One of the most vibrant and exciting cities in Asia, Bangkok can overwhelm the first-time visitor with its buzz. It takes a day or two to find your feet, but I can assure you it is worth the effort. 

Best known for its street food, party nightlife, busting markets and stunning temples, there are many layers to this sprawling city and a huge public transport network to help you find uncover them. 

This is a city where you can get a delicious meal at 4 am and shop from dawn until late into the night. There is always something happening in Bangkok! 

With most international flights to Thailand arriving in Bangkok, many visitors very quickly head to the southern islands or mountains in the north however we think it’s a good idea to spend at least a couple of days in the vibrant metropolis and discover more of the sights, sounds, and culture of the city that never sleeps. 

The city of Bangkok, home to 10.7 million people, sits on the Chao Phraya River, 40 km north of the Gulf of Thailand. It has been the capital of Thailand since 1782.

Thailand is a devoutly Theravada Buddhist nation – 95% of the population are Buddhist! Across the city are 400 Buddhist temples. In Thailand, they are called Wats. The word Wat comes from the Pali word for “enclosure” because a Wat has a wall around it that divides it off from the everyday (non-sacred) world. The Grand Palace and the main temples, including Wat Arun and Wat Pho are major city landmarks. Even as Thai people become less religious over time, the sheer number of ancient Buddhist monuments in Bangkok means that its Buddhist heritage and underpinnings are everywhere you look.

The Official name of Thailand is Krung Thep Maha Nakhon

Accommodation – Bangkok has no shortage of choices when it comes to finding somewhere to stay. From hotels actually in shopping centers to stylish boutique properties surrounded by parklands, to the famous backpacker scene on Khao San Road, there really is a hotel or vacation rental to suit everyone’s taste and budget on offer in Bangkok. 

With its vast population, traffic in Bangkok is crazy, so the best way to get around it is to make use of the city’s extensive public transport system. The SkyTrain, known as the BTS, completely avoids the chaos below and is usually the best option. The BTS is supported by the underground train service, the MRT and ferries that run along the Chao Praya, and some of the smaller canals throughout the city.

Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) located 31km outside the city center is the main international airport for flights from outside Thailand and flights between Phuket, Koh Samui, and Chiang Mai. A second airport, Don Mueang International Airport, is used by budget airlines and for many domestic routes. Along with the Suvarnabhumi Airport Link rail service, airport shuttle buses, and transfer companies to get you from the airport to your hotel.

Rental cars are not recommended in Bangkok itself but you can rent one on the outskirts of the city if you are planning to road trip to the south or central Thailand.

The average time travelers spend in Bangkok is between two and five days.

Continue your holiday travels in Thailand. After Chiang Mai, the most popular destinations are Bangkok, Phuket, and Koh Samui.