When is the best time to visit Bangkok?

The best time to visit Bangkok is during the dry season from November to February. The weather is relatively cool and less humid, making it perfect for outdoor sightseeing.

What is the dress code for the Grand Palace and temples in Bangkok?

For sacred places like the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew, modest attire is required. Men and women must wear long bottoms covering the knees and tops covering the shoulders. Sleeveless shirts, shorts, and torn jeans are not allowed.

How much is the admission fee for Wat Arun?

The admission fee for Wat Arun is 100 THB (approximately $2.80 USD). You can easily reach it by taking a cross-river ferry from Tha Tien pier near Wat Pho.

Where is the new location of Jodd Fairs Night Market?

Jodd Fairs has moved from Rama 9 to the DanNeramit area. You can access it by walking from BTS Ha Yaek Lat Phrao Station Exit 4.

What are the best areas to stay in Bangkok?

Sukhumvit is great for nightlife and transport; Siam is perfect for shopping; Khao San Road suits budget travelers; and the Riverside area offers luxury stays with scenic views.

The Ultimate Bangkok Travel Guide: Best Itineraries & Must-Visit Spots

Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, is a city filled with vibrant energy, from magnificent palaces and temples to affordable and delicious street food and lively markets. Rather than following a rigid package tour, planning your own Bangkok travel itinerary allows you to explore the true charm of the city at your own pace.

If you prepare for your trip using this guide, traveling freely in Bangkok will feel much easier. Here, you will find information on Bangkok's major tourist attractions, local tour options, and how to plan your itinerary.

Bangkok Travel Tips: What to Know Before You Go

Before diving into the itinerary, let's go over some basic information that will make your trip much more comfortable. We have summarized the characteristics of Bangkok's weather, public transportation, and recommended accommodation areas to suit your travel style.

Best Time to Visit Bangkok (Dry vs. Wet Season)

Bangkok has a hot tropical climate all year round, but there are definitely better times to visit. The weather is largely divided into the dry season, with little rain, and the wet season, with frequent rain.

Dry Season (November ~ February): This is the best time to visit Bangkok. The average temperature drops to the low 20s (°C), making it relatively cool and less humid. Since it rarely rains, it is perfect for planning outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Wet Season (June ~ October): This is the period when squalls (sudden heavy rain) occur frequently. Rather than raining all day, it often pours heavily for a short time in the afternoon. Although rain may limit outdoor activities, the advantage is that flight tickets and accommodation costs are cheaper.

Guide to Public Transportation in Bangkok

Since traffic congestion in Bangkok can be severe, it is important to choose the right transportation for your destination.

Bangkok MRT and BTS

Skytrain (BTS) & Subway (MRT): These are Bangkok's main public transport systems, connecting most major shopping malls and tourist attractions. They are the most popular choice for travelers because you can move on time without traffic jams. Fares vary by distance, and if you plan to use them multiple times a day, purchasing a 1-Day Pass is convenient.
River Boat (Chao Phraya Express): This is very useful when moving to riverside attractions such as the Grand Palace, Wat Arun, and ICONSIAM. You can enjoy the river scenery while avoiding traffic.
Tuk-tuk & Taxi: The Tuk-tuk is an iconic symbol of Bangkok and a fun way to travel short distances. Be sure to state your destination and negotiate the fare before boarding. For taxis, check if they use a meter, or use a ride-hailing app like 'Grab' for a hassle-free experience.

Recommended Accommodation Areas by Travel Style

Your satisfaction with the trip can vary greatly depending on where you stay. Choose an area that suits your travel style.

Sukhumvit: With the BTS line running through it, transportation is very convenient. There are many shopping malls like Terminal 21, various restaurants, and rooftop bars, making it a great place to enjoy vibrant Bangkok.
Siam: This is Bangkok's premier shopping district, home to large malls like Siam Paragon and CentralWorld. Recommended for those whose main purpose is shopping or for family travelers.
Khao San Road: Known as the backpacker's sanctuary of the world, you can enjoy affordable accommodation, food, and lively nightlife. It is suitable for budget travelers.
Riverside (Chao Phraya River): With many luxury hotels and resorts, it is great for enjoying a relaxing break with a magnificent view. Preferred by couples or families planning a 'staycation' or luxury retreat.

