Bangkok Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know About the City of Angels

1. The Culture and History of Bangkok

Bangkok is a city that has a rich and diverse culture and history. You can learn a lot about it by visiting some of the attractions, museums, and monuments that showcase its heritage and traditions. In this section, we will help you discover the culture and history of Bangkok, and how it shaped the city and the people.

1.1. The Origins and Meaning of the City’s Name

Bangkok is the English name of the city, but the locals call it Krung Thep, meaning the City of Angels. The full name of the city is Krung Thep Mahanakhon Amon Rattanakosin Mahinthara Ayuthaya Mahadilok Phop Noppharat Ratchathani Burirom Udomratchaniwet Mahasathan Amon Piman Awatan Sathit Sakkathattiya Witsanukam Prasit, which is the longest city name in the world, according to the Guinness World Records. It describes the history and the glory of the city.

The name Bangkok comes from the original name of the city, Bang Makok, meaning the Village of the Wild Plum. It was a small fishing village on the river, where the city was founded in the 15th century. The name changed to Thonburi, meaning the City of Treasures, when it became the capital of Siam in 1767, after Ayutthaya, the previous capital, fell to the Burmese. Later, the name changed again to Bangkok, when the capital moved to the other side of the river in 1782, by King Rama I, the founder of the Chakri Dynasty, which still rules Thailand. The name Bangkok was used by foreigners, especially the British, who had trade and diplomatic ties with Siam. The name Krung Thep was given by King Rama IV, who wanted to honor the city and the Buddha.

1.2. The Role and Influence of the Monarchy

Bangkok is a city that has a strong and lasting connection with the monarchy, which is the head of state and the symbol of the nation. The monarchy has played a vital role in the history and development of the city and has influenced its culture and identity. Here are some of the ways that the monarchy has shaped and affected Bangkok:

1.2.1. The Grand Palace

The former home of the Thai kings and the site of the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, the most sacred temple in Thailand. Built by King Rama I in 1782, when he moved the capital to Bangkok. A complex of buildings, halls, pavilions, and gardens, that display the Thai, Khmer, Chinese, and European styles. The venue for many important ceremonies and events, such as the coronation, the royal funeral, or the king’s birthday.

1.2.2. The Democracy Monument

A symbolic monument in the center of the main road that connects the Grand Palace and the Dusit Palace, the current residence of the king. Built by Prime Minister Phibun Songkhram in 1939, to commemorate the 1932 revolution, which ended the absolute monarchy and established the constitutional monarchy in Thailand. A circular structure with four wings, each 24 meters high, representing the date of the revolution, and a pedestal, holding the constitution, representing the people’s will. The site for many political protests and movements, such as the People’s Party, the Red Shirts, or the Yellow Shirts, who demand democracy, justice, or reform in Thailand.

1.2.3. The King Rama IX Park

A large and beautiful park in the east of the city, near the airport. Built by the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration in 1987, to celebrate the 60th birthday of King Bhumibol Adulyadej, also known as King Rama IX, the longest-reigning and most beloved king in Thailand. A complex of gardens, lakes, bridges, and pavilions, that showcase the flora and fauna of the different regions and countries, such as the Thai, Chinese, Japanese, and European styles. The place for many cultural and environmental activities, such as the flower festival, the orchid show, or bird watching.

These are some of the ways that the monarchy has influenced Bangkok. Besides that, there are other ways, such as the royal projects, the royal patronage, the royal initiatives, and the royal barge procession, which are the king and the royal family’s efforts and contributions to the city and the country.

1.3. The Diversity and Harmony of the Religions

Bangkok has many places of worship and religious communities that coexist and cooperate. The main religion is Buddhism, the official and majority religion in Thailand. However, there are also other religions, such as Islam, Christianity, Hinduism, and Sikhism. Here are some of the main places of worship in Bangkok:

1.3.1. Wat Phra Kaew

The most sacred temple in Thailand is inside the Grand Palace. There is the Emerald Buddha inside, the most important image of the Buddha in Thailand. It’s a small statue of the Buddha, made of green jade and dressed in gold and jewels. Thai people believe the Emerald Buddha to have miraculous powers and to protect the country. Furthermore, it’s the symbol of the Thai monarchy. Only the king can touch and change the statue’s clothes, according to the seasons.

