Is Bangkok worth visiting? 10 Reasons why visit Bangkok

If you are planning a trip to Southeast Asia, chances are that you will land in Bangkok. Well, this is the entry point for everyone visiting Thailand. But, Is Bangkok worth visiting? With the increase in flights, many just pass by the Thai Capital and straightaway hop on another flight to the beaches of the south, the islands or the night train to Chiang Mai. However, we believe that Bangkok is worth more than just a stepover.

This guide will take you through some of the best reasons for visiting Bangkok. We tried to answer the question correctly: is it worth visiting Bangkok? As avid travellers, having been about 8 months on the road in Asia, we can confidently answer. Yes, Bangkok is worth visiting.

10 Reasons why book a Flight to Bangkok

What is the best time to visit Bangkok?

The best time to visit Bangkok is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During this time, the weather is dry and cool, making it perfect for exploring the city. However, this is also peak tourist season, so expect crowds and higher prices. If you prefer to avoid crowds, consider visiting during the rainy season (May to October), when there are fewer tourists and prices are lower. Just be prepared for the occasional downpour.

Bangkok’s seasonal temperatures breakdown

Below you will find a small brief on how temperatures vary:

Check out the weather forecast and temperature in advance to better pack. We can’t forget May 2023 with the record heatwave, which placed us in our hotel room during the day, every day for a week, because outside the temperature feel was 41°C.

Chapters

How to get around Bangkok

TAXI

You can easily roam around Bangkok using a taxi, instantly booking one using the various applications. We suggest using Bolt, as it proves to be cheaper than Grab. We spent 120 Thai Baht, or roughly £2.80, to get from the Bangkok airport to our lodging. Mind that by taking a taxi and going on a toll road, you must pay the fare to pass the block.

After spending a few days seeing Bangkok, we realised there is a perfect and less expensive method to travel around. You can save a lot of money by flagging down a taxi on the street and asking them to turn on the metre. Though not all of them will agree, if you keep trying, you’ll discover how much less expensive it is than Bolt or Grab.

TUK-TUK

One of the most popular ways to get around Bangkok is by tuk-tuk. Exploring Bangkok in one day, you can experience the vibes of taking a tuk-tuk and running through the streets of the chaotic Thai Capital. Of course, the fare is higher than taxis, but the experience is unique.

SCOOTERS

You can get a scooter, the same way you book a taxi. Hop on the back of a scooter is a popular way to get around everywhere in Asia. The safest way is to book your ride through Grab or Bolt, both apps you can download on your phone. The scooter is the easiest way to tackle Bangkok traffic and get faster to your destination. So if you are a solo traveller trying to squeeze as much as possible in your Bangkok one-day itinerary, taking scooters is the easiest and most convenient way to get around Bangkok.

FOOT

Despite our love for walking, Bangkok’s vastness, heat, and humidity can be challenging for everyone. At the same time, it’s possible to walk in certain areas while sightseeing; it’s recommended that you use a mix of transportation options such as tuk-tuks, taxis, sky trains, and boats, especially if you only have one day in Bangkok and need to visit multiple places. This allows you to move around quickly and efficiently without getting too tired or overheating.

BOAT

One of the most unique and refreshing ways to get around Bangkok is by boat. There are two different types of boats available: the Hop-on Hop-off boat, which costs 30 THB per person (equivalent to £0.70), and the Express Boat, which costs 16 THB (equivalent to £0.38). The Hop-on Hop-off boat makes stops at major landmarks and costs approximately 150 THB.

Why Is Bangkok Worth Visiting?

10 Reasons why visit Bangkok!

Rich Cultural Heritage

Bangkok amused us. Among our reasons why Bangkok is worth visiting, the rich cultural heritage stands on top. Thailand boasts a splendid cultural heritage that has been preserved over the centuries. You can read stories of Bangkok written by the most inspiring travellers of every époque.

We are delighted by Marco Polo, of course. Anyone who visits Bangkok can immerse themselves in the magnificence of the city’s past by exploring its historical landmarks, such as the Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew, and Wat Arun. These awe-inspiring temples are a testament to the intricate artistry and design of Thai architecture.

Furthermore, Bangkok is teeming with museums, art galleries, and cultural centres that offer visitors a glimpse into the city’s diverse cultural heritage. You can easily spend one week in Bangkok and still miss some sightseeing. From the unique Chinatown to Talanoi Street in the old quarter to the little Tao Temples pinned everywhere in the suburbs.

Vibrant Street Life

Somebody says that Bangkok is a city that never sleeps. The streets are always buzzing with energy, day and night, and you will never get bored. Actually, you might get lost. But that’s another story. Spending even just one day in Bangkok, you can feel the energy and experience its vibrant street life by taking a stroll through its bustling neighbourhoods such as Chinatown, Khao San Road, and Sukhumvit.