Must-Visit Bangkok Attractions

Old City Historic District

This can be considered the starting point of a Bangkok trip, where the Grand Palace and temples are gathered, allowing you to feel the essence of Thai history, religion, and architecture. Most attractions are close to each other, making them easy to visit together.

Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaew

As one of the most sacred places in Thailand, it consists of the Grand Palace, where former kings lived, and Wat Phra Kaew, which houses the Emerald Buddha. It is considered the number one must-visit course in Bangkok as you can see the essence of splendid and intricate Thai architecture.

Wat Phra Kaew

Opening Hours: Daily 08:30 ~ 15:30
Admission Fee: 500 THB (approx. $14 USD for foreigners)
Dress Code: Entry is restricted for revealing clothing such as sleeveless tops, shorts, torn jeans, or short skirts. Both men and women must wear long bottoms that cover the knees and tops that cover the shoulders. You can also rent appropriate clothing at the entrance for a fee.

Since the scale is very large and there are few places to avoid the sun, it is recommended to visit in the morning when it is relatively cooler.

Wat Pho

Located about a 10-minute walk from the Grand Palace, this temple is famous for its giant Reclining Buddha. The scale of the golden Reclining Buddha, which is 46m long and 15m high, is truly overwhelming in person. Also, Wat Pho is known as the birthplace of traditional Thai massage, so you can have a meaningful time experiencing the origins of massage within the temple.

Wat Pho

Opening Hours: Daily 08:00 ~ 18:30
Admission Fee: 300 THB (approx. $8.50 USD, increased from Jan 2024)

The massage school inside the temple is popular and waiting times can be long, so it is better to visit with plenty of time.

Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)

Located across the Chao Phraya River from Wat Pho, this is the 'Temple of Dawn'. While it is known to be beautiful in the morning sun, many travelers visit late in the afternoon because the sunset and night view are especially famous. The towering central prang (spire) is decorated with ceramic pieces, showing a unique beauty.

Wat Arun

Opening Hours: Daily 08:00 ~ 18:00
Admission Fee: 100 THB (approx. $2.80 USD)
How to get there: You can cross the river in 5 minutes by taking a ferry for 5 THB (approx. $0.15 USD) per person from 'Tha Tien' pier near Wat Pho.

Visiting Wat Arun directly is great, but enjoying the night view of the illuminated temple from a rooftop bar or restaurant across the river is also a wonderful way to enjoy the Bangkok night.

Siam Shopping & Entertainment

Unlike the Old City, which shows Bangkok's past, Siam is the center showing Bangkok's present. Massive shopping malls and attractions are concentrated around BTS Siam Station, making it a great place to spend time indoors avoiding the heat or to enjoy shopping.

Siam Square & Siam Paragon

Siam Paragon, directly connected to BTS Siam Station, is Bangkok's representative luxury mall featuring everything from designer brands to various restaurants. Siam Square across the street is a gathering place for trendy road shops, eateries, and cafes, reminiscent of vibrant high streets like Soho, making it a perfect spot to feel the energy of local youth culture.

Siam Square

Opening Hours: Daily 10:00 ~ 22:00
Location: Connected to BTS Siam Station

The 'Gourmet Market' in the basement of Siam Paragon has an excellent food court, making it convenient for meals and purchasing premium groceries or souvenirs.

SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World

Located in the basement of Siam Paragon Mall, this massive aquarium boasts the largest scale in Southeast Asia. You can encounter various marine life, and the underwater tunnel where you feel like walking with sharks is the biggest highlight here. It is good to plan with shopping, and it is especially popular with families with children.

SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World

Location: Siam Paragon Basement 1
Opening Hours: Daily 10:00 ~ 20:00 (Last entry 19:00)
Tickets: You can purchase tickets much cheaper by booking in advance through the official website or online travel agencies like Klook rather than buying on-site.

Since it is inside a shopping mall, it is a great indoor activity course to visit when the weather is too hot or raining.

King Power Mahanakhon SkyWalk

This observatory is located on the 78th floor of King Power Mahanakhon, the tallest building in Bangkok. Taking the high-speed elevator up, you can view downtown Bangkok in 360 degrees, and the 'Glass Tray' with a transparent glass floor is always crowded with people trying to take thrilling photos.