Besides that, Wat Phra Kaew is a complex of buildings, halls, stupas, and walls, displaying the Thai, Khmer, Chinese, and European styles. The venue for many Buddhist ceremonies and events, such as the changing of the robes, the chanting of the monks, or the blessing of the king.

1.3.2. The Assumption Cathedral

The main and oldest Roman Catholic church in Bangkok, in the Bang Rak district, near the river. Built by the French missionaries in 1821, to serve the Catholic community that settled in Bangkok, mainly from France, Portugal, Vietnam, and the Philippines. A building of Gothic and Renaissance styles, with stained glass windows, marble columns, and a pipe organ. It is the place for many Christian ceremonies and events, such as the mass, baptism, or Christmas.

1.3.3. The Erawan Shrine

A popular and famous Hindu shrine in Bangkok’s center, near the Ratchaprasong intersection. Built by the Erawan Hotel in 1956, to appease the spirits and the gods, after a series of mishaps and accidents during the construction of the hotel. It is dedicated to the four-faced Brahma, the creator god in Hinduism, and revered by the Buddhists. A small and simple structure, with a golden statue of Brahma, surrounded by flowers, incense, and candles.

The place where many people come to pray, make vows, and offer gifts, such as flowers, fruits, or elephants, to Brahma, for blessings, wishes, or protection. Additionally, the place where many cultural and artistic performances take place, such as Thai classical dance, music, or puppet shows.

1.3.4. The Sri Guru Singh Sabha

The main and oldest Sikh temple in Bangkok, in the Phahurat district, near Chinatown. It was built by the Sikh community in 1912, to serve the Sikh community that migrated from India, Pakistan, and Afghanistan, to Bangkok, for trade and business. A complex of buildings, domes, and towers, displaying the Sikh, Indian, and Thai styles. The place for many Sikh ceremonies and events, such as the prayer, the langar, or the Baisakhi.

2. The Best Time to Visit Bangkok

One of the first things you need to consider when planning your trip to Bangkok is the best time to visit. Bangkok is a tropical city that has a hot and humid climate all year round. Yet, there are some variations in the weather, the seasons, and the festivals that can affect your travel experience. In this section, we will help you decide the best time to visit Bangkok, based on your preferences and interests.

2.1. Weather and Seasons

Bangkok has three main seasons: hot, rainy, and cool.

• The hot season runs from March to June. The temperature can reach up to 40°C (104°F) and the humidity is high. This is the hottest and most uncomfortable time to visit Bangkok, especially if you are not used to the heat. However, this is also the time when some of the most colorful and fun festivals take place. For example, Songkran (the Thai New Year) and the Royal Ploughing Ceremony.
• The rainy season runs from July to October. The monsoon brings frequent and heavy rain showers, especially in the afternoon and evening. This is the wettest and most unpredictable time to visit Bangkok, as the rain can cause floods, traffic jams, and delays. However, this is also the time when the city is greener and cooler, and the crowds and prices are lower. This is a good time to visit Bangkok if you don’t mind the rain and want to enjoy some indoor activities, such as shopping, museums, or spas.
• The cool season runs from November to February. The temperature drops to around 25°C (77°F) and the humidity is low. This is the coolest and most pleasant time to visit Bangkok, as the weather is dry and sunny, and the air is clear. Yet, this is also the time when the city is the busiest and most expensive, as many tourists and locals flock to the city to enjoy the festive season and outdoor activities. This is a good time to visit Bangkok if you want to see the city at its best and don’t mind the crowds and costs.

2.2. Festivals and Events

Bangkok is a city that celebrates many festivals and events throughout the year, reflecting its rich and diverse culture and history. Some of the most popular and famous festivals and events in Bangkok are:

2.2.1. Songkran

This is the Thai New Year, which takes place in mid-April. The biggest and most fun festival in Bangkok, where people splash water on each other to wash away their bad luck and welcome the new year. You can join the water fights on the streets, or visit the temples and pay respect to the elders and the Buddha.

