Things To Do
in Bangkok
Bangkok is Thailand’s bustling capital, famed for its vibrant street life, ornate temples, and lively markets. The city is bisected by the Chao Phraya River, offering scenic boat rides and riverside dining. Bangkok seamlessly blends traditional Thai culture with modern skyscrapers and shopping malls.
Visitors are drawn by its world-class street food, dynamic nightlife, and rich cultural heritage.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day at the Grand Palace, marveling at its gilded spires and intricate murals. Wander through the courtyard to the revered Emerald Buddha, appreciating the reverent atmosphere. Sample fresh coconut sweets from nearby vendors to delight your taste buds.
Cross the Chao Phraya River by ferry to explore Wat Arun, admiring its porcelain-encrusted prang glowing in the midday sun. Climb the steep steps for panoramic views of the river and city skyline. Enjoy a boat noodle lunch at a riverside stall with locals.
Embark on a traditional dinner cruise along the Chao Phraya, the temple lights flickering on the water’s surface. Savor authentic Thai dishes under a canopy of stars as gentle breezes sweep past. End the night with a stop at Asiatique’s riverside market for artisanal souvenirs.
Rise before dawn to catch the first long-tail boat at Damnoen Saduak Floating Market. Glide through narrow canals as vendors in wooden boats shout greetings and barter fresh produce. Taste sweet mangosteen and juicy pineapples while absorbing the lively tableau.
Join a local family for a hands-on cooking demonstration, learning to prepare pad Thai and green curry with farm-fresh ingredients. Discover secret spice blends and techniques passed down through generations. Enjoy your culinary creations amidst banana trees in a traditional wooden pavilion.
Return to Bangkok and unwind at a cozy riverside café, watching the sun set behind distant temples. Sip herbal tea infused with lemongrass and kaffir lime. Wrap up the evening browsing a night market filled with handmade crafts and lantern-lit stalls.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Street Food Meal | $1–3 |
| ☕Coffee at Café | $1.50–3 |
| 🍺Local Beer | $2–3 |
| 🛵Motorbike Taxi Ride | $1–3 |
| 🚕Taxi Start Fare | $1–3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- World-class street food at budget prices
- Rich cultural and historical landmarks
- Efficient public transport (BTS/MRT)
- Heavy traffic and pollution
- High humidity year-round
- Frequent tourist scams
- "สวัสดี (Sawasdee)" - Hello
- "ขอบคุณ (Khob khun)" - Thank you
- "ไม่เป็นไร (Mai pen rai)" - No worries
- "เท่าไร (Tao rai)" - How much?
Places to Visit in Bangkok
Visit one of these nice places.
Ornate gold spires and intricate murals ideal for daytime shots.
Sunrise and sunset shots of the temple’s mosaic-encrusted prang by the river.
Panoramic cityscape photography at dusk from bars like Octave or Red Sky.
Food in Bangkok
Bangkok Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Stir-fried rice noodles with egg, tofu, tamarind sauce, and peanuts. Try it at Thip Samai or roadside stalls in Old Town.
Must-Try!
Hot and sour shrimp soup with lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime leaves. Available at seafood restaurants and street vendors.
Sweet coconut sticky rice topped with ripe mango slices. Sample it at Mae Varee in Thonglor.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vast market offering local snacks like coconut ice cream, grilled meats, and pandan pancakes.
Nighttime street-food haven known for dim sum, oyster omelettes, and herbal desserts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Press palms together at chest level and bow slightly when greeting or thanking someone.
Avoid negative comments about the royal family; it’s a serious offense under Thai law.
Take off your shoes before entering homes and temples.
Never touch someone’s head or point your feet at people or religious artifacts.
Safety
Tipping in Bangkok
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up taxi fares and small tips (20–50 THB) at restaurants is common.
Cash (Thai Baht) is king for street food and markets; credit cards are widely accepted in malls and upscale venues; e-wallets like PromptPay are growing.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Temperatures soar above 35°C; stay hydrated and plan indoor breaks during midday.
Afternoon thunderstorms are common; carry an umbrella and expect lush greenery.
More comfortable temperatures (20–30°C) and lower humidity make this ideal for sightseeing.
Bangkok at Night
Hiking in Bangkok
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
UNESCO World Heritage site about 2–3 hours away, offering waterfalls, wildlife, and hiking trails.
Famous for its tiered waterfalls and emerald pools; located near Kanchanaburi (2 hours away).
Urban “jungle” ideal for short cycling routes and nature walks just across the river.
Airports
How to reach Bangkok by plane.
Main international gateway with extensive global connections; rail link to city center.
Serves budget and regional carriers; shuttle bus or taxi connects to downtown.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Ethnic Thais make up around 90% of the population, with strong cultural traditions.
Longstanding community influential in commerce, especially in Yaowarat (Chinatown).
Large communities of Americans, Europeans, and other Asians working in business, education, and tourism.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
National sport with frequent matches at Rajadamnern and Lumpinee stadiums.
Thai League matches draw local fans to stadiums like Rajamangala.
Traditional sport similar to volleyball but players use feet, knees, chest, and head.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bangkok.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many temples and markets offer vegetarian stalls—look for the red ‘เจ’ logo indicating vegan-friendly food.
Head to Pattani Restaurant in Sukhumvit or street stalls in Chinatown for certified Halal Thai dishes.