Bangkok Travel Guide 2026: What to See, Eat, and Avoid
- Itallo Olimpio
- Dec 11, 2025
- 13 min read
Updated: Dec 27, 2025
One of the first things I tell people when they ask where to start their Asia trip is: use Bangkok as a hub, and I’ll try to explain the why’s and how’s in this article.
Bangkok is the biggest city and capital of Thailand. You’ve probably seen dozens of videos and pictures of the pulsant night life, incredible cousine and cheap prices. Yeah, this is Bangkok, or BKK for those who have been there, but there’s so much more you can actually get from this incredible city, and this is the main reason I’ve decided to not just write this article but to create this blog, matter of fact.
When to visit Bangkok?
First things first, I understand sometimes we can only travel when we can, but if you are lucky enough to be able to choose when to travel, it’s important to know some things before booking those beautiful plane tickets.
Here’s a summary of BKK’s weather throughout the year:
November to February – perfect weather, but tons of tourists. You’re probably gonna pay more for air travel and accommodation. Humidity is way lower and nights are actually cooler, but the crowds… oh, my, the crowds! If you don’t mind people AND paying a little bit more for nicer weather, that’s the perfect time for you.
March to April – my first time visiting Thailand was in late April and it was hot! I’m Brazilian but sometimes I really question my citizenship, to be honest. Humidity starts to kick in a bit but you’re still gonna have dry skies, with no rain in sight. Prices are a little bit cheaper compared to previous months and crowds are def smaller.
May to October – low season, also monsoon season. Lower prices, fewer tourists, but a LOT of rain, high humidity and some flooding. If you don’t mind this and only care for the cheapest price possible, that’s the time for you. But you won’t see me there haha
Extra: Late October – Early November-ish
That’s when I went to Thailand on my last SE Asia trip and I was a little bit anxious about the weather. Personally I don’t mind a little bit of rain, but I was really worried about non-stop torrential rain. Lucky me, no rain showers, but def some rainy moments here and there, which I don’t really mind. Price-wise, air travel was a little bit cheaper compared to those higher-season months, obviously, but I didn’t really feel much difference in hotel prices to be fair. I’ve found it very pleasant to visit Bangkok at this time of the year, ALTHOUGH I must advise: if you’re going to Thailand for the beaches, October and early November are still very wet and cloudy. You can actually check this article where I share a little bit of my experience staying in Phuket.
So, for me, the winner, considering weather and pricing, would be Late March to Early April and Late October to Early November.
How to get to Bangkok?
Bangkok has two international airports: Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) and Don Mueang (DMK). BKK is the main one, where most long-haul flights arrive. It’s big, modern and honestly super smooth to navigate. Yes, it’s a bit far from the center, but nothing dramatic, you can take the Airport Rail Link or just Grab and be fine.
DMK is normally used for domestic and shorter international flights, especially low-cost airlines like AirAsia, Nok Air, Thai Lion, all that. It’s geographically closer to the city center, but don’t be fooled: Bangkok traffic is so intense that sometimes getting out of DMK actually takes the same amount of time as getting out of BKK. So the “closer” thing doesn’t really mean much here.
If you’re already in Southeast Asia, flying into Bangkok is easy and cheap. You’ll find flights from everywhere, Singapore, KL, Hanoi, Saigon, Bali, Manila, you name it. Low-cost airlines operate like crazy, but check luggage rules because they WILL charge you for every extra gram you packed.
Coming from Europe, Middle East or Australia is also simple since Bangkok is a big hub. Emirates, Qatar, Turkish, Thai Airways, all have daily flights and prices are usually better than flying into Tokyo or Singapore.
One thing that people don’t know: you now need to fill out an online arrival card before getting to Thailand. It’s super quick, you just go to the Thai gov website, fill your info, hotel address, passport number and done. Way easier than filling that tiny paper form on the plane.
Immigration depends on the time you land, very few times fast, most times slow, normal big airport stuff. Most nationalities don’t need a visa for short stays, but rules vary, so I still recommend checking with the Thai embassy in your home country to avoid surprises.
My take: pick whatever is cheaper with your prefered airline. There’s no big “strategy” here. Traffic will catch you anyway. And yeah, you can book flights on Booking.com using my affiliate link if you wanna support the blog.
Where to stay in Bangkok?
Bangkok is big, confusing and honestly a little bit overwhelming in the beginning, but that’s part of the charm IMO. Choosing where to stay feels like a mission because each area has a totally different vibe, so let me try to break it down the way I see it, not the “perfect guide” way.
A lot of people will tell you “stay close to BTS or MRT”, and yeah, that helps, but that’s not everything. Me, personally, I already stayed in the Rambuttri area, which is basically right next to Khao San Road, and I really liked it even tho there’s no BTS or MRT anywhere near. The area is super alive, yet super quiet, lots of cafés, restaurants, massages, street food, everything you need in walking distance. It has a more backpacker-local vibe, but in a good way, not that insane mess from Khao San itself.
