How to Plan a Trip to Bangkok
If you’re planning a trip to Thailand, then the dynamic capital of Bangkok should be on your bucket list. Etched with everything from colourful culture, rich history and notorious nightlife, this backpacker hotspot is a must-see destination. Here’s How to Plan a Trip to Bangkok, Thailand.
Melding myriad marketplaces, rolling rivers and steaming street food, Bangkok is a city that boasts the best of city life. Underneath the dust and chaos, the ‘City of Angels’ is entrenched with clashing contrasts that beckon a ray of light on old and new.
If you plan to visit Bangkok, you will be immersed in the explosion of colours, sounds and smells. This sprawling city is scattered with exotic fruits, slurpable beverages and mouth-watering food.
Whether you want to dive into a Singha beer, devour some mango sticky rice or keep it savoury with a traditional pad Thai, something is exciting for every taste.
Let’s get the ball rolling with this Bangkok Destination Guide.
8-Step Planning Checklist
Before you can take the full plunge, work your way through these eight simple steps. Whether you’re planning for the summer, spring, winter or autumn, planning a trip to Bangkok couldn’t be easier!
Follow this checklist to begin the adventure of a lifetime!
Step 1: Determine the Destination
Step 2: Decide on the Trip Duration
Step 3: Figure out When is the Best Time to Visit
Step 4: Create a Travel Budget
Step 5: Book Your Accommodation (preferably 3 to 4 months in advance)
Step 6: Research & Organise Transport & Activities
Step 7: Get Your Documents in Order (Visa, Passport & Travel Insurance)
Step 8: Nail the Process with this Packing List
Best Time to Visit Bangkok
Thailand boasts a tropical climate that’s influenced by seasonal monsoon winds. Bangkok is home to three main seasons, summer (March to June), the monsoon/rainy season (July to October) and the incredible season (November to February). The winter season is considered one of the best times to visit Bangkok, as you’re free to explore without enduring sweat-soaked clothes.
Bangkok is humid and damn hot at that, with April being the hottest month of the year and September being the wettest. Travellers are advised to plan to visit Bangkok sometime between November to March. With milder temperatures and less rainfall, the peak tourist season ushers in bigger crowds and higher prices.
If you’re a budget traveller, the best time to visit Bangkok is during the shoulder seasons of March to May and September to October. This is also the ideal time to avoid the hordes of tourists and the price tags accompanying it.
Language
Thailand is home to a whopping 74 languages. In Bangkok, the primary language spoken is Central Thai. However, in the main tourist areas, there is a basic understanding of English.
Best Things to Do in Bangkok
If you plan to visit Bangkok, you’ll notice a collection of contrasts throughout the city. From the traditional temples and luxurious palaces to the sprawling streets and the city slums, this place is pinned with all kinds of possibilities. As Bangkok has never been colonised, it’s retained many traditions that have been intact for centuries. They are all immersed together, and that is what makes Bangkok so unique.
So, if you want to plan a trip to Thailand’s capital city, let’s figure out the best things to do in Bangkok.
Bangkok Temples
To glimpse Bangkok’s rich culture, check out the Grand Palace, a former royal residence that’s now a museum.
Step inside the resplendence of Wat Pho, home of the reclining Buddha. The lengthy statue is 46m long and completely covered in gold leaves. Talk about magical!
Next up, make your way to Wat Arun for a picture-perfect sunrise or sunset. This temple is named after Aruna, the God of Dawn. Situated right on the bank of the Chao Phraya River, Wat Arun is as unique as it gets.
This is a bucket list attraction if you’re looking for things to do in Bangkok. I’d recommend visiting for sunset; this way, you’ll experience the scenery and get in touch with a more tranquil side of Bangkok.
In Bangkok, there are many other prominent places of worship. More worth your time include the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, a sacred shrine with a reclining Buddha, and the Wat Traimit Withayaram Worawihan, an ornate temple with a golden Buddha statue.
Best Markets in Bangkok
Step inside Bangkok’s sprawling marketplace scene and head to Chatuchak Weekend Market. Home to over 8000 stalls and attracting 200,000 visitors per day, this market is top tier for all things Thai. Crowned with colourful clothes, knock-off shoes, wild accessories, and so many snacks, oh, how I praise the snacks…
Get your hands on freshly cut dragonfruit and recharge your batteries as you battle it out for Bangkok's best buys. Remember, this is Thailand, so you’ll have to learn to barter. Don’t just accept the first price they give you.
