The Ultimate 5-Day Bangkok Itinerary
Bangkok is a bustling city of endless energy. It attracts travelers from all over the world with its modern charm and ancient traditions. In this ultimate 5-day Bangkok itinerary, we will explore the vibrant street life, cultural heritage, and delectable cuisine.
The first time I visited Thailand’s capital, I only spent a couple of days exploring the city. I don’t know if I entirely enjoyed my experience back then. It was crowded and hot and there were people ready to scam you all around. Bangkok is one of those cities you could have a love-hate relationship with. It’s only when you spend a decent amount of time exploring and unravelling Thailand’s capital, you uncover its real beauty and fall in love with it. Bangkok is now one of my favorite cities, you have to get to know it to love it.
If you are visiting Bangkok for the first time, I’d highly recommend staying for at least 4 or 5 days. There is plenty to see and do in Bangkok. The best part, it’s suited to all budget types.
To help you plan your trip and make the most of your visit, below is my suggested 5-day Bangkok itinerary. This itinerary is packed with some of the best things to do in Bangkok, how to get around, and lots of other information you might need for a perfect Bangkok itinerary. It is put together in a way that will help you make the most of your time in the city so that you can discover why there is so much to love in Bangkok. By the time we’re done, I’m sure you’ll agree the Thai capital is one of the finest cities in the world.
Overview of 5 – Day Bangkok Itinerary
- Day 1 – Chatuchak Weekend Market, Jim Thompson House, Lumphini Park, Chinatown, Patpong Night Market
- Day 2 – Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Wat Arun, River Ferry, Khao San Road
- Day 3 – Floating Market, Night Markets, Asiatique
- Day 4 – Ayutthaya Day Trip, Night Markets
- Day 5 – Free day for Shopping or to revisit any of the attractions you loved, Catch a sunset
Disclaimer: Please note some of the links in this post are affiliate links. Purchasing through these links earns us a small commission at no extra charge to you.
Why you should plan a 5-day Bangkok itinerary
Firstly, Bangkok is a very spread-out city and has some of the craziest traffic in the world. If you are moving around by road, you’ll lose a lot of time getting from one place to another.
Secondly, there’s plenty to see and do in Bangkok and the surrounding area. You can temple hop by day, explore the nightlife, or simply eat your way through the city’s food markets. And these are only some of the city’s highlights.
Lastly, regardless of how much you love the hot and humid temperatures, the humidity in Bangkok, and Thailand in general, can easily drain you of your energy. You’ll probably move slower and want to take breaks, especially during the afternoon when the day is at its hottest. Having a few extra days will allow you to slowly make your way through Bangkok’s attractions, leaving you with some downtime during the afternoons.
Five days is an ideal amount of time to spend visiting Bangkok to fully immerse yourself in this city’s culture and possibly take a day trip to the ancient city of Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
This guide breaks down all the main attractions in Bangkok so you can explore at an easy pace. However, if you are short on time and have only 3 days in Bangkok, you can still cover plenty of the top highlights in the city. Feel free to move things around from this 5 – day Bangkok itinerary and make it your own.
5 – Day Bangkok Travel Itinerary
Day 1: Chatuchak Weekend Market, Jim Thompson House, Lumphini Park, Chinatown, Patpong Night Market
Welcome to Bangkok! You’ll most likely fly into Suvarnabhumi Airport, Bangkok’s international gateway. Make your way to your accommodation to drop off your bags and freshen up for the adventures that lie ahead.
Once you’ve settled in, kickstart your Bangkok adventure with a visit to the famous Chatuchak Weekend Market. Today is all about getting a feel for some of Bangkok’s top highlights.
Morning – Chatuchak Weekend Market
Despite being called a “weekend” market, there are some shops that remain open during the week. Although, it’s best to try and visit this market on a weekend if possible and first thing in the morning as it gets really busy during the day. Check opening days and times before visiting. And you can always swap things around on this 5-day Bangkok itinerary to ensure you visit Chatuchak Market on a weekend.
You’ll find everything from clothing, accessories, handicrafts, and ceramics to plants, art, home décor, antiques, and of course food and beverage. Don’t miss the open food court section they have to grab some delicious food. Another noteworthy section is the Chatuchak Flower Market where you can find some beautiful fresh flowers.