2.2.2. Loy Krathong

This is the festival of lights, which takes place in November. The most romantic and beautiful festival in Bangkok, where people float small baskets of flowers and candles on the rivers and canals to thank the water spirits and make a wish. You can also enjoy the fireworks, lanterns, and cultural shows that light up the night sky.

2.2.3. Chinese New Year

This is the most important festival for the Chinese community in Bangkok, which takes place in late January or early February. In addition, this is the most colorful and lively festival in Bangkok, where you can witness the dragon and lion dances, the firecrackers, and the red lanterns that decorate the streets, especially in Chinatown. You can also taste the delicious Chinese food and receive the lucky red envelopes.

2.2.4. Vegetarian Festival

This is the festival of the nine emperor gods, which takes place in late September or early October. The most unusual and extreme festival in Bangkok, where some people abstain from meat, alcohol, and sex, and perform acts of self-mutilation, such as piercing their cheeks, tongues, or bodies with sharp objects. You can also see the processions, the rituals, and the vegetarian food stalls that fill the city.

These are just some of the many festivals and events that you can experience in Bangkok, depending on when you visit. You can also find other festivals and events that suit your interests. For instance, the Bangkok International Film Festival, the Bangkok Jazz Festival, the Bangkok Marathon, or the King’s Birthday. You can check the official tourism website or the local newspapers for the latest information and dates of the festivals and events in Bangkok.

3. How to Travel Around Bangkok

Another thing you need to consider when planning your trip to Bangkok is how to travel around the city. Bangkok is a huge and sprawling city that has many transportation options, but also many challenges, such as traffic, pollution, and scams. In this section, we will help you decide how to travel around Bangkok, based on your budget, time, and comfort.

3.1. Public Transport

Bangkok has a decent and affordable public transport system that consists of buses, trains, boats, and metro. These are some of the best ways to travel around Bangkok, as they are cheap, fast, and convenient. However, they also have some drawbacks, such as being crowded, confusing, and limited. Here are some of the main public transport options in Bangkok:

3.1.1. BTS Skytrain

This is the elevated train system that runs along two lines: the Sukhumvit Line and the Silom Line. This is the most popular and efficient way to travel around Bangkok. It covers many of the main attractions, shopping areas, and business districts.

The BTS Skytrain operates from 6 a.m. to midnight, and the fares range from 16 to 59 baht (0.5 to 2 USD) depending on the distance. You can buy single tickets or stored-value cards at the stations, or use the Rabbit Card, which is a smart card that can be used for both the BTS Skytrain and the BRT Bus.

3.1.2. MRT Subway

This is the underground train system that runs along two lines: the Blue Line and the Purple Line. This is another fast and convenient way to travel around Bangkok, as it connects with the BTS Skytrain and the Airport Rail Link. It also covers some of the areas that the BTS Skytrain does not, such as Chinatown, Hua Lamphong, and Chatuchak.

The MRT Subway operates from 6 a.m. to midnight, and the fares range from 16 to 42 baht (0.5 to 1.4 USD) depending on the distance. You can buy single tickets or stored-value cards at the stations, or use the MRT Plus Card, which is a smart card that can be used for both the MRT Subway and the BRT Bus.

3.1.3. Airport Rail Link

This is the express train system that connects the Suvarnabhumi International Airport with the city center. This is the best way to travel to and from the airport, as it is fast, cheap, and comfortable.

The Airport Rail Link operates from 6 a.m. to midnight, and the fares range from 15 to 45 baht (0.5 to 1.5 USD) depending on the distance. You can buy single tickets or stored-value cards at the stations, or use the Rabbit Card, which is a smart card that can be used for both the Airport Rail Link and the BTS Skytrain.

3.1.4. BRT Bus

This is the bus rapid transit system that runs along a dedicated lane on the Rama III Road. This is a good way to travel to some of the areas that are not served by the BTS Skytrain or the MRT Subway, such as Sathorn, Ratchadaphisek, and Rama IX.

The BRT Bus operates from 6 a.m. to midnight, and the fare is 15 baht (0.5 USD) per trip. You can buy single tickets or stored-value cards at the stations. Or you can use the Rabbit Card or the MRT Plus Card, which are smart cards that can be used for both the BRT Bus and the BTS Skytrain or the MRT Subway respectively.