This place is deceivingly bigger than it looks, so grab a map. Otherwise, prepare to spend hours navigating the network of maze-like shops. I pranced around like a helpless toddler in a supermarket for the better half of a day.
In need of flowers at 3 am? Want to swoon on a newfound friend or fellow traveller? No worries, mate. Head down to Pak Khlong Flower Market for a fresh bouquet. This is open 24 hours a day. Perfect for all you romanticists or alcohol-inspired enthusiasts.
Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
Located only 1.5 hrs from the city's beating heart, the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market makes for one of the best things to do in Bangkok. This is quite unique, with a floating array of vendors selling colourful, local products. From fresh fruits and vegetables to authentic dishes, you can score some goods directly from their boats to yours.
To arrive at the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, it’s best to head there in the early morning. This way, you can take in the whole experience.
Peruse the perplexing maze of canals, spot the flourishing fruit plantations and gaze at the traditional homes. You may even watch coconut brown sugar being made by locals!
Siam Paragon
Usher ultimately contrasts the typical markets with some high-end shopping at Siam Paragon. This hugely popular shopping mall hones in on everything from clothing and food to a huge multiplex cinema.
Siam Paragon is one of the top things to do in Bangkok if you’re interested in shopping and escaping the humidity and heat.
Khaosan Road
Khaosan Road is a stereotypical backpackers’ alley that’s brimming with buzzing bars, happening hostels and rowdy nightclubs. You’ll find it here whether it’s a Thai massage parlour, some pad thai on the street, or cheap knockoff clothing you’re after. If you’re in the mood to let loose, head down to Patpong, which has a bustling nightlife scene. Yeehaw!
Lumpini Park
Don’t get me wrong, city life is stellar, especially in a city like Bangkok. But if all that traffic, pollution and constant noise become too much to handle, head down to Lumpini Park.
Posing the perfect green escape, you can spend an afternoon dabbling in the lush gardens, reading on the grass or eating a refreshing coconut ice cream on a bench. Heck, you could even take a ‘nap’ for a quick recharge. You may even catch some elder locals practising Thai Chi in Lumpini Park! It’s chock-full of people on the weekends, so make your way there in the early morning or just before sunset.
Rooftop Bars
Bangkok is brimming with a bounty of rooftop bars. When the sun goes down, this city does come out to play. Among all the highlights, Vertigo and Moon Bar, located on the 61st floor of the Banyan Tree Hotel, is a top pick. Operating on a 360-degree rooftop, you can witness Bangkok in all its’ might and glory. This is a panoramic spot for a drink (or four)!
Best Activities in Bangkok
If you’re looking for top-rated tours in Bangkok, you’re in luck. Here’s a quick round-up of the best activities in Thailand’s capital city.
Where to Stay in Bangkok
If you’re planning a visit to Bangkok, there is a wide range of accommodations to suit all budgets and preferences. Thailand’s capital city is crowned with hotels, apartments, Airbnbs and budget-friendly backpacker hostels. Let’s take a look at the best areas to stay in Bangkok.
Old City (Rattanakosin)
If you’re wondering where to stay in Bangkok for the first time, you’re in the right place. This is where you’ll find the city’s historical and cultural roots, including the Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha), and Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha). The Old City is home to budget apartments and mid-range hotels.
Sukhumvit Area
Sukhumvit Area is arguably Bangkok’s most trendy and cosmopolitan neighbourhood. There’s a wide choice of international restaurants, upscale shopping malls, nightlife, entertainment and hotels suitable for all budgets. Sukhumvit Area is conveniently located towards the centre with great accessibility to public transport (Skytrain (BTS) and Subway MRT stations).
Khao San/ Banglamphu Area
If you’re planning a trip to Bangkok, the Khao San/ Banglamphu Area fits all budget travellers. This backpacker’s galore is pinned for its partygoers and wild nightlife. This area can get relatively crowded and noisy, making things more difficult when trying to sleep. But hey, if you’re interested in letting loose, this is a convenient place to stay in Bangkok.
Bangkok Riverside
Bangkok Riverside is a picture-perfect, history-packed area that’s situated near many main attractions. Bangkok Riverside is one of the top places to stay in Bangkok for first-timers, especially those who are looking to escape the traffic and noise. Bangkok Riverside can be more expensive, especially regarding restaurants and hotels.
