bangkok travel street

10 Most Popular Streets in Bangkok

Take a walk down bangkok's streets and squares.

Explore the most popular streets in Bangkok – you’ll see ancient landmarks side-by-side with modern skyscrapers, and street food stalls through to Michelin-starred restaurants. While some streets attract visitors with grand temples, others pull in the city’s partygoers and backpackers. In Bangkok , there’s something unique around just about every corner.

Whether you’re searching for a world-class nightlife scene, premium shopping destinations, or rich history and culture, plenty of Bangkok’s most popular streets have you covered. Read about 10 of our favorite streets to gain an insight into what city has to offer.

Yaowarat Road

The center of bangkok’s chinatown district.

Yaowarat Road has been the beating heart of Bangkok’s Chinese community for over 200 years. While exploring this main road and its side streets, you’ll find countless stores selling gold and trinkets, with restaurants and street food stalls spilling onto the sidewalks. You can also check out nearby temples like Wat Traimit, where you’ll see a 5.5-tonne Golden Buddha.

Yaowarat Road boasts a vibrant dining scene. Visit in the evening to see impressive, illuminated landmarks such as the Guan Yin Shrine, as well as Chinese red lanterns and neon-lit restaurant signage.

Khao San Road

Round-the-clock pilgrimage for backpackers.

Khao San Road is arguably the main draw for most backpackers in Bangkok. Stretching for around 1 km, the street hosts cheap accommodations, restaurants, travel agents, market stalls, and tattoo shops. More famously, it boasts a vibrant and bohemian nightlife scene – the street remains full of partygoers until the early hours.

Head to Brick Bar for a night of live music and beverages aplenty, or Superflow Beach Club if you prefer to party outside. If you want to try some of Bangkok’s renowned street food, the Michelin-starred Jay Fai is right around the corner.

EasyKart at RCA Plaza Bangkok

The Old Siam Plaza in Bangkok

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Soi sukhumvit 11, popular boulevard with a vibrant nightlife scene.

Soi Sukhumvit 11 is one of the busiest streets within the Asok and Nana districts. Here, you can dance in vast nightclubs until the early hours, sip cocktails on a rooftop bar with panoramic views, or enjoy a meal at a restaurant or bar. 

Thanks to its popularity as a tourist destination, Soi Sukhumvit 11 is home to a range of 3- and 4-star hotels, as well as a few budget options. We recommend Levels Club if you want to dance the night away. Havana Social is a great place to enjoy live Latin music until late.

Charoenkrung Road

A historic road with a contemporary vibe.

Charoenkrung Road is widely known as Bangkok’s oldest paved road. While it still retains a historic charm with antiquated houses and traditional local businesses, it also attracts hipsters and students with its trendy cafes, street art, brunch spots, and bars. It’s also home to some popular fine-dining restaurants.

If you fancy splashing out on a sophisticated meal, reserve a table at Mezzaluna, a Michelin-starred restaurant on the 65th floor of lebua at State Tower. For an evening of beverages, head to Tropic City or SIWILAI Sound Club.

photo by Chainwit. ( CC BY-SA 4.0 ) modified

Sanam Chai Road

Home to iconic palaces, forts, and historical landmarks.

Sanam Chai Road runs from the Grand Palace to the Old City Moat in Bangkok. On the west side of the road, you’ll see landmarks like the Ananta Khiri Fort, Wat Pho, and the Deva Phithak Gate. Government headquarters, Saranrom Palace and the Saranrom Palace Park lie on the eastern side. 

Thanks to the opening of the Sanam Chai MRT Station in 2019, Sanam Chai Road is easily accessible from just about anywhere in Bangkok. If you’d like to try out a more traditional form of transportation, you’ll find plenty of tuk-tuks parked near the street’s main attractions.

Thong Lo Road (Soi Sukhumvit 55)

A trendy street with diverse drinking and dining spots.

Thong Lo Road – or Soi Sukhumvit 55 as it’s officially known – has been one of Bangkok’s trendiest neighborhoods since the early 2000’s saw countless boutiques, bars and restaurants open up in the area, which in turn spurred the construction of modern high-rise condos. This vibrant street is also home to a significant concentration of Japanese restaurants and venues.

The nearest BTS Skytrain station to Thong Lo Road is Thong Lo Station, which lies on the Sukhumvit Line. This street is a popular evening spot, when local and visitors enjoy colorful cocktails at trendy spots like Shades of Retro, the Bluebird Jazz Bar and FindTheLockerRoom.

Ong Ang Walking Street

One of the most prominent attractions in the old city.

The Ong Ang Walking Street occupies a beautified 1.5-km stretch of the Khlong Ong Ang canal in the Old City. On weekends, both sides of the canal are lined with market stalls, street food vendors, and striking street art.

The markets usually run from 4 pm to 10 pm. Be prepared to jostle with crowds regardless of when you visit. The Ong Ang Walking Street is easily accessible via the Sam Yot MRT Station. Nearby landmarks like Khao San Road and Grand Palace are just a short walk away.

A financial hub with a roaring nightlife scene

Silom Road is a financial center during the day and a party destination at night. The street and its  sois  (side streets) are widely known for hosting vibrant nightlife spots and a thriving LGBTQ+ scene. You’ll also find many upscale restaurants and rooftop bars.

Every other week between December and May, a section of Silom Road turns into a walking street with dozens of market stalls. The easiest way to reach Silom Road is via the BTS Skytrain to the Sala Daeng Intersection or the MRT to the Silom Station.

Maha Rat Road

Home to iconic landmarks by the chao praya river.

Maha Rat Road hosts some of Bangkok’s most iconic landmarks, including Grand Palace and Wat Pho. You can browse local goods and wholesale seafood at the historic Tha Tien Market, or dine at one of the many restaurants and bars overlooking the Chao Phraya River. Just across the river, you’ll see the stunning Wat Arun.

Maha Rat Road is easily accessible via the Sanam Chai MRT Station. You can also reach this street by hopping on a ferry or longboat to either Tha Tien or Tha Chang Pier. Visit in the morning to beat the crowds and the heat.

High-end shopping and international dining

Chit Lom is known for hosting many high-end shopping malls and department stores in Bangkok. Standouts include Central Embassy, Central Chidlom and Erawan Bangkok (located next to the famous Erawan Shrine). You can also take in views of many of the city’s modern high-rises and enjoy an international dining scene. 

The easiest way to reach Chit Lom is via BTS Skytrain. A station of the same name is located on Sukhumvit Road, at the entrance to Chit Lom Alley. You can also take a canal ferry to the Chitlom ferry terminal at the other end of the alley.

This article includes opinions of the Go Guides editorial team. Hotels.com compensates authors for their writing appearing on this site; such compensation may include travel and other costs.

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Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

Bangkok Travel Guide

Last Updated: March 1, 2024

Bangkok is famous for its chaotic streets, cheap and delicious street food, wild nightlife, and never-ending traffic. But it’s also a city that most travelers either love or hate.

Personally, I hated it when I first arrived. But, when I got to know it more, I changed my mind. Then, when I moved to Bangkok in 2006, I fell madly in love with it.

Most travelers just pass through here when they backpack or travel around Thailand. But there’s a lot to see and do in Bangkok. It’s worth a few days at the least. Because when you look beyond the chaos and peel back Bangkok’s layers, the city comes alive with endless things to do, see, explore, eat, and drink. It’s a city that opens itself up to those who are willing to get past all the temples and backpacker bars.

You just need to know where to look.

This Bangkok travel guide shows you there’s more to Thailand’s “City of Angels” than you think, with tips on how to plan, save money, and make the most of your visit to this hectic and vibrant capital!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Bangkok

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Bangkok

1. Visit the Grand Palace and Wat Pho

The palace was built over the course of three years at the end of the 18th century by King Rama I and is the official residence of the current monarch (although he doesn’t live there anymore; it is just used for official ceremonies). Hidden behind high concrete walls, you’ll see tons of wats (temples), chedis (mound-like structures containing Buddhist relics), carvings, statues, and the famous 15th century Emerald Buddha. This statue has his robes rotated three times a year by none other than Thailand’s king himself. Nearby you’ll find Wat Po to have a larger-than-life golden reclining Buddha statue, and busy massage school. Even if you’re only in Bangkok for a day, you should make it a point to visit the glittering Grand Palace! Try to get one of the free tours as there is minimal signage. It costs 500 THB to enter the Grand Palace and 200 THB to enter Wat Pho.

2. Tour the Chatuchak Weekend Market

Bangkok’s weekend market, the largest such market in the world, is an ideal place to buy anything and everything. It has over 15,000 stalls, making it the best place to get gifts, find knockoffs, barter, and eat some good food. You can find everything here and there’s some really good eats here. Definitely wander around even if you don’t plan on buying anything. It’s open on Saturday and Sunday, 9am-6pm.

3. Explore Lumpini Park

Outdoor enthusiasts will find it hard to tear themselves away from Bangkok’s Lumpini Park. Jogging paths, bicycle paths, picnic areas, chess tables, Tai Chi classes, fitness equipment, and rowboats for rent on the lakes offer plenty to do. The tall trees and quiet setting offer a nice reprieve from busy Bangkok. It’s one of the few green spaces in the city.

4. See Jim Thompson’s House

Jim Thompson was a former American spy and silk merchant in Thailand during the 1950s and 1960s. He built his traditional Thai home in Bangkok and decorated it with gorgeous teak wood furniture and a surrounding garden. He vanished mysteriously in 1967 while in Malaysia, and his house is now a monument to traditional Thai architecture and includes a fabulous guided tour about Jim Thompson and traditional Thai lifestyle. A visit here is one of my favorite things to do in the city. And proceeds are used to help underprivileged kids! The entrance fee is 200 THB and it’s open daily from 10am-6pm.

5. Take in the view from Wat Arun

This is a gorgeous Buddhist temple on the edge of the Chao Phraya River opposite the Grand Palace. It has one main spire and four small ones and is so iconic you’ll find it on Thai money. From the top of the main spire you get sweeping views of the city, making for extraordinary photographs during sunrise and sunset (though, at the time of publication construction was going on). The intricate tiled facade reflects the light beautifully during sunrise and sunset. The stairs are steep, so be careful climbing. Admission is 100 THB.

Other Things to See and Do in Bangkok

1. visit the damnoen saduak floating market.

This floating market is just outside of Bangkok. While it exists mostly for the benefit of tourists, I still like visiting. The tours that come here are about half a day and leave early in the morning. It’s not a great place to shop, but the area is good for photography and eating. Open 7am-3pm daily.

2. Temple hop

Bangkok is full of history, temples, and Thai ruins. There are around ten main temples in the city, all with different architectural structures and layouts. You can easily hire someone to take you to all of them in one day, as it only takes a few hours to see them all. If you don’t have that much time, aside from the Grand Palace and Wat Po, make sure you check out Wat Arun, The Temple of the Dawn. Just be sure to dress appropriately, keeping your legs and shoulders covered, as these are functioning temples.

3. Shop ’til you drop

Bangkok has tons of shopping centers (they’re super popular here and sell everything). Make sure you check out Siam Paragon (for designer clothes), Terminal 21 (to see the stunning internationally themed decor), Platinum (for cheap, trendy clothes), Pantip (for cheap electronics), and MBK (for cheap knockoffs).

4. Hang out on Khao San Road

Khao San Road is the infamous backpacker/tourist street in Bangkok. All travel roads lead in and out of here. However, it is more than just a transit hub for travelers, offering a fun nightlife, delicious food, plenty of shopping stalls, tons of people watching, and bustling activity day and night. Post-COVID, it’s become less of a backpacker street and more of a hub for local Thais. It’s still a party though. For something quiter, check out Soi Rambuttri, which is right next door. That street has more chill bars and quieter music.

5. Visit the Temple of the Golden Mount

Only a short distance from Khao San Road, The Temple of the Golden Mount (Wat Saket) features an enormous chedi , a mound-like structure containing Buddhist relics. This is one of my favorite temples in the city because of its beautiful golden temple, stunning setting, and wonderful views of the city from the top. At the base of the mountain is an overgrown cemetery for 18th-century plague victims. Entry to the temple itself is free but it costs 50 THB to go to the chedi .

6. Day trip to Ayutthaya

Close to Bangkok is the old capital of the Kingdom of Siam. This historic city, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to the summer palace and tons of breathtaking and unique temples. Since it is so close to Bangkok, it’s a very popular day-trip destination for tours. Lots of companies offer trips but it’s so easy to get to that I would simply go on your own by train. Train tickets cost 90-130 THB round-trip, with the journey taking 1.5 hours each way. You can visit on a day trip with Get Your Guide for just 900 THB.

7. Enjoy Bangkok’s famous nightlife scene

You’ll never have a problem finding good bars and clubs to go to in Bangkok. Khao San Road and Silom are two of the most popular nightlife spots in the city while Soi Nana (in Chinatown) is famous for it’s cocktail bars and quirky art vibe. Thong Lo is full of bars and clubs frequented by local Thais. Some of my favorite bars are Brick Bar, Whisgars, Teens of Thailand, Cheap Charlies, Craft, and J.Boroski.

8. Eat in Chinatown

First, wander among the lilies, birds of paradise, and orchids at Pak Klong Talad, the flower market at the north end of Chinatown. From there, grab a bite to eat at one of the many food stalls. You can eat your weight in street food here and still not break the bank. It’s one of the best and cheapest places to eat in the city!

9. Watch a puppet show

A huge part of traditional Thai culture revolves around puppetry. Two types are common – Nang (shadow puppets) and Hun (marionettes). If you’re lucky, you can see a show at an outdoor festival. Otherwise, head to the Joe Louis Traditional Thai Puppet Theatre, founded in 1985 by Sakorn Yang-keawsot (whose English name was Joe Louis), where tickets cost around 700 THB for a performance.

10. Spend a hip night out in Thong Lo

The city’s top-end dining and nightlife lies in this trendy neighborhood, including many Western jazz bars and beer gardens. It’s very popular with Bangkok’s young middle and upper classes. The neighborhood is very walkable and a great place for a fashionable night out. Popular spots include Beer Belly, a craft beer bar with beer pong and a 2-for-1 happy hour from 5-8 pm; and Rabbit Hole, a swanky bar with creative cocktails.

11. Boat down the Bangkok canals

Known as the “Venice of the East,” Bangkok used to be full of waterways and canals. While not as many of those exist anymore, you can still see many of the old bridges and stilt houses, and colorful flower gardens crowding the waterways. You can cruise along the Chao Phraya River to see what remains. Thai Canal Tours offers various group and private canal tours, starting at 2,200 THB a full-day tour, including lunch.

12. Wander the Rot Fai Night Market

Rot Fai Market (or Train Market) is an authentic open-air bazaar selling an array of vintage collectibles and memorabilia, from antique furniture to hippy fashion and Mao kitsch. The Train Night Market is absolutely one of the coolest markets in Bangkok. It’s open at night Thursday through Sunday.

13. See a Muay Thai fight

If you want to see a Muay Thai fight in the city, Lumpinee Stadium is the place to go. While Lumpinee has been hosting Muay Thai fights since the 1950s, the new stadium (which opened in 2014) is huge and can hold up to 15,000 spectators. Fight nights are Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday at 6pm and tickets start at 1,600 THB (buy them online directly from the stadium website for the best price).

14. See Wat Suthat & the Giant Swing

Famous for the Giant Swing that meets you at the entrance of the temple, Wat Suthat is one of Bangkok’s most memorable tourist sites. The Giant Swing was first constructed in 1784 but was replaced in 2005 with an entirely golden teak one (the temple was added in 1807). Aside from the swing, the temple features a magnificent traditional roof, ancient murals, and hand-carved teak door panels. The huge complex includes multiple large temples on the property as well as smaller statues and courtyards. Entrance is 20 THB and it’s open daily from 9am-6pm.

15. Tour the Bangkok Butterfly Garden & Insectarium

This small garden is located around the corner from the Chatuchak Weekend Market. There are over 500 butterflies flying around this domed enclosure, which also features a wide range of flowers, ferns, and even some waterfalls. Entry is free and it’s open Tuesday-Sunday. The butterfly garden is located next to three sprawling parks to continue your day in nature: Queen Sirikit Gardens, Rod Fai Park, and Chatuchak Park. It’s the perfect area to relax and take a stroll.

16. Visit the Bangkokian Museum

This folk museum depicts middle-class life in Bangkok during the 1950s with a collection of three wooden houses filled with family items from that period (the building is from that era as well). It’s small, so you don’t need a lot of time. It’s also free and includes a guided tour.

17. Peruse the National Gallery

This portrait museum has some amazing portraits of the royal family as well as paintings done by the late king, who was an artist and musician in his spare time. It’s located in the former Royal Mint building, they have excellent interim contemporary art exhibits from local artists on the ground floor. Admission is 200 THB.

18. Take a food tour

  For more information on other cities and islands in Thailand, check out the guides below:

• Chiang Mai Travel Guide
• Ko Chang Travel Guide
• Ko Lipe Travel Guide
• Ko Pha Ngan Travel Guide
• Koh Phi Phi Travel Guide
• Phuket Travel Guide

Bangkok Travel Costs

Hostel prices – Dorm rooms with 6-8 beds start around 170-220 THB per night on Khao San Road, where accommodation is cheapest. A bed in a 4-6-bed dorm in more upscale hostels (with air conditioning) costs around 300-500 THB.

Private rooms are popular and vary in price, but generally cost around 700-900 THB. Although there’s a growing hostel scene downtown, I find the rooms expensive – especially when you can get cheaper accommodation and meet more travelers on Khao San Road.

Free Wi-Fi is standard, as are free linens and air conditioning, though free breakfast is not. Most hostels in Bangkok often have a range of additional fun amenities, such as swimming pools, outdoor terraces, and free bikes rentals. Most also have a bar or café on-site as well but shared kitchen facilities are not common.

Note that many hostels only accept cash.

Budget hotel prices – Private rooms in small guesthouses or hotels (especially those in the backpacker area of Khao San Road) start at 600 THB for a double room with a private bathroom. If you want something cheaper, you can find single rooms in other areas from 220 THB (fan, shared bathroom), and double rooms from 320 THB (fan, shared bathroom).

If you want a decent hotel room, however, expect to pay at least 1000 THB for a double with a private bathroom.

Quality varies greatly so be sure to look at the reviews online. Most hotels offer free Wi-Fi and air-conditioning and many offer free breakfast as well.

As for Airbnb, you can find full apartments for rent averaging around 850-1,200 THB while private rooms start around 480 THB per night.

Average cost of food – Thai cuisine uses many ingredients to create layers of flavor. Typical spices and herbs include garlic, basil, galangal, cilantro, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, chilies, and fish sauce. Thailand’s neighboring countries all influence the country’s flavorful cuisine which is aromatic and spicy with a variety of curries, salads, soups, and stir-fries that differ based on region.

Rice and noodles are central to Thai food, while the most popular meats are pork, chicken, fish, and seafood. Popular dishes include tom yum goong (hot and sour soup with shrimp), massaman curry, som tam (spicy papaya salad), kao phad (fried rice), khao man gai (rice with boiled chicken), and satay (grilled meat on skewers, served with a peanut dipping sauce).

In Bangkok, you can eat from the street vendors for between 40-70 THB per meal, purchase a bag of freshly cut fruit or Thai iced tea for 20 THB, or get a grilled chicken, rice, and som tam meal for 150 THB. For the best pad thai in the city, go-to Pad Thai Thip Samai, where you can get a very filling dish for 75 THB.

Seafood, even from street vendors, is more expensive. Expect to pay 200-400 THB for a seafood dish. Sit down Thai restaurants begin at 65 THB per meal.

Western food begins at around 150 THB and increases from there. A pizza is 250 THB, a pasta dish is 320-400 THB, and a burger is around 250-300 THB. If you’re eating downtown, expect a Western breakfast or lunch to cost between 200-350 THB. A Western fast food combo meal (think McDonald’s) costs around 300 THB.

Many of the malls have huge (and popular) food courts where you can get a filling meal for around 60-100 THB. Like the rest of Thailand, if you eat at the street markets like the locals, you’ll be hard-pressed to break the bank.

When it comes to drinking, going to bars can become pricey. The cheapest beers cost about 70 THB each, a glass of wine costs 180 THB, and cocktails cost around 400 THB. You can save money by buying beers from 7-Eleven.

For non-alcoholic drinks, a latte is around 65 THB and soda is around 25 THB.

