What’s so special about Bangkok that gets your energy pumping up when you’re about to book a ticket to this far-far-away land?
Is it because of the mesmerizing collection of golden-plated temples and pagodas that get your eyes glued? Is it the huge shopping possibility to max out your credit card and bring home some really cool rare finds?
Is it the bustling street food culture taking over the entire city that deters you from shedding some pounds without even feeling guilty about it?
Well, no matter what reason, if you’re reading my travel guide to Bangkok, you definitely love this city as much as I do. Check out my comprehensive Bangkok travel guide for first-time visitors to Bangkok below and buckle up with the coolest tips to get around, activities, the best areas to stay, food spots, and much more.
Bangkok At A Glance
How should I start with Bangkok? Perhaps I will call it a contradictory amalgamation of old and new, of a modern vibe, blended perfectly with a well-preserved history.
You can spend the whole day traversing the malls around Siam Square or eating up all the best street foods you can find in Chinatown. You can explore Thonburi in a long-tailed boat during the day and put on a mini skirt to beat the frenetic evening pub-hopping in Sukhumvit.
No matter what it is and no matter how long you want to stay in Bangkok, this lively capital city will have everything you need to rock the trip in your own way.
What Is the Best Time to Visit Bangkok?
The best time to visit Bangkok is from November to February when the weather is cooler and drier. During this time, temperatures are more comfortable( The average maximum daytime temperature lies between 28~33.4°C), and there is less humidity and rainfall, making it the ideal time for outdoor activities and sightseeing. It is also the peak tourist season, so expect bigger crowds and higher prices for accommodations and activities.
If you don’t mind the heat, visiting Bangkok between March and May can be a good option, with hot and dry weather and fewer tourists. However, be prepared for temperatures that can reach up to 40°C (104°F).
From June to October, Bangkok experiences heavy rainfall and high humidity due to the monsoon season. While this time of year can be less crowded, it may not be the most comfortable time to explore the city, with frequent downpours and flooding in some areas.
Overall, the best time to visit Bangkok depends on your preferences and travel plans. If you want to avoid the crowds and don’t mind the heat, visiting during the shoulder seasons can be a good option. If you prefer cooler temperatures and less humidity, consider visiting during the high season.
Thailand Visa
Make sure to check the visa and travel document requirements for your specific passport before you go. To ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience, head over to iVisa.com to explore your options and apply for a visa if needed.
Language
Thai is the official language of Thailand, but English is widely spoken in major tourist areas such as Bangkok. Knowing a few Thai phrases can come in handy and show respect to the local culture. Here are a few basic phrases to get you started:
- Hello: Sawatdee (kah for women, krub for men)
- Thank you: Khop khun (kah for women, krub for men)
- Yes: Chai
- No: Mai chai
- Goodbye: La gon
Voltage And Plug Type
Thailand operates on the 230V supply voltage and 50Hz. Electrical sockets in Bangkok are compatible with both flat parallel prongs, two-pin sockets are the most common while some hotels offer three-pin outlets as well.
Bangkok Prepaid Sim Card
When traveling to Bangkok, it’s always helpful to have a local SIM card to stay connected with your loved ones or access maps and important information while on-the-go. Fortunately, purchasing a prepaid SIM card in Bangkok is easy and convenient.
One of the most popular options is to purchase a SIM card at the airport upon arrival. You can find booths for major providers like AIS, DTAC, and TrueMove H throughout the airport. They offer various plans and packages that cater to different needs, such as data-only plans or plans with international calling and texting options.
If you prefer to purchase a SIM card in the city, you can find stores and kiosks of major providers like 7-Eleven, Family Mart, and Big C throughout Bangkok. They offer similar plans and packages as the airport booths but with potentially more affordable prices.
The best place to get your prepaid sim card beforehand is to get it online so you can compare different packages and choose which one works best for you.
Remember to check the validity period of the plan you choose. With a prepaid SIM card, you can enjoy reliable and affordable mobile data during your stay in Bangkok.