3.1.5. Public Bus

This is the regular bus system that runs along many routes throughout the city. Indeed, this is the cheapest and most extensive way to travel around Bangkok, as it covers almost every area and destination. However, this is also the slowest and most unreliable way to travel around Bangkok, as it is affected by the traffic, the schedules, and the drivers.

The public buses operate from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m., and the fares range from 8 to 24 baht (0.3 to 0.8 USD) depending on the type and distance. You can pay the fare in cash to the conductor on board, or use the Bangkok Smart Card, which is a smart card that can be used for public buses and the Chao Phraya Express Boats.

3.1.6. Chao Phraya Express Boat

This is the boat service that runs along the Chao Phraya River, which is the main river that flows through Bangkok. This is a scenic and fun way to travel around Bangkok. It offers a different perspective and experience of the city. It is also a good way to avoid traffic and reach some of the attractions that are located along the river, such as the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Wat Arun, and Asiatique.

The Chao Phraya Express Boats operate from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m., and the fares range from 10 to 40 baht (0.3 to 1.3 USD) depending on the type and distance. You can buy single tickets at the piers, or use the Bangkok Smart Card, which is a smart card that can be used for the Chao Phraya Express Boats and the public buses.

These are some of the main public transport options in Bangkok. Yet, there are also other options, such as the Saen Saep Canal Boat, the Khlong Saen Saeb Boat, the SRT Light Red Line, and the MRT Orange Line, which are currently under construction or expansion. You can check the official websites or the mobile apps of each public transport option for more information and updates.

3.2. Private Transport

Bangkok also has many private transport options that offer more comfort, convenience, and flexibility, but also more cost, risk, and hassle. These are some of the private transport options in Bangkok:

3.2.1. Taxi

This is the most common and convenient way to travel around Bangkok. There are many taxis available throughout the city, and they can take you to any destination. However, this is also the most expensive and unpredictable way to travel around Bangkok, as the fares depend on the meter, the traffic, and the driver. The taxis operate 24 hours a day, and the fares start from 35 baht (1.2 USD) for the first 2 kilometers and then increase by 2 baht (0.07 USD) for every subsequent kilometer.

You can hail a taxi on the street, or use a mobile app, such as Grab, to book a taxi online. Make sure that the driver turns on the meter, and avoid any taxi that refuses to do so or tries to negotiate a fixed price. You should also be aware of some common taxi scams. For instance, taking a longer route, claiming that the destination is closed or full, or offering to take you to a gem shop or a tailor shop for a commission.

3.2.2. Tuk-tuk

This is the iconic and fun way to travel around Bangkok. Yes, it is a three-wheeled motorized vehicle that can zip through the traffic and the narrow streets. However, this is also the most risky and uncomfortable way to travel around Bangkok, as it is noisy, smoky, and bumpy, and it offers no protection from the weather or accidents. The tuk-tuks operate from 6 a.m. to midnight, and the fares are negotiable but usually start from 50 baht (1.7 USD) for a short trip.

You can hail a tuk-tuk on the street, or use a mobile app, such as TukTuk Hop, to book a tuk-tuk online. You should always agree on the fare and the destination before getting on. Also, you should avoid any tuk-tuk that tries to charge you more or take you to a different place. Additionally, you should be aware of some common tuk-tuk scams. For example, offering a very low fare in exchange for taking you to a gem shop or a tailor shop for a commission, or claiming that the destination is closed or full.

3.2.3. Motorbike

This is the fastest and most adventurous way to travel around Bangkok. The two-wheeled motorized vehicle can weave you through the traffic and the narrow streets. However, this is the most dangerous and illegal way to travel around Bangkok, as it is prone to accidents, theft, and fines and requires a valid driver’s license and insurance. The motorbikes operate 24 hours a day, and the fares are negotiable but usually start from 20 baht (0.7 USD) for a short trip.

You can hail a motorbike on the street, or use a mobile app, such as GrabBike, to book a motorbike online. You should always wear a helmet and a jacket, and hold on to the driver or the handlebars. In addition, you should be aware of some common motorbike scams, such as charging you more than the agreed fare, taking your belongings, or driving recklessly.