If you’re looking for places to eat, some places I like are Yasothon Duck Larb, T & K Seafood, Shoshana, Bella Napoli, Isao, 55 Pochana, and Kuang Seafood.

A week’s worth of groceries, including the basic staples like rice, veggies, and some meat costs around 700 THB but given how cheap the street food is in Bangkok, I wouldn’t recommend doing heavy grocery shopping because it will cost you more than just eating out.

Backpacking Bangkok Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget in Bangkok, expect to spend about 950 THB per day. This covers a lower-end hostel dorm, eating street food for all your meals, drinking beers from 7-Eleven, a few temple visits, and using public transportation to get around. If you want to have more fun, stay downtown, and maybe some nicer meals or a massage or two, budget around 1,275 THB per day.

On a mid-range budget, expect to spend about 1,925 THB a day. This budget covers a private room in a two-star hotel/guesthouse, eating at more local sit-down restaurants and enjoying a few more drinks, splurging on a few taxis, and visiting more attractions in the city. On this amount per day, you aren’t going to live the high life, but you won’t want for anything either.

A “luxury” budget of 3,850 THB per day or more covers a comfortable room with air-conditioning, any meals you want, more drinking, as many activities and tours you want, and everything in between. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in THB.

Bangkok Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Bangkok can be a cheap city if you avoid splashing out on fancy food, cocktails, and big name hotels. Sticking to Thai places and cheap accommodation, you’ll be hard-pressed to spend a lot of money. Nevertheless, here are some ways to save money in Bangkok:

• Eat from the street stalls – Food from street vendors in Bangkok is some of the best Thai food I have ever had. The locals eat here; you should eat here too. Not only is it the best food around, it’s also the cheapest!
• Make sure your taxi turns on the meter – All taxis are required to use a meter when they have passengers. However, most want to charge a higher flat rate instead of using the meter — especially if there’s traffic. If this happens, just walk away and see if a different taxi will turn on their meter for you.
• Negotiate with tuk-tuk drivers – Unlike taxis, the tuk-tuk drivers do not have meters, so be sure to set the fixed price before you take off. They are very friendly, but if you act like a naive tourist, you will get taken advantage of!
• Use public transportation – Locals use the extensive bus and BTS systems to get wherever they need to go in Bangkok. To save money, do the same. A 20-minute taxi ride might cost you 120 THB, while the same ride in a bus might only cost 10 THB.
• Take the boats – There’s a limited canal system in Bangkok that can get you around parts of the city quicker (especially from Khao San Road to Siam Square) and cheaper than taxis or the SkyTrain. Prices are between 5-15 THB depending on the distance.
• Stay with a local – Couchsurfing connects you with locals who can give you not only a free place to stay but can share their insider tips and advice too. It’s the best way to save money on accommodation while connecting with locals.
• Take a free walking tour – Free walking tours help you get oriented within a city while picking up some interesting facts and history in the process. To see all the highlights and connect with a local guide, check out Bangkok Walking Tours or Free Bangkok Walks. Just remember to tip your guide at the end!
• Bargain hard – When shopping at the markets, use your negotiation skills. The rule of thumb is the more you buy, the cheaper the prices will be. So shop in packs for the best deals.
• Save money on rideshares – Grab is Asia’s answer to Uber, which is no longer available in Thailand. It works the same way: you hire a local to take you somewhere via the Grab app, and you can pay via the app or in cash. It’s often more affordable than a regular taxi and you don’t have to worry about getting scammed.
• Use a water bottle with a purifier – It isn’t safe to drink the tap water in Bangkok, and although buying bottled water is cheap, it does add up. Instead, pick up a LifeStraw , which has built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe (it’s good for the environment too!)

Where to Stay in Bangkok

Bangkok has tons of cheap, fun, and social hostels as well as good budget hotels. Here are some of my favorite places to stay:

• Mad Monkey Hostel
• @Hua Lamphong Hostel
• Lub d Bangkok Siam
• D&D Inn
• Bangkok Tree House

How to Get Around Bangkok

Public transportation – Bangkok’s public buses are the cheapest way to get around the city. They’re run by the Bangkok Mass Transit Authority, whose website has detailed information on various routes. Air-conditioned buses typically start at 10-18 THB and go up based on distance. A weekly pass costs 255 THB.

Fares for ordinary buses (with fans) start at 7-8 THB and also go up based on distance. A weekly pass for these types of buses costs 120 THB.

Commonly known as the BTS or the Skytrain, this is an elevated transit system with fares costing 16-52 THB per trip or 140 THB for a one-day pass. If you plan to be in Bangkok for a while, look at buying the Rabbit Card, which costs 200 THB, including 100 THB in pre-loaded fares. You can get a day pass for 140 THB which covers the entire BTS system that includes smart buses and express ferries. A 15-trip pass is 450 THB.

The Chao Phraya Express Boat Company is the main ferry service along the Chao Phraya River. The central pier is located at BTS Saphan Taksin, and fares are 13-32 THB. There is also a special tourist boat that runs between Phra Athit and Sathorn every 30 minutes between the hours of 9:30am and 6pm.

Canal boats are especially useful for getting to and from Siam Square and the surrounding area during rush hour. This is one of the best and cheapest ways to get from Khao San Road to downtown Bangkok. It only takes 15 minutes and prices in general start from 10 THB.

The Metropolitan Rapid Transit (or MRT) is the city’s underground train system. It connects most of downtown with some of the suburbs. It uses tokens instead of tickets, but metro cards are available for frequent travelers. Fares cost 15-40 THB per trip, depending on your destination.

Taxi – Taxis are my favorite way to get around the city, as they’re clean, comfortable, and there’s no need to haggle over the price. However, only get in a cab that uses the meter. The rate for the first kilometer is 35 THB, with an additional baht for every 50 meters after that; a 5 kilometers (3 miles) journey runs about 60 THB.

Motorcycle taxis are another popular way to get around the city, usually costing between 20-100 THB per trip. You tell your driver where you want to go, negotiate a price (haggle hard!), strap on the helmet, and speed off into traffic. They’re the quickest (but the scariest way) to get across Bangkok.

Tuk-Tuk – Tuk-tuks are noisy, polluting, and uncomfortable. They require hard bargaining skills and are only worth taking once for the experience. I sometimes like them for short distances but generally prefer a cab to a tuk-tuk. Fares vary greatly based on your haggling skills but expect to be first quoted around 100 THB.

Ridesharing – Grab is Asia’s answer to Uber. It works the same way: you hire a driver to take you somewhere via the Grab app, and you can pay via the app or in cash. It’s often more affordable than a regular taxi.

When to Go to Bangkok

November to the end of February is the best time to visit Bangkok if you want pleasant weather. Bangkok is “coolest” during this time but still averages a hot daily high around 29°C (85°F). This is also the driest time of year. However, because this coincides with Christmas and New Year, expect big crowds and inflated prices.

The shoulder season (April to June) is the hottest time of year to visit Bangkok, with temperatures soaring as high as 40°C (100°F). If you have to come during this time, try to make it for the Thai New Year (Songkran) in April. Songkran is the largest water festival in the world, and you’re guaranteed to have a blast.

Avoid July to October if you can. This is monsoon season and rains can be heavy and unpredictable. I’m not saying it’s going to rain 24/7, but it rains more often and more heavily than other times of the year. Prices are usually cheaper during this time though.

How to Stay Safe in Bangkok

Bangkok is a safe place to backpack and travel, even for solo travelers and even solo female travelers. That being said, it’s also an incredibly chaotic and busy city. Petty theft (including bag snatching) is the most common type of crime you’ll face in Bangkok. Always keep your valuable secure and out of reach — especially in crowded tourist areas and when on public transportation.

Solo female travelers should feel safe exploring the city, though the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).

Some people will try to rip you off, including taxi drivers who refuse to turn on their meters. If the driver won’t turn on their meter, just get out and find one who will.

If you’re worried about scams, read this post on common travel scams to avoid so you can stay vigilant.

Some areas of Bangkok are all about partying, and the biggest incidents happen when people are drunk and stupid. Avoid illegal substances at all costs as Thailand is very, very strict on drugs and they don’t cut foreigners a break. Expect huge fines and jail time if you get caught.

When you go out drinking, only bring the money you need for the night. Leave your wallet at home.

If you experience an emergency, dial 191 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID, and forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are just in case.

For more in-depth coverage of how to stay safe in Bangkok, this post answers some frequently asked questions and concerns.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Bangkok Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Agoda – Other than Hostelworld, Agoda is the best hotel accommodation site for Asia.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.

Get the In-Depth Budget Guide to Thailand!

My detailed 350+ page guidebook is made for budget travelers like you! It cuts out the fluff found in other guidebooks and gets straight to the practical information you need to travel around Thailand. You’ll find suggested itineraries, budgets, ways to save money, on and off-the-beaten-path things to see and do, non-touristy restaurants, markets, bars, safety tips, and much more! Click here to learn more and get your copy today.

Bangkok Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more tips for your trip? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Thailand travel and continue planning your trip:

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The 7 Best Hotels in Bangkok

The 22 Best Things to Do in Bangkok

The Ultimate Guide to Teaching English in Thailand

Is Bangkok Safe to Visit?

The Complete Guide to Diving in Koh Tao

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22 Best Things to Do in Bangkok, Rooftop Bars and Ancient Temples Included

Here's how experts recommend exploring Thailand's capital.

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One of the most exciting and energetic capital cities in the world, Bangkok is the perfect gateway for travelers ready to take a deep dive into the beauty, history, culture, and traditions of Southeast Asia. The frenetic metropolis may cause a bit of sensory overload, but getting into its rhythm is part of the adventure. Built along the Chao Phraya River, modern-day Bangkok is an amalgamation of culture, ethnicities, architecture, and even time periods. It's entirely possible to pass a 400-year-old temple on one corner and a tech-forward, 21st-century shopping mall on the next. It's a city where street food mingles with Michelin-starred restaurants, and top-rated, modern hotels stand next to antique wooden houses. The energy of Bangkok is a heady mixture of ancient traditions, swirls of incense, the sizzle of chilis on cast-iron woks, an explosion of colorful flowers, flashes of neon, and endless honking from sputtering tuk tuks. It's a city that will ensnare the senses and hook you from the very beginning. "You cannot go to Thailand and not see the capital," says Grant Ekelund, senior travel consultant with InsideTravel Group Ltd, and a Travel + Leisure A-List Advisor. "Even if you want to spend all of your time at the beaches or up in the mountains, you cannot understand those parts until you understand Bangkok — until you've gone down the klongs, wandered the roads, seen the temples, grabbed the street food, and interacted with people. It's just a dynamic and interesting city, and you're selling yourself short if you don't spend time there." But where to begin? With so many wonderful things to do in Thailand's capital, we've spoken to experts to narrow down the list. Read on to discover the best things to do in Bangkok.

Visit the Temple of the Emerald Buddha.

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In a city with no fewer than 400 temples, it can be a daunting task to try to determine which ones to visit. That said, if it's your first time in Bangkok, experts agree that there are a few temples to put at the very top of your list, the first being the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Regarded as the holiest Buddhist temple in Thailand, you'll find it within the elaborate Grand Palace complex. Inside the shrine is a small, jade-colored Buddha draped in golden robes to enjoy from a good distance — no one is allowed near the Buddha except for the king of Thailand. While you’re there, spend some extra time exploring the other temples, shrines, and historic halls in the Grand Palace grounds.

Have a drink at a rooftop bar.

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The Bangkok skyline is known for its towering skyscrapers, and a good number of them have rooftop bars that range in style and budget. There are options for unfussy backpackers, then some that draw the poshest of travelers. We're partial to Mahanakhon Bangkok SkyBar, Thailand's highest restaurant and the bar at King Power Mahanakhon. Located on the 76th and 77th floors of the building, both venues promise beautiful panoramic views of bustling Bangkok.

Climb Wat Arun.

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Another can't-miss temple is Wat Arun, also known as the Temple of the Dawn. The uniquely shaped temple rises above the banks of the Chao Phraya River and is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Bangkok. In fact, the land on which Wat Arun sits has been home to a temple since at least the 1500s. It is known for its 82-meter-high tower, which has stairs that lead all the way to the top, where you'll find gorgeous views of the river and Bangkok. From a distance, Wat Arun appears to be gleaming white, but as you get closer you'll find that the structure is actually made of beautifully painted floral mosaics that have been constructed from Chinese porcelain.

Visit Warehouse 30.

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While Bangkok is steeped in centuries of history and art, it is also a thriving capital of contemporary and forward-thinking art and design. At Warehouse 30, an abandoned block of World War II-era warehouses that's been transformed into creative spaces for artists and designers, you'll discover cafes, boutiques, and galleries to explore.

View the Reclining Buddha.

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Yet another temple to add to your itinerary is Wat Pho, or the Temple of the Reclining Buddha. This massive Buddha is covered from head to toe (all 46 meters) in gold leaf and is one of the largest Buddha statues in the world. Wat Pho also boasts one of the largest collections of Buddha images; there are more than 1,000 of them throughout the sprawling temple complex.

Shop for flowers before dawn.

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Bangkok is one of the most colorful cities in the world, and nowhere is that more evident than at Pak Khlong Talat. In this vibrant flower market is a brilliant kaleidoscope of colors and the sweet and enveloping scent of thousands upon thousands of fresh blooms. Browse stalls full of marigolds, orchids, roses, and more. What's great about the flower market, particularly if you are battling jet lag and need a late-night activity, is that it is open 24 hours a day.

Sample some of the best street food in the world.

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Bangkok streets seem to sizzle at all times of day with some of the most coveted street food on the planet. No matter where you are in the city, you're never more than a few steps from savory, flavorful, and aromatic foods, most of which can be purchased for less than $2 per person. Start the day with a Thai iced coffee (strong coffee made extra sweet with condensed milk) and try snack after snack throughout the day, from pad Thai to braised duck and chicken rice.

"Bangkok's reputation as a top street food city means you must explore local food culture in hubs like Chinatown and Baan Tad Thong," says Patty Lerdwittayaskul, director of communications for Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok . "Local dishes offer an authentic taste of everyday Thai life."

Lerdwittayaskul recommends Lim Lao Sa Noodle Stall in Chinatown, a hidden, family run stall offering noodles in a clear fish broth. She also points to Phee Mao Rad Na, a food cart by the canal next to Wat Ratchabophit. "The stir-fried noodles are cooked a la minute, and the two-minute walk to Wat Ratchabophit after a meal adds to the experience," she says.

Eat at a Michelin-starred restaurant.

Beyond its bustling street food scene, Bangkok is home to roughly 30 Michelin-starred restaurants. One to note in particular is Le Normandie by Alain Roux, a fine-dining restaurant at the iconic Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok. This haute, white-glove experience is set within the gorgeous dining room overlooking the Chao Phraya River. Be sure to book a table at the window so can watch the sunset and the colorful boats on the river while you dine on exquisite and artfully prepared French cuisine.

Take a cooking class.

Of course, it's fun to cook your own food, too. A Thai cooking class is one of the best things to do in the country overall, so why not give it a try in Bangkok? The city has dozens of cooking schools to choose from across a variety of budgets. Sompong Thai Cooking School is a top choice; each class begins with a trip to the local market to procure key ingredients before moving back to the kitchen to prepare flavorful Thai dishes.

Get a Thai massage.

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It's no secret that the spa and wellness services in Bangkok are second to none — you just have to choose your preferred vibe. Whether it's a luxury spa palace or a no-frills storefront down a narrow alley, Bangkok has the wellness market cornered. A Thai massage is a distinct and unique style of massage; it uses no oils or aromatherapy, and instead focuses on passive stretching, acupressure, and increasing the range of motion of your muscles. If you've never had a Thai massage, Bangkok is the perfect place to try one.

Cruise the Chao Phraya River.

Bangkok's main lifeline is the serpentine Chao Phraya River, and along its banks are some of the city's top luxury hotels, oldest neighborhoods, and biggest tourist attractions. A cruise down the Chao Phraya is the perfect way to introduce yourself to the iconic Bangkok skyline, and to catch a glimpse of daily local life. There are a many ways to get on the river, from evening dinner cruises to daytime sightseeing excursions. If you really want to travel like a local, though, ride the Chao Phraya Express Boat . The public water taxi stops at busy docks along the river and travels all the way up to the neighboring province of Nonthaburi.

Wander Chinatown.

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Bangkok's Chinatown is among the largest Chinatowns in the world, and walking through this sprawling neighborhood will have you feeling like you've stepped out of Thailand and onto the streets of Beijing. If you like street food, Bangkok's Chinatown is the place to be. Or come to marvel at the district's neon lights, dangling lanterns, and dozens of gold stores on the iconic Yaowarat Road.

"Visit the Chinese Shrine in Chinatown during the late afternoon to catch the evening chanting rituals by monks," says Lerdwittayaskul. "In the evening, the red lanterns in the shrine and candles are lit up. The experience is grounding and serene. After visiting the shrine, I love strolling through the backstreets, trying delicious Chinese dishes like noodles, stir-fried oyster pancakes, dumplings, and refreshing lotus root herbal juice."

Browse the Chatuchak Weekend Market.

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If you hear locals talking about the JJ Market, what they're referring to is the Chatuchak Weekend Market. And if you like bazaars and outdoor markets, this will be the one that will blow you away. It is one of the largest outdoor markets in the world, boasting around 15,000 stalls selling knock-off electronics, clothing, souvenirs, local art, birds, and everything in between.

Cycle in the city.

For such a congested city, you'd be amazed at how many opportunities there are for getting outside. If you're looking for a bit of fresh air, give cycling a try. "One of the best places for a cycle is in Bangkrachao, an island in the Chao Phraya River — also known as the 'Green Lung' of Bangkok, thanks to its abundant green space," says Wanwisa Maneewatthana, chief culturist at Capella Bangkok . "Despite being a big city, Bangkok can offer great outdoor experiences to immerse [you] into both nature and culture. Visitors can enjoy cycling in an old neighborhood like Charoenkrung to discover remarkable and non-tourist cultural sights like local wet markets and neighborhood temples."

Visit the Bangkok Art & Cultural Centre.

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After you've hit the main tourist sites, you may want to slip a little below the radar for a different look at Bangkok, and the Bangkok Art & Cultural Centre offers just that. This public space promotes both local and international art and culture exhibits. If you're interested in seeing the work of young Thai artists, this is the top gallery in the city to visit.

Visit Jim Thompson House.

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If there's one Western name consistently tied to Bangkok, it's Jim Thompson. Thompson was the American businessman who brought Thai silks to the rest of the world in the mid-20th century. His canal-side home has been transformed into a museum showcasing his vast collection of art and antiques. The home is an architectural marvel, made of an amalgamation of six traditional teak houses from Ayutthaya. The lush gardens surrounding it are equally beautiful.

Celebrate a new year at the Songkran festival.

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If there is one festival to attend in Bangkok, it would be Songkran, or Thai New Year, which is held every year in April. This three-day event is when the city stops its usual business and transforms into one giant (and water-soaked) party. "The festival offers guests the chance to experience a fun-filled celebration that includes water fights on the street," says Maneewatthana. "Also, visitors can visit temples to participate in religious celebrations to bring them good luck in the coming year."

Shop at Siam Paragon.

If you're cruising down the Chao Phraya River, you can't miss one of the largest luxury malls in Asia, Siam Paragon. This is the ultimate stop in Bangkok for high-end labels, as well as a host of entertainment options, from restaurants and Southeast Asia's largest aquarium to a 16-screen movie theater and more than 250 shops. It's also the home base for the largest foreign-language bookshop in Bangkok, Kinokuniya. It's easy to get to Siam Paragon, as two BTS Skytrain lines intersect at the stop right in front of the mall.

Cruise the klongs in a longtail boat.

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Bangkok is known as the "Venice of the East," and for good reason — the city is quite literally webbed with miles of canals, or klongs. The oldest part of the city, known as Thonburi, sits west of the Chao Phraya River, and a visit to this corner of the city takes you back in time. There are wooden houses on stilts, plus lush greenery, small, colorful temples, and far more locals than tourists. "I try to have [all of my clients] spend some time on the klongs," says Grant Ekelund . "I like to do it because it's an interesting and unique way to experience the city from the water. Experience the neighborhoods, get a little bit out there, and get a sense for how people live in Bangkok."

Stroll in Lumpini Park.