These areas are known for their lively street markets, food stalls, and nightlife. Visitors can also explore the city’s many street art displays, adding colour and creativity to the city’s bustling streets.

Delicious Food

Of course, we couldn’t miss the incredible food on our list of reasons to visit Bangkok. Bangkok is a food lover’s paradise. The city is famous for its delicious street food that is both affordable and authentic. You must savour the city’s unique culinary offerings by visiting at least one food market.

Some of the most exciting markets in Bangkok are Chatuchak Market, Tor Kor Market, and the Rot Fai Night Market (by far our favourite). These markets offer a wide range of delicious Thai dishes such as Pad Thai, Tom Yum Goong, and Green Curry, as well as street snacks like mango sticky rice and coconut ice cream.

Affordable Prices

One of the most appealing aspects of Bangkok is its affordability. We spent nothing (for Europe, USA and Australia standards) staying in Bangkok for over a week. Our budget tracker says just 300£ or a little more for the two of us, including accommodation, eating out, temple entrance and transportation.

The city offers excellent value for money, making it an ideal destination for budget travellers. Visitors can enjoy comfortable accommodation, delicious food, and transportation at very affordable prices. Moreover, the city offers many free or low-cost attractions, including public parks, museums, and temples.

Best temples in Thailand

Bangkok is home to some of the most magnificent temples in Thailand, each with its unique architectural style and cultural significance. However, we are still impressed by some of the most instagrammable photos in Bangkok taken at Wat Arun.

The most famous temple in Bangkok is, of course, Wat Phra Kaew, which houses the revered Emerald Buddha and is connected to the Grand Palace. However, this is the most expensive activity in Bangkok. Other famous temples include Wat Pho, known for its giant reclining Buddha statue, and Wat Arun, famous for its impressive Khmer-style tower.

5 Temples you must visit in Bangkok

Bangkok is a city filled with beautiful and historic temples, each offering a unique cultural experience. Here are some of the best temples in Bangkok that you should definitely visit:

Visiting these temples is a great way to immerse yourself in Thai culture and learn about the country’s rich history and traditions.

Hub to Fly everywhere in Asia

We found ourselves flying to Bangkok quite often while travelling in South East Asia for 8 months. Well, sometimes it was just a layover or for the night. Bangkok is among Asia’s busiest hubs for air travel, making it an ideal gateway to explore the whole continent.

There are two major airports in Bangkok, Suvarnabhumi Airport and Don Mueang International Airport, which offer a wide range of flights to destinations across Asia. We found our cheapest flight from London to Bangkok and then flew back to Abu Dhabi. However, you have quick and frequent connections with other places such as Bali, Singapore, and Hong Kong, Hanoi from Bangkok.

Large Expat community

On the first day in Bangkok, we had the pleasure of meeting a friend and other expats. We were pleased to learn that Bangkok has a large expat community, making it an excellent place for digital nomads. So we might understand why many people decide to spend some time or years living in Bangkok.

Travelling through Asia, you will discover that Bangkok has everything you want from a city. But well, you still have to deal with the traffic and pollution, and it is not so easy to find the right place to live. Apart from The city offers a range of amenities and services for expats, including international schools, hospitals, and shopping centres.

If you are considering Bangkok as a place to spend your days working from abroad, consider exploring expat-friendly areas such as Thonglor and Ekkamai.

Fabulous night markets

Bangkok is too hot during the day, so it is best to live at night. We agree with this saying; in fact, Bangkok’s night markets are a must-visit for anyone visiting the city. There are countless markets in Bangkok, offering unique and diverse shopping and dining experiences.

In addition, visiting a market in Bangkok might change your perception of Asia, as it is a quintessentially Thai experience. The most popular night markets in Bangkok include the Rot Fai Night Market, Talad Neon Night Market, and the Train Night Market. These markets offer a range of goods, including clothes, souvenirs, handicrafts, and delicious street food.

Smiley people

Thailand is well known as the land of smiles. There is a reason behind this resonating slogan. Thai people are known for their friendly and welcoming nature, and Bangkok is no exception. We found similarities to Balinese people while staying in Bali for over two months.

Roaming around the streets of Bangkok, you’ll be greeted with smiles and warmth. This is not just a formality because they want to sell you something, it’s their nature, and you will start to appreciate your way of life. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveller, the hospitality of the Thai people is sure to make your trip to Bangkok a memorable one.

The view of the city from the river

If you are looking for the cheapest way to get around Bangkok, getting a public ferry up and down the Chao Phraya River is what you need. Also, taking a boat is the fastest way to get to the congested central routes of Bangkok. 