3.2.4. Bicycle

This is the cheapest and most eco-friendly way to travel around Bangkok, as it is a non-motorized vehicle that can explore the city at your own pace and style. However, this is also the most challenging and exhausting way to travel around Bangkok, as it is hot, humid, and hilly. Furthermore, the traffic and the roads are not very bicycle-friendly. The bicycles operate 24 hours a day, and the fares are free or very low, depending on where you get them. You can rent a bicycle from a bike shop, a hotel, or a park, or use a mobile app, such as Mobike, to find and unlock a bicycle online. Remember to always wear a helmet and a lock, and follow the traffic rules and the signs.

4. Where to Stay in Bangkok

Another thing you need to consider when planning your trip to Bangkok is where to stay. Bangkok is a huge and diverse city that has many accommodation options, ranging from budget hostels to luxury hotels. In this section, we will help you decide where to stay in Bangkok, based on your budget, location, and preference.

4.1. Accommodations

Bangkok is a relatively cheap city to visit. You can find many accommodation options that suit your budget. However, you also need to consider the quality, safety, and comfort of your accommodation, as well as the amenities, services, and reviews. Here are some of the main budget options in Bangkok:

These are some of the main options in Bangkok. There are also other options, such as Airbnb, Couchsurfing, or camping, which are currently less popular or available in Bangkok. You can check the official websites or the mobile apps of each accommodation option for more information and updates.

4.2. Location

Bangkok is a huge and diverse city that has many different areas and neighborhoods, each with its character, atmosphere, and attractions. However, you also need to consider the distance, the traffic, and the accessibility of your location, as well as the safety, the convenience, and the vibe. Here are some of the main location options in Bangkok:

4.2.1. Sukhumvit

This is the most modern and cosmopolitan area of Bangkok, where you can find many high-end hotels, shopping malls, restaurants, bars, and clubs. If you don’t mind the crowds, the noise, and the prices, this is a good location to stay in Bangkok if you want to enjoy the nightlife, the shopping, and the international cuisine. You can easily travel around Sukhumvit by using the BTS Skytrain, which runs along the Sukhumvit Road, or by taking a taxi or a tuk-tuk. Some of the best places to stay in Sukhumvit are the Hilton Sukhumvit Bangkok Hotel, Siam@Siam Design Hotel Bangkok, Sofitel Bangkok Sukhumvit, and The Okura Prestige Bangkok.

4.2.2. Silom

This is the main business and financial area of Bangkok, where you can find many of the skyscrapers, banks, offices, and embassies. This is a good location to stay in Bangkok if you want to experience the hustle and bustle of the city, and if you want to visit some of the attractions, such as the Lumphini Park, the Patpong Night Market, or the Silom Village. You can easily travel around Silom by using the BTS Skytrain, which runs along Silom Road, or by taking the MRT Subway, which runs under Silom Road. Some of the best places to stay in Silom are Lebua at State Tower, Banyan Tree Bangkok, and W Bangkok.

4.2.3. Khao San

This is the main backpacker and tourist area of Bangkok, where you can find many cheap hostels, guesthouses, bars, and street stalls. This is a good location to stay in Bangkok if you want to meet other travelers. You can also visit some of the area’s attractions, such as the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, or Wat Arun. You can easily travel around Khao San by taking a bus, a boat, or a taxi, or by walking. Some of the best places to stay in Khao San are Rambuttri Village Plaza and D&D Inn.

5. What to Eat in Bangkok

One of the best things about visiting Bangkok is the food. Indeed, Bangkok is a food paradise that offers a wide range of dishes, from traditional Thai cuisine to international fusion cuisine. In this section, we will help you decide what to eat in Bangkok, based on your taste, budget, and preference.

5.1. Thai Cuisine

Thai cuisine is one of the world’s most popular and delicious cuisines. You can find it everywhere in Bangkok, from the street stalls to the fine dining restaurants. Thai cuisine is characterized by its balance of flavors, such as spicy, sour, sweet, salty, and bitter. Moreover, its use of fresh herbs, spices, and ingredients, such as lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime, chili, coconut, and fish sauce. Here are some of the main Thai dishes that you should try in Bangkok:

These are just some of the many Thai dishes that you can enjoy in Bangkok, but there are also other dishes, such as green curry, red curry, yellow curry, khao soi, khao pad, khao man gai, khao mok gai, khao niao mamuang, khao niew ma Muang, and many more. You can check the official tourism website or the local newspapers for more information and recommendations on Thai cuisine in Bangkok.