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Another slice of green space in Bangkok is the 142-acre Lumpini Park, also known as the "Central Park of Bangkok." Set right in the heart of the city, the park includes a man-made lake strewn with swan paddle boats, and it's a popular spot for trail walking, picnics, Tai Chi, live music, and more. 

Explore Charoenkrung Road.

Bangkok is a city of many personalities, but if it's old-school charm you're looking for, head to another of the city's oldest neighborhoods, Charoenkrung Road. Home to the very first paved road in Bangkok, Charoenkrung is slowly disappearing as luxury hotels continue to open. But visitors can still experience myriad cultural activities here, from street food and hidden temples to an emerging art district.

Take a day trip to Ayutthaya.

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About an hour from Bangkok by train, Ayutthaya is the perfect day trip from Bangkok. Once the capital of the Kingdom of Siam, Ayutthaya gives visitors a glimpse of the ancient days of Thailand. The preserved kingdom capital is home to gorgeous palaces and temples that date back as far as the 14th century. Visitors can wander around the temple ruins for a unique look at how this part of the world used to be. "A day trip here offers a deep dive into Thai history and culture," says Lerdwittayaskul. "You can explore numerous historical sites and temples, where the civilization, traditions, and beliefs of ancient people come alive." "Ayutthaya gets more into the history of Thailand," added Ekelund. "It's so cool, especially if you are not going to Cambodia to see Angkor Wat and want to see that style of architecture."

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The most beautiful streets in Bangkok (if you can call them that)

First khao soi is named one of the world’s best soups, then three Thai dishes are included in Asia’s best street food list. Now, Bangkok’s Yaowarat Road has been named one of the most beautiful streets in the world, according to a recent study. This got us curious: how beautiful are Bangkok’s streets really? And if we’re already on the subject, which Bangkok streets are the most beautiful?

Naturally, we came up with a listicle.  

As more and more locals and travellers bookmark must-visit locations not only for culture but also for ‘grammability , it was only a matter of time before somebody would rank the world’s most beautiful streets . Time Out magazine unveiled their list just last week, and once again we were shaken by the results, as Bangkok features quite highly in the ranking.  

Thailand features world’s best soup, yummiest street food, and most beautiful street

It’s been a month of many shakings, actually, as first TasteAtlas named khao soi the best (the best!) soup (they called it a soup!) in the world. Many of us questioned whether khao soi could even be called a soup (a curry, a noodle dish, maybe?), and many of us questioned how it could make the top of the list. Alas, we take the top prize with pride, of course.  

Next was CNN’s must-try list of street foods in Asia , also released earlier last month. This time we were a little less happy, as only 3 Thai dishes feature on the list of 50. It wasn’t only the number that had us shooketh, but also the selection. According to CNN, Thailand’s crab omelette, khao soi, and sai krok Isan make up some of the best street food dishes in Asia . Slightly random, but definitely agreeable. Those part of the Pad Krapow , Pad Thai , or Congee FC were definitely a little hurt, but we appreciate the mentions nonetheless.  

Now in the third world ranking in the last four weeks, Bangkokians have yet another subject to dissect: our Yaowarat Road is one of the most beautiful in the world, according to Time Out magazine. It is ranked 8th in the world, preceded by Rue Wellington in Montreal (1st place), Gertrude Street in Melbourne (2nd place), and Great Western Road in Glasgow (3rd place). In fact, Bangkok’s Yaowarat comes in even higher than others you may expect, with London (no. 17), New York (no. 29) and even Singapore (no. 33) falling far behind us.  

With our eyebrows definitely raised, and a certain sense of smugness to our freshly-stroked ego, we decided to list out even more beautiful streets in Bangkok. Why end at Yaowarat Road? There’s so much more to explore. Find our very own ranking of the most beautiful streets in Bangkok below. As we can all agree, beauty is subjective. Here we go.  

• For gorgeous street food, it’s got to be Yaowarat Road
• For those who like to stop and smell the flowers, Pak Klong Talat (the famous flower market) is the place to be
• For beauty (achieved through manicures and trendy hair salons), head to Siam Walking Street and look at beautiful people
• To explore beauty through art, the creative Charoenkrung Road is where it’s at
• LGBTQ+ beauty can be found on Silom Road, which is also where the annual Pride Parade takes place
• Cultural beauty can be found on Thanon Phra Athit, and Tha Maharat nearby
• To escape Bangkok beauty and find Japanese or Korean beauty, Phrom Phong and Thonglor are the must-visits for lovers of Asian culture
• Yen Akat is perfect for those seeking out a beautiful (fancy) residential area, with award-winning edible beauty at fine dining restaurants to suit
• On a different tangent, want to see beautiful backpackers drowning in cocktail buckets? Khaosan Road is your calling
• For those who enjoy the beauty of stillness, we suggest the intersections at Sathorn Road, Asok, or Ladprao , for the traffic here is as tightly packed and unmoving as a finished game of Tetris. #Beautiful #Zen  

It’s in the eye of the beholder.  

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Bangkok Travel Guide

It isn't conventional charm that keeps us coming back to Bangkok. The Thai capital doesn't have an Old Town like Hanoi, the modernity of Hong Kong, or the density of temples like Siem Reap (though few places in Southeast Asia are as spectacular as Wat Arun at sunrise). But in a region filled with metropolises worth the long haul, Bangkok's point of difference is found in the thrills of the unexpected. It's in the fiery display of wok-manship on Yarowat Road, which is absolutely the better place to do dinner than any restaurant (though the oxtail stew at Namh is beyond spectacular). Or in the unassuming Chinese mansions found down nondescript alleys of car parts and old lanterns in central Talat Noi. It's even found in the quiet, calming oases that is this city's epic hotel scene, a wonderful contrast to the heaving and exhilarating urban energy beyond its grand doors. Which is exactly what draws you back out and keeps you exploring.

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Bangkok Travel Guide: Everything You Need To Know About The Vibrant City

With numerous places to visit in bangkok, a world of food to explore and adventures to revel in, this vibrant city promises a fun time..

By: Divya Arora Published: Jan 20, 2023 05:00 PM ICT

Embracing tradition and culture along with modernity, Bangkok is a land of unforgettable experiences and nuanced contrasts. The capital city of Thailand manages to charm its visitors and pave a way into their hearts, so much so that it feels like a second home. With a plethora of places to visit in Bangkok, a world of food to explore and adventures to revel in, this city promises a gala time to everyone. And our extensive guide to everything in Bangkok promises a deep dive into this city, which every traveller must bookmark.

With towering skyscrapers standing majestically alongside its temples, local Thai food and varied global cuisines sharing a platter, luxurious malls and local markets spoiling shopaholics alike, Bangkok makes for a great escape when one wants to experience the best of everything. While its wats , museums and palaces are a reflection of Thai history and heritage, its heady nightlife is a world of its own; palpable with busy streets, flamboyant nightclubs and bars, shopping complexes, cultural tours, cabaret shows, Muay Thai and theatrical dance performances.

The place offers a wholesome mix of nightlife, Thai culture, food and shopping that can be both luxurious and affordable as per the needs of its visitors and tourists. It is one of the most popular destinations in Southeast Asia, more for its effervescence and spiritedness that takes over as soon as one lands in the city.

Best time to explore Bangkok

Owing to its tropical weather, Bangkok is generally a year-round destination that experiences three main seasons. With each one of them having its own charm. To explore the best of Bangkok tourist attractions, check out the best time to visit Bangkok .

The summer season lasts from March to June when the temperature varies between 30 degrees Celsius and 40 degrees Celsius. While these are the hottest months, it is also time for Thai New Year, Songkran, and a great festive cheer takes over the city regardless of the weather. Shopping in malls, boat cruising, revelling in aquariums and temples are some of the things that can be done in Bangkok during this season whereas outdoor activities should be avoided especially, during day time.

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The months of July to October see the rainy or monsoon season when the temperatures are relatively lower and range from around 26 degrees celsius to 34 degrees Celsius. It is often regarded as the ‘low season’ since monsoon can disrupt your plans. It is usually not considered an apt season to visit Bangkok, however, if you’re looking for a peaceful and quiet getaway, you can consider these months since the footfall of tourists is really low and you might snag some amazing deals on your stay and tickets.

The best months in Bangkok are from November to February, the cool season when the temperatures vary anywhere between 23 degrees Celsius and 35 degrees Celsius. They further drop down to 20 degrees celsius during the evenings making the weather highly pleasant. It is also the peak tourist season which means the city is crowded and prices are higher as compared to the off-season. Nevertheless, this season promises a rather happening nightlife, festive cheer around owing to Christmas, New Year and Chinese New Year and a fun ambience.

Best places to visit in Bangkok

One of the top places to visit in Bangkok that’s a paradise for shopaholics and foodies is Chinatown. A vibrant and exotic tourist destination that’s indicative of Bangkok’s local culture and lifestyle, Chinatown is highly popular for its various food stalls, restaurants, gold shops and plenty of shopping stores. It runs along the Yaowarat road and is one of the most happening sites to check out especially after sunset when the entire neighbourhood enlivens in the intoxicating aromas of its various street-side cuisines.

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Dream World

If you’re looking to indulge in fun activities while in Bangkok, especially when holidaying with your family, Dream World Amusement Park is what you should be buying tickets to. Packed with a plethora of adventure rides, a Snow Town and different themed zones to activity areas, shopping spots, restaurants and other attractions, Dream World promises a day filled with fun, laughter and fantasies. If you plan to visit on weekends and holidays, you can also watch and revel in shows such as ‘The Colours of the World Parade’ (an extravagant parade of your favourite cartoon characters) and Hollywood Action (showing the S.W.A.T team engaging in a battle with a terrorist group).

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Wat Pho, also known as the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, is one of the famous temples in Bangkok that one must visit. Having one of the largest temple complexes in the city, the giant reclining Buddha measures about 46 metres and is entirely covered in gold leaf. While there, you can also get a great Thai massage as the place is a well-known centre for traditional medicine and massage. Other interesting attractions on the premises include four chapels featuring 394 gilded Buddha figures sitting in the lotus position, Chetuphon Thai bistro and the Chinese guardian statues in the courtyard.

Wat Arun is also known as the Temple of the Dawn and is as high as 260 feet on the west bank of the Chao Phraya river. It is one of the most stunning temples owing to its intricate architectural design, colourful towering spires and how gorgeous it looks at sunset. In fact, it is famous for offering spectacular views of the sunrise and sunset which can be more beautifully enjoyed by climbing to the top of the central prang (spire) from where you can watch the serene river, the Grand Palace and Wat Pho in all their glory. The ordination hall of the temple has a splendid golden Buddha figure along with detailed murals decking up the adjacent walls.

Book your stay near Wat Arun

Safari World

Yet another exhilarating tourist attraction to visit in Bangkok is the Safari World which is unlike any other zoo. The place is divided into two sections — Safari Park and Marine Park. The Safari Park is a spacious open zoo spread across 200 acres that’s home to hundreds of animals roaming around freely. You can drive through the jungle area in your safari vehicles and spot wildlife. The Marine Park, on the other hand, hosts different live shows including the Bird Show, the Stunt Show and the Dolphin Show. Other activities including Jungle River Cruise and Jungle Walk are also highly popular and add to the entire experience.

Jim Thompson’s House

Former home of James H.W Thomspon, an American entrepreneur who spent over 30 years of his life reviving the city’s lost art, the Jim Thompson House is one of the best places to visit in Bangkok especially if you have a thing for museums. The place features six traditional teakwood houses preserved to uphold their glory and be a reflection of the old times. It is like a museum and an art centre that allows you to experience Thai art and design, antiques of the bygone era and the country’s rich heritage and history.

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Siam Paragon

Siam Paragon is a prominent mall to visit in Bangkok that would satiate all your shopping desires. Situated minutes away from luxury properties and other tourist attractions, this mall is an entertainment and shopping hub perfect for both tourists and locals. Featuring both luxury designer brands and local Thai stores, this mall makes for a great option when you want to spend the day indoors shopping and relishing delicacies at its various restaurants or enjoying a movie.

book your stay near Siam Paragon

Madame Tussauds

If you have some time to spare while visiting Bangkok, or if the temperature outside is too much to handle, you can step into the world of stars and celebrities at Madame Tussauds. A globally famous wax museum, it features look-alike wax statues of some of the most prominent faces from the world of TV, movies, sports, music, history, science and art. You can stand next to them or replicate original scenes, pose and get clicked for a fun-filled time.

The Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaew

If there’s one place that not only depicts Thai heritage at its best but also glorifies it further in a stunning manner, it is The Grand Palace. Located in the heart of the city, it is one of the most famous places to visit in Bangkok. Living up to its name, it is a spectacular site that was built in 1782 and served as a home to Thai kings and the Royal Court for 150 years. For that matter, it still hosts royal ceremonies and gives a glimpse into the royal life of the king while its opulent architecture and fine craftsmanship are enough to leave you in awe of the place. While the walls of the royal palace depict the Thai war ministry and state departments, its grounds are also home to the famous Wat Phra Kaew, also known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, as the Buddha figure enshrined there has been carved from a single block of grey-green Jasper.

Benjakitti Park

A beautiful escape into nature right in the middle of the bustling city, Banjakitti Park is the place to head to if you desire a quiet, peaceful time in between all those tourist attractions. Located close to Queen Sirikit National Conventional Centre and Terminal 21, the forest park is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna and makes for a perfect place for a picnic when the weather is pleasant. Offering stunning views of the city, the park features a big lake, various cycling pathways, playgrounds, elevated walkways and skate ramps. Additionally, there’s no entry fee for visiting this park which also makes it one of the best free places to explore in Bangkok.

Terminal 21

And bringing together one’s dream of travelling and shopping in a single place is Terminal 21 that’s one of the best concept shopping malls in the world. Designed in a 21st Century airport style, the theme of every floor in this mall is centred around a different city including Paris, Tokyo, London, San Francisco and Istanbul. From the decor of these floors to the type of cuisines served in restaurants and a harmonious mix of local and designer brands, this shopping mall offers a unique experience in its entirety.

Wat Traimit

Also known as the Temple of the Golden Buddha, Wat Traimit features a gigantic statue of Buddha curated from 5.5 tons of solid gold, sculpted in Sukhothai style. Presumably dating from the Sukhothai period, the statue is housed in a marble structure and is one of the most popular places to visit in Bangkok.

Book your luxury experiences here

Things to do in Bangkok

Shop at chatuchak weekend market.

Of all the best things to do in Bangkok , shopping at the Chatuchak Weekend Market is a must. It is one of the most famous markets in Bangkok where you’d find literally everything. With over 15,000 stalls offering a diverse collection of food and merchandise, this market is a dream come true for all shopaholics. It is also one of the best places to shop for authentic Thai handicrafts, home decor, souvenirs and other items that you might find expensive elsewhere.

Boat trip or dinner cruise on Chao Phraya River

Chao Phraya River is a popular waterway in Bangkok that runs ferries and express boats as a mode of transportation. Additionally, the leisure dinner cruises let you revel in the beauty that the river and its neighbouring establishments have to offer at night time. So, whether you travel by boat during the day to visit different parts of the city or you jump onto the cruise at night to experience the lit-up city skyline, visiting the river is a must.

Enjoy a relaxing massage and spa session

Of the numerous things that Bangkok is famous for, a traditional Thai massage probably tops the list. The city brims with innumerable massage parlours and centres offering different types of massage and spa sessions ranging anywhere between a few minutes to more than an hour long. Whether you opt for a foot massage, one that helps in healing your ailments or a long rejuvenating session, experiencing Bangkok’s massage culture is a must. Some of the most prominent spas that you can check out for a therapeutic session include Nitra Serenity Centre (at 137 Pillars Suites & Residences Bangkok), Divana Scentuara Spa, Devarana Spa, Banyan Tree Spa and Harnn Heritage Spa.

Book bespoke Wellness experiences here

Shop at floating markets

One of the most charming attractions of Bangkok is its various floating markets which are a wonderful experience in themselves . Offering tropical fruits and vegetables, fresh coconut juice and local food cooked in floating kitchens, these floating markets will leave you in awe as you traverse through from one vendor to another in wooden row boats. One of the most popular floating markets is Damnoen Saduak that’s popular for selling a variety of things apart from fruits and vegetables. Stalls selling products similar to the ones at the Chatuchak Weekend Market are also set up on the sides for that you can get off the boat and shop. Most of the floating markets are located outside of Bangkok and can be reached via public transport (BTS Skytrain and public bus) or a private car or taxi.

Discover Khao San Road

A backpacker’s haven, Khao San Road is a street that is one of the busiest, liveliest and most bustling areas of Bangkok. Offering cheap accommodation to travellers from every corner of the world, the area brims with shops and stalls to shop from, food vendors, restaurants and pubs. It is always packed with people, especially during the night and is hence, a telltale of the city’s amazing nightlife.

Book your stay on Khao San Road

Attend the Calypso Cabaret show

Promising an evening of Las Vegas-style glitz and glamour is the Calypso Cabaret with different spectacular dance performances put together by mostly transgender dancers. From impressive and flashy costumes to upbeat music and lighting, the show is nothing less than theatrical art.

What to eat in Bangkok

A haven for food lovers, Bangkok also makes for an exotic destination owing to its food and delectable cuisines available throughout the city . It is especially famous for its street food that’s nothing short of a sensory experience and is also super affordable. For that matter, finding authentic Thai food is easy as every market and every tourist attraction has restaurants and food stalls selling some of the most delicious dishes.

Some of the most popular areas to experience world-class street food include the Chatuchak Weekend Market, Khao San Road, the floating markets and Chinatown. And some of the most famous dishes one’s got to try in Bangkok include:

Pad Thai — stir-fried rice noodles served with red pepper flakes, cilantro, yellow limes and shrimp Roti Gluay — fried banana pancakes Som Tam — spicy papaya salad flavoured with sweet tomatoes, lemon grass, fish sauce, dried shrimp and crunchy peanuts Khao Niaow Ma Muang — sticky mango rice Tom Yum — hot, sweet and sour soup made with kaffir lime leaves, lemongrass, galangal , Thai peppers, fish sauce along with shrimp, pork, beef or chicken and served with Thai salad Woon Sen — vermicelli (Thai glass noodles) served with crab or shrimp Guaytiao Rua — Thai Boat noodles Yum Hoi Nang Rom — an oyster salad made with fresh oysters, fried shallots, fried vegetables called Kra Tin, herbs, chilli paste and sauce Kai Jeaw Poo — Thai crab omelette

Discover more dining experiences here

What to shop in Bangkok

As much as it is a foodie’s haven, Bangkok is also a shopaholic’s paradise that has plenty of places for people to shop at. From shopping malls and complexes to different flea, weekend and floating markets, the city is home to a plethora of such shopping centres. Some of these include MBK Centre, Icon Siam, Chatuchak Weekend Market, Khao San Road, Terminal 21, Chinatown, Siam Paragon and Damnoen Saduak floating market.

To top it off, there’s nothing you wouldn’t find in this city. From traditional antiques and handicrafts to local and international fashion and lifestyle brands and products, essentials and souvenirs, you can literally shop your heart out when in Bangkok. Some of the things that you should surely consider buying include Thai silk, antique pieces, aromatic spa essentials, handmade Thai jewellery, wicker products including bags, traditional handicraft items, Thai sauces and spices, souvenirs and Thai snacks and foods.

Hero Image: Courtesy of Quang Nguyen Vinh; Featured Image: Courtesy of Chait Goli/Pexels

Related:  Where To Find The Best Plant-Based Ice Cream In Bangkok

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Answer: Since this gorgeous city has a lot to offer, one would need a minimum of four to five days to explore some of the most famous places and tourist attractions.

Answer: While exploring the city’s various markets and shopping malls is free of cost and requires no entry fee, you can also check out other places including Erawan Shrine, Khao San Road, Lumphini Park, Artist’s House, Pak Khlong Flower Market, Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC) and Jesada Technik Museum.

Answer: For many visitors who are backpacking or are on a budget, Khao San Road has some great affordable stay options. The area is also quite happening and known for its nightlife vibe. Additionally, most visitors also prefer the Siam Square and Sukhumvit areas as they form the main tourist area flanked by shopping malls, restaurants and even the BTS Skytrain. Other popular areas where tourists prefer staying include Chinatown, Bangkok Riverside, Dusit, Bangkok Old Town, Thong Lor and Silom.

