok?

Most common sockets are sort of a combination of Types A and C. They have two holes that can accept both flat and round pins, the shape of two door knobs or rubber stamps facing each other. This type of socket can take plugs that are Types A, C, and F. If your plug has three pins, you will be needing an adaptor.

Do I need a visa to visit Thailand?

Foreigners holding passports issued by the Philippines, Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, United States, United Kingdom, Germany and 40+ other countries can enter Thailand visa-free , provided that they stay shorter than 30 days.

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?

In theory, yes. It is the law. But it’s not implemented all the time. Lately, they have been a bit stricter.

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

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

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

Updates Log

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

More Tips on YouTube ⬇️⬇️⬇️

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

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

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

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

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Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

Southeast Asia Travel Guide

Last Updated: November 27, 2023

Backpackers have been traveling through Southeast Asia since the late 1960s and early 1970s, leaving a well-worn trail around the region.

Starting in beautiful Thailand, the trail makes its way to up-and-coming Laos, through Vietnam, and to the temples of Angkor Wat. It then winds back into Thailand, where people head south to party in the Thai islands before moving down to Malaysia and Singapore.

There are a few variations to the trail, but this is what it mostly covers.

I’ve been visiting this region since 2004 and spent years living in Thailand . I love backpacking Southeast Asia and have written extensively about it as I know it like the back of my hand.

It’s an especially great region for new travelers because it’s easy to travel around, it’s safe, and there are lots of other travelers you can meet. But it’s also perfect for veteran travelers too as there are tons of off-the-beaten-path destinations that the standard backpacker trail doesn’t cover.

In short, Southeast Asia has something for every traveler — and every budget.

This Southeast Asia travel guide will help you travel the region like a pro, ensuring you save money and make the most of your time in this fun, gorgeous, and lively corner of the world.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Southeast Asia

Click Here for Country Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in southeast asia.

1. Admire Angkor Wat

One of the greatest human creations in history, the Angkor Wat temple complex is best explored over the course of a few days. The area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site created by the Khmer Empire and absolutely enormous. Temples to visit include Angkor Wat, Bayon Temple which has 216 gigantic stone face carvings, and Ta Prohm. I spent three days here and that simply wasn’t enough. A one-day pass is $37 USD, while a 1-week pass is $72 USD. If you’re here for multiple days, be sure to hire a driver and see some of the more out of the way ruins away from the main temple complex (and the crowds).

2. Explore Bangkok

Bangkok is the hub of travel activity in Southeast Asia. You can get anywhere you want from here. Though I hated it at first, the more I’ve spent time here the more I love it. Bangkok is like an onion whose many layers need to be peeled back. Some things not to miss include the spectacular Bangkok Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Chatuchak Market and Asiatique, and a canal trip on the Chao Phraya River. This is a city for foodies and wild nightlife.

3. Relax on some tropical islands

No visit to Southeast Asia would be complete without a visit to at least one of the thousands of tropical islands in the region. My top five include the Perhentian Islands (Malaysia), Rabbit Island (Cambodia), Ko Lanta (Thailand), and Boracay (Philippines). Lombok Island (Indonesia) has a chill vibe with unspoiled, perfect “desert island” beaches. There’s so many islands to visit. Be sure to add at least one to your trip. The country guides will have more information for you.

4. See Ha Long Bay

Sailing trips to this island-filled bay with stunning emerald waters, limestone formations, and marine life give you an appreciation for the natural beauty in Vietnam. Tours from Hanoi start at around $110 USD for two-day trips and increase from there. I love the colorful grottoes, hanging stalactites, and stalagmites of Surprise Cave (Sung Sot), Fairy Cave (Tien Ong), and Heaven Palace (Thien Cung). Make sure you go with a reputable company though as some of the cheaper boats are less than ideal. If you’d rather just visit for one day, day trips from Hanoi cost $55 USD.

5. Wander Kuala Lumpur

Other things to see and do in southeast asia, 1. go jungle trekking.

This region of the world is covered in amazing jungles with diverse wildlife, plentiful camping opportunities, and cool waterfalls. The best jungle treks are found in northern Thailand, Western Laos, and Malaysian Borneo (the latter are also the hardest and most intense). Some of my favorites include Danum Valley (Borneo) for its incredible wildlife; Ratanakiri (Cambodia) for its pristine wilderness and thousand-year-old trees; and Pu Luong Nature Reserve (Vietnam). Costs vary but jungle trekking generally costs $30-50 USD per day.

