If you’re going to Thailand, your trip will probably start in Bangkok. This bustling city divides travelers: some fall under the spell of its overflowing energy, while others can’t wait to leave the hustle and bustle to explore the mountainous north or relax on paradise beaches.
But Bangkok has much more to offer than just a starting point. The capital is a true immersion in Thai culture, with its majestic temples, tasty street food and teeming markets. Whether you spend a day here before moving on, or opt for a 2-3 day stay to get to grips with its unique pace, Bangkok is well worth taking the time to discover.
Here’s a selection of must-sees when exploring Thailand’s capital.
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Practical Information
How to get to Bangkok
Bangkok’s main airport, Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK), is one of Southeast Asia’s most important international hubs. Thanks to its strategic position, it welcomes direct flights from major cities in Europe, Asia and beyond, facilitating access to Thailand. From Brussels, it takes around 11 hours to fly direct to Bangkok. Airlines such as Thai Airways, Qatar Airways, Emirates and Turkish Airlines also offer itineraries with a stopover, often at competitive rates.
Once you arrive at Suvarnabhumi Airport, you have several options for getting to downtown Bangkok:
- The Airport Rail Link is an aerial train line that links the airport directly to Phaya Thai station in the city center.
- Duration: Approx. 30 minutes.
- Price: Between THB 15 and 45 depending on distance.
- Benefits: Avoid traffic jams, especially during rush hour.
- Numerous official cabs are readily available at the terminal exits. To take advantage of them, go to the dedicated counter, where you’ll be given a ticket with the number of your assigned cab. This system guarantees organized, reliable service.
- Average fare: Between THB 400 and 600, depending on destination and traffic (tolls extra). Don’t forget to check that the driver activates his meter!
- Buses run from the airport to various parts of Bangkok, but this is less convenient if you’re loaded or in a hurry.
- Various VTC services, such as Grab or Bolt, allow you to book a car or scooter directly from your smartphone. Convenient and often affordable, these options are ideal for fast transportation tailored to your needs.
- Average price: THB 300-500.
If you’re already in Thailand, Bangkok is a must for your travels around the country. Whether you’re traveling by train or bus, the capital is easily accessible from all regions. Because of its central location, it’s highly likely that you’ll pass through Bangkok again in transit, especially if you’re exploring both the north, with its mountains and temples, and the south, famous for its heavenly beaches.
Getting around Bangkok
Vast and bustling, Bangkok can at first impress with its constant effervescence and frenetic pace. Yet, thanks to its many varied and accessible means of transport, it quickly becomes an easy city to get around, offering a multitude of ways to explore its contrasting neighborhoods.
The BTS Skytrain and MRT Underground are the most convenient means of getting around Bangkok quickly and avoiding traffic jams. The main stations are often connected to shopping centers, tourist attractions or other means of transport (boats, buses).
- The BTS Skytrain comprises two main lines: the Sukhumvit line (light green) and the Silom line (dark green).
- The MRT serves two lines: the circular blue line, which runs through the city center, and the violet line, which connects the north-western suburbs.
- Timetable: 6:00 a.m. to midnight, with trains every 3 to 8 minutes depending on the time of day.
- Fares: Tickets range from 16 to 59 THB, depending on distance. The BTS offers day passes (approx. 140 THB), ideal for unlimited travel during the day.
Emblematic of Bangkok, tuk-tuks are ideal for short journeys and local experiences. These small, unmetered three-wheeled vehicles require you to negotiate the fare before boarding. Fares generally vary between 100 and 300 THB, depending on the distance and your negotiating skills.
Cabs, ubiquitous in Bangkok, are an affordable option, especially for medium to long-distance journeys. Make sure the driver activates the meter to avoid inflated fares, or negotiate a fixed fare before setting off if this is not the case. To avoid traffic jams, it’s best to travel outside rush hour. The basic fare starts at 35 THB, then works up to around 5 to 10 THB per kilometer, with tolls payable by the passenger if you take a freeway.