Answer: There are multiple ways of getting around the city including taxis, BTS Skytrain, MRT subway train, túk-túk, boats and ferries, motorcycle taxis and buses.

Answer: Since Bangkok is a tropical city, loose, lightweight and breezy clothing in breathable fabrics is highly preferred. While you can wear anything from shorts and skirts to dresses across the city, you’d be required to dress modestly when visiting religious places. Both men and women are expected to have their shoulders and knees (ankles as well at some places) covered when visiting such places. Avoid wearing revealing clothes or carry cover-ups, shrugs and sarongs along.

• Bangkok food guide
• places to visit in bangkok
• what to do Bangkok

Divya Arora

With an academic background in Public Relations, Divya has a flair for writing about topics spanning genres like lifestyle, beauty, fashion, travel, FnB, tech and entertainment. She fancies everything that's a wholesome blend of contemporary finery and timelessness. Quirky earrings and tees are her weakness. When not creating content, you will find .. Read More her devouring food, snuggling in with a book and a cup-a-chai, admiring skies or revisiting Hogwarts. Read Less

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Best Bangkok Street Food: The Ultimate Guide

• 9 minute read

• November 16, 2023

Bangkok Street Food Guide – Thai Street Food for Beginners!

Are you ready to embark on a flavorsome adventure through the bustling streets of Bangkok, Thailand, indulging in an array of delectable street eats? Welcome to “The Ultimate Guide to Street Food in Bangkok,” where every bite tells a tale of Thailand’s vibrant culinary culture.

Get ready to immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Bangkok’s food scene, from the iconic Pad Thai to the tantalizing Som Tam and a myriad of other mouthwatering delicacies.

As we traverse through this guide, we’ll explore the heart and soul of Bangkok’s street food offerings, uncovering hidden gems and must-try dishes that define the city’s gastronomic identity. Picture sizzling woks crafting aromatic delights, street-side stalls brimming with tantalizing flavors, and the hustle and bustle of vendors eager to share their culinary treasures.

Join us as we navigate the bustling streets of Yaowarat (Chinatown), Victory Monument, Khao San Road, and more, discovering the diverse array of street food delights that await your palate.

Whether you’re a seasoned food enthusiast or a first-time traveler, this guide is your passport to experiencing the essence of Bangkok through its vibrant street food culture.

“If you are looking for the best hotel and flight deals for your next vacation, then we recommend booking your bundled flight and hotel through hotwire.com . “

What is Bangkok Street Food – What to Expect

Bangkok street food is like a delicious adventure waiting for you on every corner. Imagine walking down lively, bustling streets filled with small food stalls and carts where local cooks are busy creating amazing dishes right before your eyes.

These stalls offer a treasure trove of flavors and aromas, from savory noodles like Pad Thai to spicy and tangy salads like Som Tam. What makes Bangkok Street food special is its diversity and affordability. You’ll find a wide range of dishes made with fresh ingredients and bold spices, all at reasonable prices.

The experience of Bangkok Street food isn’t just about the food itself; it’s also about the vibrant atmosphere, the sounds of sizzling pans, and the aromas that fill the air.

Expect to be amazed by the variety, authenticity, and sheer deliciousness of the food you’ll encounter while wandering through the streets of Bangkok.

Different Types of Food Stalls in Bangkok

In Bangkok, the food stalls come in various shapes and sizes, each offering its own unique culinary experience. Here are some common types you might encounter:

• Pushcart Stalls: These mobile stalls are versatile and can be found across the city. They offer a wide array of dishes, from grilled skewers to fresh fruit and smoothies.
• Shop Houses: These are small, open-fronted shops that usually specialize in a particular dish or type of cuisine. You’ll find places that focus on noodles, rice dishes, or even specific Thai specialties.
• Night Market Stalls: Bangkok’s vibrant night markets boast an array of stalls offering everything from grilled seafood and fried snacks to sweet treats and refreshing beverages. These markets are perfect for trying different foods in one place.
• Floating Markets: While not as common within the city, Bangkok has a few floating markets where vendors sell their goods directly from boats. These markets offer a unique experience and a variety of fresh produce and ready-to-eat snacks.
• Food Courts: Located in malls or commercial areas, food courts feature multiple stalls and vendors under one roof. Here, you’ll find a diverse range of Thai and international cuisines.
• Street-Side Restaurants: Alongside busy streets, you’ll often find open-air eateries serving up an assortment of dishes, from stir-fries to soups and curries.

Each type of food stall in Bangkok contributes to the city’s vibrant culinary scene, offering locals and visitors alike a chance to explore and indulge in the rich diversity of Thai cuisine.

Also, Read- Top 35 Places to Visit in Pattaya–City of Thailand

Exploring Bangkok’s Different Food Districts

Bangkok is a diverse city with numerous food districts offering unique culinary experiences. Here are a few more food districts worth exploring:

• Sukhumvit: Known for its bustling nightlife and diverse dining options, Sukhumvit is a hub for international cuisines and upscale restaurants. It also offers a mix of street food stalls, trendy cafes, and rooftop bars.
• Thonglor: Adjacent to Sukhumvit, Thonglor is popular among locals and expats for its trendy eateries, stylish cafes, and fusion restaurants. It’s a hotspot for contemporary dining experiences.
• Ari: This residential neighborhood is gaining popularity for its hip cafes, specialty coffee shops, and a mix of Thai and international restaurants offering unique culinary creations.
• Siam Square: Situated in the heart of Bangkok, Siam Square is not only a shopping hub but also houses various food options, from food courts serving Thai favorites to trendy restaurants and dessert cafes.
• Phahurat (Little India): Known for its vibrant Indian community, Phahurat offers an array of authentic Indian cuisine, from traditional curries to snacks and sweets.
• Ratchawat Market: A haven for food lovers seeking authentic Thai street food, Ratchawat Market is famous for its local eateries serving dishes like stewed duck, Thai-style noodles, and flavorful curries.
• Talad Rot Fai (Train Night Market): Offering a retro ambiance, this night market has an impressive array of food stalls serving up everything from Thai classics to innovative fusion dishes.

Each district has its own charm and culinary specialties, providing visitors with a wide spectrum of dining experiences that truly showcase Bangkok’s diverse food culture.

Must-Try Bangkok Street Food Dishes- A Beginner’s Guide to Bangkok Street Food​

Here are a few more must-try Bangkok Street food dishes to add to your beginner’s guide:

These dishes offer a wide range of flavors and textures, showcasing the diverse and delicious offerings of Bangkok’s street food scene. When exploring the city, keep an eye out for these dishes in local markets, street stalls, and food courts to savor the authentic tastes of Thailand.

Best Locations for Bangkok Street Food

• Yaowarat (Chinatown): Imagine lively streets filled with food stalls selling a mix of Chinese and Thai delicacies. Yaowarat is a bustling area known for its vibrant atmosphere and a wide variety of street foods, particularly seafood dishes, noodles, and mouthwatering desserts.
• Victory Monument: This spot is popular for its street vendors offering a diverse range of local dishes. If you’re a fan of boat noodles or looking for quick, flavorful bites, Victory Monument is a must-visit.
• Khao San Road: If you’re a traveler, you might already know about Khao San Road. It’s famous for catering to backpackers and offers a blend of Thai street food, international cuisines, and a lively nightlife scene.
• Jodd Fairs: This area often hosts vibrant markets where local vendors sell various Thai dishes and snacks. It’s a place where you can immerse yourself in the local food culture and try out different authentic treats.
• Old City (Rattanakosin): Among historical sites, you’ll find food stalls offering traditional Thai snacks and dishes. It’s an excellent spot to experience both history and authentic local cuisine.
• Chula-Samyan: Situated near Chulalongkorn University, this area is favored by students and locals alike. Here, you’ll find street food stalls offering a mix of Thai and international dishes, catering to different tastes.
• Icon Siam Shopping Mall: Beyond shopping, this mall boasts a diverse food court and restaurants with waterfront views. It’s a place where you can enjoy various cuisines, both Thai and international while taking in the bustling ambiance of the mall.

These locations are known for their unique food offerings and lively atmospheres, making them great spots for anyone looking to explore Bangkok’s vibrant street food culture and indulge in a wide array of delicious dishes.

Insider Tips and Recommendations, Stay & Trip Planning.

 insider tips and recommendations.

• Navigating Street Food: When trying street food, look for stalls with a high turnover of customers, as it often indicates fresher and tastier food. Also, don’t hesitate to try dishes you’ve never heard of – that’s part of the adventure!
• Hygiene Awareness: While street food is delicious, ensure the hygiene standards are acceptable. Opt for stalls where food is cooked fresh and observe if the vendors follow basic hygiene practices.
• Food Allergies and Dietary Restrictions: If you have allergies or dietary restrictions, communicate them clearly to the vendors. Many stalls are accommodating and can suggest dishes that suit your needs.
• Bargaining: In markets or when buying from street vendors, bargaining is common. However, maintain a respectful and friendly attitude during negotiations.

Planning Your Trip to Bangkok

• Best Time to Visit: November to February is generally the best time due to cooler and drier weather. However, it’s also peak tourist season, so expect more crowds.
• Transportation: Bangkok’s traffic can be challenging, so using the BTS Skytrain, MRT subway, or river boats can be convenient and save time. Taxis and tuk-tuks are also popular but negotiate fares beforehand.
• Exploring Beyond Food: Apart from street food, plan visits to Bangkok’s temples (e.g., Wat Pho, Wat Arun), floating markets (e.g., Damnoen Saduak), and vibrant shopping districts (e.g., Chatuchak Market, Siam Paragon).

Where to Stay in Bangkok

• Sukhumvit: A bustling area with various accommodation options, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. It’s convenient for transportation and offers diverse dining and nightlife choices.
• Silom: Known for its vibrant nightlife, Silom also offers a mix of accommodation options, including upscale hotels and budget guesthouses. It’s close to shopping areas and Lumpini Park.
• Old City (Rattanakosin): Perfect for history buffs as it’s close to many of Bangkok’s famous temples and historical sites. Accommodation options include boutique hotels and guesthouses.
• Pratunam: A shopping haven with numerous markets and malls. It offers mid-range and budget accommodation, making it suitable for shoppers.

These tips and recommendations aim to enhance the overall experience of exploring Bangkok, including enjoying its diverse street food, planning a trip effectively, and choosing the right area to stay based on preferences and interests.

Bangkok’s street food scene is an enchanting tapestry of flavors, aromas, and cultural experiences that captivate the senses and leave an indelible mark on every visitor. From the bustling streets of Yaowarat to the historic lanes of Rattanakosin, this vibrant city offers a culinary journey unlike any other.

The myriad of dishes, from the iconic Pad Thai to the adventurous Ma Laeng Tod (Fried Insects), reflect Thailand’s rich culinary heritage and the warmth of its people. Beyond just satisfying hunger, indulging in Bangkok’s street food is an immersion into a unique way of life—one where authenticity and passion for food are celebrated at every corner.

As you traverse through the diverse districts, sampling local favorites and embracing new tastes, remember that Bangkok’s street food isn’t just about what’s on the plate. It’s about the stories behind each dish, the bustling energy of the markets, and the smiles of the street vendors who share their culinary treasures with you.

How much did you like Our detailed Best Bangkok Street Food: The Ultimate Guide ?   Review Also, please share these Blogs with your friends on social media.

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Bangkok Street Food FAQs

Is bangkok street food safe to eat.

Generally, Bangkok's street food is safe to eat. However, it's advisable to choose stalls that appear clean, have a high turnover of customers, and where food is cooked fresh to minimize any risk.

How much should I expect to pay for street food in Bangkok?

Street food in Bangkok is often quite affordable. Prices can vary but usually range from 30 to 150 Thai Baht per dish, depending on the complexity and location.

 Are there vegetarian or vegan options available at street food stalls?

Yes, many street food stalls offer vegetarian or vegan dishes like vegetable stir-fries, tofu-based dishes, fresh fruit, and salads. Communicate your dietary preferences clearly to the vendors.

What are some popular dishes I should try as a first-time visitor to Bangkok?

Iconic dishes like Pad Thai, Som Tam (green papaya salad), Mango Sticky Rice, and Gai Yang (grilled chicken) are popular and must-try options for first-time visitors.

Can I find street food available throughout the day in Bangkok?

Yes, street food in Bangkok is available at various times of the day. However, certain areas might be more active during specific hours, such as evenings or late nights.

What should I keep in mind while exploring Bangkok's street food scene?

Keep an open mind, be willing to try new dishes, and respect local customs. Also, carry cash as many vendors may not accept cards, and stay hydrated while exploring.

Map of Bangkok Street food locations

Meet David Hoper, a passionate travel Blog writer with 7+ years of experience in travel content. Through his exemplary storytelling and engaging narratives, he shares his experiences and brings destinations to life. With a keen eye for detail and a love for exploration, he has cultivated a diverse portfolio of travel blogs that inspire and inform readers worldwide.

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Awesome Bangkok Street Food Tour

By Author Daryl and Mindi Hirsch

Are you wondering what to eat in Bangkok? Follow along as we eat awesome Thai food during an action-filled Bangkok street food tour with A Chef’s Tour.

Bangkok is the best street food city in the world. It’s also one of the best food cities in the world.

We don’t make this statement lightly after eating on the streets of cities like Delhi , Hanoi and Osaka . These days, it’s difficult to think of a global city without a vibrant street food scene.

Discover our picks for the best food cities in the world .

But Bangkok is in its own league when it comes to the sheer quantity and quality of tasty food sold by street food vendors throughout the city at all hours of the day and night. A veritable army sells edible wares like fried chicken, slow cooked pork and grilled salt-crusted fish on sidewalks, in markets, in hawker centers and in shacks.

Not limited to Chinatown and backpacker haven Khao San Road, Bangkok food vendors are literally everywhere in the Asian mega-city. Visitors will have no problem finding Thai street food wherever and whenever they feel like eating from gritty night markets to luxury malls like Central World .

During our two-week visit to Bangkok, we ate street food on busy streets, on secluded alleys, under overpasses and at floating markets. Our challenge wasn’t finding good street food; rather, it was knowing where to find the best Bangkok street food.

Pro Tip Check out a Bangkok floating market for a different ‘street’ food experience. The floating market of Damnoen Saduak is particularly popular with travelers.

We could have happily filled our bellies with ridiculously cheap Pad Thai and skewered Juicy Sour Isaan Sausage sold by friendly vendors near our apartment, and we did do that on many nights. But, as obsessive food travelers, we wanted to dig deeper and eat with locals.

That’s how we ended up taking a Bangkok street food tour with A Chef’s Tour .

Bangkok Street Food Tour

Sometimes it’s best to leave things to the experts and that’s exactly what we did during our Bangkok street food tour. In this case, the capable hands belonged to Chef Nutthasetth Samerwomg from A Chef’s Tour .

Samerwomg is more than a typical tour guide. He’s also an experienced chef and restauranteur in addition to having his official Bangkok street food tour guide license. Plus he’s a cool cat who digs food.

Within moments of meeting Samerwomg at the Palladium shopping mall, we were speeding down Khlong Saen Saeb in a klong (river bus). We had skipped breakfast and were ready to eat!

Pro Tip Come hungry to any Bangkok food tour. You will want to taste a lot of different Thai food favorites during your food-focused Bangkok tour.

Thai Food Highlights

Popular around the world, Thai food is a global phenomenon best experienced at the source. Though most first-timers to Bangkok dip their toes into the city’s street food pool by eating standard dishes like Pad Thai and Banana Roti, these popular street foods represent a tiny fraction of the variety readily available on the streets of Bangkok.

Discover our Thai food favorites .

A Chef’s Tour took us off the beaten path to the city’s longest-running food market located in a hidden old town neighborhood. During the tour, Samerwomg regaled us with stories about the history and culture of Thai cuisine while keeping us well fed and hydrated.

Talking a tour with a local Thai food expert enabled us to dig deep into the heart of the city’s street food scene while eating our way through one of the best markets in Bangkok. We sampled a seemingly endless parade of local dishes until we couldn’t take another bite.

These were our favorite dishes:

Thai Beef Noodle Soup (Kuay Teaw Nua)

Starting the food portion of our Bangkok walking tour with a bang, Samerwomg introduced us to the wonderful world of Thai beef noodle soup. He did this at a fourth generation Hokkien soup stand situated near the oldest operating Bangkok market with nary a tourist in sight.

Discover more great noodle dishes from around the world .

Daryl was in his happy place as he slurped a bowl loaded with aromatic broth, brisket, organ meat and silky noodles. Not for the faint of heart, his bowl included any and any and every edible body part including liver, tripe and tongue. While this may sound gross, the offals were artfully cooked until tender without a hint of rubberiness.

Discover more of the best soups in the world .

Mindi was equally happy slurping her organ-free bowl of soup filled with slow-cooked brisket and wide rice noodles. Smells from galangal and star anise wafted from the bowl as she slurped the soup with gusto.

We both combined condiments like fish sauce, chili pickle and sugar in little dipping bowls before adding them to our bowls. If the tour had ended here, we would have been satisfied. However, soup was just the beginning of our moveable Thai feast.

Crispy Thai Omelet (Khanom Buuang Yuon)

Part of our fun of eating crispy Thai pancakes was watching the street vendor prepare the local dish beneath a Bangkok overpass. Far from fancy, this kitchen had all necessary equipment including a charcoal stove.

The vendor molded the crepe/omelet in a wok until just set. She then formed it into a clam-like shell before filling it with fresh accouterments. Samerwomg shared that this particular vendor learned to cook the Thai dish from her grandmother.

The flavorful dish reminded us of crispy Banh Xeo pancakes that we ate in Da Nang , though this one was loaded with peanuts, bean sprouts, shrimp, cucumber salad, onions, chilies and ginger. Surprisingly, Thai people eat Khanom Buuang Yuon with a spoon despite the sandwich-like similarity.

Stir Fried Radish Cakes (Kanom Pakaadd)

We had never eaten radish cakes stirred fried with vegetables before but were game to give the local favorite a try. In many ways, the dish had similar characteristics to Pad Tai. However, the dish’s stir-fried radish cakes added a chewy, satisfying yet crunchy texture

After giving our chopsticks a workout, we headed to the Nang Loeng Market . This non-touristic Thai market dates back to 1900 and hosts a variety of vendors selling both savory and sweet Thai food options.

Shrimp Paste Fried Rice Salad (Khao Kluk Kapi)

Samerwomg warned us that not all foreigners like shrimp paste. Little did he know that we adore the funky Asian food staple.

We enjoyed the mix of sweet, spicy and sour flavors in the market’s shrimp paste fried rice salad. Beyond shrimp paste and rice, this salad’s ingredients, meant to be mixed together, included vegetables, mango, fried shrimp and chilies.

Coconut Custard (Kanom Tuy)

Samerwomg next introduced us to his favorite Thai desserts starting with fragrant coconut custard treats known as Kanom Tuy. Though we’re not big coconut fans, we were enamored with the soothing custard spooned from tiny ceramic bowls into our mouths.

However, Kanom Tuy wasn’t our favorite dessert of the tasty Bangkok tour. That honor goes to Thong Yip.

Egg Yolk Dessert (Thong Yip)

We first tried Thong Yip in the market but Samerwomg had a sly trick up his sleeve. After leaving the market, he led us through Bangkok’s winding back streets to meet Khun Pa (Aunt) Joy in the manufactory where she creates yellow treats all day long.

Joy starts baking at 3 am every morning to feed hungry locals looking for dessert after eating lunch at the nearby market. Though her physical work takes many steps, she was kind enough to show us the ancient process of bathing ultra orange egg yolks in a sugary solution and molding them into tasty, sweet, creamy spheres.

Dragon Fruit (Pitaya)

Several hours and many calories later, Samerwomg escorted us on the boat back to central Bangkok before making a gracious departure. Not only did we feel too full to eat dinner, but we also felt ready to explore Bangkok as experienced street food eaters.

Bangkok Street Food Tour Video

Watch our YouTube video to see more of the best food we ate during our tasty Bangkok tour.

Tour Logistics

Our four-hour Bangkok Old Market Hidden Street Eats tour started with a scenic boat ride and ended when we were too full to eat another bite. Limited to eight people, this Bangkok tour features a variety of Thai food that can be modified for vegetarians.

Guests receive detailed instructions after finalizing bookings on the company’s user-friendly website. In our case, Chef Nutth was easy to spot at the assigned meeting point since he was wearing a t-shirt emblazoned with the company logo.