2. Attend the Full Moon Party

The biggest one-night party in the world welcomes up to 30,000 people with a party that stretches until dawn. Cover yourself in glow paint, grab a bucket of booze, and dance the night away with new friends on the island of Ko Phangan in Thailand. As the name would suggest, the party is on the night of the full moon. If you miss it, there’s always the half-moon party, quarter-moon party, and black-moon party. Really, every night is a party on Ko Phangan . Just avoid the flaming jump rope that occurs — I’ve seen people get burned badly!

3. Learn to dive

There are many great dive sites around the region for those interested in underwater exploration. You can learn to dive here at a fraction of what it would cost back home too. Some of the best places are Ko Tao (Thailand), Sipadan (Malaysia), as well as Gili Islands (Indonesia) and Coron, Palawan (The Philippines). A typical diving course is completed in three days. A PADI course typically runs $275 USD in Thailand, including three nights’ accommodation, though at smaller schools you can often negotiate down to $250 USD. Day trips for certified divers start at $165 USD. For information on Ko Tao, check out this blog post .

4. Eat street food in Singapore

Singapore is a foodie’s heaven. Try the hawker stalls of Singapore as well as Little India and Chinatown for some of the best and cheapest food in Asia. If you’re looking for a nice place to sit down and eat, eat at Singapore’s famed restaurants during lunch when restaurants offer discounts, making them a great deal. You’ll also find the most affordable Michelin-starred restaurants here (Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice and Hawker Chan), offering world-class meals for just a couple of bucks!

5. Overload on temples

You can’t turn a corner without seeing a Buddhist temple in this part of the world. You’ll get temple overload at some point but visit as many as you can as each is unique to the country and region of the temple. There are so many places with high concentrations of ornate and beautiful temples. Check out Chiang Mai’s Wat Doi Suthep Temple and hike up the 300 steps to the golden Chedi that’s 600 years old!; Bagan’s Shwesandaw Pagoda from the 11th century with its stunning golden dome; Angkor Wat’s Ta Prohm is covered in iconic vines and enveloped in ancient jungle roots; Hue’s colorful Thien Mu Pagoda is perched atop a lush green embankment; Hoi An’s Quan Cong Temple with incredible Chinese architecture with hand-carved beauty and skill, and Luang Prabang’s Vat Xieng Thong with its golden, canopied roof. Most are free to enter, however, dress codes are enforced (you need to have your shoulders and legs covered).

6. Dive Sipadan

Located off Malaysian Borneo, Sipadan is one of the best dive sites in the world. If you have your dive certificate, make sure you venture out here. I absolutely love this area because it’s teeming with live turtles, diverse cave systems, sharks, dolphins, colorful coral, bright fish, and everything in between. Not a lot of people make it to this part of Malaysia, but it’s worth it to go the extra mile and make your way off the tourist trail a bit. Don’t miss Barracuda Point and The Drop-Off. Keep in mind that only 176 permits to dive at the island are issued each day, costing 140 MYR per person. The resorts on the neighboring islands each get a specific number of permits per day and require divers to stay with them for a few days. So you’ll need to stay at those resorts and dive into the surrounding areas before they can get you a Sipadan permit.

7. Fall in love with Bali

Bali is the most popular destination in Indonesia, and its famous Kuta beach is known for its wild parties and surfing ( though I think it’s overrated ). However, there is much more to Bali than just wild nights and sun-soaked days. If you’re a thrill seeker, hike up to the top of Mount Batur, an active volcano, for a breathtaking sunrise. Paragliding and white water rafting are also super popular here, as is surfing (it’s an affordable place to learn if you’ve never done it). There are also lots of hot springs to enjoy, the Ubud Monkey Forest (a popular temple and nature reserve home to hundreds of monkeys), and numerous places to scuba dive, including the Liberty wreck and Manta Point.

8. Take in Ho Chi Minh City

Frantic, chaotic, and crazy, Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam is the embodiment of the controlled chaos that rules Southeast Asia. You can’t quite figure out how this teeming mass of people and cars work together, but it does. Highlights here include touring the tunnels used by the Viet Cong in the 1960s, taking in the view from the Saigon Skydeck, eating your way through the street food scene, and seeing the city’s numerous temples.