5.2. International Cuisine

Bangkok is not only a food paradise for Thai cuisine, but also for international cuisine. Bangkok is a cosmopolitan and multicultural city that has many restaurants that serve dishes from different countries and regions, such as China, Japan, Korea, India, Italy, France, Mexico, and more. In this section, we will introduce some of the main international cuisines that you can try in Bangkok, and some of the best places to try them:

5.2.1. Chinese Cuisine

Bangkok has a large and vibrant Chinese community, especially in Chinatown. It’s where you can find many restaurants that serve authentic and delicious Chinese dishes, such as dim sum, roast duck, noodles, dumplings, and more. Some of the best places to try Chinese cuisine in Bangkok are T & K Seafood, Shangarila Gold Tea Room, and Shao Shiung Hao.

5.2.2. Japanese Cuisine

Bangkok has a lot of Japanese expats and tourists. Also, a lot of Thai people love Japanese cuisine, which is why you can find many restaurants that serve fresh and tasty Japanese dishes, such as sushi, sashimi, ramen, udon, tempura, and more. Some of the best places to try Japanese cuisine in Bangkok are Isao, Tsu & Nami, and Bankara Ramen.

5.2.3. Korean Cuisine

Bangkok has a lot of Korean expats and tourists too. There are also a lot of Thai people who love Korean culture and cuisine. That is why you can find many restaurants that serve spicy and flavorful Korean dishes, such as bibimbap, kimchi, bulgogi, and more. Some of the best places to try Korean cuisine in Bangkok are Arirang, Han Kook Kwan, and Seoul Grill.

5.2.4. Indian Cuisine

For Indian cuisine lovers, you can find many restaurants that serve aromatic and diverse Indian dishes, such as curry, naan, biryani, and more. Some of the best places to try Indian cuisine in Bangkok are Indus, Rang Mahal, and Punjab Grill.

5.2.5. Italian Cuisine

Many restaurants serve classic and modern Italian dishes, such as pizza, pasta, risotto, and more. Some of the best places to try Italian cuisine in Bangkok are Peppina, La Scala, and Sensi.

5.2.6. French Cuisine

Bangkok has French expats and tourists, and also a lot of Thai people who love French cuisine. You can find many restaurants that serve elegant and sophisticated French dishes, such as foie gras, escargot, steak, and more. Some of the best places to try French cuisine in Bangkok are Le Normandie, L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon, and J’Aime by Jean-Michel Lorain.

5.2.7. Mexican Cuisine

Many restaurants serve colorful and delicious Mexican dishes, such as tacos, burritos, nachos, and more. Some of the best places to try Mexican cuisine in Bangkok are La Monita, The Missing Burro, and Sunrise Tacos.

These are just some of the many international cuisines that you can savor in Bangkok. yet, there are also other cuisines, such as Vietnamese, Lebanese, Spanish, American, and more. You can check the official tourism website or the local newspapers for more information and suggestions on the international cuisine in Bangkok.

6. What to See and Do in Bangkok

One of the most exciting things about visiting Bangkok is the sightseeing and the activities. Bangkok is a city that has something for everyone, whether it is culture, history, nature, or entertainment. In this section, we will help you decide what to see and do in Bangkok, based on your interests and preferences.

6.1. Culture and History

Bangkok is a city that has a rich and diverse culture and history, and you can find many attractions that showcase its heritage and traditions. Here are some of the main cultural and historical attractions in Bangkok:

6.1.1. The Grand Palace

The former home of the Thai kings and the site of the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, the most sacred temple in Thailand. Marvel at the beautiful architecture and learn about the royal and Buddhist history. Open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., 500 baht (15 USD) per person. Dress modestly and respectfully.