The tour cost was $59 per person at the time of our Bangkok street food tour. Be sure to check the A Chef’s Tour website for updated costs and details since they can change at any time.

Plan to walk a good bit and eat a lot during this Bangkok food tour. Depending on the season, plan to sweat too. It gets hot in Thailand after all.

Bangkok Planning Checklist

• Buy discounted travel insurance from Heymondo .
• Find a great Bangkok hotel via Booking.com , Expedia or Hotels.com .
• Find an apartment in Bangkok with a kitchen .
• Buy a Bangkok travel guide from Amazon so that you don’t miss any bites or sites.
• Buy a universal travel adaptor from Amazon so you can charge your laptop, cell phone and camera in Asia.
• Arrange a rental car for your trip.
• Book a fun Bangkok tour via GetYourGuide or Viator .
• Book a tasty Bangkok Street Food Tour .
• Get an online Thailand visa .

Hungry For More In Asia?

About the Authors

Daryl and Mindi Hirsch

Saveur Magazine’s BEST TRAVEL BLOG award winners Daryl and Mindi Hirsch share their culinary travel experiences and recipes on the 2foodtrippers website. Since launching the site in 2012, they’ve traveled to over 40 countries in their quest to bring readers a unique taste of the world.

Disclosures

Article Updates We update our articles regularly. Some updates are major while others are minor link changes and spelling corrections. Let us know if you see anything that needs to be updated in this article. Funding We self-funded our trip to Bangkok. Sponsorship We thank A Chef’s Tour for hosting us to facilitate this article and the related YouTube video .

Original Publication Date: April 7, 2019

Saturday 13th of April 2019

Can't wait to come back to Thailand if only to eat - Bangkok is one of my favorite street food places in the world!

Friday 12th of April 2019

Perfect timing. We are heading there this week!

Have a wonderful trip and eat all the food!

Zaneta P Baran

I remember when I came first time to Asia and my stomach couldn't deal with local food haha. But after living here already 2 years I fell in love with Asian food and I cannot imagine eating anything else haha. And street food is always the best!

THAT VIDEO HAD ME DROOOOLING!!! I need to book a ticket!!

Yes you do!

I love this guide! Street food can be a bit scary, especially in a foreign place so it's incredibly helpful that you've broken down these famous foods and provided pictures to help show what it looks like.

Get our free guide to eating like a local when you travel.

Khao San Road: Bangkok’s Famous Backpackers’ Street

Khao San Road, or KSR, in Bangkok is Thailand’s most famous street. This crazy street, right at the heart of the backpackers’ district of Banglamphu, was made for the diehard backpacker. In the evening you can pull up a chair at a plastic table in the street, have a beer and just let Khao San Road’s chaos and diversity slide past. Cheers!

Khao San Road as seen in “The Beach”

Remember the opening scene of the movie “The Beach”?

You know, the movie starring Leonardo DiCaprio wandering along Khao San Road and losing his way amid a maze of souvenir stands. Later you see him lying down in a typical Khao San Road hostel . It’s hot, suffocating, claustrophobic, dank, dirty and has cockroaches crawling all over the floor.

Is KSR still like that?

No, it’s nowhere near as extreme as it used to be. Thanks to new regulation the hostels, in most cases, have improved. The backpacker atmosphere is still there however. It’s the spiritual home of the backpacker traveling through Southeast Asia, since anyone who travels to Asia will also stop in Bangkok. And anyone visiting Bangkok will also have a stroll along Khao San Road, which stretches out for 400 meters!

Photo credit: Bangkok Expat Life

Khao San Road by night

At night, however, the street is taken over by pubs, bars and live musicians, all trying to drown out each other’s sound. Laser pointers are shone on the floor ground to attract attention, you can buy fried scorpion on a stick, Indian men will try to talk you into buying a tailor made suit while at the same time you’re being approached from all sides with requests to buy something weird.

From a shot of laughing gas to petting a huge iguana; anything’s possible! And don’t forget the tuk tuk drivers that always know a great place for you to spend the night.

This place is an absolute madhouse! You have to see it to believe it!

Photo credit: Nomadic Samuel

Eating on Khao San Road

The “Khao San” in Khao San Road, roughly translates as “uncooked rice” and it lives up to its name. Here you can have a meal 24/7, whether it’s at McDonald’s, the 7-Eleven, Burger King or by buying street food that’s ridiculously cheap.

They’ll fix you up a fresh pad thai in no time. Add some mango sticky rice and you’ve just bought yourself a meal for less than two euros.

Don’t go to Khao San Road for its restaurants. The food served there is mediocre at best. Come here for a quick bite to eat, a drink in the evening and to buy a random souvenir for your friends.

An alternative: Soi Rambuttri

Can you keep a secret?

These days, there’s a street in Bangkok that’s even more fun – and it’s only a five minute walk from Khao San Road. We’re talking about Soi Rambuttri, which runs parallel to it.

The atmosphere here is nice and relaxed. You won’t hear any blaring music coming from bars, instead you can enjoy live music and the street is decorated with colorful lanterns. You won’t be hassled as much and there are lots of nice restaurants where you can enjoy both Thai and Western food.

Whenever we’re in Bangkok, we go here to have a drink. Put it on the list!

Photo credit: Trover

Accommodations in and around Khao San Road

Khao San Road is worth a visit no matter what. Make sure you stay in the Banglamphu area when traveling to Bangkok for the first time.

You’ll be staying within walking distance of Khao San Road and Soi Rambuttri, which means you’ll always be near a nice and familiar restaurant. Another great activity is traveling among the locals by boat along the Chao Phraya River, since the N13 (Phra Arthit) pier is within walking distance from Khao San Road. It’s an easy way to visit the Grand Palace , Wat Pho and Wat Arun .

Best Hotels Bangkok

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BANGKOK AYUTTHAYA CHIANG MAI KRABI PAI SUKHOTHAI

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2024 BANGKOK TRAVEL GUIDE with Sample Itinerary & Budget

If backpacking were a college degree, Bangkok would have to be the 101 course.

Not only is Bangkok the the most visited city in the world, it also considered the global epicenter of backpacking culture. The famed Banana Pancake Trail, perhaps Asia’s most used travel route, often starts and ends in the Thai capital. No shock there, given that it sits at the heart of mainland Southeast Asia, boasts affordable prices, serves delicious local cuisine, and is home to some of the most hospitable people you’ll ever meet. Best of all, even during the pandemic, it remains tourist-friendly.

We have just arrived from our ninth — yes, 9th — Bangkok visit, and in this article, we’ll share with you all the tips and latest updates we’ve collected.

ESSENTIAL BANGKOK LINKS

Before we dive into the details, here’s a list of links to some of our recommended hotels, tours, attractions, and other must-haves, for easy reference in the future.

Top Bangkok Hotels Find Deals on Agoda! Top Day Tours on Klook Ayutthaya Day Tour Floating Market & Railway Market Tour Pattaya Day Tour Transportation Passes BTS Rabbit Card BTS One-Day Pass Internet Connection Data SIM Card Pocket Wifi

WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?

UNDERSTANDING BANGKOK

Bangkok is the capital and the commercial, economic, and political center of Thailand. The name Bangkok is an exonym, something that foreigners use. Thais call it Krung Thep (meaning City of Angels), short for its official name Krung Thep Maha Nakhon , which is also a shortened version of its full, ceremonial name: Krung Thep Mahanakhon Amon Rattanakosin Mahinthara Ayuthaya Mahadilok Phop Noppharat Ratchathani Burirom Udomratchaniwet Mahasathan Amon Piman Awatan Sathit Sakkathattiya Witsanukam Prasit.

At first glance, Bangkok appears as your typical highly-urbanized metropolis, but a closer look reveals it remains very much in touch with its past. The city’s roots as the capital can be traced back to 1782, when King Rama I, after the fall of Ayutthaya in 1767, ordered the people to move south and establish a new center at a more militarily strategic location along the Chao Phraya River. Many of Bangkok’s most visited attractions today were built under King Rama I, including the Grand Palace complex and the other temples that will be discussed in the guide.

Here are a few more facts you need to know:

• Language : Thai. For newly exposed non-native speakers, it can be quite intimidating, especially its lengthy words. It’s also a tonal language, i.e. the meaning changes with the tone. But many road and establishment signs are also written in Latin alphabet. English isn’t normally spoken. You’ll encounter taxi drivers and vendors who cannot speak English. But most younger locals can. And what the Thais lack in English fluency, they make up for with their friendly attitude toward tourists.
• Timezone: UTC+07:00 (ICT – Indochina Time), year round. No daylight saving time observed. Same time zone as Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos. Thailand, in general, is one hour behind the Philippines, Singapore and Malaysia.
• Currency : Thai Baht (THB, ฿). TTHB100 is roughly USD 2.89, EUR 2.72, SGD 3.9, PHP 161 (as of December 2022).
• Modes of payment : Cash. Although some restaurants and hotels accept credit cards, smaller establishments prefer cash.
• Religion: Buddhism is the predominant religion, practiced by almost 93% of the population. Most others identify with Islam, Christianity, Hinduism, Sikhism, and Confucianism.

WHERE TO STAY IN BANGKOK

Best area to stay.

Bangkok is a vast city, and many of the key attractions are spread apart. Thankfully, there are also plenty of neighborhoods that are ideal places to stay. What’s best depends on why you’re in Bangkok in the first place.

• If you’re on a budget , SIAM and SILOM have a good selection of hostels and budget hotels, especially the areas around BTS National Stadium Station or MRT Ratchathewi in Siam and BTS Sala Daeng and MRT Si Lom in Silom. From any of these, most of the attractions easily accessible, ensuring savings on transportation. Cheap food spots are also scattered around these districts.
• If you’re backpacking or after Bangkok’s wild nightlife, the KHAO SAN area should be your top choice. Khao San Road is loud, but it is where backpackers from around the world congregate. The area also harbors countless hostels and other lodging options for budget travelers. It’s also easily accessible from the Grand Palace and the city’s popular temples.
• If you’re here to shop ’til you drop , the PRATUNAM and SIAM areas are ideal because of the many bargain centers and shopping malls around.
• If you wish to experience modern Bangkok, the SUKHUMVIT area has a lot of dining, shopping, and clubbing options, including many of its famed rooftop bars. It’s also where most expats are based, creating a more cosmopolitan vibe.
• If you’re a foodie , SILOM and CHINATOWN are home to some of the best but affordable food spots in the city. Silom is the business district with the Lumphini Park, Bangkok’s largest green space, at its center, ensuring a balance between quiet and chaos. The BANGLAMPHU area (near the Democracy Monument and Khao San Road) also has a great selection of Michelin-listed pocket-friendly restaurants.

All these areas are conveniently located because there are BTS/MRT stations nearby. Well, almost. The only exception is KHAO SAN / BANGLAMPHU, which is a 30-minute walk away from the nearest BTS Station (Sam Yot) . But Khao San is close to a pier, where you can board a boat to get to key attractions along Chao Phraya River. Other than that, tuktuk and taxi are the main transportation options to and from Khao San. That said, I can still recommend staying there, especially if you wish to have a taste of Bangkok’s backpacking culture.

If you prefer to stay somewhere easily accessible, the SILOM and SIAM areas are my top recommendations. Both have a number of BTS/MRT stations and offer a little bit of every thing that the other districts have to offer — good food, shopping, and nightlife.

Top Budget Hotels & Hostels in Bangkok

Here are some of the top-reviewed hostels and budget hotels on Agoda that won’t break the bank:

• Tamni , near Hua Lamphong Station & Chinatown. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Daraya Hostel , Siam. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Siam Eco Hostel , Siam. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Kinnon Deluxe Hostel , Silom. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• HOSTEL URBY , Chinatown. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Baan Kun Mhor Hostel , Chatuchak. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• LOBSUEK Hostel หลบศึก โฮสเทล, Khao San Area. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• VIX Bangkok @ Victory Monument. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Lub d Bangkok Siam Hostel , Siam. Check Rates & Availability! ✅

Top Mid-Range/Upscale Hotels in Bangkok

If you have a bigger budget, here are the top properties on Agoda:

• Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok, Siam/Silom. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Carlton Hotel Bangkok , Sukhumvit. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Solaria Nishitetsu Hotel Bangkok , Sukhumvit. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Old Capital Bike Inn , Khao San area. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• ASAI Bangkok Chinatown . Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Ago Hotel Chinatown. Check Rates & Availability! ✅

Search for more Bangkok Hotels

How to get to bangkok.

Bangkok is one of the busiest and most connected cities in the world. If you’re living in a major city, chances are, there’s a direct flight from where you are to Bangkok.

The city is served by two airports:

• Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) , the newer and bigger airport, serving most airlines, except a few low-cost carriers. It’s situated east of the city proper, roughly 1 hour away.
• Don Mueang Airport (DMK) , serving mostly AirAsia, Nok Air, Thai Lion Air, and TigerAir Taiwan. It lies north of the city center, 45 minutes to 1 hour away, depending on traffic conditions.

Manila to Bangkok

If you’re flying from Manila, it’s easy to find direct, non-stop flights to Bangkok as multiple airlines operate this route. As of this writing, here are your options:

TO SUVARNABHUMI AIRPORT (BKK)

• Philippine Airlines
• Cebu Pacific Air
• Thai Airways

TO DON MUEANG AIRPORT (DMK)

• Philippines AirAsia

Travel time: 3.5 to 4 hours.

For our most recent visit, we flew with Philippine Airlines for many reasons:

• 30 kg check-in baggage allowance. Most other airlines only provide 20kg. Although we had been to Bangkok many times before, this would be the first time we intended to go shopping here. Bangkok is a retail paradise, so bargain hunters can easily have a field day at any of their shopping centers. It turned out to be a great decision because we really did use almost the entire 30 kg.
• FREE rebooking. There were a lot of uncertainties about this recent trip. When we booked our tickets, we still weren’t decided yet on how long we wanted to stay in Thailand. It was a multi-city trip and we weren’t sure if we also wanted to visit Chiang Mai and Koh Samui. We wanted more flexibility, just in case. As of this writing, PAL doesn’t charge additional rebooking fees if the new flight is within 60 days after the original flight. (But double check first because airline policies change often these days.) Fare difference still needs to be settled, though.

To compare ticket prices, you may search Skyscanner!

HOW TO GET TO DOWNTOWN BANGKOK

Just in case you missed it, Bangkok has two airports: Don Mueang Airport (DMK) , located 25 km north of the city center, and the new Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) , 30 km west of the city center.

We’ll be creating a more detailed guide about this. But here’s a condensed rundown of the ways to get to downtown Bangkok from either airport.

Suvarnabhumi Airport to Bangkok City Center

The AIRPORT RAIL LINK is the fastest way to get to the city proper because you’ll be dodging Bangkok’s infamous traffic jams. You can find the station at the basement of the airport’s passenger terminal. There’s a train every 15 minutes from 6am to 12 midnight (every 10 minutes within the peak hours).

It’s connected to the city’s BTS Skytrain at two stations: Makkasan (฿35) and Phayathai (฿45), the last station. Travel time: around 25 minutes.

Depending on where your hotel is located, you can switch lines.

• To SUKHUMVIT or SILOM Area: You can connect at either Makkasan or Phayathai Station. Find out the station closest to your hotel and transfer to either the MRT Blue Line at Makkasan Station (then to Petchaburi Station) or to BTS Sukhumvit Line (Light Green Line) at Phayatai Station.
• To SIAM Area: Alight at Phayathai Station and transfer to BTS Sukhumvit Line (Light Green Line). Catch a train bound for Kheha. Get off at Siam Station (or whatever station is closest to your final destination).
• To VICTORY MONUMENT Area: Connect at Phayathai Station and transfer to BTS Sukhumvit Line (Light Green Line). Catch a train bound for Kho Khot. Alight at Victory Monument Station.
• To KHAO SAN Area: Alight at Makkasan Station, transfer to MRT Blue Line at Petchaburi Station, and get off at Sam Yot Station. From here, take a cab, tuktuk or Grab to Khao San.

By Taxi or Grab

If you’re a group or if you have heavy luggage in tow, consider taking a cab or book a Grab car straight from the airport (especially if you’ll be staying Khao San area). If you opt for a taxi, always insist on using the meter.

Travel time: 45 minutes to 1 hour

TAXI RATES: Fare: around ฿400 Airport surcharge: ฿50 Highway toll fees: ฿75

GRAB RATES: ฿530 and ฿600, inclusive of toll fee or highway fee. This is based on the experience of our team.

Don Mueang Airport to Bangkok City Center

According to reports, the Don Mueang Airport was finally connected to Bangkok’s train network in August 2022. I say “according to reports” because we haven’t tried this ourselves yet.

From the airport, you can walk to the Don Mueang Station, along the SRT Dark Red Line . Board the train bound for Bang Sue and alight there, at the last stop. Transfer to the MRT Blue Line.

• To SILOM Area: Most stations in Silom are along the Blue Line, so just get off at the station closest to your hotel.
• To SIAM Area: Alight at Chatuchak Park Station and transfer to BTS Sukhumvit Line (Light Green Line) at Mochit Station. Catch a train bound for Kheha. Get off at Siam Station (or whatever station is closest to your final destination).
• To VICTORY MONUMENT Area: Connect at Phayathai Station and transfer to BTS Sukhumvit Line (Light Green Line). Catch a train bound for Kheha. Alight at Victory Monument Station.
• To SUKHUMVIT Area: The Sukhumvit area has a lot of stations that are either along the MRT Blue Line or the BTS Sukhumvit Line (Light Green Line). If the closest station to your hotel is along the Blue Line, it’s going to be easy because you’re already on the same line. If your hotel is closer to a Light Green line, alight at Chatuchak Park and transfer at Mochit Station. Then, board a train bound for Kheha.
• To KHAO SAN Area: Alight at Sam Yot Station (along the same Blue Line) and take a cab, tuktuk or Grab to Khao San.

If, for whatever reason, you do not like taking the train straight from Don Mueang Airport, you can also take the bus and the switch to BTS/MRT. And follow the steps above.

There are direct buses from Don Mueang Airport to select destinations around Bangkok.

• To MOCHIT BUS TERMINAL: Bus A1
• To BTS MO CHIT STATION: Bus A1
• To VICTORY MONUMENT: Bus A2
• To BTS RATCHADAMRI STATION: Bus A3
• To LUMPHINI PARK: Bus A3
• To KHAO SAN ROAD: Bus A4

Fare: ฿30-50 , depending on route

To see the complete list of stops, visit this page .

If you want a more straightforward journey, consider taking a cab or book a Grab car straight from the airport (especially if you’ll be staying Khao San area).

Travel time: 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic Fare: around ฿540 (including ฿50 airport surcharge)

If you opt for a taxi, always insist on using the meter.

POCKET WIFI AND DATA SIM CARD IN BANGKOK

Data Sim Card

This is the cheapest and most convenient option. Klook has two main options: TrueMove and dTac. Both offer:

• 15GB data for up to 16 days
• Internet connection anywhere in Thailand
• Inclusive of FREE call credits
• Pickup at Suvarnabhumi Airport or Don Muang Airport

✅ RESERVE TRUEMOVE DATA SIM HERE!

✅ RESERVE DTAC DATA SIM HERE!

Pocket Wifi

If your phone is locked to your home network or you have more devices to connect, you can rent a pocket wifi. You’ll find many wifi rental booths around Bangkok, but if you want to stay connected from the get-go, you can reserve one in advance via Klook and just pick it up at the airport, either at Don Muang Airport or Suvarnabhumi Airport.

If you’re coming from Manila, you can also get one at NAIA Terminal 3. Either way, they can accommodate up to five devices at one.

✅ RESERVE POCKET WIFI – BANGKOK PICKUP!

✅ RESERVE POCKET WIFI – NAIA PICKUP!

HOW TO GET AROUND BANGKOK

The Thais have their own address system and first timers in Bangkok can be easily disoriented. Wikitravel explains it really well: “Large roads such as Silom or Sukhumvit are thanon while the side streets branching off from them are called soi. Sois are numbered, with even numbers on one side and odd numbers on the other side. Thus, an address like 25 Sukhumvit Soi 3 means house number 25 on the 3rd soi of Sukhumvit Road.”

Although it is not as sweat-free as in Hong Kong or Singapore, commuting in Bangkok is quite easy. Vehicular traffic can get crazy during rush hour though. But if you’re used to the giant parking lot that runs across Manila called EDSA, you’ll be fine in Bangkok (or any other Southeast Asian city for that matter).

