Bangkok
Bangkok, the vibrant capital of Thailand, is a city where ancient traditions and modern innovation coexist in remarkable harmony. Founded in 1782 by King Rama I as the capital of the Siamese kingdom, Bangkok has grown from a small trading post along the Chao Phraya River into one of Southeast Asia's most dynamic and influential cities. Its rich history is reflected in magnificent landmarks such as the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew, which showcase the country's deep cultural heritage and enduring reverence for the monarchy and Buddhism.
What makes Bangkok truly exceptional is its unique blend of energy, diversity, and hospitality. The city is renowned for its bustling street markets, world class shopping districts, vibrant nightlife, and extraordinary culinary scene. From Michelin starred restaurants to humble street food stalls serving authentic Thai dishes, Bangkok offers unforgettable experiences for every visitor. The city's efficient transportation systems, including the BTS Skytrain and river ferries, make it easy to explore its many neighbourhoods, each with its own distinct character and charm.
Beyond its famous attractions, Bangkok captivates visitors with its contrasts and surprises. Gleaming skyscrapers rise alongside centuries old temples, while peaceful canals offer a glimpse into a way of life that has endured for generations. The city serves as a gateway to Thailand's natural beauty and cultural treasures, attracting millions of travelers from around the world each year. With its warm climate, welcoming people, and endless opportunities for discovery, Bangkok remains one of the world's most fascinating and memorable destinations.
Fast Tips
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2026 - 7 nights
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Flying into Bangkok is incredibly easy, with so many planes flying in from all over the world. I prefer flying into Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) out of the two airport options.
Best way to get into Bangkok from Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK)
Take the Airport Rail Link City Line from Suvarnabhumi to Phaya Thai station (approx 30 minutes). Trains run frequently and avoid road traffic.
At Phaya Thai, transfer to the BTS Skytrain (Sukhumvit Line) to reach central areas like Siam, Asok, or Chatuchak. Total cost is low and travel time to central Bangkok is 30–45 minutes depending on destination.
Use the official taxi stand on Level 1 (Arrivals). Queue, then get a metered taxi. There’s a 50 THB airport surcharge plus expressway tolls if you use tollways.
Typical journey to central Bangkok (Sukhumvit/Silom/Siam) is 30–60 minutes depending on traffic; longer during rush hour.
Pre-book an airport limousine service (fixed fare) through airport counters, or use Grab (app) at the designated pickup area. Prices higher than meter but more predictable and comfortable.
From Don Mueang Airport (DMK)
Take the A1 bus to Mo Chit BTS station or the A2 to Victory Monument, then connect via BTS/MRT. Taxis are also available.
Practical tips
If arriving during Bangkok rush hours (07:00–09:00 and 16:00–20:00), avoid taxis on the road if you can, Airport Rail Link plus BTS is usually faster.
Keep small Thai baht notes and coins for taxis and tolls.
If you prize speed and predictability: Airport Rail Link + BTS. If you prize convenience with luggage: metered taxi or pre-booked transfer.
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I relied a lot on ‘Grab’ whilst in Bangkok, their rideshare app service. Be warned though over peak traffic it can be brutal. That’s when I would hit up the BTS public transport (which is incredible lovely to use) and if you can walk if you are able to. But if you need to get a Grab or Taxi, make sure to leave yourself a fair bit of time to get somewhere.
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Bangkok is a riot of flavours, textures and street-food theatre, here are five regional delicacies you absolutely must try while you're there.
Som Tam (ส้มตำ) Northeastern (Isan) papaya salad - What to expect: Shredded green papaya pounded with garlic, chillies, lime, fish sauce, palm sugar and often dried shrimp or salted crab.
Boat Noodles (ก๋วยเตี๋ยวเรือ) Central/Thai-Chinese noodle specialty - What to expect: Rich, slightly herbal broth often spiked with pork or beef blood, thin rice noodles, meat slices, bean sprouts and herbs. Traditionally served in small bowls so you can stack a few.
Khao Kha Moo (ข้าวขาหมู) Southern-influenced braised pork leg on rice - What to expect: Tender braised pork leg (with skin and fat) cooked in soy and five spice flavours, served over rice with pickled mustard greens, a boiled egg and sometimes chilli sauce.
Khanom Jeen Namya / Nam Prik (ขนมจีน) Southern and Central fermented rice noodles with curry or sauces - What to expect: Soft fermented rice noodles served with a choice of curries or dipping sauces: southern-style fish curry (nam ya) with turmeric and coconut, or spicy, lemongrass-packed nam prik. Comes with a mountain of raw and blanched vegetables for dipping.
Moo Ping with Jok or Khanom Krok on the side. Grilled pork skewers, usually from the north/central streets - What to expect: Marinated pork skewers, charcoal grilled until edges char and caramelise. Street stalls often sell them by the dozen; jok is silky rice porridge topped with minced pork and a raw egg stirred in. Khanom krok are little hot coconut pancakes, crisp on the outside and custardy inside.