Chatuchak Weekend Market is the world’s largest and most diverse weekend market with more than 15,000 shops and stalls. So, grab a free map from one of the information kiosks which breaks down where the sections are, as well as what you can buy there. There is so much to explore, you’ll probably want to come back to this market if you have some spare time on this 5-day itinerary. Alternatively, you could skip Jim Thompson’s House and spend a bit more time here.
Head back to your hotel to drop off all the great bargains you snagged today. Freshen up before heading out to visit Jim Thompson’s House. Alternatively, you can catch a Muay Thai match.
How to get to Chatuchak Weekend Market?
Chatuchak Market is easy to get to from the center of Bangkok. Both the BTS Skytrain and the underground MRT have stops nearby. Use the Mo Chit station along the Skytrain’s Sukhumvit line and follow exit 1 as you exit the station. From there, it’s just a few minutes’ walk to one of the market gates.
If you’re using the underground MRT train, get off at Chatuchak Park or Kamphaeng Phet and walk for a few minutes before arriving at one of the market entrances.
Afternoon – Jim Thompson’s House
After the markets, you’ll make your way to Jim Thompson’s House. Jim Thompson was an American spy and silk merchant in Thailand during the ’50s and ’60s who vanished mysteriously in 1967 while in Malaysia. Some say he was lost or killed while hiking while others say he disappeared himself.
He is said to have almost single-handedly revitalized Thailand’s sinking silk industry. His home was made in the traditional Thai style with a surrounding garden. The tours feature a lot of history about Jim and the silk industry.
Muay Thai Show
If a visit to Jim Thompson’s House is not up your alley, then you can spend the afternoon watching a thrilling Muay Thai match at Rajadamnern Stadium. This stadium was the world’s first Muay Thai stadium which opened in 1945. This place is synonymous with the most exciting and elaborate matches. Be sure to book your Muay Thai match tickets as early as possible as these sell out pretty quickly.
Evening – Lumphini Park
After this, you’ll head to Lumphini Park, Bangkok’s largest green space. Enjoy a stroll along the tree-lined paths, rent a paddleboat on the lake, or join in a Tai Chi session with the locals.
It’s important to know that you’ll see plenty of Monitor Lizards, especially in the ponds. So, if you aren’t a fan, keep away. We’ve been told they aren’t dangerous and usually stay away from people.
Chinatown
After soaking up some sunshine at Lumpini Park, your next stop on this 5-day Bangkok itinerary is a visit to Chinatown. Did you know Bangkok’s Chinatown is one of the largest Chinatowns in the world?
The area is centered around Yaowarat Road. The 1.5 km street is lined with restaurants and street food vendors offering their very best dishes. You can walk around and explore the narrow alleyways lined with colourful shop-houses, and traditional Chinese temples, and indulge in some street food delights like crispy fried noodles and succulent roasted duck.
Or you can arrange a private guide to explore Chinatown and discover some of the iconic neighborhoods and best foods.
Some foods to try in Chinatown
- Pork Leg Stew
- Chinese Chive Cakes
- Grilled Squid
- Thai Dumplings
- Fried Insects
- Doughnuts served with Pandan custard
- Oyster Omelette
- Thai Toast & Milk Tea
- Pad Thai
- Stir-Fried Crab
Patpong Night Market
You’ll end day 1 of your 5-day Bangkok itinerary at Patpong Night Market where you’ll experience the sensory overload of Bangkok’s legendary nightlife district. Browse through stalls selling everything from counterfeit goods to exotic trinkets, and soak in the lively atmosphere of this bustling market before you call it a night. Most vendors set up their stalls around 6 PM and close between 10 PM and midnight.
Day 2: Visiting Bangkok’s famous Temples, River cruise, Khao San Road
Today is filled with discovering some of the best things to do in Bangkok. Starting off day two’s temple tours with 3 of Bangkok’s most iconic landmarks which are all situated in the same area making for easy access and travel between the attractions.