The Chao Phraya River runs through Bangkok, providing a convenient route for visiting major tourist attractions such as the Grand Palace, Wat Arun and the Flower Market. Several options are available, with express boats linking the main attractions, and more comfortable sightseeing boats equipped with English-language audio guides (approx. 60 THB). Fares vary from THB 15 to THB 40 for the express boats, depending on the distance covered. Departures are frequent, with times ranging from 6:00 a.m. to around 7:30 p.m.
Transport apps like Grab or Bolt are handy for booking a car or scooter in just a few clicks. Simply download the app, enter your destination and choose from the available options (car, scooter, shared car). Rates are displayed in advance and include any toll charges. These services are generally similar to conventional cabs, but often offer greater reliability in terms of price, with Bolt being slightly cheaper than Grab.
What to see and do in Bangkok
Bangkok is brimming with cultural highlights that bear witness to its rich historical and spiritual heritage. These include the Grand Palace, Wat Arun and Wat Pho, as well as the Bangkok National Museum and Jim Thompson House.
Visit Bangkok’s temples
The Grand Palais
Bangkok’s Grand Palace, built in 1782 by King Rama I, founder of the Chakri dynasty, is one of the Thai capital’s most emblematic monuments. Originally a royal residence and administrative center, it now houses several important temples and buildings, as well as being a symbol of the Thai monarchy. Over the years, the palace has been enlarged and renovated by various rulers, incorporating Thai, European and Chinese architectural influences. Although no longer the official residence of the royal family, the Grand Palace remains a sacred site, a must-see for all visitors to Bangkok.
Vast and majestic, the Grand Palace boasts several impressive buildings and structures to explore. Wat Phra Kaew, or Temple of the Emerald Buddha, is Thailand’s most sacred temple. It houses the famous Emerald Buddha statue, carved from a block of jade and considered the protector of the country. The Phra Maha Montien, the palace’s main building, is distinguished by its gilded halls and imposing statues, symbols of royal grandeur. The Dusit Maha Prasat Throne Hall, once used for royal ceremonies, features a multi-level roof and exceptional architecture. A large mural also decorates the walls of
Good to Know
- Admission: Entrance to the Grand Palace costs around THB 500. The ticket also includes access to Wat Phra Kaew.
- Opening hours: The Grand Palais is generally open daily from 8.30 a.m. to 3.30 p.m., but may be closed for special events or royal ceremonies. Avoid peak hours for a more enjoyable visit, as the site can be very busy, especially with tourists.
- Length of visit: Allow 2-3 hours to discover the palace and its attractions.
- Accessibility: The Grand Palace is easily accessible from central Bangkok. You can get there by boat (Tha Chang Pier station) or cab.
- Attire: Appropriate clothing is mandatory. Legs and shoulders must be covered, and open sandals are forbidden. Visitors must dress respectfully when entering the temples.
Wat Pho
Wat Pho, just a stone’s throw from the Grand Palace, is one of Thailand’s oldest and most imposing Buddhist temples, and a true must-see in Bangkok. Founded in the 18th century by King Rama I, the temple was enlarged by King Rama III in the early 19th century, making it an important center for Buddhist teaching and traditional Thai medicine. The temple houses an impressive reclining Buddha, gilded with gold leaf, measuring 45 metres long and 15 metres high. Its mother-of-pearl-encrusted feet illustrate the 108 states of Buddha.
The Wat Pho complex also includes several stupas (domed structures), each decorated with magnificent mosaics and symbolizing sacred relics. In addition to its reclining Buddha, the temple features galleries adorned with hundreds of Buddha statues and peaceful gardens offering a haven of tranquillity.
The temple is also renowned as the cradle of traditional Thai medicine and meditation, with a school of Thai massage, one of the oldest in the country, located on the site.
Good to Know
- Prices: Entrance to Wat Pho costs around THB 200 (approx. €5).