Getting around via public transportation means using one or more of these four modes:

• Train (BTS Skytrain/MRT) . Bangkok’s train system is fast and reliable, and will take you to many attractions throughout the city. I always find myself taking the train most of the time because many attractions are located close to a station. Also, it allows me to bypass traffic jams especially during rush hours. Although connected at a few stations, the BTS and the MRT are completely separate systems, run by different managements and use different tickets. The fares for both are similar, ranging from 16 to 52 baht. Most stations have a counter than can break your large bills and a ticket machine that accepts bills. For a more convenient journey on BTS, use a Rabbit Card (stored-value ticket) or a One-Day Pass (unlimited rides for 1 day).
• Boat . The two boat services operating in Bangkok are the Chao Phraya Express Boat, which plies up and down the Chao Phraya River and is popular among tourists for it stops at many of the city’s most popular landmarks; and the Saen Saep Express Boat, used mostly by locals who commute to work. The Chao Phraya boat is the best option for you if you intend to visit the Grand Palace complex (at Tha Chang) and Wat Pho (at Tha Tien), and Khao San Road (at Phra Athit) within one day! Both the Chao Phraya TOURIST BOAT and the cheaper ORANGE-FLAG BOAT will make a stop at these key tourist attractions. Fare: tourist boat, ฿50 single ride or ฿180 for day pass; orange-flag boat, ฿15 flat rate.
• Taxi/Grab . If my destination is too far from a train or boat station, I would just hail a cab. A ride costs more than in Manila but nowhere near the rates in Hong Kong or Singapore. The flagdown is 35 baht and the average ride within the city is probably around 100. You might encounter cab drivers who take advantage of tourists by not using the meter and then overcharging. If the driver refuses to use the meter, just get off the vehicle. Know that all cabs in Bangkok must use the meter. Many of these drivers wait for tourist passengers at the popular attractions like temples and Khao San Road.
• Tuktuk. I didn’t even bother. They are very expensive, even more expensive than cabs, and many (not all, but it’s hard to know) are involved in scams. If you really want to try for the heck of it, just agree on the price first.

THINGS TO DO IN & AROUND BANGKOK

Before we enumerate the many attractions waiting for you in Bangkok, allow us to introduce KLOOK PASS BANGKOK & PATTAYA . This ticket will give you up to 45% discount. The pass is valid for 30 days upon confirmation.

How it works is simple. With this pass, you’ll have access to a number of attractions. You get to choose how many and what these attractions will be. The first step is to choose how many attractions you want your pass to cover and purchase the pass. Once paid, you can go to the BOOKING section or your app or account, and redeem it. Say, if you purchase a 3-attraction pass, you can book up to 3 attractions from the list. Some attractions might also require you to reserve afterwards.

Here are the attractions in Bangkok and Phuket that you may choose from:

Mahanakhon Skywalk

Siam amazing park.

• Safari World
• SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World
• Madame Tussauds Bangkok
• Pororo Aquapark
• Sanctuary of Truth
• Dream World
• Frost Magical Ice of Siam
• Underwater World
• Ancient City Museum
• Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
• Grand Palace and Emerald Buddha
• Wat Pho & Wat Arun Walking Tour
• One More Thai Massage
• Chao Phara Princess Dinner Cruise
• Alcazar Cabaret Show
• Tiffany’s Show
• Bangkok Hop on Hop Off Bus

✅ CHECK RATES & GET PASS HERE!

How much you save depends on what you book. Regardless of the attractions you use it on, the price of the pass remains the same. So what we recommend is to use this pass on pricey attractions.

Here are examples on how you could save using this pass:

Grand Palace and Temples Tour

If you’re fit and you enjoy walking, you’ll be glad to know that many of the city’s key attractions are located within walking distance of each other. For example, Bangkok’s most popular temples and shrines, Chinatown, and even Siriraj Forensic Museum are easily accessible from the Chao Phraya River and can be easily visited in one day.

How to get there : If you’re from Silom, Siam or Sukhumvit areas, take the train to Saphan Taksin Station. Take Exit 2, and walk to the boat terminal. Buy a ticket and board a boat to either Tha Thien or Tha Chang. Boat fare is ฿50 if you board the tourist boat or ฿15 if orange-flag boat.

Here are the usual stops:

• Grand Palace. A complex of structures, pavilions, and courtyards including the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. The entrance fee also includes admission to “Khon: Thai Classical Masked Dance”. Boat stop: Tha Chang Pier (No. 9). Opening hours: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM (Ticket counters close at 3:30 PM). Entrance fee: ฿500.
• Wat Arun. Probably the most recognizable landmark in Bangkok with a 70m tall spire (called prang). Boat stop: Tha Thien pier (N8) and then cross the river on a smaller boat. Opening hours: 8:00 AM-6:00 PM Entrance fee: ฿100, inclusive of bottled water.
• Wat Pho. Famed for the enormous reclining Buddha that it houses. Boat stop: Tha Thien pier (N8) and then walk up the perpendicular road to Wat Pho. Opening hours: 8:00 AM-6:30 PM Entrance fee: ฿200, inclusive of bottled water.

Dress Code : The rule is to have your shoulders, knees, and heels covered. The following are not allowed:

• Shorts, short skirts, mini-skirts, tight fitting trousers
• Torn trousers/pants
• Sando, vests, sleeveless shirts
• See-through shirts

The management used to rent out pants to inadequately dressed tourists, but perhaps because of the pandemic, they only sell those now for ฿200 apiece.

Although it’s completely possible to pull this off DIY-style, it’s still much more recommended to join a guided tour so you have better appreciation of each site. These are historic and cultural landmarks that hold so much significance for the Thai people. You can book a guided tour on Klook, which includes all entrance fees, boat transfer fee, insurance, and the service of an English-speaking guide.

✅ CHECK ITINERARY & BOOK HERE!

Floating Markets & Railway Market

Aside from its ornate spires and temples, Bangkok is also best known for its floating markets. But the truth is, these boat-navigated markets are actually located outside the capital. Two of the most accessible are:

• Damnoen Saduak Floating Market in Ratchaburi Province
• Amphawa Floating Market in Samut Songkhram

A visit entails boarding a small boat as you negotiate the market canals. Plenty of souvenir and food options around!

Another market that has been attracting throngs of tourists is the Marklong Railway Market. Yes, railway, because it’s set up along the train tracks. And when a train chugs along, watch and be amazed by how the vendors make way for it. You can also spend an hour chilling at a railway cafe.

Klook has tours that combine Maeklong Railway Market with either Damnoen or Amphawa Market — your choice. There are several departure times available so choose the most convenient for you.

✅ CHECK RATES & OPTIONS HERE!

At 314 meters tall, King Power Mahanakhon is one of Thailand’s tallest buildings, housing a hotel, residential units and tourist attractions. From the outside, it looks like a pixelated skyscraper, a design that easily captivates. Inside, a multimedia elevator will take you to the highest outdoor observation deck in the country, allowing a magnificent view of Bangkok and surrounding areas.

But most visitors are here for the Skywalk. Atop the building is an area with a glass floor that you may walk on, creating a nerve-wracking but pretty mind-blowing experience.

You need to wear the shoe covers provided onsite before you’re allowed to step on it. And mobile phones (and other loose items) are NOT allowed within the glass tray area. This means that you won’t be able to take a selfie while on the glass. If you’re after photos, best to visit with someone else. Or if you’re traveling alone, make friends with other solo visitors and just take photos of each other.

Location: 114 1 Naradhiwas Rajanagarindra Road, Bang Rak, Bangkok Nearest Station: Chong Nonsi BTS Station Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday, 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Mahanakhon SkyWalk); Entrance Fee: Mahanakhon SkyWalk (Indoor & Rooftop) – Adult, ฿836; Child (3-15 y/o), ฿250; Senior (Above 60 y/o), ฿250.

Only a limited number of tickets are sold per day, so it’s best to book in advance. You can reserve online via Klook! You can also check out other Mahanakhon experience package options and choose the one that suits your preference.

✅ RESERVE A TICKET HERE!

Bangkok Nightlife

No Bangkok trip is complete without getting a taste of its (in)famous nightlife. We already mentioned Khao San Road , the backpacker mecca. It is crowded, loud, and wild. Thunderous music from nightclubs and the delicious smell of street food fill the air, while tourists fill every vacant seat, table and corner.

Aside from Khao San, Bangkok has several other nightlife districts! Most clubs and bars are safe, but as in any other major city, not all. Scams targeting tourists do exist at some establishments. You’ve probably heard about tourists entering a bar and then not being allowed to leave without paying a hefty price for a ridiculously overpriced drink.

If you want to try Bangkok nightlife and make sure you’re in good hands, you may join a guided tour. Klook has two main options: a bar hopping tour , more like a pub crawl, and a Hangover tour , where you get to visit the bars featured in The Hangover 2 movie (including a ping pong show)!

✅ JOIN HANGOVER TOUR HERE!

✅ BOOK BAR HOPPING TOUR HERE!

Dream World Bangkok

Bangkok has its fair share of theme parks, too! And on top of that list is Dream World , a 25-hectare adventure park featuring over 40 rides, shows, and other attractions, spread around four key zones!

Some of the most popular rides are the cable car, Sky Coaster (rollercoaster), Tornado, Vikings (pendulum ride), and Grand Canyon (water rapids)!

ENTRANCE FEE

• Dream World Visa (26 rides with unlimited time per ride EXCEPT Alien, Bump Car, and Haunted House, which can be enjoyed once only): ฿600
• Dream World Super Visa (includes all the rides for unlimited time): ฿1,000
• Children below 90cm : FREE

Opening Hours: Monday – Friday, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Saturday – Sunday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM. The schedule might change, so it’s best to check updated opening hours before going. Location: 62 Moo 1, Rangsit-Ongkharak Road (Km.7), Thanyaburi, Pathum Thani How to Get to Dream World: From Victory Monument BTS Station, take Bus No. 523 or 538 to Dream World.

Dream World is very popular even among locals, so you might want to book your ticket in advance to skip the line. You may also add transfers.

✅ GET SKIP-THE-LINE TICKETS HERE!

The Siam Amazing Park is the largest theme park in Thailand and is home to the largest wave pool in the world (according to the Guinness World Records). You can also enjoy exhilarating rides including Southeast Asia’s first suspended looping coaster with five inversions and the 7-story water slides.

Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM. The schedule might change, so it’s best to check updated opening hours before going. Entrance Fee: Adult, ฿1000; Child, ฿850; Children below 101cm, FREE. Location: 203 Suan Sayam Road, Khan Na Yao, Bangkok How to Get There: From Victory Monument BTS Station, head towards Ko Din Daeng Bus Stop via the circular skywalk, then take Bus No. 168 or 36ก to Siam Amazing Park.

Visitors must purchase their tickets at least one day in advance. You can book online via Klook! You can also choose the package — combine your ticket with an international lunch buffet or combine it with both lunch and shared transfer.

✅ GET DISCOUNTED TICKET HERE!

Ayutthaya Day Tour

Founded in the 1350s, Ayutthaya was Siam’s old capital before it was destroyed by the Burmese. Today, however, parts of its glorious past still shine through, especially at the Ayutthaya Historical Park, where four major temples stand up to this day: Wat Mahathat, Wat Phra Ram, Wat Phra Si Sanphet, and Wat Ratchaburana – the Royal Palace and Wiharn Phra Mongkol Bophit. It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1991.

Lying about 80 km from Bangkok, it is easily accessible and can be visited on a day trip. You can do this independently by taking public transportation and then hiring a tuktuk to tour you around. (We’ll write a separate post about it.) But if you need a guide and you want someone else to take care of everything for you, you can book with Klook.

✅ SEE OPTIONS & RESERVE HERE!

Pattaya Day Tour

Pattaya is another popular day trip destination from Bangkok, thanks mainly to its proximity, just around 150 km and roughly 2.5 hours away. The closest major beach destination to the capital, it is best known for water sports, island tours, and beach activities. But it also harbors some cultural structures like Wat Phra Yai Temple and the Sanctuary of Truth.

Jump-Off Point: Bangkok Eastern Bus Terminal/Ekkamai Bus Terminal or Mo Chit Bus Terminal (Bus); Hua Lamphong Railway Station (Train) How to Get to Pattaya: By bus, go to Bangkok Eastern Bus Terminal, then take the bus bound for Pattaya. The travel time is about two and a half hours. The one-way fare is ฿130-200 per person. By train, go to Hua Lamphong Station and get on a train to Pattaya. The travel time is 2-3 hours, depending on the type of train. The fare is ฿30-฿300, depending on the ticket class. The train for Pattaya normally leaves early in the morning — around 6:00 AM.

If you want a convenient roundtrip transfer between Bangkok and Pattaya, you can just join a guided tour. Klook offers Pattaya Beach and Koh Larn Coral Island Full Day Tour from Bangkok. This covers roundtrip transfers, an English-speaking guide, a Sanctuary of Truth ticket, insurance, and bottled water.

✅ CHECK RATES OR RESERVE HERE!

Muay Thai Match

If you’ve ever wanted to witness a live muay thai match, there’s no better place to make that happen than Bangkok! The two common venues are:

• Lumpinee Boxing Stadium 6 Ramintra Road, Anusawaree, Bangkok
• Rajadamnern Thai Boxing Stadium 1 Ratcha Damnoen Nok Road, Bangkok

You can secure your slot in advance and get discounted ticket by booking online through Klook!

✅ GET LUMPINI STADIUM MATCH TICKET HERE!

✅ GET RAJADAMNERN STADIUM MATCH TICKET HERE!

Other Attractions:

• Siriraj Medical Museum . Not for the faint of heart! Also known as the Museum of Death, it houses a huge collection of artifacts gathered in the 120 years of the Siriraj Hospital’s service as a pioneer in the medical field in the country. These pieces are divided into seven smaller museums dedicated to parasitology, anatomy, and forensic science among others. It’s a must-visit for dark tourism enthusiasts and those who simply wish to learn more about these fields. How to get there : Board the SkyTrain to S6 Saphan Taksin Station, take Exit 2, and hop onto a Chao Phraya Express Boat to Siriraj Pier N10 or Tha Rot Fai Pier, both on the west side of the river. Walk a couple of blocks into the hospital complex. Follow the signs to Adulyadej Vikrom Building. The museum is on the second floor. More info : Siriraj Museum
• iconSIAM . Opened in 2018, this massive shopping mall is one of the largest in Asia. It is bursting with retail shops including luxury labels and budget-friendlier options, and the first Takashiyama Department Store in the country. But it’s best known for its indoor floating market, mimicking those in nearby provinces and showcasing local products and cuisine. Nearest Station: Charoennakorn Station (Sky Train Gold Line via Krung Thon Buri BTS Station) or Saphan Taksin BTS Station (then ferry from Sathorn Pier to IconSIAM) Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday, 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM.
• Bangkok Chinatown . Popular for its shops, especially near Charoenkrung Road. But there are also temples around the district. To be honest, it’s not as grand or as visually arresting as Chinatowns in other countries, unless you visit during the Chinese New Year, when the district really comes to life. How to get there: Take the Skytrain to S6 Saphan Taksin Station (BTS Silom Line), take Exit 2, and walk to the boat terminal. Buy a ticket and board a Chao Phraya Express Boat. Alight at the Ratchawong Pier (N5) and make your way on foot from Ratchawong Road to Sampeng Lane and Yaowarat Road.

WHERE TO SHOP IN BANGKOK

Here are some of the best areas to satiate your inner shopaholic! We’ll be creating a separate, more detailed article about these spots in another post.

• Pratunam . Bangkok’s most popular shopping district. Between its busy alleys are even busier blocks filled with indoor and outdoor stalls selling mostly apparel and accessories. Smack at the heart of the area stand two massive malls — Platinum Shopping Mall and the Paladium World Shopping — both filled to the brim with bargain finds. Most of these specialize in wholesale, they also sell in retail quantities. How to get here : Take the MRT to Ratchaprarop Station and walk south from there. It should take around 10 minutes. Alternatively, you can also take the BTS Skytrain System and get off at Chit Lom Station.
• Chatuchak Weekend Market . If your visit in Bangkok falls on a weekend, squeeze this into your itinerary. This retail paradise is a labyrinth made of shops, once popular only to wholesale traders but eventually became a favorite attraction among tourists. Here you’ll find almost anything you can think of: from souvenirs to flowers to clothes to furniture to street food! Prioritize this over Pratunam. We found that most of the items in Pratunam are also sold here at a cheaper price. (That said, I think Pratunam has a much more diverse selection when it comes to apparel.) Nearest BTS Station: Mo Chit Station, take exit 1.
• Siam Square . Made more popular to foreigners as the shooting location for the hit movie The Love of Siam, Siam Square does not disguise itself with pretenses of being culturally significant. It is a shopping and entertainment district. Yet, if you think about it, it somehow represents a generation — a younger, more industrialized, more fashionable Bangkok. Catering mostly to college students and young adults, Siam Square comprises several blocks harboring a wide array of stores — over a hundred of ’em — apparel stalls, boutiques, bookshops, record stores, restaurants, cafes, even cinemas. How to get here : Take the BTS Skytrain System and get off at Siam Station.
• Ratchada (Train Night Market) . The colorful rows of tent stalls of Ratchada (New Rot Fai Market) will absolutely fill your stomachs with its wide selection of affordable Thai cuisine and international dishes— snacks, street food, sweets, exotic delicacies, and milk teas! The market also offers affordable clothing, accessories, shoes, and many more! Nearest Train Station: Bangkok MRT Thailand Cultural Centre Station. Take Exit 3, then walk towards Esplanade Mall. Ratchada is located just beside the mall. ⛔️ Opening Hours: As of this writing, Ratchada Night Market remains temporarily CLOSED!

WHERE TO EAT IN BANGKOK

We’ll be creating a more detailed version of this article soon. But in the meantime, here’s a quick rundown of our favorite places to eat in Bangkok.

• Thipsamai , where we had the best pad thai of our lives. It’s said to be the first store to serve the now ubiquitous noodle dish. It uses thinner rice noodles coated in shrimp oil. Michelin bib gourmand awardee Address: 313 315 Maha Chai Rd, Samran Rat, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand Bestsellers: Pad Thai, ฿105; Pad Thai with prawns: ฿150 Open: 10AM – 12MN for takeaway only; 5PM – 12MN, dine in & takeout
• Jeh O Chula (Jay Oh) , for the best affordable tom yum noodle soup! It’s crazy popular that queuing can take up to 2 hours, unless you arrive early. We arrived past 4pm, just in time for the opening. But barely 5 minutes after we arrived, the line grew quickly. If you could, reserve a table via Klook. Those who book with Klook have a separate line, which is much shorter. Reserve here! ✅ Michelin bib gourmand awardee Address: 113 ซอย จรัสเมือง Rong Muang, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand Bestsellers: Tom yum mama (spicy tom yum noodle soup), plain ฿150, with meatballs, squid, shrimps and crispy pork belly, ฿300; salmon salad, ฿300. Open: Daily 4:30PM-12MN
• Polo Fried Chicken , another Michelin-recognized establishment just across Lumphini Park in Silom area. It started out as a humble street stall but grew to become a proper eatery serving only a few Thai favorites. Address: 137/1-3,9 10 Sanam Khli Alley, Lumphini, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand Bestsellers: Fried chicken half, ฿130; som tam (papaya salad) with salted egg and dried shrimp, ฿80; pork larb/laap (spicy sour minced meat salad), ฿80. Operating Hours: Daily 7am-8:30pm
• Moo Yang Mae Sumontha , a hidden stall inside Chatuchak Market serving moo yang (grilled pork). But its version is roasted honey glazed, which is incredibly tender, succulent, and properly cooked. Address: 587 โครงการ 22 ซอย 4 /2ตลาดนัด จตุจักร 10 Kamphaeng Phet 2 Rd, Chatuchak, Bangkok Bestseller: Roasted honey glazed pork, ฿60 per 100g. Open: Weekends 8AM-6PM
• Kuang Heng Chicken Rice , established 1932. If you get hungry while shopping around Pratunam, this is the place to refill that empty tummy! It’s located just next to Platinum Mall and across the street from Palladium. Address: 930 Phetchaburi Rd, Makkasan, Phaya Thai, Bangkok 10400, Thailand Bestsellers: Hainanese chicken and deep-fried chicken, ฿50 (single); chicken/pork satay, ฿80 per 10 sticks. Open: Daily 7am-10pm
• Jay Fai , with one Michelin star and featured on the Netflix series Street Food . It’s so incredibly popular that we still haven’t been able to try it. It doesn’t accept reservations beforehand, so you need to show up and fall in line early to be considered for the waitlist. We attempted three times but the waitlist was always full by the time we arrived. Nevertheless, I’m adding it to this list so you could try it for yourself. Address: 327 Maha Chai Rd, Samran Rat, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand Bestsellers: Hainanese chicken and deep-fried chicken, ฿50 (single); chicken/pork satay, ฿80 per 10 sticks. Open: Wednesday-Saturday, 9am-9pm Closed: Sunday-Tuesday

USUAL PRICES IN BANGKOK

Below is the list of the prices of common items that you will need for a comfortable budget stay in Bangkok! Bear in mind that the figures are in Thai Baht.