You’ll spend day two in Bangkok covering some of the beautiful temples in the city and other attractions like the Grand Palace and Khao San Road. I’ve mapped the best route for the day to make it easy for you. However, feel free to switch things around or add more temples and attractions you may want to see. Map out exactly what you want to see so you don’t spend a lot of time on the day trying to figure out the logistics of getting to the attractions. Alternatively, if you follow the sequence of attractions I’ve listed below, you should have a pretty easy day. I’ve also listed below the best way for you to get around Bangkok on day 2 of this 5-day Bangkok itinerary.
Before heading into any Thai temples there are a few rules and etiquettes that you’ll need to follow:
1)Foreigners pricing: Foreigners will most likely have to pay a higher entrance fee compared to locals, which are often free.
2) Take off your shoes and caps/hats off before entering temples. Socks are fine.
3) Dress modestly: For both men and women, don’t dress in revealing clothing, and ensure your shoulders and knees are covered at all times.
Morning: The Grand Palace, Temple of Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew), Wat Pho (reclining Buddha)
The very first stop of the day will be the Grand Palace as this place gets insanely crowded as the day goes by. The Grand Palace is one of the most popular things to do in Bangkok. Aim to be here for the opening, which is around 8.30 am. Once you enter the gates, there is a ticket booth from where you can buy tickets. At 500 baht per person, this will be your most expensive attraction in Bangkok, and probably even in Thailand.
The grounds are massive with beautiful temples, royal residences, and the famous Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Was Phra Kaew), Thailand’s most important Buddhist temple. This famous temple houses a statue of Buddha carved entirely from pure jade and is a must-see in Thailand. Marvel at the intricate architecture of the Emerald Buddha Temple and immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Thailand’s royal heritage.
Wat Pho (reclining Buddha)
From the Grand Palace, it is about a 10-minute walk to Wat Pho Temple (the Temple of the reclining Buddha).
This 16th-century temple is home to one of the largest reclining Buddhas in the world. The gleaming, gold leaf statue is 46 m long and 15 m high. It’s so large, that it feels like it’s being squeezed into the temple. There are also other small chapels that you can explore on the grounds.
There is a lot to explore in this area, so if you would prefer to have a guide take you through these famous landmarks, I would highly recommend booking a tour that covers the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun. The tour includes an English-speaking tour guide, roundtrip hotel transfers, and entrance fees to these attractions.
Lunch
You can have lunch at the famous restaurant, The Sixth, near Wat Pho. This restaurant only has a handful of tables, so you could be waiting a while if you choose to eat here. Or enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the riverside restaurants overlooking the Chao Phraya River.
Tip: Always check reviews before eating at a restaurant.
Late Afternoon– Wat Arun
After your delicious traditional Thai meal, head across the river to Wat Arun (Temple of the Dawn). This Buddhist temple sits on the Chao Phraya River opposite the Grand Palace and is one of the most beautiful temples in Bangkok.
It has one main spire and four small ones. From the top of the main spire, you get to see sweeping panoramic views of the city. Marvel at the intricate porcelain mosaics adorning the temple’s spires. If you want a deep dive into the temples and the Grand Palace, take a guided tour. You’ll learn about the history of each temple and the Palace from an expert local guide who can answer all your questions.
Other Temples you can visit
- Wat Saket
- Wat Benchamabophit
- Wat Traimit
Wang Lang Market
The next stop of this 5-day Bangkok itinerary is Wang Lang Market, a true Thai street market. This is optional, but since the ferry makes a stop here there’s no harm in checking it out.
For those who come to Bangkok looking for an authentic Thai street food and market experience, Wang Lang Market should be on your list. It can be a bit overwhelming at first with all the crowds and narrow alleyways, but as you walk through the alleys, you’ll slowly find yourself getting immersed in everyday Thai life.
You’ll find plenty of street food vendors, so feel free to grab some items on the go. Meat skewers are particularly popular, or you can try some stuffed bread or get yourself a delicious Thai curry. If you are looking for a lighter snack, you’ll find items such as pancakes stuffed with egg yolk floss, and mango sticky rice amongst other things.
The markets are free to enter, so take your time walking around and get a feel for an authentic Thai market experience.
