Welcome to Bangkok: The City of Angels
Bangkok, Thailand's vibrant capital, is a city of contrasts where ancient temples stand alongside modern skyscrapers, and serene spiritual spaces coexist with bustling street markets. From mouthwatering street food adventures to magnificent temple tours and exciting night market explorations, Bangkok offers an unforgettable sensory experience. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the city's culinary delights, cultural treasures, and shopping paradises like a true local.
Best Time to Visit Bangkok
Bangkok has a tropical climate with three distinct seasons. The best time to visit is during the cool season (November-February) when temperatures are pleasant and rainfall is minimal. The hot season (March-June) can be extremely warm, while the rainy season (July-October) brings frequent showers but also lush greenery and fewer tourists.
Bangkok Weather Overview
| Season | Months | Weather Conditions | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cool Season Best | November - February | Pleasant temperatures, low humidity, little rain | Ideal for temple tours, outdoor activities, festivals |
| Hot Season | March - June | Very hot, high humidity, occasional storms | Songkran Water Festival (April), great for mall hopping |
| Rainy Season | July - October | Frequent rain, high humidity, lush greenery | Fewer tourists, lower prices, vibrant green landscapes |
Incredible Street Food Adventures Food
Bangkok is arguably the street food capital of the world, with vendors serving delicious, affordable meals on virtually every corner. The city's culinary scene is a highlight for any visitor.
Must-Try Street Foods
Pad Thai
Thailand's most famous export - stir-fried rice noodles with eggs, tofu, shrimp, and crushed peanuts. Look for vendors with long queues for the best versions.
Where to try: Thip Samai (Phra Nakhon), Pad Thai Fai Ta Lu (Chinatown)
Som Tum (Green Papaya Salad)
Spicy salad made from shredded unripe papaya mixed with chili, lime, fish sauce, and various other ingredients. Can be adjusted for spice level.
Where to try: Any street vendor in the Pratunam area
Moo Ping (Grilled Pork Skewers)
Marinated pork grilled over charcoal and served with sticky rice. The perfect quick snack while exploring the city.
Where to try: Morning vendors near BTS stations
Khao Niao Mamuang (Mango Sticky Rice)
Sweet dessert of ripe mango served with sticky rice and coconut milk. A perfect treat to cool down from Bangkok's heat.
Where to try: Mae Varee Fruit Shop (Thong Lo), street vendors in season (April-June)
Best Street Food Areas
- Chinatown (Yaowarat): The ultimate street food destination, especially in the evening
- Khao San Road: Tourist-friendly with diverse options and international foods
- Pratunam Market: Great for breakfast and morning snacks
- Soi 38 (Thong Lo): Famous evening food street with local favorites
- Wang Lang Market: Authentic local market near Siriraj Hospital
Bangkok's vibrant street food scene - a culinary adventure on every corner
Skilled street food vendors preparing delicious meals right before your eyes
Magnificent Temples Culture
Bangkok is home to over 400 temples (wats) that showcase Thailand's rich Buddhist heritage and architectural splendor.
Must-Visit Temples
Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha)
Located within the Grand Palace complex, this is Thailand's most sacred temple housing the small but highly revered Emerald Buddha statue.
Highlights: Emerald Buddha, intricate murals, stunning architecture
Tips: Dress modestly (cover shoulders and knees), arrive early to avoid crowds
Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)
Iconic temple on the Chao Phraya River known for its magnificent prang (tower) decorated with colorful porcelain.
Highlights: Central prang, river views, especially beautiful at sunset
Tips: Best visited in late afternoon, climb the steep steps for panoramic views
Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha)
Home to the enormous 46-meter long Reclining Buddha and considered the birthplace of traditional Thai massage.
Highlights: Reclining Buddha, massage school, intricate chedis
Tips: Try a traditional Thai massage at the temple's massage school
Temple Etiquette
- Dress modestly - cover shoulders and knees (sarongs available for rent at major temples)
- Remove shoes before entering temple buildings
- Speak quietly and behave respectfully
- Don't point your feet at Buddha images (considered disrespectful)
- Women should not touch monks or hand things directly to them
- Ask permission before taking photos of people, especially monks
Vibrant Night Markets Shopping
Bangkok's night markets offer everything from fashion and handicrafts to street food and entertainment. They come alive after sunset and are a quintessential Bangkok experience.
Chatuchak Weekend Market
One of the world's largest weekend markets with over 15,000 stalls selling everything imaginable. A must-visit for serious shoppers.
