Bangkok, Thailand - A Travel Guide
Last Updated: August 29, 2025
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The Bangkok Bonanza
Welcome to the city of madness, chaos, amazement, brilliance and everything in between.
Bangkok straddles the banks of the Chao Phraya River and is Thailand's capital and largest city.ย In 2024, Bangkok once again took the title of 'most visited city in the world', and it's easy to see why.
Your perceptions of life, love, work and travel will change in Bangkok. What you once thought outrageous will become a mere shrug of the shoulders and this is one of very few cities that will change you.
In this Bangkok travel guide, we delve into everything the city has to offer, be it, the good, the bad or the ugly. We look at where to stay, where to party, eat, and, of course, your safety in Bangkok.
Likewise, we'll discover how to get here and all the enchanting, and best things to do in Bangkok, Thailand.
Whether you're here on the first leg of a gap year or a holiday you are in for a treat, and if this is your first step into Asia, I'm jealous. Many years ago it was mine, and I still yearn for that feeling. I will never have it again, but you could.
Please enjoy this guide to Bangkok.
What's Bangkok, Thailand Like?
Bangkok is an attack on the senses and I mean that in every sense. The sounds of horns, engines, electricity and high-pitched shrieks are something you'll never forget. Similarly, the smells of the streets range from petrol and sewage to sensational sizzling foods. Your eyes are diverted in all directions twenty-four-seven.
The city never sleeps, and the sounds, sights, and smells never stop. While I disagree with people using the word "overwhelming," I understand it. You have to experience it to comprehend what it's like.
Bangkok is not for the fainthearted.
The buildings range from almost collapsed to award-winning. The culture and beauty know no bounds, and people scurry long into the often smokey night.
Nights are lit with neon across Bangkok and the temples and larger buildings light up in an ever-impressive way, each attempting to out-peacock each other.
There are many words to describe Bangkok, Thailand. Some that spring to mind are mesmerising, enchanting, beautiful, captivating, and impressive. But so do the words dirty, crowded, crazy, bright, loud, and disruptive. Bangkok is marmite. You either love it or hate it. Either way, you sure as hell respect it.
Ultimately, there are much better places in Thailand. However, you'll never be able to tell a story about the city without smiling. You'll experience things beyond what you thought possible, and Bangkok will change you.
How to Get to Bangkok, Thailand
Being the capital city of Thailand, Bangkok has numerous transport hubs linking it with multiple towns and cities across the country and the wilder international world.
The main transport hubs in Bangkok are:
- Suvarnabhumi Airport to the east of the city.
- Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal Station and Mochit 2 Bus Terminal
- Hua Lamphong Railway Station (Previous main station in Bangkok)
Alongside these hubs, Bangkok has a fantastic network of sky trains that cross the city and an underground network called the Bangkok Mass Rapid Transit. Metro and sky train map.
So let's dive into how to get to Bangkok, Thailand, starting with the International Airport.
How to get from Suvarnabhumi Airport to Bangkok
Within the airport, there is a free shuttle bus which picks up and drops off in numerous locations around the airport, including the bus terminal near the taxi park and long-term parking.
As with any city airport, there are several ways from Suvarnabhumi Airport to Bangkok.
In truth, unless you are willing to pay a little more for a private minivan or cab, there are two options, the ARL or the Express shuttle.
Airport Rail Link (ARL)ย - Best for Sukhumvit
The ARL leaves the basement level of the airport every ten to fifteen minutes between 05:30am and midnight. From the airport, the journey to Phayathai near Siam (Central Bangkok) and the National Stadium takes twenty-six minutes and costs 45เธฟ (ยฃ1.06).
The train has eight stops, including the airport (A1) and its destination in the city, Phaya Thai (A8). Unfortunately, the stations are a little out of the way for the Grand Palace or Khao San Road, meaning you'll need to change trains.
If you're staying in or around the party area of Soi Sukhumvit 11 near the Nana, sky train stop, you can get off at the fifth stop, Makkasan (A6). From there it's a twenty-minute walk.
If you're going to Khao San Road or the Grand Palace, get off at Phaya Thai and walk a few minutes north-west to the bus stop of Santirat Witttayalai School and get the BUS 1-8. Alternatively, from the station, walk fifteen minutes southwest to the stop Opposite Soi King Phet and take the twenty-minute bus to Sanamluang.