FAST FOOD & CONVENIENCE STORE

• Bottled water (500ml): ฿6-12
• Bottle of softdrink (550ml): ฿20
• 7-Eleven rice meal: ฿40-55
• Big Mac (McDonald’s): ฿128

STREET FOOD

• Grilled meat: ฿10-30 per stick
• Pad thai: ฿50-60
• Noodle soup: ฿50-70
• Rice meals: ฿50-100

ENTRANCE FEES

• Grand Palace: ฿500
• Wat Pho: ฿200
• Wat Arun: ฿100
• Siriraj Medical Museum: ฿200
• Mahanakhon Skywalk: ฿836
• Dream World Bangkok: ฿575
• Siam Amazing Park: ฿650

TRANSPORTATION

• BTS/MRT fare: ฿16-52
• Taxi flagdown rate: ฿35
• Grabcar within the city: ฿100-280, depending on distance/traffic conditions

TOURS (with Transfers)

• Maeklong Railway Market + Damnoen/Amphawa Floating Market: ฿1356
• Ayutthaya: ฿1690
• Pattaya + Koh Larn: ฿2239

SAMPLE BANGKOK ITINERARY

Here’s a sample itinerary that you may use. We stayed much longer, but if you have only an extended weekend to spend in Bangkok, here’s something to consider.

Note that this itinerary assumes that you’re a party of 2 , splitting some of the costs, and that you’re staying at a hotel in Siam, close to BTS National Stadium Station. Feel free to adjust here and there to match your hotel location, flight schedule, and your travel preferences.

DAY 1: MAHANAKHON SKYWALK & JEH-O-CHULA 01:00 PM – Arrival in Bangkok – Pickup Data SIM Card & Rabbit Card 02:30 PM – Train to Phaya Thai Station ฿45 – Transfer to BTS to Siam, ฿25 03:00 PM – Walk to your hotel, check in, freshen up 04:00 PM – Train to BTS Chong Nonsi Station, ฿28 04:15 PM – Mahanakhon Skywalk, ฿836, Book here! – Chill and wait until sunset 07:00 PM – Train to BTS National Stadium, ฿28 07:15 PM – Walk to Jeh-O Chula 07:30 PM – Eat tom yum set at Jeh-O Chula, ฿350/pax, Reserve here! ! 09:00 PM – Walk or train to Siam, ฿22 09:30 PM – Back to hotel, lights out

DAY 2: DIY TEMPLES TOUR & KHAO SAN ROAD 07:00am – Wake up call 08:00am – Train to BTS Saphan Taksin Station, ฿37 08:30am – Walk to Sathorn Pier 08:45am – Board orange-flag boat, ฿15 09:15am – Get off at N9 Tha Chang Pier 09:30am – Grand Palace Complex, ฿500 10:00am – FREE Tour at Temple of Emerald Buddha 11:00am – Lunch, ฿100 12:00pm – FREE shuttle to Sala Chalermkrung Royal Theatre 01:00pm – Khon Performance (included in Palace ticket) 01:45pm – Walk to Wat Pho 02:00pm – Wat Pho, ฿200 03:30pm – Boat to the other side of the river, ฿5 03:45pm – Explore Wat Arun, ฿100 05:00pm – Boat to the other side (Tha Thien*), ฿5 05:15pm – Boat to N13 Phra Arthit, ฿15 05:40pm – Walk to Khao San Road 06:00pm – Dinner & drinks at Khao San, ฿400 09:00pm – Taxi/grab to Silom, ฿100/pax *Note: Tha Thien/Tha Tian Pier is temporarily closed for renovation, as of Dec 2022. For now, you may walk all the way back to Tha Chang and catch the boat to Phra Arthit Pier.

Day 4: SHOPPING, DEPARTURE A: If this falls on a weekend 08:00am – Wake up call, check out, leave bags 08:40am – BTS to Chatuchak Park Station, ฿42 09:00am – Shop at Chatuchak Market 11:00am – Lunch at Moo Yang Mae Sumontha, ฿120 11:30am – Continue shopping 02:00 PM – BTS back to hotel, ฿42 02:20pm – Back to hotel, pick up bags 02:50pm – BTS to Phaya Thai Station ฿25 – Transfer to ARL to Suvarnabhumi Airport, ฿45 03:30 PM – Flight check in 06:45 PM – Flight out B: If this falls on a weekday 08:00am – Wake up call, check out, leave bags 08:40am – BTS+ARL to Ratchaprapop Station 09:00am – Platinum + Palladium Malls 11:30 AM – Lunch at Kuang Heng Chicken Rice, ฿120 12:30pm – Continue shopping in Pratunam 02:00 PM – ARL+BTS back to hotel 02:20pm – Back to hotel, pick up bags 02:50pm – BTS to Phaya Thai Station ฿25 – Transfer to ARL to Suvarnabhumi Airport, ฿45 03:30 PM – Flight check in 06:45 PM – Flight out

If you follow this Bangkok itinerary, prepare to shell out ฿5000 (USD 144, EUR 136, SGD 195, PHP 7950) , excluding airfare and hotel but including a bit of allowance for wiggle room and to make up for any possible price adjustments and incidental expenses.

If you spend TH฿600 per night per person on accommodations, the same itinerary will cost you TH฿6800 (USD 197, EUR 185, SGD 264, PHP 10,800) , excluding airfare but with some allowance to cover adjustments and incidental expenses.

(If you’re coming from the Philippines, it doesn’t include the PHP1650 travel tax yet.)

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT BANGKOK

What are the covid-19-related travel requirements in thailand.

The Thai government has lifted COVID-19 restrictions for tourists. Travelers are only required to present the usual border requirements like passport (and visa if applicable). No proof of vaccination required.

But if your next destination is a country that requires an RT-PCR COVID test (like India and China), travel insurance is mandatory . It must cover the full length of intended stay in Thailand + 7 extra days.

* This section is as of January 2023

Is Bangkok safe?

Yes, Bangkok is generally safe and tourist-friendly. Of course, you should still use common sense at all times, and don’t flash your gadgets in the open or leave your valuables unattended.

My only frustration with Bangkok is that it has more than its share of scams targeting tourists, so always be careful.

What are the common Bangkok scams?

Bangkok’s scams are more organized than they appear. One widespread modus operandi involves people loitering by the gate of temples (or other tourist spots) and approaching tourists. I almost fell for this on my first trip. They are very friendly, and they usually introduce themselves as teachers. They claim that the site you’re about to visit is closed because it is a holiday and that they know a more beautiful place that is not on tourist maps. They then hail a random tuktuk (which isn’t random at all for the driver is part of the scam) and tour you around. You will be taken to a jewelry store selling overpriced gems and accessories. The tuktuk may also overcharge you for the ride.

Khao San Road is also rife with scams. You’ll find tourist agents selling all sorts of transportation tickets that turn out to be less than what they promise. For example, you’ll find plenty of “direct buses” to Siem Reap, but most of them are not really direct as they involve switching vehicles at one point during the trip. Worse, some of these buses stop at “travel agencies” that will sell you fake visa.

Patpong is also notorious for scams. You’ll be invited by barkers to a sexy club to see a “pingpong show” or other mind-blowing presentations, to say the least. They’ll say the show is free but you must order a drink. The catch is, the drink is ridiculously overpriced.

As in any other city, be careful and vigilant. If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

When is the best time to visit Bangkok?

November to February , when the temperature and precipitation levels are kind and low. But because of the pleasant weather, it is also the peak season. High season begins in November and ends in April, around Songkran Festival (Thai New Year, April 13-15). If you’re visiting within this period, prepare to share the city with millions of other tourists.

Bangkok could’ve been a year-round destination if it weren’t for the bouts of rain and flooding problems, which is why it is best to avoid the wettest months.

Rainy season is from May to October, but the wettest months are September-October. We have tried traveling to Bangkok in January, July, August, September, October, and November, and we can tell you that the precipitation level can definitely affect your overall travel experience. We’ve been stranded in some sites because of torrential rains and flooding and ended up wasting much of our time.

What is tipping policy in Bangkok?

Tipping is NOT mandatory in Bangkok, but it is surely appreciated.

When eating at sit-down restaurants, a tip of 10% of the bill should be fine. You can also just round off your bill. For example, if your bill is ฿135, you can leave ฿150. Same with cabs. If the meter is ฿105, round it off to ฿110 or ฿120. At hotels, you can give ฿20-50 to the porter who carries your luggage to your room, depending on the number of pieces. For a massage, tip ฿50. For full-day tour guides, at least ฿200 is alright.

Where to exchange money in Bangkok?

Bangkok has countless money changers, but most of them have poor rates, especially those at the airport. Trust me. I made that mistake and lost a lot in the conversion. If you really need to do so at the airport, exchange only a little or enough to get you to the city center.

At the city center, find a SuperRich Thailand branch. SuperRich has the best rates, make sure it’s a legit SuperRich branch.

What is the power socket used in Bangkok?

Most common sockets are sort of a combination of Types A and C. They have two holes that can accept both flat and round pins, the shape of two door knobs or rubber stamps facing each other. This type of socket can take plugs that are Types A, C, and F. If your plug has three pins, you will be needing an adaptor.

Do I need a visa to visit Thailand?

Foreigners holding passports issued by the Philippines, Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, United States, United Kingdom, Germany and 40+ other countries can enter Thailand visa-free , provided that they stay shorter than 30 days.

To see the complete list of countries, visit this: List of Visa-Free and Visa-on-Arrival Countries

However, visitors must have the following upon entry:

• a valid passport (with at least 6 months validity)
• return or onward ticket
• at least 10,000 baht per person or 20,000 baht per family or equivalent in other currencies, cash.

It will also help to have a hotel reservation .

Note that if you’re not arriving by air, you’re only allowed to enter Thailand twice per year.

Do I really need 10,000-baht show money at the immigration?

In theory, yes. It is the law. But it’s not implemented all the time. Lately, they have been a bit stricter.

Our team has been in and out of Thailand recently but none of us were asked how much we carry. But it would help to just comply, just in case.

The amount should be 10,000 baht per person or 20,000 baht per family.

It doesn’t need to be in baht. It can be any currency as long as it has the equivalent value.

Updates Log

2024•1•5 – Removed travel insurance for test-requiring next destination as it no longer applies 2022•12•21 – First up

More Tips on YouTube ⬇️⬇️⬇️

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I stumbled upon your travel blog website and I’m absolutely loving it! Your posts are so informative and inspiring, and they’ve given me some great ideas for my own travels. I especially enjoyed your recent post on Travel blog, and I can’t wait to see where you’ll take us next!

Thanks for sharing your experiences with the world, and keep up the amazing work! I’ll definitely be following along on your adventures.

Thank you so much for preparing this blog, Yosh!!! I cannot imagine the length of time it took you to lay out this information, so thank you! I appreciate it a lot now that I am in charge of our Thailand itinerary – it’s crazy!

Glad it was helpful. And yes, it takes us days (sometimes, weeks) to produce just one travel guide. But it’s always worth it!

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15 Best Street Food to Enjoy in Bangkok

Every traveler says that the key to enjoy any destination’s traditional cuisine is to eat like a local, to eat where locals eat, or even better, to get invited to a local’s home and be served a home-cooked meal.

That tip rings especially true in Bangkok. It may be difficult to knock on a Thai family’s door and join them for dinner. But do you know what the best thing you could do is? Go crazy on the endless choices of Bangkok street food.

What’s great about exploring street food is that you get to sample traditional Thai food the exact way locals have been preparing it for the past centuries. The authenticity is kept intact because the recipes are not tamed down to suit a tourist’s uninitiated taste buds.

Street food is an important part of Bangkok’s rich culinary heritage, and because it is cooked on the spot, witnessing its preparation is akin to taking a history lesson in the most delicious and affordable way possible. It also lets you interact with the locals so you are afforded a more enriching experience.

If you’re planning a trip to Bangkok, make sure that your itinerary includes a street food exploration. This would be easy to squeeze in while you’re out shopping, looking at majestic temples, or enjoying the crazy nightlife because street food stalls can be found at practically every corner in Bangkok.

Here’s your guide to the best street food in Bangkok and where you can get them at remarkably affordable prices .

1. Gai Tod (Fried Chicken)

Everybody loves fried chicken; so much so that you can find a unique recipe in every part of the world.

Thai fried chicken, or gai tod , is a popular street food in Bangkok, revered for its light, crispy skin that crackles with every bite. Hiding beneath that skin is tender juicy flesh made savory by the flavors of soy and fish sauces.

Gai tod is best enjoyed topped with crispy fried garlic and dipped in chili sauce. Wash it down with a cold bottle of Thai beer for the best way to end a day of shopping and sightseeing in the Land of Smiles.

Here are the best places to have fried chicken in Bangkok : Street stalls found on just about every corner; Som Tam Nua restaurant (392/14 Siam Square Soi 5, Rama 1 Road); and Soi Polo Fried Chicken (137/1-2 Soi Sanam Khli).

Price range : 35 – 100 baht ($1.00 – $2.90)

2. Tod Mun Pla Krai (Thai Fish Cakes)

What makes Thai fish cakes, or tod mun pla krai , exceptionally delicious is the absence of batter that may conceal the fresh flavors of the fish, herbs and spices. Kaffir lime leaves, shrimp paste, and local chili give these fish cakes a distinct Thai flavor.

Sticky rice is optional, but sides of spicy chili sauce, lemon wedges, and diced cucumber are a definite must.

You can have the best Bangkok’s tod mun pla krai at: Chatuchak Market (Kamphaeng Phet 2 Road, Chatuchak); Taling Pling (25 Sukhumvit Soi 34); and Lam Cha-Reon Seafood (999/9 Rama I Road, Pathumwan).

Price range : 20 – 400 baht ($0.60 – $11.50)

3. Khanom Krok Khai Nok Krata (Fried Quail Eggs)

Fried quail eggs are a street food staple in Bangkok. Locally known as khanom krok khai nok krata , these are a practical choice for when you want your street food hot, fast, and easy to enjoy on-the-go.

These eggs may be tiny, but are actually packed with incredible egg flavor, making them a hit among locals. Plus, the wonderful contrast of the bright yellow yolk against the egg white makes for a cheerful Instagram post.

These delicious quail eggs are cooked sunny side-up in an oil-slicked khanom krok pan, a traditional cast iron griddle. The warm griddle cooks the egg whites all the way through while leaving the yolks soft but not runny.

Once cooked, they are drizzled with a special Thai seasoning sauce and pepper powder, resulting in tiny pockets of goodness oozing with flavor. Douse the freshly-fried quail eggs with a little Sriracha sauce if you like living on the edge.

Here are the best places to enjoy quail eggs in Bangkok: Chinatown (6 Yaowarat Road, Samphanthawong), Ramkhamnhaeng University Night Market (2345/1 Ramkhamnhaeng Road, Hua Mak, Bang Kapi), and Chatuchak Weekend Market (587/10 Kamphaeng Phet 2 Road, Chatuchak).

Price of a plate of quail eggs in these places ranges from 10 baht ($0.30) to 30 baht ($0.90).

4. Moo Ping (Grilled Pork)

Thai grilled pork, or moo ping as locals would call it, is a definite must-try for every carnivorous traveler.

Succulent pieces of pork meat with fat are skewered together and grilled on top of hot coals. The melting fat dripping on the ambers creates a thick blanket of aromatic smoke that, logically, should drive you away but in reality, lures you even more.

These Thai pork skewers are marinated in a sweet-salty concoction, and when placed on the grill, receive an additional smoky flavor from the burning coals.

The barbecued meat is good enough as it is, but slathered with the homemade spicy sauce, it becomes pure heaven. Moo ping can be enjoyed stick after stick or paired with traditional sticky rice for a more filling meal. Make sure to consume your moo ping hot off the grill when the flavors are most alive and the meat actually melts in your mouth.

Here are the best places to enjoy moo ping in Bangkok : Moo Ping Hea Owen (Silom, Soi Convent), Moo Ping at Sukhomvit (Sukhomvit Soi 19, Watthana), and Chinatown (6 Yaowarat road, Samphanthawong).

Price of a skewer of moo ping in these places ranges from 4 baht ($0.15) to 10 baht ($0.30).

5. Khanom Buang (Crispy Pancakes)

The history of khanom buang , or Thai crispy pancake, goes as far back as 600 years ago.

It is a traditional sweet street food that entails meticulous preparation. The crispy crepe is made of rice flour, which serves as a delicious vessel to rich meringue topped with candied duck egg yolk.

They say that the best cooks of khanom buang are the elderly, whose ancient recipe they have passed on from generation to generation.

Here are the best places to have crispy pancakes in Bangkok: Khanom Buang Phraeng Nara (Phra Nakhon); Damnoen Saduak Floating Market (Damnoen Saduak District, Ratchaburi); and Siam Paragon (991/1 Rama I Road).

Price range : 10 – 30 baht ($0.30 – $0.90)

6. Kanom Krok (Thai Traditional Sweet Rice Cake)

Kanom Krok is a traditional Thai sweet rice cake that is made with coconut cream and rice flour.

It is a well-loved choice for snack or dessert in Bangkok because of the delightful marriage of flavors. But what makes it even more interesting is the tragic love story behind it. Make sure to ask the kanom krok vendor about the love story with a sad ending that inspired this delightfully sweet dessert, aptly called ‘dessert of love’.

Traditional khanom krok showcases a layer of rice flour topped with another layer of sweet coconut cream to make up a sphere that is both light and crispy. Modern innovations have resulted in the addition of an assortment of toppings such as corn, taro, and spring onions.

Khanom krok is best enjoyed fresh off the khanom krok pan when it’s still piping hot.

Here are the best places to enjoy kanom krok in Bangkok : Ratchawat Market (Thanan Nakhon Chai Si, Dusit), Cicada Night Market (83/159 Nong Kae-Kho Takiap Road, Hua Hin), and Plearn Wan Eco Village (Soi Hua Hin 38-40 Phet Kasem Road, Hua Hin).

Price of a dozen of kanom krok in these places ranges from 15 baht ($0.50) to 30 baht ($0.90).

7. Hoy Tod (Oyster Omelette)

Once you’ve tried authentic hoy tod on the streets of Bangkok, you’ll find yourself tempted to fly back just for another taste of this traditional oyster omelette.

Hoy tod is crispy, greasy, briny, and is packed full with plump, juicy oysters and fresh bean sprouts in a blanket of savory egg batter.

The dish is often served with an assortment of condiments such as fish sauce with chopped up pieces of fresh chilies, green chili sauce, and sweet tomato sauce. But these are not really necessary as the dish is already flavorful on its own, especially when fresh off the cast iron skillet.

Here are the best places to enjoy hoy tod in Bangkok : Nai Mong Hoi Tod (539 Thanon Phlap Phla Chai, Bombrab Sathupai); Hoi Tod Chaw Lae (Soi Sukhumvit 55, Sukhumvit Road, Khlong Tan); and Thip Volcanic Fried Mussel & Oyster (3, Soi Charoen Krung 50, Charoen Krung Road, Khet Bangrak).

The price of hoy tod in these places range from 50 baht ($1.50) to 70 baht ($2.00).

8. Kway Teow Lui Suan (Thai Fresh Spring Rolls with Herbs)

Possibly the best thing about the street food in Bangkok is that it makes it easy to eat healthy – an incredible feat when one is on vacation. The streets of Bangkok are replete with healthful dishes that make use of fresh, locally-sourced herbs, spices, and other produce.

