Bangkok guide
Sights and Monuments - In this article you will learn about famous landmarks in Bangkok such as the Grand Palace, one of the largest markets in the world Chatuchak Market and various temples.
Accommodation - Where to stay in Bangkok? Due to the favorable prices, you can also look at a 5* hotel, but there are also recommendations for a guesthouse or hostel.
Food and drink - What should you definitely try in Bangkok?
Practical travel advice - What to visit, how to travel around the city, local customs, weather...
Celebrities - We will introduce you to local politicians or show business stars.
Weather - When it rains here, air temperatures, humidity, monsoon winds, ...
AI Poem - What did artificial intelligence come up with about Bangkok?
Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, is located in the central part of the country, on the east bank of the Chaophraya River. This vibrant metropolis full of contrasts and rich history is the economic, cultural and political center of the country.
With a population of nearly 10,000,000 and an additional 15 million in the surrounding areas, Bangkok is one of the most populous cities in the world.
Major tourist attractions include the Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew with the Emerald Buddha, Wat Arun, Wat Pho with the Reclining Buddha statue, and Chatuchak Market.
Transportation in Bangkok includes the subway (MRT), Skytrain (BTS), buses, taxis and tuk-tuks. The city also has a dense network of shipping on the Chaophraya River.
Bangkok has a tropical climate with warm and humid conditions most of the year. The hottest period is from March to May, when temperatures can reach over 30 degrees Celsius.
Not only lovers of traditional Thai culture, but also modern entertainment and shopping will come to their senses in Bangkok. You can visit traditional markets, luxury shopping malls or watch a traditional Thai Muay Thai performance.
Even lovers of Thai cuisine will enjoy it here. You can taste a variety of dishes on the streets, in traditional restaurants or in modern gastronomic establishments.
You will also find many bars, clubs and night markets that offer endless possibilities for entertainment and relaxation.
This fascinating city combines traditional Thai culture with a modern lifestyle. Rich history, culture, culinary experiences and entertainment attract millions of visitors every year.
Sights and monuments
Grand Palace – the official residence of Thai kings since 1782. Today it is one of the most popular tourist attractions. Several times a year, they host official royal events here. The biggest attraction is Wat Phra Kaew with the Emerald Buddha, one of the holiest Buddhist temples in Thailand.
Wat Arun (Temple of the Dawn) - Located on the west bank of the Chaophraya River, this magnificent temple impresses at first sight with its tall pointed towers and rich decoration. Especially at sunset, Wat Arun offers a wonderful view.
Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha) – Wat Pho is home to a huge statue of the Reclining Buddha. It is one of the largest Buddhist statues in the world (46 meters). In addition, Wat Pho is also a center for traditional Thai medicine and massage.
Chatuchak Market - one of the largest markets in the world. You can buy almost anything at Chatuchak Market, from clothes to souvenirs and food. It is only open on weekends. Both tourists and locals come here to choose something from almost 15,000 stalls.
Wat Saket (Golden Mount) - this temple is located on a hill and offers an amazing view of the city. Its main attraction, a golden bell-shaped stupa, is considered a sacred place by local Buddhists.
Jim Thompson House - in this museum you can admire a rich collection of Thai arts and crafts. The Jim Thompson House was built in traditional Thai architecture.
Wat Paknam – a temple where you can admire the tallest Buddha statue in Bangkok and one of the tallest in the world. You will find it on the very western edge of Bangkok away from the main tourist streams.
Accommodations
In Bangkok, you can choose from approximately 2,700 different accommodation capacities. Prices for accommodation in Bangkok are relatively low. The cheapest hostels and guesthouses can be found on Khao San Road, the most luxurious hotels in the Silon area or in the city center on Siam Square.
Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok - SHA Extra Plus is definitely among the best and most luxurious hotels. The richest and most famous personalities from around the world regularly stay here. Here you will find all possible equipment, including tennis courts, sauna and wellness services.
The 5* hotel Chakrabongse Villas is now located in the former royal residence. In this luxury hotel you can enjoy views of Wat Arun and the river, a beautiful garden or stylish oriental interiors. There is also a bicycle rental and a swimming pool with salt water.
For lovers of cycling, we recommend the 3* hotel Old Capital Bike Inn - SHA Certified. The hotel is located in the city center. It offers bike rental and night bike rides through the city for free. Here you can use the laundry service or perhaps the jacuzzi.
The guesthouse Villa Mungkala offers pleasant accommodation near the city center at reasonable prices. Whether you choose a room or an apartment, air conditioning, breakfast included and, of course, bed linen and towels await you. In the guesthouse you will also find an ATM or perhaps a terrace with outdoor furniture and a garden.
Among the most popular hostels is The Chatbox Silom Hostel. You can stay here either on a bunk bed in a mixed room or in a private room. The price per night is around 10 EUR per person. The hostel offers luggage storage, a terrace, a shared kitchen, a common room.
For a complete offer of accommodation in Bangkok, we recommend using A-HOTEL.com. You can also use Booking.com offer for Bangkok.
Food and drink
Pad Thai - probably the most famous Thai dish. These are fried noodles with eggs, shrimp or chicken, vegetables and peanuts. Pad Thai is loved by tourists and locals alike.
