Bangkok Worth Visiting: Reasons to Go, Who Shouldn’t, and a Short Itinerary

Yes, Bangkok is worth visiting, whether you are a regular traveller, a backpacker, or just passing by. We love as a couple, even though at first it was a no-go for us.

We’ve been to Bangkok more times than we planned. Although we didn’t like it at first, it has become our hub and base for every trip through Southeast Asia. It’s a beautiful city, chaotic but full of energy. We recently stayed in On Nut for two consecutive months, a very local area.

Our everyday was in between cafes, co-working, events and occasional sights to the most off the beaten path parts of Bangkok. Through this guide, you’ll get some of the best things that made us reconsider Bangkok.

Is Bangkok worth visiting?

Yes—Bangkok is absolutely worth visiting, and we say that after going from “ugh, never again” to living there for two months and planning our return. As soon as you land, you’ll get the feeling of stressed traffic, constant horns, pollution, but also a contagious energy.

One thing we love the most is that no one days are similar to each other, no one district is like the other. There is always something going on in Bangkok and something new to explore.

It’s chaotic on day one and strangely lovable by day three, especially when you swap tourist traps for real neighbourhoods, parks at sunset, backstreet eats, and the river boats.

Who it’s not for

• If you want a quiet, walkable old town everywhere. Bangkok is spread out, and you must rely on public transportation, including tuk-tuks and taxis.
• Don’t go to Bangkok if you don’t bear the humidity. The city is well known for its heat, high temperatures, with AC that barely cope or make you freeze.
• Crowds are a big problem. We never had quiet streets at any time of the day. There are tourists everywhere, and major temples fill up quickly after 9 am.
• There are no beaches in Bangkok. If you are coming to Thailand for its picture-perfect beaches, such as Phuket and Maya Bay. Look elsewhere.

Why Is Bangkok Worth Visiting?

Smiley people

Bangkok is different from other touristy places in Thailand. It is a city on its own and doesn’t necessarily live up to its tourism potential. Yes, streets like Khao San Road or around main temples are full of tourist traps.

However, going where locals go and getting your way around some traditional districts allows you to meet generous and smiley people. After all, there is a reason why Thailand is often referred to as the “Land of Smiles”.

When you wander around the streets of Bangkok, you’ll be greeted with warm smiles. This isn’t just a formality used to sell you something, but it’s their natural behaviour, which you’ll come to appreciate.

Delicious Food

Even though you are visiting only Bangkok in Thailand, you’ll get the best of Thai Food. Bangkok’s incredible food scene is definitely a unique experience. We got to experience unique markets day and night, and sometimes even get lost in side streets, where there is Mama Cooking.

One thing is for sure, eating out is very affordable, with Pad Thai for as little as 60 THB. What we also love about food in Bangkok is the fact that Michelin-starred restaurants aren’t necessarily expensive. We had one of our best meals in Chinatown, at Ann Guay Tiew Kua Gai (thank us later!). When in Bangkok on the weekend, we love to visit Chatuchak Market, one of our all time favourite markets. It’s actually the biggest in Asia.

There are also other markets we love to revisit, such as Tor Kor Market and the Rot Fai Night Market (our favourite). Recently, we also discovered Train Night Market Srinagarindra, a very local but definitely underrated spot. You need a taxi ride to get here.

Rich Cultural Heritage

We were never bored in Bangkok; every day, we were out exploring and discovering new parts of the city. It’s bigger than you expect, and of course, it preserves centuries of cultural heritage. We have visited all the major attractions: the Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew, and Wat Arun , the golden reclined Buddha at Wat Pho, and many others.

However, you can find Bangkok’s Heritage also in the iconic streets. We personally love Chinatown, and every time we dedicate at least one or two days to it. It is great for food, nightlife, and also just for a simple coffee. Read our guide full of insights about Chinatown.

Within Chinatown, note Talad Noi, an old Chinese quarter that gives rise to Bangkok’s first settlement. Next to it, spend about an hour walking on Song Wat Road. The road of cinnamon is underrated but rich in heritage. You can continue the walk toward the flower market and see Wat Arun from the opposite side.

Recently, we have also enjoyed our time at Jim Thompson House, while staying near the MBK shopping Mall. Unique and unexpected in the centre of the shopping district of Bangkok.

There is always something to do

Yep, Bangkok is a city that never sleeps. We can confirm that. When in town, we are always out at a Bar, to an expat meetup, or meeting friends in the other part of town.

The streets of Bangkok live up to the hype. Even though we aren’t a party couple, we don’t say no when there’s fun. Bangkok is always fun. There are several rooftops you should check out. The last one we visited was Octagon, and it was fantastic.

There is a minimum charge for tables, and we suggest you booking in advance. The view is fantastic, and we enjoyed our sunset there. For a bit more fun, go to Khao San Road.
Yes, popular, but still a great place, especially if it’s your first time in Bangkok.

For a more intimate atmosphere, go to Teens of Thailand. This is a paradise for gin lovers, offering prices more in line with European standards, but with a unique atmosphere. If you, like us, love a bit of trivia, check out “The Lockeroom”, a speakeasy located in one of Bangkok’s most popular districts.

Affordable Prices

We returned and stayed in Bangkok longer because we knew we could afford it. Well, Thailand is very affordable compared to other destinations. It’s our beloved one for this reason too.

Either you stay short and book a room in a guesthouse, or stay longer, the rent is always affordable. We got rooms in decent guesthouses, near the MRT/BTS or popular attractions, for about £15 per day. Instead, when booking for a longer term, you can even get a good deal for £300 per month.

Bangkok is popular for backpackers; mainly due to its diversity and affordability. The city offers a wide range of options for accommodation, dining, and activities. Even transport is cheap. Using mobile apps like Bolt and GoJek, you can get around for less than your daily coffee.