Getting to Bangkok City Center from Suvarnabhumi Airport
When traveling to Bangkok, you’ll most likely arrive at one of the city’s two international airports – Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) and Don Mueang Airport (DMK).
Suvarnabhumi Airport is the main airport and serves more international flights than Don Mueang. This means that if you’re coming from outside Thailand, there’s a high chance you’ll land at Suvarnabhumi. Don Mueang, on the other hand, primarily handles domestic and regional flights.
It’s a good idea to check which airport your flight arrives at so you can plan your transportation to your hotel accordingly. I will only be covering transportation from Suvarnabhumi Airport to the city center below:
By Taxi
Taxis are available 24/7 at Bangkok Suvarnabhumi airport using a taximeter.
- Where to find: Level 1, doors No 4 to 6.
- How to book: Obtain a ticket at one of the automatic kiosks. The ticket has a taxi number on it. Follow the instructions printed on your ticket to find your taxi.
By City Link Train
The most convenient way to reach downtown Bangkok from Suvarnabhumi is by taking the Airport Rail Link to Phaya Thai Station, which costs THB 45. From there, you can easily transfer to the BTS line and take it to the station closest to your hotel. This is an efficient and budget-friendly option for travelers looking to avoid Bangkok’s notorious traffic congestion.
- Where to find: Basement B level at the ticket booths or at the automatic machine outside of the baggage claim area and follow the “AIRPORT RAIL LINK (ARL)” signs to the elevators.
- How to get the ticket: If you plan on taking the train, it’s recommended to purchase your tickets in advance through Klook to get a small discount. Although tickets can also be purchased at the station, buying them ahead of time will save you some money.
By Bus
If you are staying in Khao San Road and looking for a budget-friendly way to travel from Suvarnabhumi, consider taking the S1 bus. This service departs from Gate 7 on the airport’s first floor and runs every 30 minutes from 6AM to 8PM, , and the journey typically takes around one hour depending on traffic, and the final stop is just Khao San Road.
- Where to find: Gate 7 at Level 1 of the terminal building.
- How to get the ticket: A one-way fare costs THB 60 While you can purchase a ticket on the spot, small change is needed to pay directly on the bus.
By Airport Pick-up
Opting for a private transfer is the most effortless and luxurious way to get to your destination, but it also comes at a higher cost.
- How to book: online, choose your desired destination and group size (2 pax or 6 pax). The price fluctuates depending on pick-up time, exact destination, and the total number of passengers. The driver will wait on you at the designated terminal holding a signboard with your name on it and take you to the car outside the terminal.
The Best Ways to Get Around Bangkok: Tuk-tuk, Taxi, Grab, or BTS?
Tuk-tuk
Tuk-tuk kept me on the edge of my seat even long before I visited Bangkok. Imagine how fun it is hanging by the side of a vehicle you’ve barely seen before holding on to dear life trying not to fall off the road.
Well, it’s actually not that bad and I’m just giving you an affirmation that tuk-tuk in Bangkok is pure joy. However, there are some downsides to it that you cannot ignore, especially if you’re here for the first time.
Hefty price, dangerous, hot, and humid. The drivers are definitely friendly but those are some of the most obvious things you should expect when driving a tuk-tuk.
Taxi
Taxi in Bangkok is a toss-up. Maybe no, maybe yes.
If you’re lucky, you’ll get on a metered taxi. Otherwise, best luck next time (but chances are you’re not that lucky because about 90% of Bangkok taxis don’t have the word ‘meter’ in their dictionary).
If you can haggle a bit, well done! But otherwise, stick to Grab and you’re good to go.
BTS Skytrain / MRT
The best public transport in Bangkok should be either an MRT or BTS and followed by buses. You can obtain a Single tour Ticket which means you pay for every trip you take or a Day Pass which gives you unlimited rides within a day.
My trick for you here is to opt for BTS if you travel alone or with one or two friends. Otherwise, you can get a Grab car or even a taxi so you all can split the cost.