Both uses pass Khao San Road on the way to the Grand Palace.
Airport Express Bus - Best for Khao San Road, the Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha
Like the ARL, a bus (S1) runs from the airport to central Bangkok between 05:30am and midnight. The offices are on levels one and two, outside entrance eight. On average, buses leave every half an hour and the journey will take an hour and fifteen minutes costing 150เธฟ (ยฃ3.53).
It stops at Khao San Road, Wat Chana Songkhram and Sanam Luang.
How to get from Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal Station to Bangkok
Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal Station aka Bang Sue, is a new transport hub that opened in 2023 and is the new arrival location for all overnight trains, coaches and buses from across the country.
Along with the large new train station, is the older Mochit 2 Bus Terminal just to the north. This is where you'll arrive in Bangkok if you are on a coach or bus.
Whilst modern and new it doesn't sit in central Bangkok. Therefore, you will have to take onward travel to the likes of Siam, Khao San Road, the Grand Palace and Sukhumvit.
Again, like the airport, the quickest way is to get a taxi, however, that comes with inflated prices. If you're keeping to a budget in Bangkok, Thailand you'll want to take the metro or the the bus.
Train - Best for Hua Lamphong (As of Jan 2025 - there's talk of this being taken away)
From the new and modern station, if you exit to the west you'll be faced by the old Bang Sue Junction station. Cross over and jump on the train to Hua Lamphong train station. There are a couple of stops on the way. Once there you can get on the metro (blue line) which takes you to the stop for the Grand Palace, Sanam Chai.
Metro- Best for Siam, Airport, Nana or Sukhumvit
Exit the station to the southwest and cross to the metro stop of Bang Sue.
Here you join the blue line which loops around the outskirts of the city crossing the river twice. The blue line stops near several of Bangkok's attractions, including Wat Awut Wikasitaram, many of the floating markets, Wat Arun, the Grand Palace, Lumphini Park, Benchakitti Park, the party area of Sukhumvit and Makkasan to head back to the airport.
This is a large loop, so whilst cheap, it is not quick. In truth, it is better to use this loop as a connection to other lines or bus stops nearer the location you're trying to reach.
For example, if you want to get to Siam, Nana or Sukhumvit, take the blue line east to Chatuchak Park and coss to Mo Chit. Take the green line south to the corresponding stop.
Similarly, to get to the airport, take the blue line to Chatuchak Park, head south on the green line to Phayathai and go to the airport from there.
Bus - Best for Khao San Road, The Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha
Make your way to the Mochit 2 Bus station and jump on the 2-37 bus, which despite taking an hour and twenty-three minutes, is a route that means you don't have to change to another bus or train.
It passes Khao San Road and stops just outside Sanam Luang, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha and the Grand Palace.
Timing Your Trip
How Long Should You Spend Visiting Bangkok, Thailand?
Bangkok is somewhere you could go missing for a week after a night out on Khao San Road, wake up and find yourself wanting another month here. And, I'm sure you'd fill that month with endless activities, nights out and creating plenty of new memories.
Ultimately the answer lies in these two questions: What are you doing here? Will you enjoy Bangkok?
Are you slow time travelling and Bangkok is just one location on your gap year or are you in Bangkok, Thailand for a holiday?
If you're on holiday I'd suggest five days is about right in Bangkok. That will give you enough time to enjoy the best things to do in Bangkok and experience Bangkok's nightlife.
However, if you're slow travelling or have a year out, you need to answer the second question. Bangkok is marmite, you'll either love it or hate it. If you arrive and after three days, you hate it, get out, and go to Koh Samui or Koh Phangan, Bangkok doesn't change and won't grow on you. If you love it, take two weeks here and get to know the underbelly of Bangkok.
The Best Time Of The Year To Visit Bangkok Thailand
The temperature in Bangkok doesn't dramatically change throughout the year. Across all twelve months, the difference will only be four or five degrees with the average daily temperatures ranging between twenty-seven and thirty-two.