9. Admire the sunrise over an Indonesian Volcano

One of the most popular tourist attractions on Java is Mount Bromo and its National Park. Don’t miss out on getting a photo of the smoldering Bromo volcano as it lies surrounded by the almost lunar landscape of the Sea of Sand. Get up early to catch one of the most memorable sunrises of your life. If you’re there in mid-August, you’ll be just in time to see Upacara Kasada, the traditional Hindu ritual of the Tenggerese, a Javanese tribe of the region.

10. Hike in Khao Sok National Park

Located in southern Thailand, Khao Sok National Park is constantly rated as one of the best parks in Thailand, with incredible trekking, camping, limestone karsts, cooling rivers, and a glistening lake. Visit for semi-challenging hikes, tons of wildlife, walking paths, and breathtaking sunsets. Park entrance costs around $6 USD while full-day guided tours are $95 USD. I highly recommend spending at least one night here to get the full experience.

11. Visit Kampot

Most people come to Kampot to enjoy the scenic riverside views, as well as the rolling hills that surround the city. Since you can explore easily enough on foot or by bicycle, Kampot is a great place to slow down and relax. There’s not much to do here but have lazy days by the river, chill, and eat (don’t miss the famous Rusty Keyhole for BBQ!). Don’t miss the pepper farms, as this region of Cambodia is filled with pepper farms where you can learn about the history of the spice, see how it is grown, and pick up what is considered some of the finest pepper in the world. Tours are usually free.

12. Take a cooking class

Food from this region is as varied as the countries themselves and learning how to cook a few dishes is a great souvenir of your time here. Even if you don’t plan to cook back home, you can still spend a day making and eating scrumptious food. Most big cities have cooking schools offering classes of 2-6 hours, often including a trip to the local market beforehand to select ingredients. I absolutely love cooking classes and urge you to take one at least once. They are a fun experience!

13. Take a food tour

If you’d rather eat instead of cook, taking a food tour is a fun way to gain insight into the region’s amazing noodle dishes, fresh seafood, sweets, and street food while learning about the history and culture behind the cuisine. Most major cities in Southeast Asia offer food tours. These include tours around local markets, street stalls, and tours to locally-owned restaurants and cafes where you can sample the local cuisine and connect with a local chef. If you’re nervous about street food, this is a great way to try some in a controlled setting. Tours usually last 2-4 hours and include multiple stops and several different dishes, with prices costing $40-75 USD per person.

14. Visit an elephant sanctuary

While riding an elephant is on many a Southeast Asia bucket list, once you know how much the animals suffer from abuse in order to provide these rides, you might think twice about taking one. An even better way to interact with elephants is to volunteer at or visit the Elephant Nature Park near Chiang Mai in Thailand. It’s a phenomenal place, allowing you to give back to the community and these magnificent animals all at once. After coming here, you will understand why you should NEVER ride an elephant. A one-day visit costs $70 USD.

15. See The Killing Fields

A visit to Choeung Ek, also known as the Killing Fields, may not be the most cheerful way to spend an afternoon, but it makes for an educational and memorable experience. Over 3 million people were killed by Pol Pot’s regime, including countless women and children. I recommend getting a guide so you can really understand what you’re seeing as you explore the area. Also, this horrific tragedy took place less than 50 years ago and is still very present so please be respectful as a visitor.  The site is located 10 miles from Phnom Penh. Half-day guided tours start at $66 USD.

16. Swim with Whale Sharks in Donsol

If you’re in the Philippines, check out the Donsol Whale Shark Interactive Ecosystem Project because there are not many experiences quite as adrenaline-inducing as swimming with a whale shark for the first time in crystal waters. These incredible creatures are around 45 feet (14 meters) long and yet incredibly gentle and curious. I loved floating at the surface being able to look below and see them slowly swim below me. Get some people together and rent a boat for a half day, explore the area, and go ‘shark-seeing’ for a good cause.  

  For a ton more information, visit my country specific travel guides for more detailed information on each place:

• Cambodia Travel Guide
• Indonesia Travel Guide
• Laos Travel Guide
• Malaysia Travel Guide
• Singapore Travel Guide
• Thailand Travel Guide
• Vietnam Travel Guide

Southeast Asia Travel Costs

Accommodation – Accommodation in Southeast Asia is really cheap, making it the perfect place to travel if you are on a budget. Hostels are plentiful, as are budget guesthouses and hotels. It’s also very cheap to splash out here if you’re in need of some luxury.