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As a queer male I felt completely safe here. The streets were always filled with people as an all night city would have. Everyone was lovely and it is generally considered a very safe city for tourists.
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I stayed 7 nights and that was an amazing amount of time to get a lot done, but you could definitely get all the best parts done in 3-4 nights and then head to a different spot in Thailand.
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SILQ Hotel & Residence (https://www.silqhotel.com/) was our hotel of choice and it was beyond incredible. Sensational breakfast included, the gym is great, pool is quiet and relaxing, and then the cherry on top was the Japanese style onsen and sauna available to use. We got a great deal, but there are cheaper options available around Bangkok.
Next time I would like to stay in Thonglor or Ari, which I didnt get to explore enough but looks really cool neighbourhood wise.
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Now I am not a temple or attraction kind of person, so I visited more restaurants than palaces, but if you like a bit of history and obvious stuff to check out here is a small list…
The Grand Palace: An ornate complex of royal halls and temples, including the dazzling Temple of the Emerald Buddha, showcasing Thailand’s finest architecture and ceremonial grandeur.
Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn): A riverside landmark with a steep, porcelain encrusted central spire offering striking sunrise and sunset views over the Chao Phraya River.
Wat Pho: Home to the giant reclining Buddha and Thailand’s leading traditional massage school, famous for its intricate murals and peaceful temple grounds.
Chatuchak Weekend Market: A sprawling shopping labyrinth with thousands of stalls selling everything from street food and vintage clothing to plants and quirky souvenirs.
Khao San Road: A lively backpacker strip known for buzzing nightlife, budget eats, street performers and a colourful melting pot of travellers.
Eats & Sips
MORGEN COFFEE
This small industrial glass cube makes some A grade coffee. It’s a light filled space that looks over the road so you can take in the world outside whilst you remain cool. The coffee is taken seriously and is fruity and smooth, plus there are a few snack items to hold you over if needed.
WILMA’S BAKEHOUSE
Scandinavian inspired pastries fill out the cabinet of this small but mighty bakery in Thonglor. The lamination here is no joke, as I bit into my egg custard pastry, the flakes were plentiful and so insanely delicious, I had to take a moment in silence to take it all in. Run by a couple who do everything themselves, its the perfect stop in, but be warned pastries will sell out.
ROUGH & ROUND
For the coffee lovers. Just off WongSat Road, a small but mighty coffee shop exists. Brining beans from all over the world, each coffee is made to order with either the lever pulled coffee machine or the hand poured filters that are as clean, flavoursome and worth all the patience in waiting in this calming, minimalistic interior.
MICRO SYSTEM
Truly an all day venue (granted nights only go from Friday to Sunday), this bean to bar is great for a midday coffee hit or a beer into the night. The space clashes between Californian dessert neutrals with a smattering of early 2000’s Y2K futurism coming through the furniture and accoutrements. The vibe at night gets going with dj’s spinning records and cocktails being sipped as the sun sets to dark. Whatever time of the day Micro System is completely up to date.
F.I.X. SARASIN & THE LAZY BRUNCH
Fit FIX in when you make your trip to Lumphini Park, as this outpost sits right across from it and does not come to play when it comes to Brunch. Sandwiches and breakfast favourites litter the menu that skews to Western brunch but in a considered Thai style. Also my food come with a progress pride flag and if that doesn’t make you want to go, then I don’t know what will.
BAAN LAMYAI
Don’t ask me how I even found this place, just be happy I did and I can spread the word of this hidden gem that is the embodiment of what I love about modern cooking. Hidden in Thonglor Tower B through a non descript wooden door, is a a restaurant that does mod cozy Thai cuisine on another level. The wine list is cool and approachable, the plates are full of flavour and the atmosphere and serve is the perfect combination of friendly and knowledgable whilst always being timed in a way that puts you at ease. Make sure you organise a booking via dm on their instagram because it gets booked out.
RUNG RUENG
Protein. Noodle. Soup. It’s all you need to remember in this very local, very cheap but very very delicious eatery. Be ready at the door as they will get your order in fast, choosing between protein option, tom yum soup or clear and your choice of noodles. As much as I love tom yum, the clear broth is like nothing else, so favourable and buttery I still think about.
SRI TRAT
A mid priced casual restaurant that packs in flavour. I wanted to come here for their speciality, a pork sweet and sour curry that features the chamuang leaves through it and sometimes you should meet your heroes because this bowl delivered ten fold. Not to take away from the rest of the food which was as equally delicious, and they do not skimp on portion sizes so order 3-4 dishes and go from there.
LONLON LOCAL DINER
If you like your food spicy and I can handle the heat, then LonLon is the eatery for you. A vast menu, but I recommend hitting up the recommendations board and allowing the heat to take you over. The service is great, and they will let you know what’s spicy which is great so you don’t go too deep into chilli territory. You have order the tamarind prawns the salads are full of punch and at a price point that sits very comfortable in cheap and approachable.