However, when you visit Bangkok, Thailand, you'll want to feel the sun on your back and explore the city in flip-flops (thongs for our Aussie readers) and a pair of shorts without the threat of rain.
Therefore, the best time of year to visit Bangkok is during the dry season, November to March, with December, January and February being the driest and with the most hours of sunshine.
Where to Stay Whilst Backpacking Bangkok
Bangkok's reputation as a tourist hotspot was built on being affordable, basic and grimy. Nowadays, Bangkok caters to millionaires, the famous and those trying to get the best bang for their buck.
Things are no different with accommodation and hotels in Bangkok, Thailand. You will find swanky five-star luxury hotels and a few doors away a dirty bed-bug-ridden hell hole for a couple of quid a night.
Nevertheless, my advice is to avoid both of those options. Aim for the middle ground. Bangkok has enough reasonably luxurious accommodations at very affordable prices. You don't have to spend a lot to get a lot.
That said, if you're a younger backpacker, the dirty charm of Bangkok's hostel life is part of the appeal. Do it!
A couple of options stand out as 'the best area to stay in Bangkok'. Which one is best depends on you. No matter where you choose, I recommend staying somewhere with good transportation links across the city. Normally, that means somewhere near a stop on the BTS Sky Train.
The two obvious areas for me are:
- Near Nana Station on Sukhumvit Road in the district of Khlong Toei Nuea
- In the old district of Phra Nakhon, within walking distance of the Gran Palace and Koh San Road.
Below is a quick look at where I stayed in Bangkok.
BelAire Hotel
- What:ย A friendly, well-priced hotel in the heart of the action.
- Where: Just around the corner from the party street of Soi Sukhumvit 11 and the BTS station, Nana. (map)
- Why: Spacious, clean, tidy rooms with cosy beds, a morning newspaper and a pool. Plus there's a decent breakfast.
- Why Not: You want to stay in a hostel and save every penny for the Bangkok nightlife and attractions.
Firstly, the BelAire Hotel has fantastic transport links to the rest of the city. It's a short 4-5 minute walk from the BTS Sky train station, Nana, and is almost on the main Sukhumvit Road. From there you can grab a tuk-tuk or taxi anywhere.
Likewise, the area showcases numerous bars, restaurants, markets, etc. Nevertheless, we never got woken by any noise. Magic!
The hotel was luxurious and far more impressive than we expected upon booking, especially with amenities like a rooftop pool, gym, restaurants and more. The hotel had thought of everything, and we even had a newspaper delivered under our door every morning. Gangster!
The rooms were large, lavish, and extremely comfortable, not to mention clean and equipped with all the gadgets. This may seem a little out of reach for people on a traveller's budget, but even the price is astonishing.
I'd highly recommend staying at the BelAire Hotel, Bangkok.
In April 2025, a room for two people for three nights will cost from 7,068เธฟ (ยฃ163.60). That equates to ยฃ27.26 a night per person. What a bargain.
Further Accommodation
I know everyone is different, and what one person calls the perfect place to stay, another will call a hell-hole.
Therefore, as always, I've added links to the three accommodation booking sites I used in Bangkok, Thailand.
For those on a budget and looking for new, random and unforgettable memories, Hostelworld is where you need to look. Sharing dorm rooms with like-minded people is unbeatable. Likewise, they are the ones in the know. They know where the best bars are and how to get to places cheaply. One hostel that looks insane right now is The Yard Hostel. Despite being a little way out of the city, it looks fantastic.
If you're in Bangkok on vacation with family or friends, I'd suggest an Airbnb. After all, there's no better feeling than being together and feeling like you're living in the city you're visiting.
Finally, if you're in the city on a romantic getaway, try Booking.com, the hotel experts, as they have plenty of hotels in Bangkok, Thailand.
What to do when Backpacking Bangkok
There are more things to do in Bangkok, Thailand than some countries can offer.ย Consequently, I am going to miss things. One guide to Bangkok can't identify everything there is to do. It's impossible.
The other issue is Bangkok's size. The city is massive and many of the best things to do in Bangkok are spread around. Therefore, getting around to the attractions can take time.
Nevertheless, there are numerous ways of getting around the city, including, buses, trains, the sky train and the metro. However, they're not always quick or go exactly where you want.
