Bangkok Travel Guide

Welcome to

Touch down in Bangkok and the first thing that hits you besides the constant smiles, is the energy. From food stalls on every corner to chaotic traffic, river sunsets and a vibrant nightlife that’s alive until the sunrise. This city never stands still and honestly, you don’t want it to.

Don’t miss these experiences

Arriving in a big vibrant city like Bangkok can be overwhelming. The sights, sounds, and energy can easily make you feel lost and unsure where to start. I’ve been there myself. But don’t worry, you're in good hands. In this section, I’ll share my personal top experiences in Bangkok that you simply can’t miss.

• Grand Palace

• Wat Arun 

• King Power Mahanakhon

• Khao San Road

• Chattuchak Weekend Market

• Chinatown (Yaowarat)

• Lumpini Park

Discover 10+  hidden-gem spots more deeply coming, with more structure on how exactly to break down your Bangkok itinerary, with unique spots and even more local experiences in the full version of this guide.

Places For Food & Drinks

Coming to Bangkok, you just want to dive deep into the food culture. Arriving from the west, this will maybe shock you! But the truth is here you find the best and most tasty food on the street corner. With restaurants that offer plastic tables, chairs and small drinking glasses in metal. I usually say, the more simple the more tasty. 

Must try flavours

There are two dishes you need to try when coming to Thailand. 

• Pad Kraow Paow (Stir-fried with holy basil) with a fried egg on the top. This you can either order with pork, chicken or beef. I prefer pork, but none of the 3 will disappoint you, trust me.

• Somtam (Papaya Salad), this is a bit more unique dish and probably something you haven’t tried before. PS, if you’re not a spicy food person, tell the staff beforehand so they can adjust the spicy level for you.

Food

• Chinatown (Yaowarat). If you're looking for local food, this is heaven. Everything from noodle soups, fresh fruit shakes or street food vendors that offer Pad Thai, meat skewers, sweets and if you are brave enough they even have fried insects.

• Jodd Fairs Night Market. One of my favorite street food markets in Bangkok. Offering everything from local food to international dishes, definitely worth a visit.

Local insider

• Khlong Bang Luang Market, located in Thonburi. This place offers small shops selling souvenirs, clothes, food, drinks and even boat tours through the cozy canal.

Drinks

• Khao San Road, you can also call it chaos street! Packed with travelers, blasting music, and those infamous cocktail buckets. It’s loud, wild, and crazy, but that’s exactly what makes it worth experiencing at least once.

• If there’s one place in Bangkok that truly captures the city’s pulse, it’s Sukhumvit.  from rooftop bars with breathtaking skyline views to restaurants and one of Bangkok's hottest nightlife districts. That’s what makes Sukhumvit one of my favorite areas, it has anything for anyone.

Where To Stay

Choosing the right place to stay in Bangkok is important. It can save you time, money, and stress. You don’t want to spend hours stuck in traffic or stay too far from public transportation.

Area

• Silom is a central and convenient area, making it an ideal base for exploring Bangkok. You’ll find a wide range of accommodation options here, from budget hostels and affordable hotels to more luxurious stays. Depending on what kind of traveler you are. There’s plenty to see and do in the area, and both the MRT and BTS are easily accessible.

• Sukhumvit is another favorite for me personally. Like Silom, it’s super convenient for getting around thanks to its excellent MRT and BTS connections. The area is packed with restaurants, cafes, and nightlife spots, so you’ll never run out of things to do. It’s perfect if you want to experience Bangkok’s energy while still having easy access to the rest of the city.

  Getting Around

  How to move like a local. Arriving in Bangkok it can feel like a jungle when it comes to transportation, but don’t worry. Here’s how to do it.

  BTS Skytrain

  Fast, clean, and perfect for avoiding traffic. It’s easily accessible from areas like Siam, Sukhumvit, and Silom.

  
  MRT Metro

  Probably the one you're gonna use most and it’s very convenient getting around in Bangkok. Covers old town and connects to Chinatown. Good for temples and markets.

  
  Grab/Bolt

  The easiest way to get taxis without haggling. Traveling with a company this option can be even more cheap for you than the other transportation, but be aware of the massive traffic it can be inefficient. Safe and inexpensive. 

  
  Tuk-Tuks

  Funny and worth the experience, trimmed pipes, blasting music, but tourist-priced. Use for short rides only and make sure about the price before you jump on.

  Local secrets & Smart tips

• Report your arrival with the TDAC, can be done 3 days before arrival. https://tdac.immigration.go.th/arrival-card/#/home

• Prepare an onward ticket, if you are coming without a visa be prepared to show a ticket that you will be leaving Thailand.

• Get yourself a local sim card at 7 eleven, Don’t buy it at the airport.

• Exchange money and withdraw money when you arrive and not before coming to Thailand.

• Dress politely when visiting temples, clothes that are covering shoulders and shorts over knees. 

My take

My personal opinion is that this city has been growing on me more and more every time I visit. In the beginning, it felt a bit overwhelming and chaotic because it was so different from what I was used to. But once I figured out where to stay and what to do, I realized how amazing this city truly is, it’s easy to fall in love with. I hope you’ll enjoy it as much as I do!

Now it's time for you to explore!

Thanks for reading. I really appreciate you letting me be part of your journey through Bangkok.

If you want even more hidden spots, recommendations, and ready to use travel plans, my google map pins, tap the button below and send me an email with “Bangkok Guide” I’d love to share the full version with you.