6.1.2. Wat Pho

The oldest and largest temple in Bangkok, with a 46-meter-long reclining Buddha statue covered with gold and mother-of-pearl. Explore the temple complex and get a Thai massage at the massage school. Open daily from 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., 200 baht (5.30 USD) per person. Dress modestly and respectfully.

6.1.3. Wat Arun

The most iconic and photogenic temple in Bangkok, on the opposite bank of the river from the Grand Palace and Wat Pho. Known as the Temple of Dawn, it has colorful spires and towers that shine in the light. Climb up the 82-meter-high central tower and enjoy the view. Open daily from 8 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., 100 baht (2.8 USD) per person. Dress modestly and respectfully.

6.2. Nature and Adventure

Bangkok is not only a city of concrete and steel, but also a city of green and blue, where you can find many attractions that offer nature and adventure. Here are some of the main nature and adventure attractions in Bangkok:

6.2.1. Lumphini Park

This is the largest and oldest park in Bangkok, which is located in the heart of the city, near the Silom and Sathorn areas. This is a good place to escape from the noise and the pollution of the city and enjoy the fresh air and the greenery. You can also do some activities, such as jogging, cycling, boating, or yoga, or visit some attractions, such as the statue of King Rama VI, the Chinese clock tower, or the monitor lizards. Lumphini Park is open daily from 4:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., and the entrance is free. You can easily reach Lumphini Park by taking the BTS Skytrain to Sala Daeng Station, or the MRT Subway to Lumphini Station or Silom Station.

6.2.2. Chatuchak Park

This is another large and popular park in Bangkok, which is located in the north of the city, near the Chatuchak area. This is a good place to relax and have a picnic, and enjoy the flowers and the ponds. You can also do some activities, such as jogging, cycling, or skating, or visit some attractions, such as the butterfly garden, the train museum, or the weekend market. Chatuchak Park is open daily from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m., and the entrance is free. You can easily reach Chatuchak Park by taking the BTS Skytrain to Mo Chit Station, or the MRT Subway to Chatuchak Park Station or Kamphaeng Phet Station.

6.2.3. Bang Krachao

This is a large and preserved green area in Bangkok, which is located on the opposite bank of the Chao Phraya River from the city center. This is a good place to experience the rural and natural side of Bangkok and explore the forests, the farms, and the villages. You can also do some activities, such as cycling, kayaking, or hiking, or visit some attractions. To elaborate, there are the Sri Nakhon Khuean Khan Park, the Bangkok Tree House, and the Bang Nam Phueng Floating Market, one of the best floating markets in Bangkok. Bang Krachao is open daily from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., and the entrance is free. You can easily reach Bang Krachao by taking a boat from the Klong Toey Pier, the Wat Khlong Toey Pier, or the Bang Na Pier.

These are just some of the many nature and adventure attractions in Bangkok, but there are also other attractions, such as the Rama IX Park, the Queen Sirikit Park, the Safari World, and more. You can check the official tourism website or the local newspapers for more information and suggestions on the nature and adventure attractions in Bangkok.

6.3. Entertainment and Shopping

Bangkok is a city that has a lot of entertainment and shopping options, where you can find something for every taste, mood, and budget. Here are some of the main entertainment and shopping attractions in Bangkok:

6.3.1. Asiatique

This is a large and modern riverside complex that combines a night market, a shopping mall, and an entertainment center. This is a good place to enjoy the nightlife, the shopping, and the entertainment of Bangkok, and also the view of the river and the city. You can also do some activities, such as riding the Ferris wheel, watching the cabaret show, playing games, or visiting some attractions, such as the Calypso Cabaret, the Muay Thai Live, or the Joe Louis Puppet Theatre. Asiatique is open daily from 11 a.m. to midnight, and the entrance is free. You can easily reach Asiatique by taking a free shuttle boat from the Sathorn Pier, which is near the BTS Skytrain Saphan Taksin Station.

6.3.2. Siam Paragon

This is one of the largest and most luxurious shopping malls in Bangkok, which is located in the center of the city, near the Siam area. This is a good place to indulge in the shopping, dining, and entertainment of Bangkok, and also the view of the city. You can also do some activities, such as watching a movie, visiting the aquarium, playing bowling, or visiting some attractions, such as the Siam Ocean World, the Madame Tussauds, or the KidZania. Siam Paragon is open daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., and the entrance is free. You can easily reach Siam Paragon by taking the BTS Skytrain to Siam Station, which is directly connected to the mall.