Evening
As night falls, immerse yourself in the electric atmosphere of Khao San Road, Bangkok’s legendary backpacker enclave. Join fellow travelers from around the world as you sip cocktails, sample street food, and soak in the sights and sounds of this iconic street. It’s quite commercial these days, but it’s still fun to explore!
River Cruise – How to get around on day 2?
While it’s a great experience to take a tour of the Chao Phraya River, don’t go booking one of those overpriced river cruises along the river. You can ride the public ferry (orange flag) up and down the river with an all-day pass for under 35 THB. It’s a great way of getting across the city.
Start at the central pier, go to the end, and come back all while gliding past glittering temples, bustling markets, and stilted houses, gaining a unique perspective of the city’s waterfront life.
The orange flag boat runs every day from 6:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. So if you’re looking for what to do in Bangkok at the wee hours of the morning, the orange flag boat has you covered.
The rivers and canals are the heart of Bangkok, and its cross-river ferries are still the main transportation for the locals. You’ll be able to get off at each stop and spend as long as you like exploring the historic monuments and temples. When you’re ready to go, simply walk back to the pier, and hop back on the next ferry.
It’s also a great way to watch the sunset on the river. You won’t have to book yourself one of those expensive sunset dinner cruises. Trust me on this one!
Day 3: Floating Markets, Night markets, Asiatique
Markets are a daily thing for many of the locals as you can find plenty of fresh produce that tends to be a lot cheaper than the big supermarket chains. Day 3 of the 5 Days in Bangkok Itinerary is all about immersing yourself in Thai food and market culture.
Today we’ll be traveling to 2 of Bangkok’s best traditional markets, Damnoen Saduak and Maeklong Railway Market.
Morning: Damnoen Saduak and Maeklong Railway Market
Damnoen Saduak is one of the most popular floating markets to visit in Bangkok. The floating markets can be a little tricky to get to so it’s best to take a tour that includes everything from roundtrip transfers from your hotel, an English-speaking guide, and visits to both markets.
Many of these day trips also include a little bit of time to ride the local train and then watch the train leave the Maeklong Railway Market. This market is literally set up alongside the train tracks and when the train passes through vendors need to pull in their awnings and umbrellas to allow the train to pass. People at the market stand single file just inches from the tracks. If you start early enough, you will be done with the tour by around 3 in the afternoon which leaves plenty of time for exploring or shopping.
Relax at your hotel for a bit or grab a massage before you head out to grab some food.
Evening – Night Market and Asiatique
Bangkok is renowned for its street food and night markets. Take a stroll through Pratunam Market or Palladium Night Market, eat shop, or simply just browse. Keep an eye on your belongings so as not to fall victim to pickpocketing.
Finally, make your way to Asiatique to enjoy a lovely evening by the Riverfront. Asiatique is a large open-air mall with a giant Ferris wheel, plenty of restaurants and bars, and other entertainment around. Get yourself some dessert or more delicious Thai food and take a walk through the area. If you feel brave enough you can ride the Ferris Wheel before you call it quits for the night.
Day 4 – Day trip to Ayutthaya, Flower Market, Rooftop Bar
Escape the hustle and bustle of Bangkok and embark on a day trip from Bangkok to Ayutthaya, the ancient capital of Siam. The great thing about having a few extra days in Bangkok is that you can take day trips to nearby places.
Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site and marvel at the impressive ruins of temples and palaces dating back to the 14th century. Ayutthaya boasts many beautiful temples and ruins that sprawl through Ayutthaya National Park. With only a day trip to Ayutthaya, you’ll probably only be able to cover a few of these main attractions.
After exploring the ancient ruins, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a riverside restaurant overlooking the Chao Phraya River. Feast on traditional Thai dishes while soaking in the serene surroundings of this historic city.
How to get to Ayutthaya from Bangkok?
For a stress-free and relaxed experience, a group tour is by far the best way to go about a day trip to Ayutthaya. This tour includes a tour guide, air-conditioned transportation, and lunch.
Some buses depart from the Mo Chit Bus Station to Ayutthaya, which is about a 20-minute walk, or a quick taxi from the Mo Chit BTS Skytrain station. Trains go from Hua Lamphong Station (Bangkok Train Station) to Ayutthaya many times a day.