Silom Area
Silom Area is typically known as the business district. This neighbourhood is packed with authentic Thai restaurants, with good access to transportation (Skytrain (BTS) and Subway (MRT) stations), and is located close to Lumpini Park. The financial district combines business and entertainment, offering a mix of high-end hotels, trendy eateries and the iconic Patpong Night Market. The Silom Area has plenty available for those on a moderate to high budget.
Siam Area
Siam Area is notoriously fit for shopaholics, with numerous shopping malls, movie cinemas and restaurants taking the scene by storm. Highlights include Siam Paragon, CentralWorld and the MBK Centre. The area in Bangkok also hosts free Thai boxing events in the MBK Shopping Mall every Wednesday. Talk about a showdown!
Riverside
The Riverside area is a suitable option if you’re seeking a more laid-back and scenic atmosphere. Lined with luxury hotels along the Chao Phraya River, you can bask in the beautiful views, taste the flavours of riverfront dining, and enjoy easy access to Bangkok’s temples and historical gems.
Top Hotels in Bangkok, Thailand:
How to Get Around Bangkok
Public Transport
Bangkok has an array of affordable, easy-to-use transportation, including the Skytrain BTS, Subway MRT, river ferries and buses. The extensive public transportation network is efficient and convenient for travelling throughout the city. Both transport systems in Bangkok have stops at the major attractions, making it a convenient way of getting around for travellers. Purchase single-trip tickets or opt for a reloadable smart card like the Rabbit Card.
Tuk-tuk
Tuk-tuks are popular for short trips, but negotiate the fare before getting in. Sometimes, the drivers can be hard to negotiate with. Don’t let your guard down; there are some real smooth talkers out there! Top Tip: Some tuk-tuk drivers will try to tell you that your ‘X destination’ is closed today. This is a scam.
Taxis
Taxis are available in Bangkok, and you can quickly get them on the street or use ride-hailing apps. Ensure the taxi meter is used or agree on a fare before starting your journey. Otherwise, you might get ripped off.
River Boats
Bangkok’s Chao Phraya River is home to plenty of riverboats and ferries. If you’re looking to mix up all the crazy tuk-tuk rides, this is an ideal alternative.
Bangkok Airport
Home to two different airports, Bangkok is well-connected to major cities all around the world. Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) and Don Mueang International Airport (DMK). If you plan to visit Bangkok, here’s how you can get from the airport to the city centre.
Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK)
Airport Rail Link: This is a convenient and fast option to reach the city centre, with a direct connection to the City Line. Stopping at several stations such as Makkasan, Ratchaprarop, and Phaya Thai. You can transfer to the BTS Skytrain or other transportation options from here.
Taxi: The journey to the city centre can take around 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
Airport Shuttle Buses: There are multiple shuttle bus services between the airport and various locations in the city. These buses are a more affordable option but can be slower due to traffic conditions.
Private Transfers
Don Mueang International Airport (DMK)
Shuttle Bus: There is a free shuttle bus service that connects the airport’s terminals (T1 and T2) with Mo Chit BTS Station. This is located on the Sukhumvit Line, and from here, you can transfer to the BTS Skytrain or other transportation options.
Taxi: The journey to the city centre can take around 30-60 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
Public Buses: This Bangkok airport is well-connected by public buses operating various city routes. Head to the front of Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 to catch the bus.
Private Transfers
2-Day Bangkok Itinerary
So, now you know how to plan a trip to Bangkok. But who says you have to do all the work? If you plan on venturing out to other gems like Phuket and the Phi Phi Islands, you may only want to spend a few days in the capital city anyway. That’s where you’re in luck!
This is a simple, modifiable 2-day schedule that ushers in plenty of room for spontaneity & adventure. In this guide on how to spend 48 Hours in Bangkok, Thailand, we’ll cover the following:
Day 1 in Bangkok: Grand Palace, Khao San Road, Temple of Dawn & Rooftop Bar
Day 2 in Bangkok: Lumpini Park, Temple of the Reclining Buddha, Chatuchak Weekend Market & Dinner on a River Cruise
Want more Bang out of Bangkok? Whether you’re a fan of exploring beyond the surface of culture and history or off-the-radar adventure,
I assure you that these spots will not disappoint.
Be sure to add Bangkok as a destination to your Travel Bucket List. This comprehensive guide on How to Plan a Trip to Bangkok can kick the hassle out of your next getaway. So, what are you waiting for?
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