CHARMKOK
The sister restaurant of Charmkrung, the more well known spot, is just a as delicious and a bit more casual. If you have the choice I you only have time for one Charmkrung is the pick, but Charmkok is a very close second. The food is so delicious, with plates sitting around the small to medium size, meaning you can work your way through many dishes, although I suggest giving the skewer section a good go as it punches well above its weight in flavour.
BAOBAO.. BAR SATHORN
Hidden down a lane, then further down a set of steps, this lair is a bit of a fun away from the hustle and bustle. Live music on one side, cartoons on a projector on the other side, its the kind bar that lets you decide how the nights going to go. Enjoy a well made cocktail, or sip on beers and have a laugh, its the perfect bar that’s above a dive but not as full on as a moody cocktail space.
ALONE TOGETHER
Enter through the heavy wooden door to a long corridor of a room that is just lit enough and has a very welcome waft of incense. The bar to the right is set up with mixologists and nightly, live music will be taking centre stage. Jazz seems to be the preferred choice in the genre to compliment the cocktails that are expertly made (my mixed down rye number was 10 out of 10) and it’s a haven of a hidden spot to relax and quietly enjoy the sounds after a long day out and about.
THE FAMILY
If you are looking for something a step above food stalls and markets, but nothing fancy, this easy going eatery in a hidden corner. The menu is tight but the food is truly incredible. The omelette dish was so simple, but full of so much flavour, my brain couldn’t comprehend it.
MESSENGER SERVICE
A dessert earthy aesthetic makes this cocktail bar a space that feels as warm as its colours. The menu is a range of cocktails, but the ones that really peak the interest is the ‘Delivered from the Grocery’ where everyday ingredients get a turn at being the highlights of high end cocktails. I love how the central bar allows the tables to jet out organically and the service is premium as one would expect.
BAR US
Ranked 15th in the world in the 50 best bars (of time of visiting), it absolutely lived up to the hype. Each cocktail on the extensive list is really thought out, and I recommend heading the ‘Mains’ section of the list where the team creates cocktails that come from savoury flavours and savoury dishes like ramen. The room is moody, with a Chinese medicine aesthetic with the walls aligned with jars filled with ingredients. The service professionals and personable, and it really is a must visit after a dinner if you are in the BKK.
DRY WAVE COCKTAIL STUDIO
The third cocktail bar that features in Asia top 50 best bars, Dry Wave is a hidden amongst a nestle of trees acting as an adult treehouse. The space is windowed and cosy, and a spot along the bar is the best place to hitch your wagon. The menu does something very cool which I had never seen before, where it uses classic cocktails known and loved, fuses them with another to create their own in house version. So when looking to order a drink you naturally already head to what you like, making the whole process a lot less daunting.
Shops & Spots
OYSTER & THINGS
A shop dedicated to everything entertaining. Kitschy, but very cool cutlery to plates, to cocktails additions and even some jewellery sprinkled in for good measure. I personally love the adorned spoons that go so well with platters and are a great fit for the luggage home.
PLAY ARTHOUSE
In between shopping and coffee hits, along Songwat road sits a beautifully calm and aesthetic little gallery. The works are ever changing, so check their instagram to see what collection is currently I show, but assume art that’s more modern than classic.
ROAD OF CINNAMON
Knick knacks adorn this tiny shop, with an array of small plating at your disposal. It really is a treasure trove of items, and the more in depth you look, the better your luck of finding porcelain ash trays and ceramic small bowls. The Thai food magnets are a feature to grab from here, if like me you have a fridge filled with them.
PRAPADAENG FOREST
Known as the green lung of Bangkok, Prapadaeng Forest is a great way to spend the morning as you ride around your bike discoursing the small trails littered through and the mass greenery that you can submerge into. I recommend grabbing a little boat from Khlong Toei Pier and heading over Bangkachao Pier and hiring a bike. From there head into the forest making sure to head into the park and riding over to the Buddhist Temple. Alternatively ride around and see where it takes you. A lot of the best stuff is accessed via smaller paths, that are definitely big enough for bikes but might be a bit full on if you’re not a strong rider, but even with my anxiety, it was completely fine.
SAMATHA
A massage in Thailand just makes sense and there are many to choose from. The one I chose was Samatha, a forestry oasis in the middle of the hustle of the city. It has a variety of massage options along with oils and the space is the perfect way to spend some minutes in a sanctuary for the afternoon.
RAJADAMNERN STADIUM
There are plenty of outposts to enjoy this beloved national sport of muay thai, but hitting up where it all began made the most sense and is incredibly tourist friendly. Rajadamnerm Stadium is the world’s first muay thai stadium, but it’s very newly refurbished so expect more a Vegas UFC feel opposed to something old school. Tickets are relatively inexpensive and its small enough so son matter where you sit the view is great. It’s on nightly and the light show they perfect on the roof is pretty cool to break us the gaps in hits.
*media & images courtesy of publications, establishment websites and social media pages as well as Tripadvisor. I do not claim to own some of the images provided.