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Plan Your Bangkok Holiday: Best of Bangkok

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Explore Bangkok

There's no getting around it: Bangkok is intense. Temples swarm with crowds. Street food sizzles into the early hours. The heat doesn't quit. And the nightlife—from the Patpong entertainment district to ritzy rooftop bars—is nonstop. For travellers craving local secrets and 24/7 energy, there’s nowhere like it. Marvel at Wat Pho's enormous gold Buddha and Wat Arun's epic view, or spend a Saturday souvenir-hunting at Chatuchak Weekend Market. Come evening, hit Chinatown's food stalls for khao geng or kuay jab, then bar-crawl your way through hipstery Soi Nana. It can be a lot, so if you need to recharge, book a traditional Thai massage or relax in Lumpini Park, one of the city's only green spaces. It doesn't stop there—we've got lots more recs below.
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Travel Advice

How to do Bangkok in 3 days

Streetside noodles, luxury spas, and stunning temples
Read on

Shopping guide to Bangkok

Even before I made Bangkok my home a decade ago, I visited often with the sole purpose of spending a whole lot of baht on clothes, homeware, and snacks in its dozens of malls. And shopping in the Thai capital has only gotten better. Here are six of my favourite shops from the little black book I always share with visiting friends.
Etty L, Bangkok, Thailand
  • Warehouse 30
    46
    Back in 2017, this cluster of World War II-era warehouses was one of the first projects to blow new life in the historic Talad Noi district, which, since then, has grown into one of Bangkok’s hippest hoods. Different galleries and restaurants have taken residence inside the big storage halls over the years. Seek out concept store Horse Unit for quirky homewares and retro toys, and stop by Carnival for rare sneakers and one-of-a-kind streetwear.
  • Another Story
    1
    Whether I need to score a unique birthday gift, this exceptionally well-curated concept store in the EmQuartier mall hits the spot. On its shelves you’ll find everything from coffee table books to clothing by international indie brands. Some of my favourite local finds include tote bags and posters by their in-house design collective, Bangkokian, and Monsoon Tea’s beautiful tins of loose-leaf tea grown in northern Thailand.
  • Thai Home Industries
    1
    At first glance, the gold-trimmed pointy roofs of this 60-year-old shop in Bangkok’s Charoenkrung district make it look like yet another temple. Inside, though, it’s a treasure trove of high-quality finds for the home. Teakwood vitrines display the finest Thai crafts, including lacquered bamboo baskets. And while most of the wares are pricier than the cheaper copies you’ll find elsewhere, the superior quality makes them worth the splurge.
  • Chatuchak Weekend Market
    18,197
    Whether you’re looking for vintage jeans, teakwood salad bowls, or Thai good-luck amulets, you’ll find it at the Chatuchak Weekend Market—in every shape, size, and colour. Because whatever isn’t sold in this mega-maze of more than 15,000 different stalls simply doesn’t exist. Make sure to arrive early (most stalls open around 9 a.m.) to beat both the soaring midday heat and the tourist throngs, and don’t forget to bust out your best haggling skills.
  • Siam Discovery
    355
    As one of the latest arrivals in the shopping mall-lined Siam district, this retail hub designed by Japanese studio Nendo zeroes in on the work of young and homegrown designers. The first two floors are a great spot to pick up fashion and accessories from emerging Thai brands, while I often stop by concept store O.D.S. (short for Objects of Desire) to shop for crafts and homeware by some of Bangkok’s best artists and designers.
  • Kad Kokoa
    11
    When it comes to edible souvenirs from Thailand, chocolate doesn’t usually come to mind. The lawyers-turned-chocolatiers behind Kad Kakao aim to change that. Using cacao grown in farms around Thailand, they make single-origin bars and bonbons with mix-ins such as salted tamarind and chrysanthemum petals. Fascinatingly, each region produces a different taste (just like fine wine)—you can try before you buy at their flagship store and cafe in the Sathorn district.
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Bangkok Travel Guide

Travelers' pro tips for experiencing Bangkok

LouiseBlakemore

Book a boat and take a ride around the khlongs. We did this on our own so we were able to stop and take pics and chat with locals. Walk. Walk. Walk. This is the way to see the city, and it's safe.

deepak4ualways

The place has some of the biggest and crowded malls where you can get all sorts of products like electronics, clothing, etc. A definite place for shopaholics.

madushi101

Bangkok is popular for its culinary diversity among many. Which you see will be a true fact once you step out walking. There are mouth-watering food stalls everywhere you go.

