Things you need to know about Bangkok go far beyond its temples and street food – this city is a thrilling mix of tradition, chaos, and modernity. Hannah and I spent months traveling across Thailand and dedicated a week to getting to know Bangkok.
It’s a pulsating city with crazy diversity and stunning cultural attractions. We even met up with some of our former Workaway friends, themselves enjoying traveling around Thailand, and we caught up with two of Hannah’s university pals now living and working in Bangkok.
Our time in Bangkok during early 2024 was our first visit to Thailand, and we learned a lot quickly. In this short guide, I will give you everything you need to know about Bangkok to help you have a safe, enjoyable, and fulfilling stay.
Thailand Visa Information
Before you land in Bangkok, check Thailand’s visa information to ensure a smooth entry. Many travelers get a 30-day exemption on arrival, while others need to apply in advance; it all depends on your citizenship. If you plan to stay longer, you can look into visa extensions or the 60-day tourist visa.
Always check with your government’s official website about any country you wish to travel to. Visa restrictions are not set in stone forever, and even between friendly nations, entry requirements can change. So stay informed about what you need to access Thailand, and any country you plan to visit.
Best Time to Visit Bangkok
One of the most important things to know about Bangkok is when to visit. The best time is from November to February, when the heat is manageable and there’s less rain. March to May is extremely hot, while the June to October monsoon season can bring heavy showers but fewer crowds.
We visited during February and enjoyed high temperatures and very little rain. At times, the city heat was sweltering and left us desperate for an air-conditioned bar! The humidity can be stifling year-round but is part and parcel of the Bangkok experience.
Best Places to Stay in Bangkok
Bangkok has a neighborhood for every type of traveler:
- Sukhumvit – Ideal for modern comforts, expat life, and nightlife.
- Old Town (Rattanakosin) – The best place to stay in Bangkok for first-time visitors, close to major temples and attractions.
- Silom – A balance of business, markets, and nightlife.
- Ari – A quiet, trendy ex-pat region in Bangkok with great cafes and restaurants.
Best Place to Stay in Bangkok for Nightlife
If you want to party, Sukhumvit (especially around Soi 11) and Khao San Road are the best places to stay in Bangkok for nightlife. RCA (Royal City Avenue) is another top choice for clubbing, while Thonglor offers stylish cocktail bars.
How to Get Around Bangkok
Public transport in Bangkok is efficient and affordable. The BTS Skytrain and MRT subway are the best ways to avoid traffic, while boats along the Chao Phraya River provide scenic alternatives. Taxis and tuk-tuks are common but are prone to overcharging tourists, so be careful if opting for this method.
Download the Grab app before you leave and use it for all your local travel needs. Prices are fixed and very reasonable, plus all communication is done via the easy-to-use app, alleviating any language-barrier issues.
Bangkok Street Food Guide
Bangkok is one of the world’s best street food cities. Some of the best markets in Bangkok for food include Chinatown (Yaowarat Road), Or Tor Kor Market, and Ratchada Train Market. Don’t miss local dishes like pad kra pao (spicy basil chicken), boat noodles, and mango sticky rice.
Not only are Thailand’s street food options delicious, but they are also very affordable. Keep an eye out for popular street food stalls frequented by locals; that’s a sure-fire sign that something good is being cooked up.
Is Bangkok Safe for Tourists?
Yes, Bangkok is generally safe for tourists, but scams and pickpocketing can happen, especially in crowded areas. Tuk-tuk scams, overpriced taxis, and fake gem stores are common. Stick to Grab to avoid overpaying.
Things to Avoid in Bangkok
- Scammy tuk-tuk tours offering “cheap” sightseeing.
- Street vendors selling fake or overpriced souvenirs in tourist areas.
- Overpriced bars targeting unsuspecting tourists.
- Pickpockets in busy areas, metro stations, and touristy hotspots.
Bizarre Things to Be Aware of in Bangkok
Bangkok has its fair share of quirks, and part of the fun is embracing the unexpected. One of the strangest sights is the monitor lizards roaming around parks like Lumphini, often mistaken for crocodiles at first glance given their size and distinctive tails.
You’ll also find fried insects like scorpions and crickets sold as snacks, often just for tourists to try. Other odd customs include the head-touching taboo (never touch someone’s head), the national anthem playing in public places where everyone stops moving, and pink eggs (preserved eggs with a strong taste).
Additional Important Things to Note About Bangkok, Thailand
There are some practical things that can catch travelers off guard. ATMs charge high fees (around $4 – $7 per withdrawal), and free cash machines are rare (we never found one!). Not everywhere takes card, so it’s best to carry cash, but getting out too much can be risky, so balancing this and the cost can be tricky.
For budget dining, food courts inside shopping malls offer great local food at low prices. Bangkok’s malls, like Terminal 21 and MBK, have fantastic, clean, and cheap food courts.
Finally, when visiting temples, dress respectfully by covering your shoulders and knees and removing your shoes.
Final Thoughts
Bangkok is a city that can feel overwhelming at first, but once you embrace the chaos, it’s an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re temple-hopping, enjoying the nightlife, or indulging in street food, there’s something for everyone.
If you’re heading deeper into Thailand, check out these 10 Insider Tips to Make the Most of Your Thailand Adventure, and for those wanting to explore beyond Bangkok, don’t miss my guide to Hidden Gems in Thailand.
Happy travels!
Like This Post? Pin it!
Owner’s consent has been given to use all images in this post.