Looking for a vacation to a destination offering you the old Thai charm, surrounded by the modern touch of urban lifestyle. Then start packing your bags to embark on an amazing journey to Bangkok, Thailand’s capital city, a globally renowned tourist hotspot. From temples filled with devotees to streets highlighting the rush time, to the dazzling nightlife, the city covers it all. At last, make sure to taste the traditional dishes to taste the culinary gastronomy of the city and enjoy a relaxing Thai massage, which will help ease your muscles and blood flow.
Check out our travel guide to Bangkok before planning your trip to this outstanding city. The insights provided in this Bangkok travel guide shall help you plan and prepare for your holiday to Bangkok in a better manner.
Bangkok Information
| Time Zone | GMT+7 |
| Official Language | Thai |
| Currency | Thai Baht |
| Population | 11,070,000 (as of 2023) |
| Capital To | Thailand |
| Nickname | The Big Mango |
Visa Requirements for Bangkok
UK travellers have no visa requirements, as Thailand offers visa-free entry and a 60-day stay. Before flying to Bangkok, you must check with the visa authority to get the updated information on the visa requirements, if any new rules are updated. You also need to make sure that you hold a passport that has a validity of at least 6 months after entering Bangkok. You also need to carry the necessary documents, a round-trip ticket and around 450 pounds to gain a smooth entry into the country.
Seasons in Bangkok
Although you can find a rush in Bali throughout the year, you must pick a season that suits your needs to embrace the best setting of climate constraints. The city has three seasons, namely hot, rainy, and cool, each offering distinct weather.
Hot Season (March to June)
As the name suggests, this season offers you the highest temperature throughout the year. Moreover, short rains and humidity are likely to impact the weather. April is likely to be the most unpleasant month, as the temperature then reaches its maximum. So it is highly recommended to seek escape from the intense heat by setting out on a boat cruise or spending time at a shopping mall, or enjoying by the pool or beachside.
| Month | Temperature (in °C) |
| March | 26° to 34° |
| April | 27° to 36° |
| May | 26° to 35° |
| June | 26° to 34° |
Rainy Season (July to October)
The rainy season is also referred to as the low season, as you can find a fall in the number of tourists due to the rain showers affecting the travel experience. However, you can also get the chance to explore different tourist attractions to your heart’s content, without any rush. Despite a warm and humid climate, September and October are considered as the rainiest months in Bangkok. So, plan your itinerary considering some extra days to cover your preferred locations.
| Month | Temperature (in °C) |
| July | 26° to 33° |
| August | 26° to 33° |
| September | 25° to 33° |
| October | 25° to 33° |
Cool Season (November to February)
The cool season is considered to be the best season to visit Bangkok, as the temperature of the city is pleasant during this season, allowing tourists to indulge in both indoor and outdoor activities. However, there are chances of minimal rain, which is not likely to impact your travel itinerary. You also get to enjoy the vibrant nightlife on your trip, and find a number of festivals taking place during this season.
| Month | Temperature (in °C) |
| November | 24° to 33° |
| December | 22° to 32° |
| January | 23° to 33° |
| February | 25° to 33° |
Best Time to Visit Bangkok:- The best time to visit Bangkok is between November and February, when the temperatures are comfortable and the chances of rainfall are low. This makes it ideal for exploring popular places and indulging in a wide array of activities.
Best Places to Visit in Bangkok
Confused about choosing the destinations to cover on your trip to Bangkok. Our travellers guide to Bangkok has handpicked five of the must-visit destinations to make your trip worthwhile.
Wat Arun
Travel to one of Bangkok’s most prominent Buddhist temples, named after the Hindu god of dawn, Aruna. Towering at a height of approximately 82 meters, the central prang of the temple is considered to be the highest in Bangkok. Make sure to dress modestly, as it is a religious place and one needs to be respectful towards other religions.
Wat Phra Chetuphon
Get mesmerised by the alluring Wat Phra Chetuphon, also called Wat Phjo, which is a temple complex that is renowned for its cultural significance, rich history and stunning architecture, but most importantly, its 46 metres long reclining Buddha, the main attraction of this temple. You get a blend of tranquillity and peace while exploring his temple complex, as well as a myriad of treasures.
The Grand Palace
Visit the Grand Palace at the heart of Bangkok to witness a wide collection of Thai architecture and art preserved from the 18th century. It has served as a former royal residence of the Rattanakosin Kingdom, starting from King Rama I to King Rama V. However, at present this place is used for welcoming the king’s guests, foreign dignitaries and hosting royal ceremonies.
Wat Phra Kaew
Wat Phra Kaew, also called the temple of the Emerald Buddha, is one of the iconic attractions in Bangkok that you must visit on your trip. It is one of the most important Buddhist temples of Thailand, as the Buddha has been cut out of a single jade stone. You can also learn about a number of stories and myths associated with the Emerald Buddha on your visit to this temple complex.
Lumphini Park
Go to see Bangkok’s first public park, Lumphini Park. This popular spot among the locals offers a wide array of outdoor activities. People jog, walk, relax, play games, exercise, practice tai chi, and do many other activities. You will also come across the statue of King Rama VI, which was built to commemorate the park’s construction in 1942.
Best Things to Do in Bangkok
Bangkok is one of the happening cities around the globe that offers a plethora of activities to indulge in. Some of the best things to do in your Bangkok holiday are stated below:
- Take a relaxing Thai massage during your visit to Bangkok, which will help rejuvenate your mind and body.
- Take a walk in Chinatown and Yaowarat Road, offering you vibrant nightlife and mouthwatering street food.
- Get a glimpse of the cultural heritage of Thailand by visiting the well-preserved traditional Thai house at the Jim Thompson House.