Tom Yum Goong - traditional Thai soup. It is made from shrimp, mushroom, lemon grass, lime and chili. This strong soup has a spicy taste and a refreshing aroma.
Som Tum (Green Papaya Salad) - a refreshing salad. It is made from chopped unripe papaya, tomatoes, dried shrimps, chillies, limes and peanuts. They often prepare and sell this popular dish right on the street. Som Tum is served either with rice or on its own.
Khao Pad (Fried Rice) - traditional fried rice. In Thailand, it is prepared from jasmine rice. It is cooked either with shrimp, chicken or a vegetarian version with eggs and vegetables.
Moo Ping (Grilled Pork Skewers) - pork skewers. They are sold as fast food in Thai markets and are a popular dish among local people.
Thai Iced Tea - a refreshing drink. It is made from black tea, condensed milk and sugar. This sweet orange drink is served with ice.
Coconut Water - coconut water. You can buy fresh coconuts on the street and drink their delicious water straight from the fruit. In the warm Thai climate, it pleasantly refreshes and also helps with better digestion.
Singha Beer - one of the most popular Thai beers. This light and refreshing beer is brewed in Thailand and is an ideal choice for Thai food.
Fresh Fruit Shakes – fresh fruit juices and smoothies. Thai markets offer a wide range of fruit juices and smoothies, perfect for cooling down on a hot day. You can choose from exotic fruits such as mango, pineapple or banana.
Thai cuisine is full of flavors, aromas and colors, so you should not miss tasting traditional food and drinks as an important part of the experience of visiting Bangkok.
Practical advice
Due to the year-round hot and humid weather, it is recommended to wear light and airy clothing made from natural materials - it will help you stay relatively cool and comfortable.
Traffic in Bangkok can be busy and chaotic, especially during rush hours. Therefore, we recommend using public transport, such as the subway (MRT) and Skytrain (BTS). You will escape the surrounding traffic jams in these efficient and comfortable means of transport.
If you are traveling by taxi or tuk-tuk, make sure the driver uses a taximeter or agree on a price in advance to avoid misunderstandings or overcharges.
Don't forget to try local culinary specialties such as phad thai, som tum and tom yum in traditional markets, streets and restaurants. Be careful with your drinking water and prefer to drink bottled water to avoid any risk of illness.
Due to the warm and humid climate, many insects live here. Therefore, use repellent, especially in the evening, to protect yourself from mosquitoes and other insect pests.
The local culture is full of traditions and customs, so respect the local customs and traditions. You should wear decent clothes when visiting temples and greet with respect.
Although Bangkok is generally considered a safe place for tourists, still take basic safety precautions. Be careful with your belongings, especially in busy environments and avoid dangerous neighborhoods at night.
Celebrities
As one of the most prominent cities in Southeast Asia, Bangkok attracts many celebrities from various fields, including politicians, artists, athletes and businessmen. You can read about some of them here:
Bhumibol Adulyadej (1927 – 2016) - King of Thailand from 1946 until his death in 2016. He was respected and loved throughout Thailand. He played a key role in the modernization of the country.
Taksin Šinawatra (1949) - former Prime Minister of Thailand and controversial politician. His political influence and position led to major political divisions in the country. One of the richest Thais also owned FC Manchester City.
Somtow Sucharitkul (1952) - well-known Thai-American writer, music composer and director. His work includes science fiction novels, operas and film scores. He has both Thai and American citizenships.
Tony Jaa (1976) - Thai actor and action choreographer, known for his excellent martial arts skills. He starred in many action films, including the "Ong-Bak" series. He also established himself as a director and screenwriter.
Apichatpong Weerasethakul (1970) - renowned Thai film director and screenwriter who has won awards at international film festivals for his surrealist and poetic films.
Weather
Bangkok has a tropical monsoon climate, meaning it is warm and humid for most of the year.
During the hottest period from March to May, average daily temperatures reach 35-40°C. The coldest period comes from November to February, when temperatures drop to more pleasant levels of around 25-30°C.
Year-round high humidity rises even more during the rainy season from June to October. During these months, humidity can reach up to 90%, which is not exactly pleasant for most visitors.
During the rainy season, the city experiences frequent and intense rains, usually in the form of short but heavy downpours. The dry season comes from November to February when there is less rainfall.
Monsoon winds play a key role in Bangkok's climate. During the dry season they blow from the north and northeast, while during the rainy season they come from the south and southwest.
Overall, Bangkok has a hot and humid climate for most of the year, with significant differences in temperature and rainfall depending on the season. Take this into account when planning your visit to the city and adjust accordingly to the temperatures and humidity.
A poem invented by artificial intelligence
In Bangkok, the city of smells and sounds,
Where traditions and new perspectives meet.
Golden shadows of temples glitter in the sun,
And a world of colorful fruits opens up in the markets.
The streets pulsate with their life,
It smells of spices, jasmine and fish cheese.
The flavors of exotic foods tempt us,
And the music of the gongs sounds like a ghost in the distance.
Bangkok, the city of contrasts and surprises,
Where a new dream blooms every day.
Between the light and the shadows we search for secrets,
And he inscribes his web of love into our hearts with stories.