Kway Teow Lui Suan, or Thai fresh spring rolls with herbs, is a great example of that.

This healthy food is not a traditional Thai dish but more of an interpretation of the iconic Vietnamese food. This, however, is still a popular street food in Bangkok.

Thais have made this dish their own by using wide rice noodles instead of rice paper, and flavoring it with aromatic herbs. Choice of filling comes in the form of sausage, shrimp, or for a really healthy choice, tofu and mushrooms. Dipping sauce can either be peanut sauce or sweet green chili sauce.

Here are the best places to enjoy kway teow lui suan in Bangkok: Baan Suan Pai (17/1 Phahon Yothin Road, Phaya Thai), Chamlong’s Asoke Vegetarian Restaurant (Chatuchak Market, Kampaeng Phet Road), and Seri Market (L1, 0101, The Nine Neighborhood Center, Thanon Rama Ix, Suan Luang).

The price of kway teow lui suan in these places range from 20 baht ($0.60) to 35 baht ($1.00) for three rolls.

9. Sai Oua (Sausages)

Sai Oua is a kind of traditional Thai sausage which traces its origins to Northern Thailand.

It has a distinctly intense flavor that you wouldn’t find in other sausages – thanks to the mixture of minced pork, charred makrut lime, galangal, lemongrass, chilies, and other spices. This heady concoction is stuffed in a pork intestine casing – the only way locals do it.

These Thai sausages are sold at grilled meat food carts strewn along the streets of Bangkok. They’re usually on display along with other kinds of meats and sausages, so you have to make it a point to specifically ask for sai oua.

Locals like to eat their sai oua by rolling it in the accompanying green roasted chili paste, or nam phrik noom. The pairing makes for a really spicy combination – a cold bottle of beer in hand would help wash down the spiciness.

Here are the best places to enjoy sai oua in Bangkok: Or Tor Kor Market (139/4 1, Samsen Nai, Phaya Thai); Chatuchak Weekend Market (587/10 Kamphaeng Phet 2 Road, Chatuchak); and Chinatown (6 Yaowarat road, Samphanthawong).

Price of sai oua in these places ranges from 10 baht ($0.30) to 15 baht ($0.43) per stick.

10. Kanom Kai Nok Krata (Sweet Potato Balls)

Kanom kai nok krata is a snack in Bangkok made of sweet potato, which can be a tad bit confusing because kanom means ‘snack’ in Thai while kai nok krata means ‘quail eggs’. This well-loved street food is named such because its shape and size resembles that of a quail egg. But all resemblance ends there.

Khanom kai nok krata are warm, deep-fried puffy balls of sweet potato, tapioca starch, and sugar. Fresh off the wok, these are crispy on the outside and deliciously soft and airy on the inside. What makes these sweet potato balls unique is the limestone water used in the batter, which makes the exterior really crispy.

Delightful as they are, Thai sweet potato balls are not a common find on the streets of Bangkok. This is why you should definitely buy yourself several pieces the moment you see a kanom kai nok krata cart.

Here are the best places to enjoy kanom kai nok krata: Sukhumvit Soi 38 (Sukhumvit 38 Alley, Phra Kanong, Khlong Toei); Soi Petchburi 19 (Petchburi Road, Pratunam); and Silom Complex (4 Silom, Bang Rak).

Price of kanom kai nok krata in these places ranges from 7 baht ($0.20) to 18 baht ($0.50).

11. Kanom Krok Bai Toey (Pandan Sweetmeat)

As with other delicious Bangkok street food, kanom krok bai toey tastes best when eaten fresh off the skillet.

This muffin-like snack is made with flour, coconut sugar, and pandan leaf extract, which gives off a bright green color and a heavenly aroma. This pandan sweetmeat is chewy, fluffy and not too sweet – perfect as snack while roaming the streets of Bangkok.

The kanom krok bai toey of today is prepared the same way it was prepared by the ancient Thais centuries ago – in a cast iron griddle called kanom krok, which is placed on top of burning hot coals.

It is a delight watching the deft hands of the vendor skillfully pouring the batter into the skillet and flipping each piece, especially because the fragrance envelopes the air, making you even more excited to get your hands on these tiny green pillows of deliciousness.

Here are the best places to enjoy kanom krok bai toey : Train Market Ratchada (Ratchadaphisek Road, Dindaeng); Wang Lang Market (Soi Wang Lang, Siriraj); and Siam Pandan (Pathum Wan, Bangkok – beside Novotel Siam Square).

Price of kanom krok bai toey in these places ranges from 35 baht ($1.00) to 50 baht ($1.40) for a box of 9.

12. Moo Yang (Grilled Honey Roast Pork)

Moo yang is another grilled meat favorite on the streets of Bangkok, a popular fare among locals who want to cap off their day with a few drinks and some good street food.

Pieces of meat are marinated in a formula of honey, fish sauce, soy sauce, and spices, and then grilled on charcoal. The process of marinating and grilling results in tender, juicy pieces packed with sweet-salty-smoky flavor bite after bite.

They are served either skewered or sliced into bite-sized pieces. You can also make a full meal out of it by ordering rice alongside your grilled honey roast pork.

Ask Bangkok locals where you can find the best moo yang and they will quickly answer, “Just follow the smoke.” It’s true though because moo yang carts are distinguished by the fragrant smoke emanating from the burning charcoals sizzling with dripping pork fat.

Your moo yang experience can be made even better by dipping the pork skewers in Thai peanut sauce or green chili sauce.

Here are the best places to enjoy moo yang : Moo Yang Nam Peung (Chatuchak Weekend Market, Area 22, Soi 4, Kamphaeng Phet 2 Road, Chatuchak); Soi Convent (Convent Road); and Ratchawat Market (Nakhon Chaisi Road, Bangkok).

Price of moo yang in these places ranges from 4 baht ($0.10) to 9 baht ($0.25).

13. Khao Niao Mamuang (Mango Sticky Rice)

No trip to Bangkok is complete without a taste – or an indulgence, to be honest – of khao niao mamuang or mango sticky rice.

It is one of the most popular sweet street foods in Bangkok, a favorite among both locals and tourists. To the uninitiated, the combination of rice and mango in a dish does not sound delectable, but Thais have managed to marry these two ingredients in a delicious, sweet snack.

Fluffy glutinous rice is served alongside fleshy cheeks of ripe mango and then smothered with rich coconut cream syrup.

If you had to limit your dessert intake to just one dish, you definitely should go for khao niao mamuang – if only for the Thai mangoes, which are famous for being among the sweetest mangoes in the world.

Here are the best places to enjoy khao niao mamuang : Wantana Khanom Thai (Ratchawat Market, Nakhon Chaisri Road); Mae Varee Fruit Shop (1 Soi Thong Lor Road, Sukhumvit 55 Klongtunnua Wattana); and Pratunam (Soi Petchaburi 30, New Petchaburi Road, Makkasan, Ratchawithi).

Price of khao niao mamuang in these places ranges from 100 baht ($2.90) to 145 baht ($4.20).

14. Thai Coconut Ice Cream

The Bangkok heat can be a great challenge when you have an entire day of touring and shopping planned. Don’t worry, because the warm climate is actually the perfect excuse to stop for a refreshing Thai coconut ice cream.

It was the Europeans who introduced ice cream to this Southeast Asian country, but the locals didn’t waste time making the refreshment their own.

What makes Thai coconut ice cream different from all the other ice creams is the use of rich coconut cream as its base instead of the usual cow’s milk. The creamy coconut base is generously sprinkled with real coconut bits whose texture is a wonderful contrast against the smooth creaminess.

Nowadays, it is not unusual to see Thai coconut ice cream topped with kernels of corn, toasted peanuts, or cubes of sweet jelly. You can even buy Thai coconut ice cream sandwiched in between pieces of bread!

Here are the best places to enjoy Thai coconut ice cream in Bangkok : Nattaporn Ice Cream (Phraeng Phuthon, Phra Nakhon); Chatuchak Market (Kamphaeng Phet 2 Road, Chatuchak); and Baan Peeraka (41/37 Romklao Road, Min Buri).

Price of Thai coconut ice cream in these places ranges from 12 baht ($0.35) to 20 baht ($0.58).

15. Roti Gluay (Fried Banana Pancake)

Roti is another dish that does not really have Thai origins but has been embraced by the locals; so much so that it has become one of the most craved street snacks in Bangkok. Roti gluay , or fried banana pancake, is just one of the variants of roti peddled in carts at just about every corner of the city.

The preparation of roti gluay can be hypnotizing to watch – with the skillful hands of the vendor maneuvering the ingredients with such panache and quickness. Dough is laid flat on an iron skillet, which is then to fulfill its role as a crispy blanket to the creamy mixture of banana slivers and egg. The roti gluay is chopped into smaller pieces and served with a hefty drizzle of sweet condensed milk.

Here are the best places to enjoy roti gluay: Soi Rangnam (Phaya Thai, Ratchathewi); and Sukhumvit Soi 38 (Sukhumvit 38 Alley, Phra Khanong, Khlong Toei).

Price of roti gluay in these places ranges from 15 baht ($0.43) to 30 baht ($0.86).

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The Ultimate Bangkok, Thailand Street Food Guide: Where To Eat Street Food

• Last Updated On: September 8, 2023

Street food is life and in Bangkok , life is street food. No trip to Bangkok is complete without visiting its many colorful street markets and eating its delicious food. I spent a week in Bangkok and I did not eat a single meal that was not part of a night market or a casual street side restaurant.

I could spend a year in Bangkok and never visit all the restaurants I’d want. However, a week is plenty of time to eat your heart out in Bangkok. I know most people probably spend much fewer days than a week while in Bangkok so this guide will point you to the best of the best. Some restaurants are institutions that warrant a visit while others are for the more advanced traveler.

In this list are restaurants that are part of night or morning markets (think open air streets with dozens of different vendors lined up), as well as casual restaurants that wouldn’t be deemed street markets but are extremely casual nonetheless.

Is Bangkok street food safe?

If you’re a fan of street food, then you’re definitely coming to the right place in Bangkok. If you’re not the most adventurous and are a questioning the idea of visiting street markets in Bangkok, I’m here to tell you it is totally safe to eat.

Bangkok as a city is much more modern and developed than you’d think. Sure it is not at the same levels of hygiene as the Singapore hawker markets , but it is still quite good. Most of the food in Thailand is cooked with extremely high heat being seared on a wok which ensures that germs are fried away.

Street foods might look a bit intimidating and scary especially if you’re coming from Western countries but I can assure you that this is the best way to try as many Thai dishes for a very cheap price. All the Thai people eat street food as part of life and they are still standing. Of course, your stomach might be much weaker than theirs but we are all human so it means you can do it too.

In fact, I spent my entire trip eating street while in Bangkok. The food is just too good and too cheap to really warrant anything else. I typically would have a drink at one of the many many rooftop bars in Bangkok where I’d pay $10-15 per drink, and then proceed to wolf down pad see ew and chicken satays for $5 afterwards. I’m still standing here today to write this post and I’ve never felt better!

Thip Samai for Pad Thai

No visit to Thailand is complete without visiting the famous Thipsamai. This is the holy grail of Pad Thai restaurants and is featured on every food network and blog out there.

Come here for dinner on any given night and you’ll see a line snaking down the street. During normal times before COVID, you could see the chefs crafting their magic on the street but nowadays, it’s all done inside. The main item here is Pad Thai with shrimp. In fact, it’s pretty much the only thing you can order here so you know they mean business.

The Pad Thai here is incredibly unique and succulent. It’s much creamier than other Pad Thais I’ve had, featuring a very rich shrimp flavor. The cook then blasts an egg over flaming heat before finally wrapping the noodles inside. Top it off with fresh chilies, peanuts and a splash of lime for the ultimate Pad Thai experience.

It’s definitely an experience everyone needs to have while in Bangkok. You don’t need to come here every day because you can find other Pad Thais for half the price and a fraction of the wait time.

Price for the original Pad Thai is 120 THB.

Pad Thai Kratong Thong

For another famous and delicious Pad Thai, visit Pad Thai Kratong Thong. It’s located right next to Wat Pho and is on the way from Wat Pho to the ferry that takes you to the Temple of the Dawn. This is a perfect stop in between temples to chow some delicious Pad Thai and Green Curry Fried Rice.

The Pad Thai with Shrimp is served on a delicious crispy edible shell. The noodles are a more standard approach to pad thai unlike Thip Samai’s heavy use of shrimp paste. I really liked both versions and for 90 THB, you can’t go wrong with this dish.

Jay Fai Michelin Star Restaurant

Jay Fai is probably the most famous street food vendor in all of Bangkok. Her restaurant is located right next to Thip Samai and you’ll see equally crazy long lines waiting for her food. In fact, often times she does not even do walk ins anymore because her food is so in demand. Reservations can be booked a month out!

She started as a humble street vendor elevating traditional Thai dishes in her own way. She earned a Michelin star and then became incredibly popular being featured on Netflix’s Chef’s Table.

I came here for lunch as you can walk in without reservation. I waited about 45 minutes for a table which was fine as I just grabbed a beer from the 7/11 down the street and watched the master cook. During my visit, Richard Quest from CNN was filming a show here.

Her dishes start at 600 THB for a typical dish like Pad See Ew and up to 1,000 THB for her ultra famous crab omelet which is packed full of juicy crab meat. I got the Pad Kee Mao with shrimp as well as the crab omelet. Her dishes are incredibly tasty and I’m not surprised she has the Michelin Star and the world wide acclaim that she does.

A lot of people like to complain about how expensive her dishes are. They are of course much more than you’d pay in other street vendors but she also uses incredible ingredients. The prawns here are giant tiger prawns were are pricey no matter where you go in Bangkok. In addition, she has such a cult like following now that she could probably double her prices and still attract the same crowds.

Thai Food at Samranrat (ร้านอาหารตามสั่ง สีแยกสำราญราษฎร์ )

Don’t feel like waiting for Jay Fai or Thipsamai? Simply walk down the same street and you’ll find a big street stall with amazing local Thai dishes. After eating Thipsamai, I was still a bit hungry so I came here for round two. I tried their Pad Thai as well and absolutely loved it. It’s definitely cooked in a vastly different style vs Thip Samai but full of flavor.

I even tried their fried rice with seafood which I admit was probably a bit too much in the end. The things one must do when eating their way through Bangkok…

Yaowarat Night Market

Yaowarat Night Market is located in the heart of Chinatown featuring hundreds of food stalls making Thai/Chinese cuisine. Walk down Yaowarat street at nights and you’ll find it packed with thousands of hungry locals and tourists alike.

You’ll find all the foods you can want here like delicious pork skewers, grilled calamari salad with chilies, seafood, crispy pork, and even insects! Yes you can try fried insects like grasshoppers, centipedes and even scorpions.

Yaowarat is probably one of the most touristy street markets in Bangkok. It has a healthy mix of locals and tourists yet it has a very inviting atmosphere. Nothing is too intimidating and there’s nothing too out of the ordinary. Throw in beautiful neon lights and chaotic traffic, and you have all you need for a quintessential experience. If you’re white and not sure if you’re about the street market life but want to give it a try, start at Yaowarat!

There are a few things I can really recommend at the Yaowarat Night market.

Nai Ek Roll Noodle

Located in Chinatown, this Nai Ek is probably the most famous restaurant on Yaorawat street. At least, that’s what the long lines would tell you. This place serves delicious crispy roast pork as well as other pork delicacies. The pork belly here is absolutely diving with soft juicy meat accompanied by the most perfect crispy skin.

Even during nights when the night market wasn’t running, there would still be long lines of eager diners waiting to feast on their famous pork. This is definitely a must visit when in the Chinatown area.

Price for the roast pork is 100 THB.

Grilled Squid Stall

A few meters down from Nai Ek Roll Noodle is the famous grilled squid stall. There are numerous other vendors that sell the same thing but this one always has a huge line which has to mean it’s good.

They have a huge stall with a giant charcoal grill heating up dozens of squid satays. After the squid has been cooked to perfection, they serve it in a cilantro salad topped with their home made chili sauce (extremely spicy but flavorful). The combination is incredible and you’re sure to want more.

Prices for squid is 60-100 THB depending on the part of the squid.

Seafood at Fikeaw

Fikeaw is one of the most popular vendors at the Yaowarat night market by far. There is always a queue waiting to eat his delicious seafood dishes. He is famous for creating massive flames from the ultra hot woks while he cooks. It’s quite a spectacle and perfect for photos and Instagram stories.

I had his prawns with garlic and chilis and it was absolutely delicious. I also tried his morning glory sauteed vegetables which was again fantastic. The prices here are higher than you’ll find elsewhere in the market but it’s to be expected given how popular he’s become.

Sam Yan Breakfast Market

There are just no shortage of street markets in Bangkok. The next one up is the famous Sam Yan breakfast market. It’s open from 6am until lunch time. The busiest times are between 7am and 9am so I would visit during these hours to see the crowds and get the freshest food.

There is a wide array of Thai and Chinese style dishes here, as well as fresh juice stands, dessert stands (with mango sticky rice), and numerous stalls selling raw seafood.

Jek Pui Curry Rice

Jek Pui is one of the most famous places to eat delicious Thai curries. Located in Chinatown in a back alley, this place is down and dirty street food at its finest.

They have a few different curries including green curry with chicken, red curry with beef, yellow curry with pork, and penang curry with pork. I opted for the Green curry as this is the spiciest and it was so delicious. You’re served with rich flavorful curries over rice topped with Chinese sausage and chilies.

Everyone eats the curries on red stools sans table. It’s pretty funny to watch but it’s just casual street dining at its best. The curries are unbelievably affordable at 40 THB per plate and delicious.

The stall is open from 3pm to 8pm. Get there early!

Kor Panich Sticky Rice

One of my favorite Thai desserts and probably one of my all time favorite desserts (after the Austrian Kaiserschmarnn of course) is mango sticky rice. Think fresh, juicy mangoes served with succulent sticky rice topped with a sweet coconut cream sauce. This is literally one of the most delicious things you can eat and anyone who has had this can attest.

Mango Stick rice comes from the North of Thailand (think Chiang Mai , Chiang Rai) so it’s harder to find in Bangkok than you think. You really need the freshest and most delicious mangoes to make this dish possible which is why it’s hard to find even at the most high end of Thai restaurants in say New York. If you have crappy mangoes, this dish will fail.

Kor Panich is probably the most famous place in Bangkok to try mango sticky rice. They are located on an unassuming street with no dine in options available. It’s entirely done on a take out basis but the end result is incredible.

Price for this sticky rice is 120 THB. This is on the high end of mango sticky rice but you’re getting the best of the best!

Bang Lamphu Tom Yum Goong

This place is the ultimate restaurant to try the famous Tom Yum Soup. If you’ve never had Tom Yum soup outside of Thailand before (it is quite a popular dish available in all Thai restaurants outside of Thailand), then you absolutely cannot leave Bangkok before trying some.

Tom yum is one of the most traditional and popular dishes in all of Thailand. It’s a soup based dish made with prawns, mushrooms, lemongrass, kaffir limes, galanga, chilies, and other delicious ingredients I probably don’t know of. It’s a combination of hot and sour with a delicious seafood flavor. It’s one of my favorite Thai dishes and Bang Lamphu is the place to eat it.

It’s located on a street with many other hawker stands in an unassuming street front setting. The soup is huge with big chunks of shrimp, crab, calamari and who knows what else. Pair it with rice and you have yourself a perfect lunch for 160 THB.

Nang Loeng Market

Nang Loeng Market is a locals market located near to the Governmental buildings. This market is a bit down and dirty but there are some delicious things to eat in this market.

Neua Tun Nang Loeng

For the most famous beef noodle soup, come to Neua Tun Nang Loeng. It is located just outside of the market in a corner area. It’s packed with locals enjoying delicious marinated beef brisket cooked in a flavorful broth. This place is quite famous and attracts a big crowd during the lunch hour.

The owner is also quite friendly and will make sure you’re always take care of. Price for the beef noodle soup is 60 THB. I asked for extra beef and paid a few extra Baht which was definitely worth it.

Jib Kee Roast pork and duck

Located just outside of the market is the famous Jib Kee restaurant which specializes in crispy pork and roast duck. Both dishes are delicious and very cheap at 60 THB per dish.

The roast pork is ultra crispy and the meat is tender and juicy. What a great combination!

Map of Bangkok Street food

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