If you stay around Rambuttri, I really recommend Rambuttri Village Plaza (no, not sponsored). Super affordable, decent enough rooms, rooftop pool (trust me, that helps when it’s +30 degrees at 10am), and the location is very good, in my opnion, you can actually see my review of the place on Booking.com. Even without metro nearby, I didn’t struggle at all, Grab works super well, and if you don’t mind sweating a little bit, you can walk to a lot of things.
Now, if you’re more into convenience, malls, modern stuff and being able to move around fast, then Sukhumvit is obviously the easiest. Asok, Nana, Phrom Phong… all that area is more modern, more tourist-friendly and has both BTS and MRT. It’s pricier but very practical.
Ari is another cool area if you want cafés, nicer restaurants and a more “I could maybe live here one day” feeling. Less touristy, more local, still easy to move around.
So yeah, my take: Rambuttri if you want more culture and chaos in a charming way, Sukhumvit if you want convenience, and Ari if you want something more chill and cute.
How to get around in Bangkok?
You have some options, actually, and I’m gonna list them down bellow, but in reality you’re probably gonna end up using the same 2 or 3 all the time. Bangkok traffic is crazy, like for real, so whatever can avoid you being stuck in a car for 45 minutes to move 1km is already a win.
Grab: that is Asia’s Uber and, in my opinion, the best option to move around Bangkok. You have the option of booking a motorbike ride as well, wich sounds scary at first, but once you try it, you understand why everyone does it. You skip ALL the traffic and you get to places super fast. If you’re brave enought, honestly, just do it. It’s cheap and saves tones of time.
MRT, BTS and buses: MRT and BTS are super clean, super organized and way faster than cars. Only problem is that they don’t reach every part of the city, so depending on where you stay, you might still need a Grab. But whenever you can use them, use them. Buses are… yeah… confusing unless you speak Thai or already know the routes, so unless you really wanna live like a local, I wouldn’t bother. BUT, buses are even cheaper than any other transportation in town. So… your choice.
Ferries and speed boats: this is something a lot of people forget about, but it’s actually super useful. Bangkok has the Chao Phraya river crossing the whole city, and the ferries are cheap, fast and sometimes even easier than using the metro. If you’re staying around Old Town, Khao San, Rambuttri or near the main temples, the ferries are honestly one of the best ways to move around. Just be ready to hold your balance and maybe get splashed a little bit hahaha. The views of the city at night are just another reason for you to try them.
Tuktuks and walking: tuktuks are fun for like 5 minutes, but be ready to negotiate because they WILL overcharge you if you don’t. It’s part of the experience, so maybe do it once and move on with your life. Walking is possible in some areas, but sidewalks in Bangkok are honestly insane sometimes, holes, random steps, everything uneven. So yeah, walking works, but not everywhere.
Taxis: honestly, a big NO NO in my opinion. If you wanna take your chances, go for it, but make sure they turn on the meter. If they don’t, just walk away and get a Grab instead. Way easier, no stress.
Where to eat in Bangkok?
Bangkok is MY food playground. You can eat cheap, you can eat fancy, you can eat at 2 AM, the city doesn’t care. Here are actual places worth your time, most of them visited and approved by me, I must say:
Street Food & Local Classics
Jay Fai (Old Town) — The famous crab-omelet lady with the ski goggles. Pricey for street food, but it’s an experience.
Pad Thai Fai Ta Lu (Din Daeng) — Solid, no-nonsense pad thai. Good for a quick meal without the tourist chaos.
Go-Ang Pratunam Chicken Rice (Pratunam) — Simple, cheap, clean flavor. Perfect “I need something comforting” food.
Kor Panich (Near Rambuttri/Khao San) — Legendary mango sticky rice. Old, traditional, consistent.
Boat Noodle Alley (Victory Monument) — Tiny bowls of noodles so you can try different versions without getting stuffed.
Night Markets & Food Districts
Chinatown (Yaowarat Road) — If you have no idea what to eat, just go here. Grilled seafood, noodles, bao, desserts — everything.
Wang Lang Market (near Siriraj Hospital) — Super local, packed, great for snacks, fried chicken, juices, sweets.
Talat Phlu (Thonburi) — Very local spot. BBQ pork, skewers, rice dishes, soups. Just real Bangkok vibes.
Restaurants (Casual & Mid-Range)
Som Tam Nua (Siam Square) — Papaya salad, fried chicken, sticky rice, classic combo.
Supanniga Eating Room (Thonglor) — Clean, well-made Thai dishes without being expensive-fancy.