The Chao Phraya River flows through the city’s heart and is lined with many of the city’s most famous landmarks, including the Grand Palace and Wat Arun. This is a cheap way to see Bangkok from a different point of view.

Apart from the crowded public boat, you can go on a cruise on the Chao Phraya, even in the evening, making it one of the most romantic things to do in Bangkok.

Traditional Thai Massages

Every time we return to Thailand, we look for the best place for a Thai massage. The tip is: If you are travelling to Bangkok any time soon, check out this Thai Massage Package. Make sure you book in advance and enjoy the relaxing atmosphere.

It’s well known that Bangkok is home to some of the best traditional Thai massage spas in the world. Thai massage is an ancient healing art that combines yoga-like stretches with deep-tissue massage. It’s a great way to relax and unwind after a long day of sightseeing or shopping.

Best rooftop bars

The Bangkok skyline at sunset is memorable. The capital of Thailand has some of the best rooftop bars in the world, offering stunning views of the city skyline. The most popular is the Sky Bar, with its dome, which was part of the scenes of Hangover II. We also visited the opposite and newest Bangkok, Mahanakhon.

It was hard to get in, as every day from 4 PM, people queue to get to the top and enjoy the sunset. These are just some of the best rooftops in Bangkok, but you might also consider the Vertigo and Moon Bar at the Banyan Tree Hotel and the Octave Rooftop Lounge and Bar at the Marriott Hotel. These rooftop bars are the perfect place to enjoy a cocktail and take in the stunning views of the city at night.

How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Bangkok

Visit the Temples

No visit to Bangkok is complete without a visit to at least a few of the city’s temples. Make sure to dress appropriately (covering your shoulders and knees) and bring a hat and sunscreen for the hot sun. Don’t miss the opportunity to see the famous reclining Buddha at Wat Pho, the stunning architecture of Wat Arun, and the elaborate mosaics at Wat Benchamabophit.

Experience the Street Food

Thai street food is everywhere in Bangkok and is freshly made. After all, Bangkok has the world’s most renowned street food stall, which is awarded a Michelin star. From pad Thai to mango sticky rice to fresh seafood, you’ll find plenty of delicious options to try. Also, make sure to try some of the local specialities like grilled pork skewers, som tam (spicy papaya salad), and khao man gai (chicken rice).

Explore the craft markets

Spending a few days in Bangkok, you will get used to the bustling markets. From the fantastic picturesque traditional floating markets to modern shopping malls, the best city in Thailand has it all. During the weekend, you can’t miss visiting the Chatuchak Weekend Market.

This is one of the largest markets in the world, with over 8,000 stalls selling everything from clothing to handicrafts to food. At night instead, head to Rot Fai Market or the Asiatique (more touristy, not much traditional), which are also great places to experience Bangkok’s street life and pick up some souvenirs.

Take a Boat Ride

We have already mentioned the boat ride along the Chao Phraya River. It is better to reiterate. Getting on a cruise in Bangkok is the best present for your other half, watching the lights of Bangkok and the landscape from a different perspective.

If during the day you take public transport, at night, opt for a private tour that includes stops at some of the city’s most famous landmarks. Don’t miss the chance to see the iconic Wat Arun. It will feel unreal.

Watch a Traditional Thai Performance

If you want to experience traditional Thai culture, don’t miss the chance to see a traditional Thai dance or music performance. The Siam Niramit show is one of the most popular, with elaborate costumes and sets that showcase Thailand’s rich history and culture.

Have a blast at Khao San Road at night

The first place we stayed in Bangkok was a couple of streets down to Khao San Road. It is a fantastic way to introduce everyone to Asia. During the day, it was a calm, regular street, but at night it changed the skin thoroughly.

After dusk, the 500 metres of Khao San Road are wild, with bars attracting travellers inside for a few shots, sucking them into a vortex for a unique night in Bangkok and spitting them out in the morning the day after. Well, it is not just like that; we enjoyed a few drinks on Khao San Road, jumping from club to club, and having one of the best nights in Bangkok. The prices are pretty affordable, and this is the backpacker’s street of Bangkok.

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You can afford luxury hotels for a very cheap price

The competitive rates of Asia attracted us to skip winter in London and fly one way to Bangkok. Thailand is well known for its affordable lifestyle, and so you can get the most luxury hotels for a reasonable price. We are talking about £50 for a phenomenal hotel suite on a skyscraper with the best view of Bangkok. Check out below some of the most luxurious hotels in Bangkok for less than £100.

Medical Tourism

We didn’t know that before visiting Bangkok. Thailand is well known for high-tech medical treatments in every field. Apart from regular beach travellers, a wide range of people are coming to Bangkok to get the best services in hospitals and clinics. In Bangkok, you can have treatment for a fraction of the price of the Western world. 