As well as the below list you can shop till you drop, discover hundreds of smaller temples that dot every street corner and party harder than you've ever partied before.
Before I dive in, I will add that all temples expect rules to be followed. They include no drone use and to dress respectfully. By respectfully, they mean no shoulders or knees on display, and no see-through clothes or items with holes, including trousers.
If you don't meet these criteria you will either not be allowed entry or charged extra at the gate to borrow items to cover up.
But here is my personal Bangkok highlight reel.
Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)
- Why: The views from the top are spectacular and it's an interesting temple in the city.
- Where: On the riverbanks of the Chao Phraya River opposite Wat Pho Pier. (map)
- How long: You'll only need between an hour and an hour and a half.
- How much: Tickets cost 200เธฟ (ยฃ4.70) for foreign adults. (cash only)
Wat Arun or Temple of Dawn is one of Thailand's most intricate and breathtaking temples, not to mention one of Bangkokโs most religious sites. This Buddhist temple lords over the south bank of the city.
Wat Arun is open daily via riverboats from the north or vehicles from the south. The temple was the vision of King Taksin after he discovered the ruins in 1768.
The site has plenty of markets and stalls, elegantly maintained gardens and sublime buildings, built with precision and detail in mind. The care and love that has been put into this beautifully conserved site are unrivalled. The tenaciously beautiful decor is awe-inspiring.
Despite its beauty, the most exciting part of Wat Arun is climbing the steep steps to the top. Before you climb, stand at the bottom and look up, it's astonishingly vertical. The craziest climb provides the most delightful views of Bangkok below.
While the views from the top are spectacular, and the climb fun, arguably, the best way to see Wat Arun is from the other side of the river at night.
Wat Arun glistens like a beacon for all to see against the dark sky. The reflections out over the river are as breathtaking as the building itself.
By far the most beautiful thing to see and do in Bangkok, Thailand.
Wat Trai Mit Witthayaram Worawihan (Golden Buddha)
- Why: A three-meter solid gold statue of the Buddha has to be worth it.
- Where: Just southwest of the Hua Lamphong train station. (map)
- How long: Half an hour should be long enough.
- How much: Again, it's cash only and tickets cost 100เธฟ (ยฃ2.35), which gives you access to the top floor.
Wat Taimit is a stylish, calming Buddhist temple in Chinatown, Bangkok. Predominantly known for its stunning showpiece, the three-meter-tall golden Buddha. The solid gold Buddha weighs in at an astonishing 5.5 tons and, in parts, is 99% pure gold.
Today, in January 2025, that is a staggering modern-day value of around ยฃ228,343,500. Wow.
The statue is a remarkable depiction of the Buddha and is a sight to behold. Sitting cross-legged, with one palm up to the sky, the other resting on his knee pointing to the ground shows the moment of enlightenment, underneath the Bodhi Tree.
Hilariously, the statue was covered in plaster and it was only in 1955 during relocation, when the statue fell and smashed, that the inner gold was discovered. Not only did they discover a solid gold statue, but a key too. This key allowed workers to disassemble the statue into 9 parts making for easy transportation.
Wat Taimit has numerous other artefacts and stories mainly regarding the Buddha. Furthermore, there are superb golden ceilings, architectural gems and beautiful rooms throughout this relaxing temple.
Floating Markets
- Why: They're fun, colourful and something different. Plus, you can get a bargain.
- Where: There are numerous floating markets in Bangkok.
- How long: Half a day, which includes getting to and from the floating markets.
- How much: You can take tours to the markets outside the city, but once there it's free to explore.
Thanks to numerous travel documentaries and films, the floating markets of Bangkok have become a favourite for tourists. Having visited, it's easy to see why.
The plethora of intertwining rivers and canals that flow through Bangkok's suburbs are home to numerous floating markets. Each market comes with enthusiasm, and all are hives of activity.
Most of the markets are within the southernmost districts of Bangkok, such as Tha Kha, Damnoen Saduak and Amphawa. However, Taling Chan is closer to the city and not too far from Wat Arun. This weekend market is, in all fairness, mainly on land, however, there are numerous boats selling produce too.
If you only have a few days in Bangkok, visit Taling Chan. Yet, if you have the time, head south to Damnoen Saduak.