If you plan an independent visit to Ayutthaya, plan out the temples you want to see. You’ll need to hire a Tuk Tuk or rent a bike to go between temples. Just keep in mind Thailand’s hot temperatures if you do plan to ride a bike. You’ll want to stay well hydrated.
The day trip to Ayutthaya generally starts early in the morning and lasts for about 7 to 8 hours. You’ll most likely be back in Bangkok at about 3 or 4 pm. You’ll have the rest of the day to relax, go shopping, or take a stroll around Bangkok’s famous flower market which is open 24/7.
You can grab dinner
Evening
Finally, end your day watching Bangkok’s skyline at one of the popular rooftop bars. Here are some well-known rooftop bars in Bangkok.
- Abar Rooftop
- Above Eleven
- Brewski
- Cru Champagne Bar
- Penthouse Rooftop
- SkyBar (made famous from the movie The Hangover)
Note: Some rooftop bars charge an entrance fee. You have to be dressed well to enter the bars. Drinks and snacks tend to be on the higher side.
If you aren’t particularly interested in going to a rooftop bar, you could see an alternative side to Bangkok in the evening. Visit Wat Pho and Wat Arun, ride a tuk-tuk, and travel by boat across the Chao Phraya River before enjoying dinner in Chinatown.
Or you could see some of the best parts of Bangkok on an e-scooter tour of historic locations such as Thonburi, Wat Arun, Wat Pho, and Pak Khlong Talat flower market. Discover the city with an expert guide and eat street food like a local.
Day 5 – Shopping
On the final day of your 5-day Bangkok itinerary, take some time to indulge in shopping and explore the malls in Bangkok. Malls in Bangkok are amazing and more than just malls, they are social hubs where people eat, watch movies, and grab a drink.
Take advantage of the food courts in one of Bangkok’s shopping centers. The best part, the malls are air-conditioned, which might be just the break you need after a day out in the heat in Ayutthaya.
You won’t get through every mall as there are so many and each of these malls are just ginormous. But here are some of the best malls in Bangkok.
- Icon Siam (299 Charoen Nakhon Soi 5)
- MBK Center (444 Phayathai Road)
- CentralWorld (999/9 Rama I Road)
- Terminal 21 (88 Sukhumvit Road 19)
- Siam Paragon (991/1 Rama I Road)
If you had to pick only one mall, let it be Icon Siam, Thailand’s most impressive mall. ICONSIAM is a mega complex set across the Chao Phraya River. The mall has over 7000 stores, restaurants, art galleries, cinemas, and its very own indoor floating market! The mall even has its own indoor waterfall feature which is located on the 6th floor. Every night there is a colorful fountain show that takes place outside the mall by the river. It’s definitely worth watching.
For the rest of your time in Bangkok, consider what you haven’t seen or done yet in Bangkok.
Evening
As night falls, big farewell to Bangkok by ending your last day of this 5-day Bangkok itinerary in a spot where you can take in the city views. Wat Saket, or the Golden Mount Temple, offers amazing views of the city and is a great place to watch the sunset. Perfect way to savor your last night in this incredible city.
Final Thoughts
Five days in Bangkok may seem like a fleeting moment in time, but within its bustling streets and serene temples lies a world of endless discovery. From ancient temples to modern marvels, vibrant markets to serene parks, Bangkok offers a kaleidoscope of experiences waiting to be explored. So, pack your bags, embark on this unforgettable journey, and let the magic of Thailand’s capital city captivate your heart and soul. I sincerely hope this 5-day Bangkok itinerary comes in handy for your trip to Bangkok.
Happy Travels!
Bangkok Travel Guide
How to get from the airport to Bangkok city center?
It’s important to note that Bangkok has 2 airports, Suvarnabhumi Airport and Don Mueang Airport. While both are international airports, major airlines fly into Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK).
If this is your first time in Bangkok, I highly recommend booking a Grab (Uber) or a private transfer to your hotel regardless of which airport you land. You’ll feel the heat and the chaos the moment you walk out of the airport, so having your transportation sorted will be a blessing in disguise.
If you are on a budget or prefer taking public transportation, City Link trains depart from the Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) on the basement B level. You can also purchase tickets on this level as well. Depending on where your hotel is located, you’ll have to transfer to the BTS Skytrain or the underground MRT.