Best Places for Money Exchange in Bangkok
Depending on which terminal you’re at when landing in Bangkok, you may find a currency exchange there or not. I once landed at Don Muang for a layover connecting to Chiang Mai and there was absolutely no counter to get some cash or even an ATM.
Keep your credit card with you in these cases. Alternatively, get some cash in Thai Baht with just a small amount just in case you need to get some food or pay for the taxi.
Some say the rate at the airport is not worth it – but to me – it really depends. I have an app with me on the phone. My rule of thumb here is to check on the app first and if the rate they publish is about the same or a bit higher, I would go for that.
Other than that, here are some of my favorite spots to get your money changed:
- Suvarnabhumi Airport: 122/48 Rachaprarop Rd. Phayathi, Rajthewee atunum, Bangkok.1040.
- Sukhumvit Area: Soi Sukhumvit 22, Khlong Toei Bangkok 10110.
- Silom Area: 64 J.City Building A004 Suite Silom Rd., Suriyawong, Bang Rak Bangkok 10500.
- Central World Plaza: 47/11-13 Ratchadamri Rd. Pathumwan Bangkok 10330.
- Khao San Road: 269 Khao San Road, Talat Yot, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200.
The Best Things to Do in Bangkok
It’s almost impossible to cover everything Bangkok has to offer in two days or three. If you’re really in a rush, make sure to clear out at least 4 days.
While Bangkok does not have that many attractions like Paris or London, this city to me is the pure bliss of everything entertainment-related. The Thai people are really good at making you feel good. I know it may sound subjective. But think about the way they go out of their way to offer so many cool places to wander, eat, and imbibe.
You can swing by an ornate temple in the morning and pop into a busy mall right after that. You can spend hours dancing the night away at Khao San Road and sipping on Chang beer without feeling tired.
Or you can indulge in a romantic date night on a dinner cruise on the Chao Phraya River.
I know it’s a daunting task to plan that many things ahead, so let’s give you a heads-up with my favorite things to do in Bangkok below:
20 Coolest Things to Do in Bangkok to Try This Year
Where to Stay in Bangkok: Best Areas and Recommended Hotels
No matter how big your budget is, Bangkok has everything you need. Apparently, there are plenty of stellar options for those seeking a higher-end value. Those hotels are mostly located around the Siam Paragon Mall, National Stadium BTS, Siam Center, and so on.
If food is what your heart is after, stick to the backpacker’s area around Khao San Road or Chinatown. These areas come alive when the sun beams down but can be a bit quiet during the day.
Pay attention to the internet in Bangkok. Ironically, my friends got into a pretty chic boutique hotel with a hefty price of around USD 300 a night for a room of two. However, they were only allowed to have two devices to access the internet at once with an individual password. That means only if a phone is in use, the laptop will surely be on stand-by and vice versa.
It doesn’t go the same way for every single hotel but just keep tabs on what you can get in return.
To give you an insightful look and a thorough comparison before picking your next stay, check out my recommendations below:
Where to Stay in Bangkok? Best Hotels in Bangkok
A Foodie’s Guide in Bangkok You’ve Gotta Check Out
Thai food, come on! Its vibrant sensation has been taking the world by storm. Thai cuisine comes in a roll call with plenty of best eats popping up on almost every corner.
From the all-time classics such as pad Thai, Tom Yum Goong, and the sizzling grilled skewers flushing the bustling food streets of Bang Khun Non, Old Town, and Chinatown to a higher-end dining experience like a dinner cruise along the Chao Phraya River or kicking back at one of the Michelin-starred restaurants – you name it.
We need page after page to round up all the best food spots in Bangkok, if you’re looking for recommendations on where to eat, we’ve got you covered with our list of What to Eat in Thailand? 15 Signature Thai Dishes to Inspire Your Palate.