Chris S

A large bustling city with many very varied neighborhoods each offering something different for people of all tastes and pockets. Exciting and vibrant with a lot of great cultural sites for those that like history and culture. Foodies will be spoiled for choice with everything from fantastic cheap street food and food courts to top-end restaurants as well.

Shaligram

Bangkok is a busy city. It's also very friendly and an excellent place for food lovers. No need to mention the nightlife. They wrote songs about it and have made hit movies catering to bizarre imaginations and sometimes a not-so-bizarre reality, that is Bangkok at night. Mostly though, it's a safe and friendly place.

Suanphlu

Bangkok, the other City of Angels that never sleeps. Bangkok is full of things to do and see from ancient monuments to great restaurants. Easy to get around by Skytrain, underground, tuk-tuk, taxi or a trundling ancient bus. Bangkok is a must-visit city that caters for all tastes and lifestyles.

What is the best way to get there?

flying

Bangkok is served by two airports, the Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) and Don Muang Airport (DMK). The latter is a hub for low-cost carriers including Air Asia and Nok Air and mainly offers domestic and regional flights.

Do I need a visa?

Thailand has many bilateral agreements in place with other nations that allow visa-free travel. To see if your country is on that list please check here.

If your country is not listed, you will need to apply for a visa at your nearest Thai embassy. You can check here for more information on types of visas.

When is the best time to visit?

November through January: Bangkok is hot and steamy no matter what time of year you visit, however, the very best time to visit is late November to mid-January. Known as the “cool season,” the temperatures sit around 90 Fahrenheit (36 Celsius).

Get around

ferry

The ferry on the Chao Phraya river is also convenient — if and only if — you are heading somewhere close to the river.

motorcycle taxi

Motorcycle taxis are cheap, fast but can be scary for the uninitiated. Tuk Tuks are used by both tourists and locals alike; please bargain before jumping on.

skytrain and subway

The BTS Skytrail and the MRT subway provide another inexpensive way to get around town. Both train systems are limited and only cover portions of the city, so definitely map out your route before setting out. Also note that these two lines of public transportation run separately and don't share a ticketing system. However, they do have a few connecting stations—which is helpful if you need to cross from one to the other.

taxis

The easiest way into the city is through a metered taxi. Do not use the limo or taxi services offered by touts. They can tend to swarm around you once you have cleared customs. These touts will charge rates that can be as much as 200% to 300% of normal metered taxi rates.

For more detailed information on getting around, you can refer to this article.

On the ground

What is the timezone?

Indochina Time

What are the voltage/plug types?

220 Volts / 50 Hz. Plugs are Type A, B, C, F (https://www.iec.ch/worldplugs/)

What is the local currency?

Thai Baht

Are ATMs readily accessible?

Yes

Are credit cards widely accepted?

Yes and no. Cards are accepted very widely but if you intend to visit street stalls or use tuk tuks/motorcycle taxis, it is useful to have cash on hand.

Is it easy to find a bank?

Yes

How much do I tip?

Restaurants

Waiters get the loose change left in the plate unless there's a special service reward of 20 baht in the hand.

Taxi

Get the fare rounded up to the next even number.

Spa/Salon

Only massage therapists get a substantial tip between 50-100 baht.

Hotel porters

Porters and others giving small services may get a standard 20 baht gratuity.

Are there local customs I should know?

The King

The king is very highly regarded in Thailand, as evidenced by the pictures displayed everywhere. Do not say or do anything disrespectful of the king or the royal family, even to the extent of stomping on a Thai coin or banknote which has been dropped and is rolling/blowing away. (It bears an image of the King's head, and is highly insulting to be touched by your feet.)

Royal Anthem

Before each performance at movie theatres, the Thai Royal Anthem - known as Phleng Sansoen Phra Barami (เพลงสรรเสริญพระบารมี) or sometimes more simply as "Kha Wora" is played. It is mandatory to stand up during the playing of this Thai royal anthem.

Hailing taxis

When hailing taxis, it is common to keep your hand horizontal, fingers facing down. Holding your hand with fingers up is considered rude.

