Bangkok, Thailand’s capital, is a large city known for ornate shrines and vibrant street life. The boat-filled Chao Phraya River feeds its network of canals, flowing past the Rattanakosin royal district, home to opulent Grand Palace and its sacred Wat Phra Kaew Temple.
The best time to visit Bangkok is from November to March when the heat and humidity are at their lowest. Still, Thailand’s tropical climate could easily bring temperatures up to 90 degrees on any given day, regardless of the time of year.
The baht sign: ฿; is the official currency of Thailand. 1 USD 33.3763 THB. Thai language is widely spoken throughout Thailand, many Thais also speak and understand English, though more so in Bangkok and the major tourist areas.
Thailand’s capital is a city of contrasts with exciting things to do for everyone. Luxury malls and skyscrapers lie side by side with colorful temples, markets and roadside stalls where you can treat yourself without breaking the bank. One thing is for certain, you can never be bored in Bangkok!
Top Sights to visit
Wat Pho
Wat Pho (first photo) is one of Bangkok’s largest and oldest temples, most known for the huge reclining gold Buddha. The intricate details and vibrant colors make this place an absolute must while in the city.
Chatuchak Weekend Market
Chatuchak Weekend Market is the largest and most exciting market I’ve ever been to. So much fun! On average, more than 200,000 visitors come here to sift through over 8,000 market stalls every weekend. This is a place where you can literally shop until you drop.
Floating markets
Even though Bangkok’s floating markets are more geared towards tourists rather than locals these days, it’s still a must while in the city. Beautiful colors and delicious scents from flowers, fruits and freshly made traditional dishes, make these markets a feast for the senses.
The Grand Palace
The Grand Palace and Temple of the Emerald Buddha, dating back to 1782, is Thailand’s most sacred site and undoubtedly Bangkok’s most visited. You must be properly dressed before being allowed to enter the temple, and the dress code is rather strict. If you turn up without the appropriate clothing you, will be able to rent for just a small fee.
Explore the khlongs
Go on a khlong tour to get a sense of how people in Bangkok used to live, in stilted shacks, old wooden townhouses. Many tourist itineraries feature a cruise along the Chao Phraya river, but for a more authentic view of local life, venture into the city’s network of khlongs(canals). You can also choose to hire a colorful long-tail boat by yourself. This way you get to explore more.
Chinatown
Bangkok’s vibrant Chinatown is all about food, fabrics and gold. In fact, Chinatown has more gold shops per square meter than anywhere else in Bangkok, so if you’re in the market for some jewelry head to one of the many shops lining Yaowarat Road. At night Chinatown transforms into what feels like a huge food market where both locals and tourists flock to enjoy some cheap eats.
Rooftop bars
Made even more famous by the Hangover II movie, the 63 stories high Sky Bar at Lebua State Tower offers one of the best views in the city and is a must-see while in Bangkok. Although quite expensive, if you are celebrating a special occasion it might be worth considering dinner.
Asiatique The Riverfront
Asiatique The Riverfront successfully combines two of the most popular experiences in the city; a night market and a shopping mall. With over 1,500 boutiques, 40 restaurants and a ferris wheel housed within the same complex, there is something to do for everyone.
Bangkok National Museum
The National Museum in Bangkok which houses the largest collection of Thai art and historical artifacts in the country was opened all the way back in 1874. The eclectic collection includes pieces such as traditional musical instruments, gold treasures, weaponry, centuries-old royal artifacts and impressive wooden carvings.
Lumpini Park
Lumpini Park is an urban oasis, one of the city’s largest parks located right in the middle of central Bangkok. It is the perfect place for a picnic and a great escape from the city chaos and heat.
Go shopping
Visit luxury stores such as Forever 21 and Brandy Melville. Top shopping malls in Bangkok are Central Worlds and Siam Center.
