Bangkok Hotels

Bangkok, the “City of Angels”,  the capital city of Thailand, is renowned for its dynamic energy, captivating culture, and diverse attractions. The city offers something for everyone, whether seeking historical sites, immersive cultural experiences, bustling makers, or lively nightlife. The city is known for its street life and cultural landmarks, as well as its red-light districts. In contrast to other popular tourist attractions like the lively nightlife scenes of Khaosan Road and Patpong, the Grand Palace and Buddhist temples, like Wat Arun and Wat Pho, offer a serene and spiritual experience. Bangkok is a center of attraction because it is a modern, bustling city, yet rich with culture and tradition. The city is a major economic hub, home to countless businesses and international corporations. It is also a major transportation hub, with a network of airports, railways, and roads connecting it to the rest of the world.

Things To Know Before Visit Bangkok

• Bangkok is generally affordable, but prices can vary depending on the location and type of accommodation.
• Be prepared for the costs of transportation, food, and activities, and consider budgeting accordingly.
• Remove your shoes when entering temples or homes, as a sign of respect.
• Don't use your left hand when handing objects or money, as the left hand is considered unclean.
• When someone greets you with a wai, a common gesture in Thailand.
• Don't point at people or objects, especially statues or images of Buddha.
• Show respect to monks by greeting them with a wai and offering them your seat on public transportation.
• Bag snatching and petty crime are common, so be cautious with your belongings.
• Be wary of the “tourist price” versus the "local price" for services and products.
• Eat like a local by trying street food and local cuisine, which is delicious and affordable.
• Carry a copy of your passport as you may need to show it at various points during your stay.
• WiFi is generally good in most areas, but it can be slow in some parts of the city.
• Leave room in your itinerary for surprises and be prepared for unexpected experiences and discoveries.
• Bring staple items like good walking shoes and light shirts, and remember to leave some room for souvenirs.
• Respect Thai culture and dress modestly, especially when visiting temples or the Grand Palace.
• Cash is still king in Bangkok, and credit card transactions may incur additional fees.

Where is Bangkok?

Bangkok is located on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, near the Gulf of Thailand. Bangkok originates as a small trading center and port community during the precursor of modern Thailand, dating back to the 1350s. 

Where To Stay In Bangkok?

Here’s a quick table of which areas in Bangkok are great for tourists:

The Best Hotels In Bangkok

Here is a table showcasing some of the best hotels in Bangkok across different categories: 

Find all hotels in Bangkok with just one click!

Best Places to Visit in Bangkok

Some of the best places to visit in Bangkok include:

• The Grand Palace: A historic landmark and former royal residence, featuring stunning architecture and the revered Temple of the Emerald Buddha.
• Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha): Known for its giant reclining Buddha and traditional Thai massage school.
• Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn): An iconic riverside temple with a distinctive spire design, offering breathtaking views of the Chao Phraya River.
• Chatuchak Weekend Market: One of the world's largest weekend markets, offering a wide variety of goods, including local crafts, clothing, and delicious street food.
• Lumphini Park: A tranquil oasis in the heart of the city, ideal for strolls, boat rides, and picnics.
• SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World: An immersive aquarium experience located beneath the Siam Paragon shopping mall, featuring a diverse range of marine life.
• Jim Thompson House Museum: A museum showcasing traditional Thai architecture and art, as well as the former home of American entrepreneur Jim Thompson.
• Phra Sumen Fort: A historic fort offering panoramic views of the city and the Chao Phraya River.
• The Giant Swing: An ancient red ceremonial swing located near Wat Suthat, representing a traditional Hindu ritual.
• Museum Siam: A modern museum dedicated to the history and culture of Thailand, providing interactive exhibits and educational experiences.

Is Bangkok Safe For Visitors?

Bangkok is generally a safe destination for tourists, but like any major city, it requires vigilance and awareness of potential risks. However, visitors should be aware of pickpocketing especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots. Women traveling alone should be aware of their surroundings and dress modestly to minimize unwanted attention.

Is Bangkok Expensive To Visit?

Bangkok can be an affordable destination for tourists, but the coast can vary depending on individual preferences and travel styles. 

Bangkok Currency

The official currency of Bangkok, and Thailand as a whole, is the Thai Baht (THB). The Thai Baht is further divided into 100 satang. Banknotes are issued in denominations of 20,50,100,500 and 1000 Baht.

Languages Spoken in Bangkok

The official language spoken in Bangkok, and throughout Thailand, is Thai. The Thai language borrows from Pali, Sanskrit, Mon, and Old Khmer, and different parts of the country use different dialects of the language. While many locals have picked up English. Other language frequently heard on the streets of Bangkok include Chinese, Teochew, Lao, Burmese, Japanese, Vietnamese, Malay, Hindi, Punjabi, and Tamil, among others. 

Time Zone in Bangkok

Bangkok is in the Indochina Time (ICT) zone, which is Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) +7 hours.

How Many Days To Visit Bangkok?

The best number of days to visit Bangkok is five to seven days which provides a more relaxed pace and the opportunity to explore lesser-known areas of the city. 

The Best Time To Visit Bangkok

The best time to visit Bangkok is from November to February when the weather is cooler and less humid. These months offer comfortable temperatures and mostly sunny skies, making it ideal for sightseeing and enjoying outdoor activities.

• Winter (Dec-Feb): Peak tourism season in warmer regions; cooler temps, low humidity, and pleasant weather for exploring outdoors.
• Spring (Mar-May): Renewal and growth; mild weather suitable for outdoor activities, but can have occasional rainfall.
• Summer (Jun-Aug): Warmth and sunshine; popular for beach vacations and outdoor events, but can be hot and humid in certain areas.
• Fall (Sep-Nov): Transition period; cooler weather, changing colors, great for outdoor activities, yet prone to unpredictable weather changes.

What To Pack For Your Visit To  Bangkok?

Here are some suggestions of what to pack to visit Bangkok:

• Light, breathable fabrics
• Comfortable sandals
• Sunhat
• Sunglasses
• Waterproof shoes
• Modest attire for temples
• Sunscreen
• Insect repellent
• Travel umbrella

Bangkok Foods To Try

Bangkok is known for its delicious and diverse food scene, with plenty of options for both street food and fine dining. Here are some of the best food options to try in Bangkok:

• Thip Samai: Famous for its Pad Thai, this restaurant has been around for over 50 years and is a must-visit for anyone looking to try this classic Thai dish.
• Jay Fai: This street food vendor is famous for her crab omelet and other seafood dishes, and has even been awarded a Michelin star.
• Krua Apsorn: This restaurant serves up traditional Thai dishes in a cozy, home-style setting, with a focus on fresh ingredients and bold flavors.
• Savoey: Known for its curry crab and deep-fried Snakehead Murrell fish, this restaurant is a great option for seafood lovers.
• Jeh O Chula: This Michelin-recommended diner is best known for its Tom Yum Mama Noodles, a spicy and savory noodle soup.
• Kor Panich Sticky Rice: This dessert spot serves up delicious mango sticky rice, a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth.
• Yaowarat Night Market: Located in the heart of Chinatown, this night market offers a wide variety of Thai and Chinese cuisine, including delicious pork skewers and grilled calamari salad.

Nightlife in Bangkok

Bangkok has a vibrant and exciting nightlife scene that offers everything from chic rooftop bars to unique cocktail bars, lively clubs, and more. Some popular nightlife areas in Bangkok include Khao San Road, Sukhumvit Road, and Thonglor. Visitors can also enjoy a night cruise along the Chao Phraya River or explore the city’s night markets for a taste of local street food.