Temples and Monks

When visiting temples, dress conservatively. Women particularly should wear long skirts or trousers and cover their shoulders and knees. Many temples state as you enter that photography is not permitted. Even if there is no sign, please be respectful and consider whether it is appropriate to be taking flash photographs in a place of worship. Even more so if monks are present worshipping.

Shoes

Always remove your shoes when entering temples (the same rule applies when entering a person's home), and do not sit with your feet towards the Buddha. Sit either cross-legged, or with your feet tucked behind you.

Hygiene

One of the most important points of etiquette often overlooked by some travellers is basic personal hygiene. Thai people take their personal hygiene and appearance very seriously. Since Thailand is a hot, humid, tropical country, showering frequently is essential.

Cool heart

Loud or abusive expressions of anger and temper tantrums should be avoided at all costs. Many things in Thailand often don't go according to plan, and visitors are advised to take a very calm attitude to various nuisances. Try to remain calm and smile despite your annoyance, and in the end you will probably get what you want.

Bangkok travel advice

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These questions and answers were created by AI, using the most common questions travellers ask in the forums.

Tour Recommendations

According to forum posts, several users recommend checking out local travel agencies or hotel tour desks in Bangkok for guided tours. Shared tours from local agencies are highlighted as cost-effective, with pickups from hotels, and these typically accommodate groups of 8 to 10 people in a van. For a more personalized experience, travelers have called out private tours with companies like Wandee Tours, which can be customized to include specific attractions such as the railway market and nearby places of interest.

Online Resources

Some travelers said that online platforms like Withlocals and Toursbylocals offer a variety of local guides that specialize in private tours around Bangkok. These platforms allow for direct interaction with local guides, which can provide a more authentic and tailored touring experience.

Specific Tour Suggestions

For many users, specific attractions like the Grand Palace, floating markets, and the Jim Thompson House are must-sees. Exploring these sites through guided tours can enhance the experience by providing historical insights and logistical ease. Additionally, a dinner cruise on the river or a khlong (canal) tour was also suggested to enjoy Bangkok's scenic waterways.

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Family-Friendly Attractions

According to forum posts, popular kid-friendly destinations in Bangkok include Safari World, Dream World, Sea Life Bangkok, and Fantasia Lagoon Water Park. Travelers have called out Safari World and Dream World as places that could take a whole day each to explore due to their size and variety of attractions.

Outdoor Activities

For outdoor activities, some users suggested visiting Lumpini Park. However, be mindful of the local wildlife such as water monitors, which although generally harmless, might be intimidating for small children.

Interactive and Educational Experiences

Other recommended activities include visiting educational and interactive spots such as the Funarium, Imaginia Playland, and various puppet shows like those at Baan Silapin - Artists House, which are both entertaining and culturally enriching for children.

Transport and Accessibility

For moving around Bangkok with children, some forum participants suggested using services like Grab for convenience, especially when traveling as a family group, to ensure comfort and ease of travel between various attractions.

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Ticket Purchasing

Some travelers recommended buying tickets for the Grand Palace in advance through its official website to avoid long lines, particularly during high tourist season. This allows visitors to select specific entry times, making the visit more convenient.

Visiting Time

According to forum posts, it's best to visit the Grand Palace early in the morning around 8:30 AM to avoid large crowds and the midday heat. This strategy also allows time for visiting nearby attractions such as Wat Pho and Wat Arun later in the day.

Need for a Guide

Travelers have called out that hiring a guide at the Grand Palace is not necessary. Many preferred to explore on their own using maps provided at the ticket booth or audio guides available for rent, allowing for a more flexible and personal experience.

Scams to Avoid

Visitors should be cautious of common scams around the Grand Palace area, such as being falsely informed that the Palace is closed for a holiday and being redirected to other locations for shopping.

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City Rail Services

According to forum posts, Bangkok offers an extensive city rail service including the BTS Skytrain and MRT Subway, which are connected by links from the Suvarnabhumi Airport Rail Link. This network allows easy access around the city and to key locations like hotels and tourist sites.

Bus Services

Travelers have noted the availability of bus services for local and intercity travel. For example, the A1 and A2 bus routes provide connections from DMK airport to central Bangkok, costing around 30 THB. Additionally, buses from Ekamai bus station to Laem Chabang are mentioned, though specific details like timings and prices were not provided.