- Dive into the rich ancient history of Thailand by visiting Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Go shopping at the riverside luxury mall of IconSiam, offering you a break from the city tour.
- Bangkok is renowned for its street food culture, make sure to try some of their popular dishes that offer mouthwatering flavours and tastes.
- Make sure to visit the Chatuchak Weekend Market to explore several stalls and shops selling various categories, divided into sections.
- Enjoy a sunset dinner cruise on the Chao Phraya River to spend a romantic time with your partner or enjoy with your friends.
- Take part in a Thai cooking school to learn the techniques of traditional Thai dishes, as well as the ingredients and prep time.
- If you are a fan of Muay Thai, then enjoy a match at one of the two stadiums, Rajadamnern Stadium or Lumpinee Boxing Stadium.
Popular Festivals in Bangkok
Festivals are an essential part of Thai culture that are celebrated in Bangkok at different times of the year. You will be amazed to find that the Thai festivals have roots in Hindu traditions brought here by Indian colonisers and merchants. The table below offers you the ten popular festivals celebrated in Bangkok.
| Name of Festivals | Tenure | Month |
| Songkran Festival | 3 days | April |
| Moon Festival | 1 day | October |
| Chinese New Year | 15 days | January and February |
| Chinese Ghost Festival | 1 day | September |
| Asahna Bucha Day | 1 day | July |
| Khao Phansa | 1 day | July |
| Vegetarian Festival | 7 days | October |
| Bangkok International Film Festival | 3 days | October |
| Wonderfruit Festival | 4 days | December |
| Bangkok Jazz Festival | 5 days | May |
Traditional Dishes of Bangkok
Bangkok is renowned not only for its iconic attractions, rich culture, and traditions but also for its gastronomic culture. Missing out on the culinary exploration signifies an incomplete trip to Bangkok. In our travel guide, you get to learn about the traditional dishes that depict the long history of Thai culinary experience. Here is a list of traditional dishes of Bangkok that you must try on your vacation:
- Pad Thai
- Mango Sticky Rice
- Kha Gai
- Som Tam
- Khao Soi
- Gaeng Keow Wan
- Guay Teow
- Mu Ping
- Tom Yum Goong
- Green Curry
Transportation in Bangkok
Bangkok offers you a wide range of transportation options to travel around different corners of the city. You can find colourful taxis clogging the roadway network; however, there are also options for skytrains, metropolitan rails running through the subway and the extensive network of river taxis. Public transportation is an efficient means of travel in a budget-friendly manner around the city. However, there are also options for travelling via buses. In order to cover the short distances, you can opt for Tuk-Tuks, where you need to negotiate fares before starting your journey.
Where to Stay in Bangkok
Bangkok serves different types of tourists, from luxurious travellers to budget travellers. Similarly, one can find several options for staying in Bangkok, from luxury resorts and hotels to homestays, dormitories, and hostels. There are some popular tourist spots offering you a number of stay options such as Sukhumvit, Silom, Siam, Bangkok Old Town, Khao San Road and many more. Check out the hotels or your type of accommodations as per your budget and book your stay accordingly.
Bangkok Travel Tips
Travel tips are seen to be an essential part of a travel guide as they help you avoid hassle and be a victim of scams and other issues, which can impact your holiday. Check out the travel tips as per this Bangkok Travel Guide below:
- If you have a flexible itinerary, plan on visiting Bangkok during a festival to experience its traditions and enjoy its entertainment.
- Don’t only focus on savouring the street foods but also dine at the decades-old restaurants to attain authentic Thai tastes.
- Make sure to stay aware of scams by locals or tuk-tuks, and avoid helping any unknown on the streets.
- Carry your bags in front of you to reduce the risk of theft and snatching of your belongings.
- Make sure to carry an umbrella, as there is an uncertainty of rain occurring throughout the year.
- Carry the necessary documents while flying to Bangkok and ensure a round-trip ticket to enter the city.
- Make sure to carry your necessary medications to avoid facing any health issues during your trip.
- Avoid touching the Thai people's head, as it is considered to be the most sacred part.
- Avoid clean parked taxis, as they are waiting to exploit tourists by charging them twice or thrice the triple rate.
- If you are a female, then do not sit next to a monk.
- Wear decent clothes when you are visiting a temple.
- You can enjoy the water and ice without worrying about the quality; however, drinking a glass straight from the tap is not advised.
Conclusion
Packed with some of Asia’s best experiences, from ancient temples to flawless beaches and incredible wildlife, it is truly worth taking time to explore Bangkok. The information in this travel guide shall help you plan your vacation and pick your season to travel. Also, consider the popular festivities to have additional areas to enjoy on your trip. Visit the popular places around Bangkok and also experience their vibrant nightlife. Enjoy the bustling streets and markets while savouring the local dishes and street foods. Make sure to follow the travel tips to avoid any hassle or issues during your trip.
Check out the travel deals and packages to Bangkok to enjoy a seamless experience throughout your journey. You also get the option to customize your own itinerary by contacting our travel expert. Based on your travel preferences and budget, an itinerary will be designed that specifically caters to your needs to make your holiday more memorable.
FAQs
What are the famous attractions in Bangkok?
Some of Bangkok’s famous attractions are Wat Arun, Wat Phra Chetuphon, the Grand Palace, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, and Lumphini Park.
Which is the best time to visit Bangkok?
The best time to visit Bangkok is between the months of November and February.
Can I use credit cards during my stay in Bangkok?
Yes, you can use credit cards, but it is also advised to carry some local currency to avoid issues while shopping at the local markets.
What are the passport requirements to travel to Bangkok for a UK resident?
A UK resident needs to make sure that their passport validity is 6 months from the date they entered Bangkok.