Generally, you can find hostel dorm rooms for as little as $6-8 USD in Cambodia and $3-6 USD in Laos. In Thailand, 4-6-bed dorm rooms are $8-12 USD, while in Vietnam you can expect to pay $5-7 USD. In Indonesia, prices range between $5-10 USD for a 4-6-bed dorm room. Expect to pay at least $15-20 per night for a private room with air conditioning. Free Wi-Fi is standard in most hostels, free breakfast is common, and many hostels even have pools. In more remote areas, hot water isn’t common so make sure to check in advance if that’s an issue for you.

Simple guesthouses or bungalows throughout Southeast Asia generally cost $12-20 USD per night for a basic room with a fan (sometimes air conditioning) and hot water. If you want something nicer that includes a more comfortable bed and a TV, expect to pay $25-35 USD per night.

For backpackers, budgeting around $10 USD per night for accommodation is pretty safe no matter where you go in Southeast Asia. If you’re looking for a higher-end hotel room with more amenities, expect to pay $20-50 USD per night for a room. Anything over that is luxury territory.

Camping is available in certain areas, usually for just a few dollars per night for a basic tent plot without electricity. However, this is about the same price as hostels so it’s not really any cheaper.

Food – While each country’s cuisine varies, overall, Southeast Asian food is aromatic, spicy, and flavorful. Typical spices and herbs include garlic, basil, galangal, cilantro, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, chilies, and fish sauce. No matter what region you’re in, you can expect to find a variety of curries, salads, soups, noodle dishes, and stir-fries.

Rice and noodles are central to Southeast Asian food, while the meat is usually pork, chicken, fish, or seafood, which is everywhere on the islands and coastal areas.

While traveling Southeast Asia, street food is the most popular food and cheapest option. On average, these meals cost $1-5 USD. You find these stalls throughout this region lining most streets and every market. They are ubiquitous in the region. In Singapore, street food (from “hawker stands” as they’re known there) costs around $4-5 USD for a meal. Even if you go into small local restaurants, the price doesn’t increase that much.

Food that costs $2 USD at a street stall generally only costs $4-6 USD at a local restaurant. If you went into a restaurant in Thailand, you’d pay around $3-4 USD for a pad Thai that would have cost $1-2 USD on the street.

In Cambodia, street food is around $1-2 USD, while restaurants charge around $3-5 USD for a dish like amok (a coconut milk dish) or luc lac (pepper gravy beef).

Western meals, including burgers, pizza, and sandwiches usually cost around $7-10 USD. But these generally aren’t that great. If you want something that actually tastes as it does back home, expect to spend at least $10-12 USD for your meal.

While cheap, alcohol can take a bite out of your budget if you’re not careful. Those $1-2 USD beers add up! Wine and cocktails are more expensive, generally around $3-5 USD. A cappuccino is typically around $2 USD. Bottled water is plentiful and costs less than $1 USD.

There’s a growing cutting-edge foodie scene in the region and, if you want to splurge, you can do so on some really good meals. Big cities like Bangkok, KL, and Singapore, all have world-class Michelin star restaurants as well some incredible fusion restaurants.

Since dining out is so cheap in the region, there’s no point in grocery shopping unless you’re looking to get some pre-made salads or fruits. Additionally, a general lack of kitchens in most hostels and hotels makes it difficult to cook even if you wanted to. If you do purchase your own groceries, expect to spend around $25 USD per week for basic groceries like local produce, rice, and some meat (while avoiding expensive imported items like cheese and wine).

Backpacking Southeast Asia Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget of $45 USD per day, you can stay in hostel dorms, eat out at local markets and street stalls, limit your drinking, do mostly free activities, minimize paid activities, and use public transportation to get around. You’re not going to be able to splash out but you’ll be able to live the typical backpacker experience without really stressing over expenses.

On a mid-range budget of $85 USD per day, you can stay in budget hotels or private hostel rooms, eat more restaurant meals, do more paid activities like cooking classes, take some taxis, and enjoy a few more drinks. You won’t live large, but you won’t be missing out either.

On an upscale budget of $150 USD or more per day, you can stay in nicer hotels with more amenities, eat out as much as you want, do more paid tours including private tours, hire a driver, fly between destinations, and basically do whatever you want. The sky is the limit with this kind of budget!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in USD.