Baan (Wireless Road) — Home-style Thai food but well executed.
ERR Urban Rustic Thai (Old Town) — Snacks, fermented meats, stronger flavors.
Raan Khao Gaeng Jek Pui (Chinatown) — The “red chair” curry spot. No tables, you eat wherever you find space.
Cafés & Brunch
Blue Whale Café (Old Town) — Blue latte, tiny café, very cute.
Nana Coffee Roasters (Ari or Chinatown) — Great coffee and pastries. Also, blessed air-con.
Gallery Drip Coffee (Siam) — For coffee people who want proper pour-over.
After You Dessert Café (multiple locations) — Shibuya toast and kakigori. Basic but good.
Casa Lapin (Ari, Thonglor, etc.) — Solid brunch, good coffee, reliable.
On Lok Yun (Old Town) — Old-school Thai breakfast with toast, eggs, condensed milk… that whole vibe.
Areas worth exploring for food
Ari — Young, creative, café heaven.
Thonglor/Ekkamai — Trendy and international, easy to find anything.
Old Town/Rambuttri — Cheap eats, classic Thai dishes, old bakeries.
Quick disclaimer:
Your stomach is probably gonna feel funny at some point. That’s normal. Your body isn’t used to all those new ingredients, oils, spices, fruits, and yeah… different bacterias. It happens. Just stay hydrated, avoid doing a full street-food marathon on your first day, and if you feel like you actually need help, go to a local practitioner. They’ll check you quickly and give you the right pills to get you back on track.
Personally, before travelling to places I know the food is a little bit different from what I'm used to, I get Travelan and Imodium from Amazon. They're cheap and work wonders.
What to visit in Bangkok?
If it’s your first time, you’re probably gonna get overwhelmed pretty fast. The city is chaotic, loud, hot, and kind of amazing at the same time. Here’s what actually makes sense to visit, not just the typical “Instagram checklist”, but places that are worth your time.
Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaew
Yes, it’s touristy. Yes, it’s hot. Yes, you’re gonna sweat like crazy. But it’s still impressive and you should do it once in your life. Go early in the morning or you’ll regret it.
Best way: Grab or a ferry to Tha Chang Pier (way easier than walking from any MRT/BTS).
Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha)
Right next to the Grand Palace. Huge golden Buddha lying on its side. Very chill atmosphere. Also, they have a traditional massage school inside, so if you want a legit Thai massage, this is the place.
Best way: Same as above, ferry to Tha Tien Pier or Grab.
Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)
Across the river, stunning at sunset. You can take a cheap ferry from Tha Tien Pier. The climb is steep, but the view is totally worth it if you’re not scared of stairs.
Best way: Ferry across the river from Tha Tien Pier. Literally 5 Baht.
Chinatown (Yaowarat)
More than a food spot, it’s an experience. Neon lights, people everywhere, shops selling stuff you didn’t even know existed. It’s chaotic, but in a good way.
Best way: MRT to Wat Mangkon Station or Grab if you’re lazy.
Khao San Road & Rambuttri
Look, Khao San is loud, chaotic, backpackery… but it’s fun if you’re in the mood. Rambuttri, right next to it, is way more chill and honestly much nicer. Restaurants, cafés, street food, massages, everything you need for a slow evening.
Best way: Grab. No direct BTS/MRT. Don’t bother trying public transport unless you love walking in 35°C.
Chatuchak Weekend Market
This is where you go to shop basically anything: clothes, plants, snacks, art, souvenirs, jewelry, whatever. But go on the weekend, obviously. It’s huge, so don’t expect to see everything.
Best way: MRT to Kamphaeng Phet or BTS to Mo Chit.
ICONSIAM
One of the most beautiful malls in Asia, period. Also has the indoor floating market (super touristy, but fun). Good mix of luxury brands, food courts, cafés, and river views.
Best way: Free shuttle boat from Saphan Taksin BTS. Easy.
MBK Center
If you’re looking for cheap electronics, souvenirs, random things you didn’t know you needed, this is your place.
Best way: BTS to National Stadium. It’s literally connected to the station.
Lumphini Park
If Bangkok starts melting your brain with all the noise and heat, come here. Morning walks are great, and yes, the giant monitor lizards are real. They won’t bother you.
Best way: MRT to Lumphini or Si Lom.
Ari Neighborhood
Not a “tourist attraction”, but honestly one of the best areas in Bangkok to just wander around. Cute cafés, brunch places, restaurants, and a calmer vibe. You can easily spend half a day here.
Best way: BTS to Ari.
Jim Thompson House
If you like architecture or history, this is a beautiful traditional Thai house turned into a museum. Quick visit, easy to reach, very pretty.
Best way: BTS to National Stadium, then walk 5–10 minutes.