- Opening hours: Wat Pho is generally open daily from 8:00 am to 6:30 pm. To avoid the crowds, we recommend early mornings or late afternoons.
- Length of visit: Allow around 1-2 hours to explore the temple, admire the statues and the Reclining Buddha, and stroll through the gardens.
- Accessibility: Wat Pho is easily reached by cab, boat (Tha Tien Pier station) or BTS (Saphan Taksin station + boat transfer). It is close to the Grand Palace and Wat Arun.
- Attire: As with all religious sites in Thailand, it’s important to dress respectfully. Legs and shoulders must be covered, and open sandals and casual clothing are not permitted.
Wat Arun
Located on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River, Wat Arun, also known as the Temple of Dawn, is one of Bangkok’s most emblematic landmarks. Named after the Hindu deity Arun, symbolizing the dawn, the temple is particularly spectacular at first light, when the sun’s rays illuminate its porcelain mosaics and sculptures.
Wat Arun was founded in the 17th century during the reign of King Taksin, but it was under King Rama II in the early 19th century that its present structure was completed. It is best known for its central prang, a slender 79-meter-high tower representing Mount Meru, the center of the universe in Hindu and Buddhist cosmology. The prang is decorated with magnificent mosaics made from pieces of porcelain and glass, creating a dazzling contrast when struck by the sun.
Many of Bangkok’s bars and rooftops offer spectacular views of Wat Arun, especially those on the opposite bank of the Chao Phraya River. These establishments allow visitors to enjoy a cocktail while admiring the illuminated temple, creating a magical atmosphere, especially at sunset or at night. Although prices are not always affordable, and some bars even require a minimum consumption, the experience is well worth the detour. It’s an unforgettable opportunity to enjoy the beauty of Wat Arun in an exceptional setting, while relaxing and taking in the panoramic view over the city.
Good to Know
- Prices: Entrance to Wat Arun costs around THB 50 (approx. €1.5).
- Opening hours: Wat Arun is generally open daily from 8:00 am to 5:30 pm.
- Length of visit: Allow around 1 hour to explore the temple, climb up for a panoramic view and enjoy the riverside.
- Access: Wat Arun is located on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River. You can reach it by boat from Tha Tien Pier, just opposite the temple.
- Attire: Respectful dress is mandatory when visiting Wat Arun, including clothing that covers the legs and shoulders.
Wat Traimit
Located in Bangkok’s Chinatown, in the bustling Yaowarat area, Wat Traimit is a Buddhist temple renowned for housing the Golden Buddha, a monumental statue 3 meters high and weighing around 5.5 tons, entirely covered in pure gold. The temple’s history dates back to the late 19th century, but the statue itself has a fascinating story to tell. Carved in the 13th century, the statue was covered in plaster to conceal its true value. It wasn’t until 1955, when an attempt was made to move it, that the plaster broke, revealing the massive gold hidden beneath.
Good to Know
- Prices: Entrance to Wat Traimit costs around THB 40 for adults, with a supplement for access to the museum.
- Opening hours: The temple is open daily from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.
- Accessibility: The temple is easily accessible from central Bangkok, by cab, tuk-tuk or public transport (Hua Lamphong metro station, blue line).
- Attire: As with most Buddhist temples in Thailand, it’s important to wear respectful clothing. Legs and shoulders must be covered.
Discover Bangkok’s markets
Bangkok’s markets are a feast for the senses, offering a fascinating immersion in local life. From the iconic Chatuchak Market to the floating markets and night markets, it’s impossible to do them all, but it would be a shame not to put at least one on your itinerary to experience the essence of the city. These markets are vibrant places, where colors, smells and sounds blend to offer a unique experience, between culinary discoveries, local crafts and typical souvenirs. Whether you’re looking for unique objects or simply the authentic atmosphere of Bangkok, each market has its own charm and uniqueness.