Southeast Asia Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Backpacking Southeast Asia is cheap. There’s little opportunity to spend a lot of money since everything is already so inexpensive unless you intentionally are trying to splash out on fancy meals and high end hotels. The two reasons why most travelers end up overspending is that they eat a lot of Western food and drink way too much. If you want to save money while traveling in this part of the world, cut down on your drinking and skip the Western food. While country guides have more specific ways to save money, here are some general ways to save money in Southeast Asia:

• Stay with a local – Accommodation is cheap in Southeast Asia but nothing’s cheaper than free! Use Couchsurfing to stay with locals who have extra beds and couches for free. You’ll also meet great people who can show you around and share their insider tips and advice.
• Book tours and day trips as a group – You have more negotiation power when you’re with a group of people buying multiple spots or tickets. Traveling alone? Meet a friend at a hostel and see if they want to join the same tour as you. I’ve met some great friends over the years doing this and highly recommend it.
• Don’t book in advance – Don’t book any tours or activities before you get to your destination. They’ll be much cheaper when you arrive as you’ll be able to negotiate a lower price as you’ll find companies are often offering the same tour and competing. Anything you see online is more expensive than you need to pay!
• Eat on the street – The street food is the best food. The food is the best and cheapest you’ll find. It’s a great way to try new foods and get to chat with locals as well. This is where locals eat so if you want insight into local culture, good food, and savings, eat the street food. Look for where locals are eating to ensure that it’s safe to eat.
• Bargain hard – Nothing is ever at face value here. Bargain with sellers as most of the time, the price they’ve quoted is way higher. There’s a haggling culture in the region so play the game and save some money. It’s important not to convert it in your head to your own currency because it will usually sound cheap even though you might still be getting ripped off. You’ll never get the local price, but you might come close!
• Minimize your drinking – Drinks really add up. Even with cheap drinks, if you’re not aware, you’ll end up spending more money on beer than on food and accommodation. If you want to drink, head to the supermarkets, drink at the hostel, or check out the local happy hours.
• Pack a water bottle – A water bottle with a purifier comes particularly in handy in Southeast Asia since you can’t usually drink the tap water. Save money and thousands of plastic bottles and get a bottle that can purify the tap water for you. My preferred bottle is LifeStraw as it has a built-in filter that ensures your water is always safe and clean.

Where to Stay in Southeast Asia

I’ve been traveling Southeast Asia since 2005 and have stayed in hundreds of places. Here are some of my favorite places to stay in Southeast Asia:

• The Siem Reap Pub Hostel (Siem Reap)
• Onederz Siem Reap (Siem Reap)
• Mad Monkey Siem Reap (Siem Reap)
• Onederz Sihanoukville (Sihanoukville)
• Monkey Republic (Sihanoukville)
• Onederz Phnom Penh (Phnom Penh)
• Sla Boutique Hostel (Phnom Penh)
• The Magic Sponge (Kampot)
• Indigo House Hotel (Luang Prabang)
• Sa Sa Lao (Luang Prabang)
• Sanga Hostel (Pakse)
• Nana Backpackers Hostel (Vang Vieng)
• Dream Home Hostel (Vientiane)
• Traveller Bunker Hostel (Cameron Highlands)
• De’Native Guest House (Cameron Highlands)
• Kitez Hotel & Bunks (Kuala Lumpur)
• Sunshine Bedz Kuala Lumpur (Kuala Lumpur)
• Ryokan Muntri Boutique Hostel (Penang)
• Mad Monkey Hostel (Bangkok)
• D&D Inn (Bangkok)
• Kodchasri B&B (Chiang Mai)
• The Royal Guest House (Chiang Mai)
• Green Leaf (Khao Yai)
• Lonely Beach Resort (Ko Chang)
• The Sanctuary (Koh Phangan)
• Na-Tub Hostel (Koh Phangan)
• Pineapple Guesthouse (Phuket)
• Dream Lodge
• The Pod Capsule Hostel
• The Scarlet
• Under the Coconut Tree Guesthouse (Hoi An)
• Fuse Beachside (Hoi An)
• Pretty Backpackers House (Da Lat)
• Hanoi Old Quarter Hostel (Hanoi)
• Luxury Backpackers Hostel (Hanoi)
• The Hideout (HCMC)
• City Backpackers Hostel (HCMC)

How to Get Around Southeast Asia

Public transportation – Public transportation costs from a few pennies to a few dollars, with Singapore and Malaysia offering the most comprehensive public transportation systems. In Thailand, local buses cost around $0.25 USD per trip, while the Metro and Skytrain in Bangkok cost $0.50-1.50 USD per trip. In Cambodia, a bus ticket in Phnom Penh costs just $0.40 USD per ride.

Major cities generally have subway systems but mostly you’ll be using the bus or shared taxis to get around.