Some buses also connect Suvarnabhumi Airport to Bangkok’s city center. However, I don’t recommend this option as Bangkok traffic can be crazy, and the last thing you need when you are tired after a flight is to be sitting in traffic.
Have your route mapped out in advance so regardless of which airport you fly into or what mode of transport you take, you’ll have some idea of how to get to your accommodation.
Getting around Bangkok
I wouldn’t recommend walking around Bangkok as it is not a pedestrian-friendly city, the traffic is insane! Further to this, the heat will zap every bit of energy out of you.
BTS Skytrain and MRT Underground Metro
These are easy to use and a convenient way to get around the city. They can get you to or near most of the major tourist attractions. As always have your route mapped out.
Ferries
This is probably my favorite way to get around Bangkok, mostly because you beat all the traffic. The ferries along Chao Phraya River make it so easy to hop on and hop off at piers. You can buy a day pass and use it to get to some of the top attractions in Bangkok including places like the Grand Palace, Wat Arun, and Chinatown. The main departure point for the tourist ferry and the local ferry is Sathorn Pier.
Grab
Before you visit Bangkok, or Thailand, make sure you download the Grab and Bolt Apps. These are the equivalents of Uber and will be your best friends during your time in Thailand. They tend to be cheaper than Taxis and tuk-tuks.
Taxi’s and Tuk Tuks
This is probably my least favorite way of getting around the city. Taxi drivers don’t always use a meter and may try to rip you off with highly inflated prices. Same with Tuk Tuk drivers. If you do happen to use either of these modes of transport, make sure you ask for the meter to be turned on or negotiate a price in advance based on the destination you want to get to.
For most of it, I’d highly recommend sticking with the city’s Skytrain, metro, and ferries to get to where you want to go.
Where to Stay in Bangkok?
One of the greatest things in Bangkok is that it has countless accommodation options to suit all budget types. The most important thing when choosing a place to stay in Bangkok is finding accommodation within walking distance of a stop along the BTS Skytrain or the underground MRT if that’s how you plan to get around.
If you are traveling as a family, you may opt to use Grab or Bolt and, in that case, being near the BTS SkyTrain or underground MRT may not matter as much. You may also like to consider accommodation near the Chao Phraya River so you have easy access to the ferries to transport you to some of the landmarks along the river. This option is one to consider as traffic in Bangkok is just a bit crazy.
So what’s the best place to stay in Bangkok? Well that all depends on what kind of holiday you want to have here and what your budget is. If you want a quiet low-key holiday, you’ll want to stay away from buzzing areas like Khao San Road. Or if you’ve come to the city for some shopping, then Siam is probably the neighborhood you want to be in. If you stay in the wrong part of town, you could spend hours commuting from one place to another.
Here are six of the main areas of Bangkok for first-timers so you can decide the best place to stay in Bangkok for you.
Bangkok Neighbourhoods
Sukhumvit (Great for first time traveler to Bangkok)
This neighborhood has the perfect mix of hotels, restaurants, bars, shops, and malls. It’s a trendy developed area of central Bangkok. Many locals live and work in the area too. Sukhumvit is perfect for first-time visitors to Bangkok. The best part, the Skytrain runs right through the middle of Sukhumvit, making it convenient to get to places in the city.
- Luxury: Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit
- Mid Range: Hotel Clover Asoke
- Budget: Sakura Sky Residence
Siam (for shopping)
If you are a shopaholic, then brace yourself because the neighborhood of Siam is filled with some of the best and biggest malls in the world. You’ll find some of the famous malls like MBK, Centralworld, Siam Paragon, Siam Square and Siam Centre all clustered on one strip. In addition, there is still street shopping here. So, if you love shopping, are looking to be central, and want somewhere a bit more tourist-friendly, then Siam is the place for you.
- Luxury: Siam Kempinski Hotel Bangkok
- Mid Range: Hua Chang Heritage Hotel
- Budget: ibis Bangkok Siam
Bangkok Riverside (for families)
This area of Bangkok is slightly more expensive. You’ll find some of the top costly hotels here. It’s away from all the hustle and bustle
The area is also known for its many temples, shrines, and other tourist attractions. The bonus to staying in this area is that you have easy access to the boats and ferries. The best place to catch a ferry is from the Central Pier Some of the upper-end hotels will offer free rides to and from the Central Pier. If you are looking for a quieter, more luxurious holiday or are visiting Bangkok for your honeymoon, then this area is for you.