Open: Saturdays and Sundays 9am-6pm (some sections Friday night)
Highlights: Clothing, handicrafts, pets, plants, antiques
Rod Fai Market (Train Market Srinakarin)
Vintage and retro market with a nostalgic atmosphere, selling antiques, collectibles, and unique fashion alongside great food and bars.
Open: Thursday-Sunday 5pm-1am
Highlights: Vintage items, classic cars, live music, unique bars
Asiatique The Riverfront
Combining night market shopping with a beautiful riverfront location, Asiatique offers a more comfortable, organized market experience.
Open: Daily 4pm-midnight
Highlights: River views, Calypso Cabaret, Muay Thai shows, diverse dining
Talad Rot Fai (Train Market Ratchada)
The more central version of the train market, famous for its vibrant atmosphere, vintage goods, and Instagram-friendly backdrop of colorful tents.
Open: Tuesday-Sunday 5pm-1am
Highlights: Vintage clothing, collectibles, street food, photogenic setting
Bangkok's vibrant night markets come alive after sunset with shopping and dining
Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) beautifully illuminated at night
Where to Stay in Bangkok
Bangkok offers accommodations for every budget, from luxury riverside hotels to affordable hostels. Here are our top recommendations by area:
Luxury Hotels
The Peninsula Bangkok
Luxury riverfront hotel offering stunning views, exceptional service, and three outdoor pools. Located on the quieter Thonburi side of the river.
From ฿8,500/night
Check Availability
Mandarin Oriental Bangkok
Historic luxury hotel with legendary service, beautiful riverside location, and exquisite dining options. A Bangkok institution since 1876.
From ฿12,000/night
Check AvailabilityBoutique Hotels
Ariyasom Villa
Charming boutique hotel in a restored 1940s mansion with lush gardens and a saltwater pool. Located near BTS Phloen Chit station.
From ฿4,500/night
Check AvailabilityPractical Information
Getting Around
Bangkok's BTS Skytrain and MRT subway are efficient ways to avoid traffic. Taxis and ride-sharing services (Grab) are affordable. Tuk-tuks offer a fun (if touristy) experience. River boats provide scenic transport along the Chao Phraya River.
Money-Saving Tips
- Use public transportation instead of taxis during rush hours
- Eat street food for authentic, affordable meals
- Visit temples early to avoid crowds and heat
- Bargain politely at markets (except fixed-price stores)
- Drink tap water only if boiled or filtered (bottled water is inexpensive)
- Take advantage of free attractions like public parks and temple grounds
Essential Thai Phrases
- Hello/Goodbye: สวัสดี (Sawasdee) + khrap (male) / kha (female)
- Thank you: ขอบคุณ (Khop khun) + khrap/kha
- How much?: เท่าไหร่ (Tao rai?)
- Delicious: อร่อย (A-roi)
- Too spicy: เผ็ดเกินไป (Phet goen bpai)
- Can you reduce the price?: ลดหน่อยได้ไหม (Lot noi dai mai?)
Quick Facts
- Currency: Thai Baht (฿)
- Population: 10.7 million
- Language: Thai (English in tourist areas)
- Best Time to Visit: November - February
- Time Zone: ICT (UTC+7)
- Emergency Number: 191 (Police), 1669 (Ambulance)
Top Experiences
- Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew
- Street food tour in Chinatown
- Chatuchak Weekend Market
- Chao Phraya River cruise
- Wat Arun at sunset
- Traditional Thai massage
- Rooftop bar experience
Temple Opening Hours
- Wat Phra Kaew: 8:30am-3:30pm daily
- Wat Arun: 8am-6pm daily
- Wat Pho: 8am-6:30pm daily
- Wat Saket: 7:30am-7pm daily
- Most temples: 8am-5pm daily
Recommended Tours
Street Food Tour - Taste authentic Thai flavors
Guided food tour through Bangkok's best street food areas with a local food expert.
View Tour
Temple Tour - Discover Bangkok's spiritual side
Visit the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun with an expert guide.
View TourStreet Food Safety Tips
- Choose vendors with high turnover (long queues are a good sign)
- Make sure food is cooked fresh in front of you
- Watch how the vendor handles money and food (should use different hands)
- Start with milder dishes if you're not used to spicy food
- Drink bottled water and avoid ice unless it's tubular (commercially made)
- Carry hand sanitizer for before and after eating
Local Customs
- The King and Royal Family are highly respected - never disrespect them
- Wai (pressing palms together) is the traditional greeting
- The head is considered sacred - don't touch people's heads
- Feet are considered the lowest part - don't point them at people or Buddha images
- Public displays of affection are generally frowned upon
- Always remove shoes before entering homes and temples