Tuk-tuks (small, shared taxis with no meter) are available around much of the region and require a bit of haggling. They usually have 3-6 seats and generally cost more than public transportation but are faster. To find a reputable driver, ask your accommodation as they usually know someone. Tuk-tuk drivers can often be hired for the day for a discounted rate (this is what a lot of people do to visit the Killing Fields and Angkor Wat in Cambodia, for example).

Taxi – Taxis in the region are generally safe, though it’s not uncommon to have to haggle. Scams to rip you off aren’t uncommon either, so always ask your accommodation to call you a taxi whenever possible so you know you’ll get a reputable company.

In Singapore and Indonesia, taxi drivers do put on the meter. In Bangkok, you can get taxi drivers to use the meter, but if you’re hailing one in a tourist area, he might try to avoid using it. In Vietnam, the meter is sometimes rigged, but if you can get a reputable company like Mai Linh, you won’t have any problems.

Ridesharing – Grab, DiDi, and Gojek are Asia’s answer to Uber. They work the same way: you hire a driver to take you somewhere via the app, and you can pay via the app or in cash. It’s often more affordable than a regular taxi, though drivers are a bit unreliable as the practice is not as widespread here as in other parts of the world.

Just keep in mind that some drivers are driving motorcycles so be sure to double check what kind of vehicle is picking you up if you don’t want to ride on the back of one.

Bus – The easiest and cheapest way to travel around Southeast Asia is by bus. The backpacker trail is so worn that there is a very well-established tourist bus system to take you anywhere. Buses costs vary between $5-25 USD for a 5-6 hour journey. Overnight buses cost $20-35 USD depending on distance (they often have reclining seats so you can get a decent sleep).

You can check ticket prices and book tickets for all the different bus companies across Southeast Asia at 12go.asia.

Train – Train service is limited in the region and not something to really consider when you travel Southeast Asia. You can take a train up and down the coast of Vietnam and there’s some limited scenic rails in Malaysia. Thailand is the only country that has an extensive train system that lets you travel all its regions (and onward to Singapore) from Bangkok.

The train prices in Southeast Asia are determined by distance and class. Night trains with sleeper cars are more expensive than day trains. The night train to Chiang Mai from Bangkok takes twelve hours and costs $27 USD for a sleeper seat. However, that same train during the day is $8-9 USD. In Vietnam, trains run up and down the coast and cost $60 USD from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City.

Flying – The cost of flying around Southeast Asia has come down in recent years due to the rise of low-cost airlines. Scoot, Jetstar, and AirAsia are the biggest. Nok Air has a lot of flights within Thailand , and VietJet Air is popular in Vietnam . Lion Air serves Indonesia , but its safety record is really spotty and I personally would not fly them. If you book early, you can save on fares, as most of the airlines offer deeply discounted fare sales all the time, especially Air Asia.

Just make sure that the airport these budget airlines fly into isn’t too far out of your way (transportation from the secondary airport sometimes negates the savings from using the budget airline itself).

Also, keep in mind that you usually must pay to check your baggage on these cheap flights. If you wait to pay for your luggage at the gate, you end up paying almost double. Travel carry-on only to avoid this added cost.

All in all, I only recommend flying if you are pressed for time or find a super cheap deal. Otherwise, stick to the bus.

Hitchhiking – Hitchhiking in Southeast Asia is safe, though popularity of the practice varies by country (it’s more common in Malaysia, but not so much in Cambodia). Dress respectably, smile while making eye contact with drivers, and use a cardboard sign to tell people where you’re headed. Be prepared for long bouts of no pick-ups, especially if you’re traveling through more rural areas. Pack plenty of water and food. Also, make sure the people picking you up understand you’re hitchhiking and not flagging down a taxi.

Hitchwiki is a great resource for hitchhiking tips.

Car rental I don’t recommend renting a car in Southeast Asia. Rental cars are expensive ($40 USD per day or more) and the roads here are in poor shape. I would never drive around the region.

When to Go to Southeast Asia

The best time of year to visit Southeast Asia is from November to April when temperatures are milder (though temperatures vary drastically by region). It may be mild in Thailand in January and hot in Malaysia but in Northern Vietnam, it’s cold! Also, one of the biggest mistakes people make is not taking into account the rainy season. In some cases it won’t make a big difference but definitely does if it’s a beach trip.

