Bangkok is the capital and largest city of Thailand. The city, established as the capital in 1782, is also known as the City of Angels. Due to its ongoing development, it is possible to see more skyscrapers in the city every year.
The founder of the city, King Rama, derived his name from a Hindu deity. The predominant religious axis is the belief in Buddhism. Many of the famous structures in Bangkok are Buddhist statues and temples.
Also known as Krung Thep, the city is the hottest major city in the world. It is also a metropolis that is home to nearly 10 million people. Located east of the Chao Phraya River with 35 districts, and 15 districts in Thonburi, the city is divided into 50 regions.
Bangkok has a tropical climate with relatively constant temperatures throughout the year, usually around 30 degrees Celsius. Renowned worldwide for its warmth, Bangkok is one of the hottest cities. Due to these temperatures and its geographical location, the city experiences monsoon rains from May to the end of October.
For a more comfortable travel experience in terms of humidity, it is advisable to visit between November and April. The period from November to February, with less rainfall and lower temperatures, can be considered the right time to visit Bangkok.
Suvarnabhumi or Bangkok International Airport, located around 31 km from the city center, is accessible via direct and connecting flights from various locations. To reach the city center, travelers can opt for taxis, cab apps like Uber, or rental car services, all taking approximately 30 minutes. Otherwise, you can take the train which takes 30 minutes to reach the city center, or buses which take 60 minutes to reach the city center.
Bangkok's cuisine offers a diverse menu, prominently featuring rice. Essential to Bangkok cuisine are spices and sauces, creating a menu that includes everything from soups to spicy meat dishes. For a more luxurious dining experience, consider options like Sirocco, Eat Me Restaurant, and Blue Elephant. If you're on a budget, check out the restaurants at Maharat Pier. La Cantina Italian Restaurant, located on Sukhumvit Road, is a recommended spot for European flavors, with skilled Italian chefs. Pahurat offers Indian cuisine, and Chinatown has Chinese food. Street food is popular in Bangkok, offering a range of dishes from rice to chicken. While it may sound unusual, grilled grasshoppers are a local delicacy. You can find plenty of affordable and satisfying meals on the streets to fill your stomach.
Most city tours in Bangkok use bicycles. As you explore the streets, you'll notice religious themes with temples and statues on many buildings. You can start your tour in the palace district, home to Wat Phra Kaew and the Grand Palace. Wat Traimit houses a Buddha statue made of pure gold, weighing 5.5 tons. Another must-visit is Wat Pho, the city's oldest and largest temple.
Thai massage, soap massage, and spa treatments are essential experiences reflecting the mystical Far Eastern culture during your visit to Bangkok. If you're not afraid of snakes, you can see different snakes at the Snake Farm. Bangkok also offers a crocodile farm and elephants at the Rose Garden. For museum lovers, the National Museum is a must-visit place.
One of the most vibrant nightlife scenes in the Far East is found in Thailand. Khao San Road and Royal City Avenue are among the liveliest places where you can find venues of every style. If you're looking for a music-centric place, we recommend Onyx Bangkok, a spot frequented by Thai youth. Entry to this venue in Royal City Avenue is free, and on concert nights, you can enter for a fee of around 300 baht, which includes a drink. For a more upscale option, we suggest Ku De Ta Club in Sathorn Square, known for crafting fantastic cocktails.
There's hardly anyone who hasn't heard of the precious stones and silks of the Far East. Bangkok has also secured itself a significant place in this market. At reasonable prices, you can find both jewelry, including gems like emeralds and sapphires, and silk products. When buying products from Thailand, pay attention to having a guarantee certificate to avoid returning home with an imitation.
In a city with important shopping centers such as Amarin Plaza and Siam Center, bargaining is unlikely if you're shopping from stores. However, if you're shopping from markets, it's a must. Patpong Night Market is a nice alternative where you can find imitation products at a low cost. Chatuchak Weekend Market is the right address for those seeking souvenirs, accessible via the sky train at Mo Chit station. Sukhumvit Night Market and Pratunam Market are recommended places for those looking for clothing and textile products.
February: Chinese New Year
April: Songkran Festival
August: Chinese Ghost Festival
August: Mother's Day
July: Asahna Bucha Day
September: Moon Festival
October: Vegetarian Festival
October: Khao Phansa
December: Father's Day
1 January: New Year's Day
Magha Puja: Changes every year
6 April: Chakri Memorial Day
13–15 April: Songkran Festival
4 May: Coronation Day
Royal Ploughing Ceremony and Farmer's Day: Changes every year
Vesak: Changes every year
3 June: Queen Suthida's Birthday
28 July: King's Vajiralongkorn Birthday
Asalha Puja: Changes every year
Beginning of Vassa: Changes every year
12 August: The Queen Mother's Birthday
13 October: King Bhumibol Adulyadej Memorial Day
23 October: King Chulalongkorn Day
5 December: King Bhumibol Adulyadej's Birthday
10 December: Constitution Day
31 December: New Year's Eve
Travelers to Bangkok often express concerns about the city's air pollution and the strong aromas of spicy food from local shops. Breathing can be difficult, particularly on busy streets where heavily spiced meals are common. Adjusting to the local cuisine may not be easy for everyone, but internationally renowned fast-food chains provide an alternative to European-style meals. When using taxis or other transportation, be specific about your destination. It's recommended to carry a city guide and know a few Thai phrases for better communication.
In Bangkok, the sky train is a popular and convenient mode of transportation, allowing you to navigate the city center comfortably while avoiding traffic. There's a direct rail link to the airport, with fares ranging from 150-200 Baht for the express line and 20-50 Baht for the regular city train. At Phaya Thai and Makkasan stations, you can easily switch between the sky train and the metro.
Boats are a handy option for those heading to the Saen Saep Canal and Chao Phraya River. Buses and minibusses contribute to the city's transportation, with options like non-air-conditioned red and blue-white buses or air-conditioned blue-yellow buses, where fares range from 10 to 30 Baht.
Taxis in yellow and green are independently operated, while red-blue taxis are company-operated, providing a reliable choice. Tuk-tuks are another distinctive transportation experience in Bangkok; however, it's advisable to negotiate prices, as they often charge higher rates for tourists.