Chatuchak market
Open only at weekends, Chatuchak Market is Thailand’s largest open-air market, with over 15,000 stalls. At the entrance, a map details the different sections of the market, such as jewelry, decorations, clothing, beauty, and many others. In addition to the stalls, there are numerous food stalls offering a taste of Thai cuisine at very reasonable prices. Although frequented by many tourists, Chatuchak is a must in Bangkok, much appreciated by locals for its good prices and variety of products.
Good to Know
- Opening hours: Open weekends only, 9 am to 6 pm
- Accessibility: The market is located in the Chatuchak district, a little out of the city center. You can get there easily by metro (Chatuchak Park station), cab or via the Grab app.
- Admission: Admission is free.
The flower market
The Pak Khlong Talat flower market, located near the Chao Phraya River, is another of Bangkok’s must-see markets. Open 24 hours a day, it’s particularly lively in the early morning and evening. You’ll find a wide variety of fresh flowers, from roses and orchids to lotuses and chrysanthemums. The market is an ideal place for flower lovers and photographers alike to discover Thai flower traditions, used in Buddhist rituals, festivals and daily offerings to temples.
Floating markets
Markets in Thailand often mean floating markets, and Damnoen Saduak is the perfect example. Located around 100 kilometers from Bangkok, this floating market is one of the country’s most famous, attracting thousands of visitors every year. You’ll discover floating stalls, where vendors sell everything from fresh fruit to souvenirs and tasty local dishes, all from their colorful little boats.
Although Damnoen Saduak is an iconic floating market, it is often perceived as a tourist trap. Indeed, prices are often higher, crowds are large and the traditional atmosphere can seem altered by the crowds. Fortunately, there are alternatives closer to Bangkok that are well worth a visit. These markets, such as Bang Khu Wiang, Tallin Chang and Khlong Lat Mayom, offer a more authentic experience, with reasonable prices and a more local atmosphere.
Stroll through Chinatown
Chinatown, or Yaowarat, is a veritable maze of bustling streets where small stalls overflow with local produce, fragrant spices, exotic fruits and traditional objects. Buddhist temples, street markets and local restaurants make this area vibrant and full of life. It’s an ideal place to sample Thai street food, such as the famous dim sum, stir-fried noodles and Chinese pastries.
A few steps away, Talat Noi offers a quieter, more picturesque experience. This historic and creative district, often overlooked on tourist circuits, is brimming with old houses, small art galleries and local artisan stores. Magnificent street art decorates the walls and narrow streets, creating a unique bohemian atmosphere. Talat Noi is a true blend of Chinese and Thai cultures, with local temples, markets and craft workshops. Strolling through these alleys is like traveling back in time, discovering hidden treasures and little wonders of everyday Bangkok life.
Shopping in an XXL mall
Shopping in a Bangkok mall means entering a world where anything is possible. These modern temples to consumerism, such as the iconic MBK Center, the luxurious Siam Paragon or the sleekly designedICONSIAM, offer much more than just stores. There’s an incredible range of stores, from international brands to local designers, as well as a variety of dining venues, state-of-the-art cinemas, aquariums and even ice rinks. It’s the perfect place to escape the heat and explore trends. Whether you’re a fan of haute couture, in search of electronic gadgets, or simply curious, Bangkok’s malls are a must-see experience, where shopping rhymes with pleasure and excess.
Sipping cocktails on a rooftop
Having a drink on a rooftop in Bangkok is much more than just a relaxing break, it’s an experience in its own right. Imagine sipping a carefully crafted cocktail, gazing out over the glittering skyline of the city, with its illuminated skyscrapers and the Chao Phraya River snaking below.
From the elegance of the Sky Bar, made famous by Very Bad Trip, to the bohemian atmosphere of the Vertigo and Moon Bar, or the panoramic view of the Mahanakhon SkyWalk, each rooftop offers a unique ambience. Some stand out for their live music, others for their exceptional cocktail menu or refined cuisine. Whatever your choice, the sight of the sun setting over the city or the lights of the night coming on one by one will remain etched in your memory.
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