In Indonesia, the best time to visit is April to October. Temperatures average 24-30ºC (75-86ºF), and the weather is mostly dry. July to September is the peak holiday season and when you can expect to pay the highest rates. December to February is the rainy season.

In Malaysia, January-March and June-September are the best time to visit, as these months have the lowest average rainfall. It is still hot and humid during this time though. The rainy season is from October to December. Singapore’s climate/weather is much like Malaysia’s.

In Vietnam, the weather varies by region. In Central Vietnam (including Hoi An and Nha Trang), January-May is the best time to visit because it is dry and the temperatures average 21-30°C (70-86°F). June to August is also a decent time to visit. If you want to stick around Hanoi, March to April is great, or October to December (for mildest temperatures). The rainy season is May-September.

Thailand has three seasons: hot, hotter, and hottest. It’s always warm, though the weather is nicest between November and February (which is also peak tourist season). Bangkok is “coolest” and driest during this time (but still averaging a hot 29°C/85°F each day). April and May are the hottest months, and the rainy season is June-October. The gulf islands get pretty rainy from August to December.

The dry season in Cambodia is from November-May and the cool season is from November-February (and when most people visit). Temperatures during this time are still high, but humidity is lower. Laos has the same cool season as Cambodia, with the dry season running from November-April.

In the Philippines, it’s mostly warm all year long with an average daily high of 26°C (80°F). There are rainy and dry seasons and temperatures are hot and dry from March-May and cooler December-February. The best time to visit is between January-April when it’s less humid. Monsoon Season is July-October.

For more information on when to go to places, visit the specific country guides.

How to Stay Safe in Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia is an incredibly safe place to backpack and travel — even if you’re traveling solo and even as a solo female traveler. Violent crime is super, duper rare. Petty theft (including bag snatching) is the most common type of crime in Southeast Asia, especially around popular tourist landmarks. Always keep your valuables out of reach on public transportation and in crowds just to be safe. Never leave your valuables unattended while at the beach and always keep a hold of your purse/bag when out and about as bag snatching is common.

That said, outside touristy areas, theft is really rare. Heck, it’s pretty rare in touristy areas too! But a little vigilance goes a long way and it’s better to be safe than sorry.

There are some common scams around that you’ll want to be aware of, such as the motorbike scam. This involves a bike rental company trying to charge you for damage to the bike that you didn’t cause. To avoid this, always take photos of your rental before you leave so you can protect yourself from baseless claims.

Another common scam involves a tuk-tuk driver taking you somewhere you didn’t want to go in hopes you’ll buy something from the shop/restaurant he dropped you off at (he gets a commission if you do). Simply refuse to buy anything and demand to go back to where you were — or find another driver.

For other common travel scams, read this post about major travel scams to avoid in the region .

Solo female travelers should feel safe here, though it’s generally a good idea to avoid walking around alone at night just to be safe. It’s always a good idea to carry some extra cash to get home in a taxi if you need to. Additionally, always keep an eye on your drink at the bar and never accept drinks from strangers. Be sensible when it comes to dating while traveling and meeting people in public places. As I’m not a woman, please check out some solo female travel blogs to get the best insight.

Overall, the people who get in trouble here tend to be involved with drugs or sex tourism. Avoid those two things and you should be fine. Keep in mind that it’s not always obvious how old someone is or if they’re a sex worker so be mindful when getting involved in romantic interactions. Also, penalties for drug use in this region are stiff so even if you’re here to party, skip the drugs.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

For more in-depth coverage of how to stay safe in Southeast Asia, check out this post that answers some frequently asked questions and concerns.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Southeast Asia Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Agoda – Other than Hostelworld, Agoda is the best hotel accommodation site for Asia.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.

Get the In-Depth Budget Guide to Thailand!

My detailed 350+ page guidebook is made for budget travelers like you! It cuts out the fluff found in other guidebooks and gets straight to the practical information you need to travel around Thailand. You’ll find suggested itineraries, budgets, ways to save money, on and off-the-beaten-path things to see and do, non-touristy restaurants, markets, bars, safety tips, and much more! Click here to learn more and get your copy today.

Southeast Asia Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Southeast Asia travel and continue planning your trip:

The 4 Best Hostels in Singapore

The 6 Best Hostels in Bali

The 22 Best Things to Do in Bangkok

5 LGBTQ Travel Tips for Asia

Is Southeast Asia Safe for Travelers?