Rideshare Apps

Users have recommended using rideshare apps such as Grab (formerly Uber's Southeast Asia operations) and Bolt for convenient travel within the city. These platforms are noted for being user-friendly and provide an alternative to traditional taxis, which sometimes may not use the meter honestly.

Alternative Transport

Other transportation options highlighted include river taxis for scenic routes along Bangkok's waterways and tuk-tuks for short, local trips. These options provide a more cultural experience of traveling in Bangkok.

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Hotel Recommendations: Riverside Area

According to forum posts, the Centrepoint Silom is highly recommended for its prime riverside location, offering proximity to the BTS line and Sathorn Pier. Users have praised its central location amidst foodie hotspots and its accessibility to cultural-historical attractions.

Hotel Recommendations: Sukhumvit Area

Travelers have called out the Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit for its direct access to the Asok BTS station and Sukhumvit MRT station, making it ideal for easy transportation. The hotel is noted for its beautiful outdoor areas and is positioned well for shopping and dining experiences.

Boutique and Family-Friendly Hotels

Some travelers said the Siam Kempinski Hotel Bangkok is a great choice for families looking for luxury accommodations with excellent service. It has been suggested for its family-friendly atmosphere and proximity to major shopping areas.

Executive Club Hotels

For those interested in hotels with executive club rooms, the Okura Prestige has been mentioned for its high-quality service and amenities, although it's noted for being a high-rise which might not suit everyone.

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Nightlife Areas

According to forum posts, popular areas for nightlife in Bangkok include RCA (Royal City Avenue), which is a favorite for its club scene. The Nana - Asoke area is also highly recommended for its vibrant bar and club scene, with easy city rail access. Additionally, the area between Nana and Asok on lower Sukhumvit offers a plethora of bars, restaurants, and nightlife outlets.

Music and Clubs

Some travelers mentioned specific clubs like Route66, Onyx, and Venti, although they noted entry challenges for certain nationalities. For a non-seedy option, areas around Soi Sukhumvit 49-51-55 are suggested for sophisticated bars and clubs. For those interested in music, venues like Adhere to the 13th and Saxophone Pub are praised for blues music, while jazz enthusiasts might enjoy the Bamboo Bar at the Mandarin Oriental.

Local Advice

Travelers have called out that exploring on foot and asking locals for recommendations upon arrival can lead to discovering great nightlife spots. Websites and travel forums are also useful for up-to-date information on the best venues and any potential entry restrictions.

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Security Checks

According to forum posts, all passengers transiting through Suvarnabhumi Airport must undergo security checks. Some travelers have noted that although the security lines for transiting passengers can appear long in some online videos, the actual wait time typically isn’t excessive.

Connection Times

Travelers have called out that a transit time of about 2 hours and 10 minutes is generally sufficient to catch connecting flights, even if the initial flight arrives slightly behind schedule. However, there is no separate security line for business class passengers in the transit area.

Assistance for Tight Connections

For many users, if the connection time is tight, airport officials or airline staff often assist by expediting transit procedures. In some cases, passengers with business class tickets or tight connections might be met directly at the air bridge and guided through transit processes.

Luggage and Visa Requirements

Some travelers said that when connecting from international to domestic flights, the same terminal is used, and it is important to have the correct visa status. Travelers recommend arranging a visa before travel to ensure smooth passage through immigration and customs, especially during busy periods.

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Currency Preferences

According to forum posts, travelers prefer to use Thai baht for all transactions in Bangkok. It is advisable to exchange foreign currency into baht upon arrival for convenience, as local vendors primarily accept this.

Credit Card Usage

Some travelers have noted that major hotels, restaurants, and malls accept credit cards. However, for street food vendors, local markets, and some smaller eateries, cash in Thai baht is essential.

ATM and Currency Exchange

Several users mentioned that withdrawing cash from ATMs is a common practice, although it is subject to a surcharge. Travelers suggested exchanging money at reputable currency exchange outlets in the city, where rates are usually better than at the airport or hotels.

Tipping Culture

Regarding tipping, it is not mandatory in Bangkok, but small gratuities for good service are appreciated. Typical tips might be around 50-100 baht for guides or for exceptional service in restaurants or hotels.

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