Location: Connected to BTS Chong Nonsi Station, Exit 3
Opening Hours: Observatory 10:00 ~ 24:00 (Last entry 23:00)
Tickets: Prices vary by time (Daytime/Sunset), and it is recommended to book online in advance.

If you want to properly appreciate Bangkok's spectacular night view, it is best to visit at sunset when the sun begins to set.

Chao Phraya Riverside

The Chao Phraya River flowing through the center of Bangkok is a charming place with different appearances day and night. In particular, enjoying the night view and night markets while feeling the river breeze after sunset is one of the pleasures of traveling to Bangkok that cannot be missed.

ICONSIAM

This is Bangkok's newest and most magnificent large-scale shopping mall located on the banks of the Chao Phraya River. In addition to luxury brands, it features Thailand's first Apple Store and 'SookSiam', which recreates an indoor floating market, making it popular as a complex cultural space beyond a simple shopping mall. In the evening, a spectacular fountain show takes place at the riverside outdoor plaza.

ICONSIAM

Opening Hours: Daily 10:00 ~ 22:00
How to get there: Use the free shuttle boat from Sathorn Pier at BTS Saphan Taksin Station Exit 2, or connect directly to BTS Gold Line Charoen Nakhon Station.
Fountain Show Time: Daily, usually around 19:00 (Check exact time before visiting).

The SookSiam zone is designed so you can taste and buy famous street food and specialties from all over Thailand in a comfortable indoor environment, so a visit is highly recommended.

ASIATIQUE The Riverfront

This is a large-scale open-air shopping mall made by renovating warehouses that used to be a trading port. Numerous shops and restaurants line the riverside, and 'Asiatique Sky', a Ferris wheel offering a view of Bangkok at night, is the symbol of this place. It is tidier than general night markets, so family travelers can enjoy it comfortably.

ASIATIQUE The Riverfront

Opening Hours: Daily 16:00 ~ 24:00
How to get there: It is most convenient to use the free shuttle boat from Sathorn Pier at BTS Saphan Taksin Station.
Attractions: Besides the Ferris wheel, there are various shows like the Calypso Cabaret and Muay Thai performances.
Tip: If you visit around sunset, you can enjoy both day and night views. We recommend a course of having dinner at a riverside restaurant while admiring the night view after shopping.

Weekend Markets & Trendy Night Markets

One of the essential joys of traveling to Bangkok is exploring the markets. From huge weekend markets that sell almost everything to clean night markets where you can see the latest trends, here are two representative markets where you can feel Bangkok's vibrant energy.

Chatuchak Weekend Market

If you are in Bangkok over the weekend, this is a must-visit spot, being one of the largest outdoor markets in the world. About 15,000 shops selling almost every kind of product imaginable, including clothes, accessories, interior decor, vintage goods, and plants, are intertwined like a maze.

Chatuchak Weekend Market

Opening Hours: Saturday, Sunday 09:00 ~ 18:00 (Some shops may open from Friday evening)
How to get there: BTS Mo Chit Station Exit 1 or MRT Chatuchak Park Station Exit 1

Because the scale is so huge, it is efficient to pick up a map at the entrance and decide on the section you want to visit first. Since it is crowded and hot, light clothing and comfortable shoes are essential, and visiting in the morning is recommended.

Jodd Fairs Night Market

This is currently the most popular night market in Bangkok, loved by both locals and travelers for its clean atmosphere and diverse food. In particular, the Spicy Pork Spine Soup called 'Leng Saep', piled up high like a mountain, is famous as a signature dish here.

Jodd Fairs Night Market

Opening Hours: Daily 16:00 ~ 24:00
Location & Directions: (Important) It has moved from the previous Rama 9 area to the DanNeramit area. You can walk from BTS Ha Yaek Lat Phrao Station Exit 4.
Famous Foods: Leng Saep (Spicy Pork Spine Soup), Grilled Seafood, Fruit Juices, Crepes, etc.

To avoid going to the wrong location, be sure to check the current location 'Jodd Fairs DanNeramit' on Google Maps before visiting.

Recommended Bangkok Tours

Attractions in the suburbs of Bangkok are often difficult to reach by public transport. In this case, using a tour product that includes transportation, a guide, and admission tickets allows you to enjoy the trip comfortably while saving time and effort.