Don’t worry if you can’t try them all, here are six of our top picks to get you started, our food reviews in Bangkok right here to give you a heads-up and help you make a better plan:
- Blue Elephant Restaurant Review
- Indulge in a Spicy and Crispy Adventure with Somboon Seafood’s Famous Fried Curry Crab in Bangkok!
- Heng Heng Khao Man Khai Chicken Rice
- Mae Varee Mango Sticky Rice
- Rung Rueang Pork Noodles: Bangkok’s Famous Thai Pork Noodle
- Savoey Thai Restaurant
A 4-Day Itinerary in Bangkok to Inspire Your Wanderlust
For first-time visitors to Bangkok, I recommend spending 3-4 days in the city to see all the major attractions and also have time for a day trip. If you can, try to plan your trip to include a weekend since some of the best markets are closed during the week. To help with your planning, here’s a sample 4-day, 4-night itinerary for Bangkok that includes a mix of cultural experiences, delicious food, and exciting shopping opportunities.
Day 1:
I boarded the plane from Tan Son Nhat Airport of Saigon at 20:50 and soon landed at Suvarnabhumi Airport at 22:45. After clearing customs and picking up the sim card, I hailed a cab straight to our hotel and rested for the night.
Day 2:
Let the game begin with my first trip in the morning heading to Damnoen Saduak Floating Market. If you sign up for the tour, expect to wake up as early as 6 am and venture out.
Head back to Bangkok around 15:00 for a quick shower and recharge before hitting the streets again at 16:30.
I hailed a tuk-tuk to Golden Mount for sunset watching. The entrance tickets cost around THB 20 per person but make sure to double-check. Prices are subject to change.
Spend the night at your own pace. Check out some street food markets or even enjoy a massage if your cores are tired.
Day 3:
Day 3 of my vacation fell on Saturday. Do you know what’s going on when Saturday is around the corner?
Shopping time!
Weekend markets such as Chatuchak beckoned my attention. I got there on an MRT and spent around 3 to 4 hours sneaking through all the alleys and filling my stomach with all the best eats there.
To discover the best ways to get to Chatuchak Market and what to buy, check out my comprehensive guide below for a heads-up:
Chatuchak Market Shopping Guide: A Sneak peek | Best Buys | Hours | Getting There
Day 4:
Wrap up the last day with a city tour around Grand Palace and Wat Pho in Bangkok. The two spots are located right next to each other a short walk away from Khao San Road.
Check out my travel guide below if you set off there for the first time
Is Grand Palace in Bangkok Worth It: A Beginner’s Travel Guide
If you wish to save the last day for some more shopping time and bring home a valuable keepsake for your loved ones, here are some shopping guides at my favorite spots in Bangkok:
IconSiam Bangkok: Best Things to Do, Must-Eats, Getting There, IconSiam E-Tourist Card, and More
An All-in-One Shopping Guide in Bangkok: 9 Best Malls and Markets to Celebrate Your Retail Therapy
Head back to the airport.
Bangkok Travel Tips
- If there’s no barcode or set price, make sure to bargain.
- Beware of scammers. They usually hang around tourist attractions such as the Grand Palace. Even taxi and tuk-tuk drivers are likely to rip you off.
- Avoid rush hours if you wanna hail a Grab. Stick to BTS to ditch the traffic.
- Cover up when entering sacred places.
- Do not mention the king or step on Thai paper notes.
- Don’t point your finger at the monks.
Have a Memorable Trip to Bangkok!
Thanks for reading our Bangkok travel guide! We hope you found it helpful in planning your trip to this amazing city. We’ve been lucky enough to visit Bangkok many times over the years, and each trip has been a unique experience. We’re constantly discovering new things about the city, and we’re excited to share our knowledge with you.
Remember to take the time to explore all that Bangkok has to offer, from its delicious street food to its rich culture and history. Don’t be afraid to wander off the beaten path and discover hidden gems. It’s all part of the adventure! And as always, please be respectful of the local customs and people.
Safe travels and happy exploring!