At first, you may think it's chaos, but it soon becomes clear that everything is precisely as it should be. It is an epic, noisy, exciting, colourful and smelly experience and something you will not forget.
Don't eat the fruit and vegetables before washing them in clean water, you could get sick.
The Grand Palace
- Why: It's one of, if not the most impressive palace/temple in Bangkok.
- Where: South of The Temple of the Emerald Buddha and Sanam Luang. (map)
- How long: You'll want plenty of time to explore this one. Ideally three hours. It's bigger than you think.
- How much: Again, my pet peeve foreign adults pay more - 500เธฟ (ยฃ11.74).
The Grand Palace is located on the northern banks of the Chao Phraya River. It is an unbelievable expanse of land, which until 1925 was the royal residence of the Thai monarchy.
Within the grounds, numerous buildings, including the palace, a chapel, offices, museums and a temple dazzle and delight the crowds. The buildings are enchanting in every way. They all have an extremely detailed finish, which is unlike any other building.
Walking through the buildings and gardens, you'll notice many styles in design and architecture. This represents the expanse of time the site has covered since its inception in 1782. You are walking in stylish history.
The gems, gold and detailed artwork shine in the sun and are a marvel. Similarly, the multi-layered and multi-shaped rooftops are colourful, fun, and incredible to see close up.
Alongside Wat Arun, the Grand Palace is a must-see in Bangkok. However, to get the most out of it I advise arriving as it opens at 08:30am. It gets busier as the day goes on.
Lumphini Park
- Why: There areย some cool statues, amazing wildlife and it's relaxing.
- Where: Southeast of the RBSC Golf Driving Range and easily found near the Silom Metro Station. (map)
- How long: After a few days of madness, it's a nice place to relax away from the noise, so take an hour or two.
- How much: It's free to roam, which is great for those backpacking Bangkok on a budget.
Bangkok is a loud and busy city, and there are very few places where you can hear the birds and the wind. Tranquillity and peace are hard to find.
However, here in Lumphini (Lumpini) Park, the oldest and largest park in Bangkok, you will once again discover the sounds of nature.
The park is a splendid break from the city, with a wonderful central man-made lake, plenty of grass areas to sit and trees to rustle in the wind. Your mind could be transported to the countryside.
Lumphini showcases more sublime buildings and sights including a library, sports facilities, skate parks and even a school.
The lake allows some water activities including the good old pedalo. Around the lake, you'll also find hundreds of Monitor lizards swimming or basking in the sun.
Locals gather in the park for sports and relaxation. One sport to look out for is Sepak Takraw, a local version of โkeep upโsโ. They use a little wicker basketball and, trust me, it is a lot harder than it looks.
At certain times of the year, the park is also used for events, festivals and markets, but always remains relaxing.
Ride the Tuk-tuks
- Why: Because it's a right of passage for all who travel to Bangkok, Thailand.
- Where: You can find them all over the city.
- How long: Good question, until you're scared stiff and soil your pants, or die laughing.
- How much: Depends on how far you go and your haggling skills. For a short journey, question anything over 100เธฟ (ยฃ2.35).
Riding around Bangkok in a tuk-tuk is almost a right for travellers who visit Bangkok.
And I for one will fully admit it's a freaky, mad, fun and horrifying experience. But one I'd recommend every day. It truly is a fantastic experience, and I don't think you can say you've been to Bangkok unless you've ridden a tuk-tuk.
However, you need to know this about the cheeky tuk-tuk's.
Many will offer tours of Bangkok at a great price. Nevertheless, it quickly becomes obvious that you're only visiting their friends and family's shops, often selling fake goods. They will throw in a small temple here and there to make it look somewhat of a tour.
It's annoying, and they get very pushy when you say that you don't want to buy anything. Some rules:
- Do not let anyone flag a tuk-tuk down for you. Their mate is down the road and ready to roll. Do it yourself.
- Tell them you will not pay them if they take you to shops.
- If they go to one shop, get out and walk away.
- Do some research first and have a route in mind. Show them what you want to see.
When you get a legitimate tour, you are in for one hell of a ride and in my opinion, one of the most exhilarating and fun things to do in Bangkok, Thailand.