Backpacking Cambodia: 3 Suggested Itineraries for Your Trip

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• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

RB ITALIA Blog

15 Popular Vacation Destinations That You Think Are Safe, But They Are Not

Posted: May 13, 2024 | Last updated: May 13, 2024

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Famous for its Christ the Redeemer statue and Carnival festival, Rio de Janeiro has a high crime rate. In 2022, there were a total of 2,962 shootings registered in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. If you are really keen on visiting Rio, it’s better to be aware of your surroundings and, if possible, travel in groups.

Bangkok, Thailand

Although Bangkok is relatively safe, tourists can face minor offenses, such as tour bus scams and petty theft, especially in touristy and overcrowded places. Thailand also has the highest rate of road accidents. By following some preventive measures, you can enjoy your trip to Bangkok without any issues.

Mexico City, Mexico

Although Mexico City's eclectic neighborhoods and bustling markets make it a great tourist spot, it is ravaged by a high crime level of 77.82/100 and isn't considered entirely safe to visit. Its air quality is also not healthy, posing threats to people with sensitive lungs. You can still visit the city but at your own risk.

Paris, France

Paris is popular among tourists, especially couples, but unfortunately, it has a crime level of 62.04/100 . Tourists also frequently encounter scams such as pickpockets. Though you can still visit Paris, it’s advised to watch your belongings and avoid putting any valuables in your bag.

Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona isn't only famous for its Mediterranean beaches and seafood; the crime rate in the city has been increasing for the past three years, with a crime level of 77.21 . Additionally, Barcelona's poor road safety contributed to a 78% rise in traffic accidents. Travelers need to stay alert if they are visiting Barcelona.

Rome, Italy

Rome is a significant hub for tourist scams such as pickpocketing and overcharging, usually around crowded places like train stations. To avoid such scams, prepare in advance and research the costs of activities or restaurants you’re going to visit so you don’t end up paying a hefty amount.

Cape Town, South Africa

It’s important to remain cautious of your surroundings in Cape Town due to its high crime level of 84.41/100 , which is very high. There is also a risk of being mugged or robbed. Though tourists cannot resist visiting such a wonderful destination, it’s advised to travel in groups to avoid any potential crime.

Guatemala City, Guatemala

Amid the gorgeous landscape of Guatemala City, it is facing violent crimes such as murder, armed robbery, and carjacking. The US has issued a travel advisory to stay safe while visiting the city. Some areas, such as the city of Villa Nueva and the San Marcos Department, have an increased risk of crime.

Nassau, Bahamas

Nassau is a breathtaking gem of the Bahamas, attracting tourists to its crystal clear waters and rich cultural history. However, tourists have been warned of potential crimes such as armed robberies and sexual assaults. Travelers are advised to be vigilant if they are visiting Nassau.

Istanbul, Turkey

Istanbul is one of the most popular destinations in the world, but it’s not free of petty crimes such as pickpocketing and overcharging, especially from taxis. Istanbul is also at risk of terrorist attacks and protests that have been happening around the city since October 2023 due to the ongoing situation in Gaza.

Bali, Indonesia

Petty crimes such as purse snatching and pickpocketing are common in Bali, especially in tourist areas. Also, tourists are advised to avoid counterfeits of drinking brands, as poisoning incidents have happened in bars and hotels in Bali.

Cancun, Mexico

Cancun is a popular destination known for its breathtaking beaches and vibrant nightlife. But violent crimes are also very common here, such as homicides and kidnappings. Drug cartels are also present in crowded areas. If you are visiting the city, it’s best to stay vigilant at all times.

Kingston, Jamaica

Kingston, Jamaica, has its share of beauty but also faces challenges with crime affecting tourists, including theft and scams. To stay safe, visitors should explore in groups, stick to well-known tourist areas during the day, and always be mindful of their belongings and surroundings.

Marrakech, Morocco

Marrakech is home to a rich history, colorful markets, and scenery that looks straight out of a storybook, but unfortunately, the city is not spared of tourist crimes . Visitors should be mindful of pickpockets and scams, particularly in crowded marketplaces.

Delhi, India

Delhi, India, may seem vibrant and full of life, but safety can be an issue. While exploring its history and culture, it’s important to stay alert in crowded places and watch out for scams. Some tourists have encountered theft and harassment , especially in busy markets and tourist spots.

More For You

Tourists trap to avoid in Europe . Beware of common tourist scams when you visit the crowded parts of Europe.

This article was first published at Rbitaliablog .

The post 15 Popular Vacation Destinations That You Think Are Safe, But They Are Not appeared first on RB Italia Blog .

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