Erawan Shrine
Small but culturally important. Usually packed with locals praying, dancers performing traditional routines, and worshippers making offerings. Super interesting energy.
Best way: BTS to Chit Lom.
Talat Noi
Underrated. Old buildings, street art, tiny alleys, cafés, riverside views. Perfect for photos without the crowd of Instagram hotspots.
Best way: MRT to Wat Mangkon or Hua Lamphong, then walk.
Asiatique The Riverfront
Tourist-oriented, yes, but the river breeze is amazing at night. Shops, restaurants, and the Ferris wheel if you’re into that.
Best way: Free shuttle boat from Saphan Taksin BTS.
Chao Phraya River Tour
You don’t need to book an expensive boat tour. Just get on the regular orange flag boat and ride along the river. Cheap, easy, and you get a whole new view of Bangkok.
Best way: BTS to Saphan Taksin, hop on the boat.
Floating Markets (but choose wisely!)
Damnoen Saduak — tourist trap, but if you want the “classic” photo, go.
Amphawa — more local, better at night.
Taling Chan — closer to the city and way more authentic.
Ayutthaya (if you want to go further)
Not technically Bangkok but close enough. Old ruins, temples, history. If you have a full extra day, it’s worth it.
Best way: Train from Hua Lamphong or a day tour.
What to avoid in Bangkok?
Bangkok is safe, but some things are just not worth your time (or money).
Taxis without meter — they WILL scam you.
Ping pong shows — overpriced, sketchy, tourist trap vibes, just don’t.
Random people telling you “the temple is closed”, it’s not closed, they just want to take you somewhere else. Ignore and keep walking.
Drinking tap water — no.
Overpaying for tuktuks — if the price sounds too high, it is.
I’ve been using Nomad Insurance on my previous trips, and even though I’ve thankfully never had to use it, they’ve always been very attentive and responsive. That’s why I recommend them and their pricing is solid too.
EXTRA: Short getways from Bangkok that are worth the visit:
If you want to take a break from the chaos of the city, here are some super easy day trips or short escapes:
Ayutthaya: old temples, ruins, super chill, easy to get by train.
Kanchanaburi: nature, waterfalls, the famous Death Railway, a calmer vibe overall.
Hua Hin: beach town, good food, nice for a chilled weekend.
Pattaya: closer to Bangkok, not the most beautiful beach ever but good for a quick escape.
Koh Samet: if you want beach-but-not-ready-to-fly-to-Phuket beach, this is the one. Easy to reach and the water is super nice.
EXTRA 2: Bangkok for LGBTQ+ Travelers
Silom: the gay neighborhood (basically)
Silom Soi 2 and 4 are where things happen:
Silom Soi 2 → clubs, DJs, loud music, sweat, fun.
Silom Soi 4 → outdoor tables, cocktails, drag shows, perfect for people-watching.
Start at 4, end at 2. That’s the classic combo.
Places worth knowing:
Telephone Pub (Soi 4): easy-going drinks spot.
The Stranger Bar (Soi 4): drag shows almost every night, super fun.
DJ Station (Soi 2): the iconic after-midnight chaos.
Barber Bar: hidden gem. Good drinks, cute people, relaxed vibe.
Saunas & spas
Bangkok has a ton, but quality really depends on the place.
1-0 Sauna: clean, modern, young crowd, and honestly one of the most popular ones right now. If you want something that doesn’t feel sketchy or outdated, this is the one I’d recommend first.
Other saunas exist, but some feel very “early 2000s energy”, so be selective.
Drag shows
Thailand loves drag. You’ll find shows in random malls, bars, rooftops, markets — it’s everywhere. Don’t overthink it, just go to one.
Safety
Very safe. Nobody cares what you’re doing. Common sense still applies because it’s a big city, but overall the vibe is super relaxed. Just remmeber to be respectful.
Grindr and similars
If that’s your thing, well… you’ll see. Bangkok is active. Let’s leave it at that.
Queer-friendly chill areas
Neighborhoods like Ari, Thonglor, Ekkamai, and even Phrom Phong have cafés and restaurants full of LGBTQ+ locals and expats just living their lives. No weird looks, no drama.
Pride
Pride in Bangkok gets bigger every year. Concerts, parties, parades, the whole deal. If you’re around in June, it’s a fun time to be here.
Extra 3: my personal must-have travel gear (prices as of Dec 2025)
My 60 liters backpack - 41 USD
Lightweight Rain Poncho - 16 USD
Portable Wireless Power Bank - 80 USD
Multi Charging Cable - 10 USD
Apple AirTag 4 Pack (you can also get any other smart tracker) - 65 USD
Noise Cancelling Ear Plugs - 36 USD
Collapsible Water Bottle - 38 USD
Memory Foam Travel Pillow - 14 USD
Universal Plug Adapter - 43 USD
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