Where to Eat When Backpacking Bangkok
Bangkok is a haven for all foodies.
The city caters for everyone. You'll find everything from burgers and fries to epic street food and the finest Thai cuisine. Likewise, if you're either on a backpacker shoe-string budget or here on your honeymoon or to close a multi-million-pound deal, you will find the prices to suit.
The city is awash with street food and despite many people's reservations, I can tell you the only place I got sick in Thailand was at a fancy resort on Phi Phi Island. And trust me, I ate a lot of street food.
In fact, I ate so much street food that I don't have many restaurant recommendations for Bangkok, Thailand. My recommendation is to try as much street food as possible. Plus, for us backpackers on a budget, it's the cheapest way to enjoy food in Bangkok.
That said, below I have added three very different styles of restaurants you should try whilst in Bangkok.
Gulliver's Restaurant
- What: American-style sports bar attached to a swanky hotel.
- Where: A few minutes walk northwest of the BTS sky train stop, Nana. (map)
- How much: Sorry, I cannot find any up-to-date 2025 prices.
Admittedly, this is a random shout and I'm not adding it as a must-eat due to its food or service. You will find much better food and service elsewhere.
I am merely adding this for its energy and exuberant decor. Once you finish your food, you won't need to leave. Everything you need is here for the rest of the night, including sports on TV, pool tables everywhere and a club vibe with a well-stocked bar.
Everything about this bar screamed America but with a Thai twist.
Fikeaw Yaowarat
- What: Open air, street food seafood specialists.
- Where: On the outskirts of Chinatown, Bangkok. (map)
- How much: Other than lobster or river prawn, main meals average between 240เธฟ - 500เธฟ (ยฃ5.54 -ยฃ11.54). (menu)
Looks may deceive, but the tastes do not.
Agreed, it's not the most attractive restaurant and blends into the countless other night market-looking food joints.
However, on the plus side, you keep the ambience and vibe of the lively street, which is also perfect for people-watching. If you're not watching the passers-by, you'll probably be watching the chefs cook in front of you, which again, brings entertainment and excitement to your evening's meal.
The smells swirl around you as you drift into a hazy trance of sheer delight. The flames sizzle and the atmosphere is buzzing, if not a little manic at times.
I'm not a seafood fan, but I still loved it here. Instead, I had chicken and thought it was insanely good as the flavours oozed out. The lads had the seafood and said it was some of the best they've ever had.
Overall I found the staff kind, and friendly and go out of their way to help.
My only concern was the lack of locals. It was a bit touristy, but I put that down to the cost. Many locals couldn't afford to eat here regularly.
Baan ThaTien Cafe
- What: Epic homely Thai restaurant.
- Where: A hop skip and jump north of Wat Pho Pier. (map)
- How much: A large portion size (that's important) will only cost around 120เธฟ (ยฃ2.77). Bargain. (website)
The exterior is inviting, complete with shrubs and some greenery. Indoors is clean and tidy, but fairly plain and simple, with nothing to write home about. However, Baan ThaTien Cafe is another example of a restaurant that lets the food do the talking.
Unsurprisingly, the Thai food is their speciality, and it's incredible.
Each dish is made with fresh ingredients and the plates are colourful. Every mouthful bursts with immense flavours as the sensational food washes around your mouth. It's a feeling you never want to end. The textures, flavours, smells, and tastes are unlike anything you've tried.
Baan ThaTien also offers Westernised foods, cakes, toasted sandwiches, omelettes etc. Honestly, I haven't tried the Western foods here. They looked ok, but as I always say, eat local and try Thai.
The accolades don't stop there. With average meal prices under 120เธฟ and large, proper-sized, portions, it's simply incredible value for money.
As always, add your feedback about the cafe in the comments at the bottom of this Bangkok guide. I'm keen to hear your thoughts because I love it.
Where to Party when Backpacking Bangkok, Thailand
Bangkok is almost considered a right of passage for backpackers and is often the first place new and inexperienced travellers head to.
I understand that as I did the same. One of the lures to this crazy and unpredictable city is the neon lights, crazy clubs, cheap alcohol and drinking from buckets through a straw.