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market & Maeklong Railway Market

This is the most popular and representative course among Bangkok suburb tours. You visit the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, with its exotic scenery of small boats carrying fruits, food, and souvenirs, and the dangerous Railway Market, where merchants fold their stalls every time a train passes.

Maeklong Railway Market

Tour Features: You can feel the lively atmosphere of local markets that are hard to see in downtown Bangkok. It is usually conducted as a half-day tour departing in the morning and returning around lunch, making it good for utilizing the afternoon.

Both places are quite far from downtown Bangkok, making them difficult to find individually, so using a tour product is almost essential.

Ayutthaya Sunset & Night View Tour

Ayutthaya, the former capital of the Ayutthaya Kingdom, is a city designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With numerous temples and ruins remaining, you can feel a serene atmosphere different from Bangkok. The sunset tour, which departs in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat and allows you to see both the ruins dyed red at sunset and the illuminated temples, has high satisfaction.

Ayutthaya Sunset

Tour Features: You will visit key ruins such as Wat Mahathat, where tree roots wrap around the head of a Buddha, and Wat Chaiwatthanaram, where you can admire the beautiful sunset.

This course is recommended for travelers who love history or those who want to feel a calm atmosphere different from the glitz of Bangkok.

Chao Phraya Princess Dinner Cruise

One of the most romantic ways to spend the night in Bangkok. While moving along the Chao Phraya River on a large cruise ship, you can admire the brilliant night views of riverside attractions such as the Grand Palace and Wat Arun, and enjoy a buffet dinner and live music on board.

Chao Phraya Princess Dinner Cruise

Tour Features: It lasts for about 2 hours and includes a welcome drink, international buffet, and live performances. It often departs from ICONSIAM or Asiatique piers.

It is great to include in a trip for couples who want to celebrate a special day or for traveling with parents who want to enjoy Bangkok's night view in a comfortable atmosphere.

Recommended Bangkok Travel Itinerary

If you are unsure how to combine the destinations and tours introduced so far, refer to the recommended itinerary below. The route is configured according to the trip duration and style, and you can freely change the order or add/remove places according to your preferences.

3 Days & 4 Nights Course

Day 1: Old City History Exploration
- Morning: Visit Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaew
- Afternoon: Visit Wat Pho, then take a ferry to Wat Arun
- Evening: Enjoy Wat Arun night view, dinner and sightseeing at Khao San Road
Day 2: Suburb Tour & Trendy Night Market
- Morning: Damnoen Saduak Floating Market & Maeklong Railway Market Half-day Tour
- Afternoon: Rest at accommodation and Thai massage
- Evening: Enjoy various local foods at Jodd Fairs Night Market
Day 3: Shopping & Bangkok City View
- Morning/Afternoon: Shopping and dining at Siam Square & Siam Paragon (Optional: SEA LIFE Ocean World)
- Sunset: Sunset and night view at King Power Mahanakhon SkyWalk
Day 4: Last Shopping & Departure
- (If Weekend) Last shopping at Chatuchak Weekend Market
- (If Weekday) Shopping and dining at ICONSIAM then move to the airport

4 Days & 5 Nights Course

Day 1~3: Proceed similarly to the 3-day course.
Day 4: Choose according to preference
- (Option 1) History Exploration: Join Ayutthaya Sunset Tour
- (Option 2) Relaxation by the River: Explore ICONSIAM and Asiatique leisurely and enjoy a Dinner Cruise
- (Option 3) Shopping and Relaxation: Visit shopping malls missed during the 3 days (ICONSIAM, Siam, etc.) or book a highly-rated spa to relieve travel fatigue with a massage
Day 5: Relaxed Finish & Departure

Rest at the hotel or visit one or two places you missed before moving to the airport

We have looked in detail at essential Bangkok travel destinations, recommended suburb tours, and suggested 3-day and 4-day itineraries. Based on the introduced travel information and routes, create your own unique Bangkok travel itinerary. Rather than feeling the pressure to visit every place, it is better to set priorities for places you want to go and enjoy them leisurely. We hope this guide helps you prepare for your Bangkok trip and wish you a wonderful journey.