6.3.3. Khao San Road

This is the most famous and lively street in Bangkok, which is located in the old town, near the Khao San area. This is a good place to experience the backpacker and tourist culture of Bangkok and mingle with the locals and the foreigners. You can also do some activities, such as drinking, dancing, or getting a tattoo, or visit some attractions, such as the bars, the clubs, or the street stalls. Khao San Road is open 24 hours a day, and the entrance is free. You can easily reach Khao San Road by taking a bus, a boat, or a taxi, or by walking.

These are just some of the many entertainment and shopping attractions in Bangkok, but there are also other attractions, such as Terminal 21, the Central World, the Platinum Fashion Mall, the MBK Center, the Emporium, the EmQuartier, the Erawan Shrine, the Baiyoke Sky Tower, the Rod Fai Market, the Patpong Night Market, the RCA, the Thonglor, the Ekkamai, and more. You can check the official tourism website or the local newspapers for more information and recommendations on the entertainment and shopping attractions in Bangkok.

6.4. Arts and Entertainment

Bangkok is a city that has a lot of arts and entertainment options, where you can find something for every taste, mood, and budget. Here are some of the main arts and entertainment attractions in Bangkok:

6.4.1. Bangkok Art and Culture Centre

This is the main contemporary art center in Bangkok, which is located in the center of the city, near the Siam area. This is a good place to enjoy the arts and culture of Bangkok and see the exhibitions, performances, and workshops of various artists, both local and international. You can also visit some attractions, such as the art library, the art cafe, or the art shop. Bangkok Art and Culture Centre is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and the entrance is free. You can easily reach Bangkok Art and Culture Centre by taking the BTS Skytrain to National Stadium Station, which is directly connected to the center.

6.4.2. Siam Niramit

This is a spectacular and award-winning show that showcases the history, culture, and traditions of Thailand, through music, dance, and special effects. This is a good place to experience the entertainment and the beauty of Thailand and see the scenes, costumes, and props of various regions, eras, and realms. You can also visit some attractions, such as the Thai village, the elephant feeding, or the buffet dinner. Siam Niramit is open daily, from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., and the show starts at 8 p.m. The ticket price is 2060 baht (59 USD) per person, or 2240 baht (64 USD) per person with dinner. You can easily reach Siam Niramit by taking the MRT Subway to Thailand Cultural Centre Station and then taking a free shuttle bus to the theater.

6.4.3. Calypso Cabaret

This is a glamorous and fun cabaret show that features the performances of the ladyboys, or the transgender women, who sing, dance, and impersonate various celebrities, such as Madonna, Beyonce, or Marilyn Monroe. This is a good place to enjoy the nightlife and the humor of Bangkok, and see the talent and the charm of the ladyboys. You can also visit some attractions, such as the photo booth, the bar, or the restaurant.

Calypso Cabaret is open daily, from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m., and the show starts at 6:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. The ticket price is 875 baht (25 USD) per person, or 1400 baht (40 USD) per person with dinner. You should book your ticket online to reserve a good spot in the hall to watch the show perfectly. You can easily reach Calypso Cabaret by taking a free shuttle boat from the Sathorn Pier, which is near the BTS Skytrain Saphan Taksin Station, to the Asiatique, where the theater is located.

These are just some of the many arts and entertainment attractions in Bangkok, Yet, there are also other attractions, such as the Bangkok National Museum, the Jim Thompson House, the Erawan Museum, the Muay Thai Live, the Joe Louis Puppet Theatre, and more. You can check the official tourism website or the local newspapers for more information and recommendations on the arts and entertainment attractions in Bangkok.

7. The Best Tips and Tricks for Visiting Bangkok

Bangkok is a city that has a lot of surprises and challenges for visitors, and you can have a better and smoother travel experience by knowing some of the best tips and tricks for visiting Bangkok. In this section, we will help you prepare and plan for your trip to Bangkok, and give you some useful and practical advice on how to enjoy the city to the fullest.