Everyone and anyone who has visited Bangkok, Thailand will tell stories of hilarity, madness and epic nights out. We tell these stories behind hidden smiles, whilst holding back some details to either a) not embarrass ourselves, b) not embarrass a friend or family member and c) because we can't reveal the whole truth as most people wouldn't believe it anyway.
Hence, it's no surprise you're reading this. You want the wild nights and stories to tell.
Well, luckily, you've come to the right place. Bangkok's nightlife will blow your mind.
Generally, if you can imagine it, it's here; quiet and cosy nights with a glass of wine, check. Classy rooftop cocktail bars, check. Mad clubs with buckets of spirits and licking shots from a mate's belly button, you bet. Ping-pong shows and pole dances, yeah, it has them too.
Full disclosure, I do not remember half the places I drank at. It's chaos and bloody fantastic. Therefore it's proving a little difficult to write this section, but that, in itself, is a sign of great nights.
A few places we partied hard at have since closed their doors for good. I promise that's not our fault, probably, maybe, definitely.
Anyway, without further ado, here are a few places to visit on your night out in Bangkok.
Khao San Road
- What:ย The spiritual home of Bangkok nightlife for backpackers.
- Where: Just northeast of the National Gallery and the approach road to Wat Chana Songkhram Ratchaworamahawihan. (map)
Chaos! Absolute chaos. I say chaos, and it is, it's in a very relaxing and inviting atmosphere. Khao San Road is where you'll find cheap drinks, and those looking to chill and have fun.
Every time you turn the corner onto Khao San Road. It's a sea of people staggering from bar to bar, dressed in 'traveller gear' with the occasional drunk collapsed in the middle.
Over the 400-meter stretch of road, there must be at least twenty-plus, bars and clubs.
The party usually extends to the street, where performers, entertainers, lasers and lights take centre stage. In truth, it felt like all the bars merged into one big street party.
Alongside the partygoers are street vendors and market stalls selling everything from fresh-tasting food to elephant pants and souvenirs for your shit-shelf you never knew you needed.
Live music booms from the bars and clubs, and now, as you enter this scene, you realise you've found the real reason you decided to visit Bangkok.
All that's left to do is find a bar and grab a drink. I'd recommend Brick Bar, YABAR Secret Bar and The Club.
Soi Sukhumvit 11
- What:ย An energetic and wild food and party street.
- Where: Jump off the BTS Skytrain at Nana, and you'll hear it. (map)
With a slightly different atmosphere to Khaosan Road, Sukhumvit Soi 11 and the surrounding area have a more eclectic mix of bars and clubs.
Here you can expect everything from fancy cocktail bars to wild clubs with live DJs, as well as, relaxing rooftop bars with sensational views of Bangkok.
You can still expect masses of bright neon lights, music blaring from all directions and plenty of drunk people, but the clubs and bars tend to be larger and more dispersed.
The roadside is often alive with campervans and tuk-tuks converted into mini bars, bringing a new meaning to the phrase 'one for the road'. Whilst alive and kicking, the street has less of a backpacker vibe and more holidaymakers looking for a good time.
Again a couple of bars and clubs I think you should experience include Havana Social for cocktails, Above Eleven for rooftop bars, Bafros for atmosphere, and Climax for the wild night and live music.
Sukhumvit Soi 11 is a must for a big night out in Bangkok.
Is backpacking Bangkok, Thailand Safe?
In truth, this is a loaded question.
Yes, visiting Bangkok, Thailand is safe. Nevertheless, there are things to watch out for.
Everyone knows about the scams in Bangkok; they're well-documented. Despite knowing about the scams, spotting them is not always obvious. However, with every interaction, if you think, "Does that sound right?" or "What are they getting from me if I agree to this?" Then, you should be okay.
Bangkok, Thailand: Airport Thieves
Yet,ย as I discovered, things start before you even have the chance to interact with people. Someone in the airport, I'm guessing the airport baggage team, went into my bag, spent time going through it, and took money from my Christmas cards. I didn't know until at least a few later.
Make sure your luggage is securely locked and anti-theft devices are fitted.
Bangkok, Thailand: Scams
Often, it's obvious who is fresh-faced and straight off the plane. Some people will take advantage of this and once you're in Bangkok, the scams start. Here are a couple to look out for.