Where to stay in Bangkok

There are countless accommodation options in Bangkok, ranging from budget hostels to luxury hotels. Some of the most popular areas to stay in include the old town, where you’ll find many of the city’s historic temples and palaces, and the Sukhumvit area, which is known for its nightlife and shopping.

The second is the most linked with the rest of Bangkok using the famous sky train. However, we also stayed nearby Koh San Road, which is reachable using public boat transport. In fact, if you are looking for a more local experience at an affordable price, consider staying in the Khao San Road area, which is popular with backpackers and budget travellers.

Things to know before travelling to Bangkok

Thailand Visa

Travelling to Thailand has become quite straightforward. From the beginning of 2023, most of the countries can enter Thailand, only requesting a visa on arrival. Passport holders from the EU, the United Kingdom, or the United States, like us, have 30 days guaranteed to explore the land of smiles.

You don’t have to do anything before your trip apart from filling out the arrival card and ensuring an outbound flight. A visa may be obtained upon arrival, giving up to 30 days, regardless of your bookings.

If you want to stay in Thailand for longer than 30 days provided by your visa on arrival, you may extend while in the country for only $30 for an additional 30 days. It is required to provide your passport and two photos.

Cash is king in Thailand

Even though Thailand is getting cashless more and more if you plan to shop at markets or local places, withdraw cash. While exploring Thailand, we looked to find ATMs without charging fees. However, all the banks in Thailand charge a fee of 220 baht regardless of your withdrawal. Therefore, check the yellow Krunsgri Bank, which allows you to get 30,000 Baht at once. Taking the max out of the ATM might reduce the impact of the fee on the overall amount.

TIP | No minimum purchase amount is required at the local 7-Eleven, which accepts cards. You might find other places accepting cards; however, they sometimes charge 3% extras.

Thailand Travel Insurance

If you’re planning a trip to Asia, it’s essential to consider purchasing travel insurance, especially when visiting a country like Thailand. While Thailand is known for its beautiful beaches, delicious cuisine, and friendly locals, it’s always better to be prepared for the unexpected.

Travel insurance can provide you with peace of mind and financial protection in case of unexpected emergencies, such as accidents, medical emergencies, or trip cancellations. Hey Mondo and Safety Wings are two great options for travel insurance that cover a wide range of travel-related risks, including medical expenses, theft, and personal liability.

Investing in travel insurance not only protects you but also protects your loved ones and ensures you have a stress-free and enjoyable trip. Don’t let unexpected incidents ruin your vacation; get travel insurance and have the peace of mind you deserve!

Hey Mondo | COVID-19 coverage, medical expenses and total travel costs. A fantastic app with 24-hour medical care and no extra charges. You can save 5% on your insurance by booking through our link.

SafetyWing | COVID-19 coverage, comprehensive travel & medical, and insurance can be purchased while travelling for digital nomads.

FAQ IS BANGKOK WORTH VISITING?

How many days should I spend in Bangkok?

We suggest staying in Bangkok for anything between 3 to 5 days. The city is vast, and it is impossible to see everything in just one visit to Bangkok. There are so many things to do in the Thai Capital, but you must also account for the heat and the crowds that might slow down your visit.

One week in Bangkok in a nice condo with a pool and amenities might be perfect for a little retreat in Thailand or getting to other destinations afterwards.

Is Bangkok a good tourist destination?

Yes. Bangkok is one of the best cities in South East Asia. International travellers, and alone, love the Thai Capital; Thailand accounted for between 25 and 30 million tourists in 2023.

Which is better, Bangkok or Phuket?

Wandering where to go, Phuket or Bangkok? Well, both locations are totally different, from cultural heritage to accommodation budget, food and beach opportunities. However, Bangkok is a bigger and more city, while Phuket is more like a spread village with lovely beaches and cheap local places.

What is so special about Bangkok?

Bangkok is Thailand’s capital and the country’s most active centre. It is a leading city and trading centre of South East Asia, located on both banks of the Chao Phraya River. Bangkok is unmissable on every backpacking guide to Southeast Asia, and it might be the entry point for travellers.

Is it worth stopping in Bangkok?

Yes. Bangkok is always a good idea. Even though the city is too crowded and very hot, you will surely enjoy the cultural heritage, lovely temples and the nightlife. Bangkok has the trait of the Western world in some ways with peculiarities of the traditional Thai lifestyle.

Is Bangkok too long for a week?

We spent one week in Bangkok once we arrived in Asia, which was well spent. However, seven days in Bangkok went so quickly, and we still missed some hidden gems. Definitely, 7 days in Bangkok are enough time to soak into local traditions, visit the temples, and make the most of the nightlife.