Luxury
Mid – Range/ Budget
- Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel & Towers
- Ibis Bangkok Riverside
- Ramada Plaza By Wyndham Bangkok Menam Riverside
Khao San Road (budget friendly)
This area is the backpacker’s hub filled with cheap food, drinks, plenty of bars, loud music, and an all-night party atmosphere. You’ll generally find a younger crowd around Khao San Road. If you love to party, don’t mind the loud noise, or are a backpacker looking for cheap food and drinks, then Khao San Road is the area for you. Best Places to Stay around Khao San
- Luxury: Riva Surya
- Mid Range: Chillax Heritage Hotel
- Budget: Rambuttri Village Inn and Plaza
- Backpacker: Bedstation Hostel
Chinatown (for foodies)
This area provides a true sense of Bangkok with its street food, rugged streets, and all-round Bangkok buzz. There are a lot of cheap places to stay here, and a lot of cheap food and shopping too. While this area is out of the central city, it’s perfect for those who are looking for a foodie experience and a bit of a budget
- Luxury: Shanghai Mansion Bangkok
- Mid – Range: Arawana Express Chinatown
- Budget: Lhong Yaowarat Hostel
Silom (for nightlife)
Silom is considered to be the city’s central business district. You’ll see more of the working class in this area, and locals going about their day. It has more of a city vibe and is where you find the famous Lumphini Park. One thing to note is that traffic feels even more crazy in this area, especially during peak hours. So, if you are looking for somewhere central, with a taste for local but modern life and great nightlife in Bangkok, then Silom is the neighborhood for you.
- Luxury: W Bangkok Hotel
- Mid Range: The Grand Sathorn
- Budget: Lub D Bangkok – Silom
Some accommodation types in Bangkok
Airbnb in Bangkok
Airbnb in Bangkok is cheap and abundantly available. This is the option we used and since we were traveling with our kids, we were able to get a luxurious 2-bedroom apartment for a very good rate. So definitely check out this option.
Hostels in Bangkok
Bangkok is a backpackers hub, so you won’t find a shortage of hostels in this city. Just make sure you do your research and try and find something in an area that is centrally located. Hostels near Khao San Road tend to be quite popular.
Hotels in Bangkok
There are plenty of hotel options in Bangkok to suit all budget types.
Best Time to Visit Bangkok
The best time to visit Bangkok is between November and February when temperatures tend to be slightly more comfortable. That being said, Bangkok is always hot and humid!
Scams to look out for in Bangkok
As a tourist, you are almost certainly going to run into a scam or two. Stay alert and be well informed and you’ll be fine during your time in Bangkok.
- ‘The Grand Palace is closed today’: One of the most common scams in the city. You’ll find taxi or tuk-tuk drivers who will tell you that the Palace is closed due to a holiday. They’ll then recommend taking you on a tour of the city instead. DO NOT believe this unless you know for a fact you have turned up to The Grand Palace on a public holiday. Walk inside the gates of the Palace, make your way to the counter, and check with them on anything you may be unsure of.
- Over-friendly locals: Usually a man dressed in a uniform similar to that of a government official or dressed in a shirt and tie. You’ll find them outside train/metro stations, and park entrances trying to make friendly conversation with you. Then they’ll try to convince you how you should do the floating markets and pay no more than ‘x’ amount. They’ll tell you to use the reliable tuk-tuk drivers 100 meters down the road from where you are. Don’t believe a word they say. Don’t stop to talk to anyone unless you are certain they are a government official.
Note: The information here is updated the best we can at the time of writing this article. Please check attractions, activities, and transport before your trip as things tend to change from time to time.
Other Thailand posts you may like to help you plan the perfect holiday
- 3 Day Chiang Mai Travel Itinerary
- Best Places To Visit In Phuket
- 14-Day Thailand Travel Itinerary
- Krabi Travel Itinerary