- Tuk-tuk drivers will offer to take you on a tour of the city. That often means visiting loads of shops run by their friends and family or somewhere they get a commission.
- People approach you with tickets to temples and events stating "You should visit this temple, for example, Wat Arun, and that you're lucky as today is the only day it's open this week. If you like, I will drive you." - Scam, they'll charge you extra and make a big profit from you only to find out it's open every day.
- Understand the Thai money. Learning a new currency is not always easy, especially when fifty or a hundred Bhat are one or two quid. Some people will try to charge you a few thousand for something that only costs a few hundred. Others will try to shortchange you by quite a lot.
- Fake expensive watches, diamonds and gems are often so well made that it's difficult to tell the difference between the real and the fake. If it seems too good to be true in Bangkok, it probably is. Be careful.
Bangkok, Thailand: Bikes and Road Safty
Another favourite scam I'll mention is about bike or moped hire. (This also refers to the rest of Thailand).
There are many unofficial bike or moped-hire companies. They will ask for a large deposit or your passport as a surety.
However, once you bring it back, and in the same condition as you got it, even with video and picture proof, they will suggest you've damaged it and will not release your passport or money until you pay a hefty sum of money. Do not hand a passport over. Always film the interaction and the bike when you are shown it to protect yourself from claims.
Most companies are amazing, but be wary of anyone who wants to keep your passport.
For those new to travelling or backpacking, especially from the Western World, driving in Bangkok is unlike anywhere you've probably driven.
You have to keep your wits about you and be sensible. Everything is chaotic. People don't give way and drive on pavements and anywhere a gap forms. Don't drink drive, wear a helmet and be aware of your surroundings.
Bangkok, Thailand: Nights Out
Nights out and boozy sessions are among the biggest reasons for visiting Thailand. However, this is also when your safety is most at risk. During the day you might get scammed, but, in reality, you won't face any real threat. Generally, a scam will just set you back a few quid extra.
During the night with the added devil juice (booze), you lose your perception of places, people and reality. You can be lured into a trap if you're flashing the cash, wearing expensive jewellery or looking to do drugs.
Go and enjoy yourself, but don't wander off with someone you don't know or alone into a quiet unlit area. I'm not saying this to scare you. It's simple advice I'd give anyone visiting a new city. Only here, while still a small chance, there's more chance of it happening. Likewise, keep an eye on your drinks as spiking is a thing, especially in tourist areas such as Khao San Road.
Nevertheless, I was to reiterate Bangkok, Thailand has millions of visitors a year and the majority have a perfectly safe time with some of the wildest nights of their lives. Bangkok is a safe place to be and is safe at night.
Bangkok, Thailand: Natural Disasters
Overall, this isn't something you need to consider or worry about. Whilst Bangkok suffers from the occasional earthquake, they are generally not deemed dangerous or likely to cause any damage. In truth, due to the city's location and waterways, the most likely natural disaster in Bangkok is flooding.
However, while this could sadly affect the locals, this is unlikely to cause anything but inconvenience to tourists.
As can be seen, Bangkok has its issues, but please don't let any of the above put you off. Bangkok is safe to visit, I am simply informing you of all the worst-case scenarios. Remember how many people visit the city, and don't get caught up in any issues. You'll love it.
Leave a Comment
Thank you for checking out my travel guide to Bangkok, Thailand.
I hope you've enjoyed my insight into the city and are now either excited or terrified to visit Bangkok.
Ultimately, if you decide to go for it and arrive in Bangkok having read this blog, you're one step ahead of where I was.
Remember, many things in Bangkok seem too good to be true, and generally, they are. However, if you're careful, and think things through, you'll find a wild, enchanting and unforgettable city at your feet. It's a backpacker's Mecca and somewhere everyone should explore at least once.
Overall, you'll either love it and want to stay longer or hate it and want to get out to the islands as quickly as possible.
Have a blast, throw yourself into it and don't forget to let us know what you make of it.
Likewise, please let me know what you think of this guide to Bangkok, Thailand in the comments below. As always if you need more info or help at any time, drop us a comment or message us on Instagram.
Thanks
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