Bangkok has some of the best temples in Thailand

There are so many temples in Bangkok that we haven’t visited them all yet! No one is like the other, and the history behind it is always fascinating.

Of course, everyone loves Wat Arun, and it’s quite beautiful to watch from outside at sunset. If you are visiting the Grand Palace of Bangkok, you’ll also visit the Emerald Buddha, revered within Wat Phra Kaew.

Hub to Fly everywhere in Asia

We travelled in Asia for the past two years, and planning to return soon. As usual we use Bangkok as base, either because in Thailand there is a free visa in on arrival, up to 60 days, either, because you can plan your journey accordingly without thinking about paperwork.

Bangkok is one of Asia’s busiest air travel hubs and serves as an excellent gateway to explore the entire continent.

As there are two major airports, we often find great deals for Visa runs or make our Banana Pancake route work. Additionally, it’s a great gateway to return to Europe, as we managed to find the cheapest flight from London to Bangkok. There are layover paths that give you some time in Abu Dhabi or Dubai.

However, Bangkok also offers quick and frequent connections to places like Bali, Singapore, Hong Kong, and Hanoi.

Large Expat community

During our first day in Bangkok, we had the opportunity to meet up with a friend and other expats who introduced us to the thriving expat community. Then we spent over two months in Bangkok, living like a local Digital Nomad, attending co-working spaces and joining recurring meetups.

We now understand why Bangkok is a Digital nomad destination with people coming to this city to work, enjoy life and good weather. In our most recent visit, we have also worked from the True Digital Park, on Sukhumvit Road, away from the shopping malls.

It is a thriving new centre for locals and expats to meet, work and grow. It’s always a balance between quality of life and costs. While costs are low, we found that pollution is a very big problem.

If you consider Bangkok as a place to work from abroad, you may want to explore expat-friendly areas like Thonglor and Ekkamai.

Best rooftop bars

We have already introduced you to some of the best things to do in Bangkok at night. However, let’s make the point stronger. Bangkok Skyline is perfect for sunset. We have seen pretty colours, and especially during the rainy season, the sky gives its best. 

The Sky Bar is the most popular, recognised by its dome featured in the movie Hangover II. While we loved the Mahanakhon (the tallest building in Bangkok), it’s pretty expensive, and the queue will make you think twice. Check our review and secrets to get tickets to skip the line.

Apart from these, you might want to consider visiting Vertigo and Moon Bar at Banyan Tree Hotel or Octave Rooftop Lounge and Bar at Marriott Hotel, both of which are fantastic rooftop bars where you can enjoy a cocktail while taking in the stunning views of the city at night.

Fabulous night markets

If you plan a trip to Bangkok, consider exploring the city at night since the daytime heat can be intense. The saying goes that Bangkok is best experienced at night, and we couldn’t agree more. The night markets in Bangkok are an absolute must-visit for anyone looking for a unique shopping and dining experience.

With countless markets to choose from, you’ll find a diverse range of goods and flavours that are quintessentially Thai. Some of Bangkok’s most popular night markets include the Rot Fai Night Market, Talad Neon Night Market, and Train Night Market.

These markets offer everything from clothes and souvenirs to handmade crafts and mouth-watering street food.

The view of the city from the river

If you’re searching for an affordable mode of transportation in Bangkok, try taking a public ferry along the Chao Phraya River. It’s also the quickest way to reach the busy central areas of the city.

The river passes through the heart of Bangkok and is flanked by many famous landmarks, such as the Grand Palace and Wat Arun. This option offers a unique and cost-effective opportunity to explore the city.

Bangkok is worth visiting, and that’s what changed our minds.

On our first visit, we couldn’t stand the noise and tuk‑tuk horns. Then we moved local—south of Thonglor in On Nut—and Bangkok slowed down.

We took songthaews to the BTS, worked at Paper Plane and the Design Centre, met nomads at meetups, and started to enjoy a softer rhythm. Loy Krathong by the Chao Phraya, long walks from Benjakitti to Lumphini Park, that romantic boat at sunset.

Without talking about the Chinatown weekends to explore narrows streets filled with history, made us love Bangkok.

Is it worth going to Bangkok for tourists?

Yes—if the plan isn’t just “Grand Palace and Khao San.” Do the classics smartly, then pivot to the local level.

We usually start with Wat Phra Kaew/Grand Palace early, hop on a boat to Wat Arun, cross to Wat Pho, then ride up to Chinatown for lunch and explore the backstreets, such as Talat Noi, where the city’s layers are revealed.

Add one sunset—Octave or Mahanakhon—and one market night—Chatuchak on weekends or Rot Fai for the neon tents—and you’ll get the point of the place without the burnout.

What to do in Bangkok (the way we actually do it)

• Morning temples, not midday heat: Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew (strict dress code), then hop to Wat Arun by boat, followed by Wat Pho for the reclining Buddha and shady courtyards. Arrive at opening times if possible.
• Chinatown: Take a boat to Rachawong, wander along Song Wat Road, enjoy coffee at Local Boys or Mother Roaster, take a quick peek into Talat Noi’s alleys and street art, and grab dim sum or noodles before Yaowarat comes alive. We’ve done this loop more times than we can count.
• Parks at golden hour: Benjakitti’s elevated walkway to Lumphini became “date‑night cardio” for us—city skyline, water, monitor lizards minding their business. It’s calm Bangkok, which nobody expects.
• Night markets with a purpose: Chatuchak on weekends for the treasure hunt; Rot Fai for those photogenic tents and cold Chang; Flower Market early if the heat is rude. We keep going back, even when we swear we’ve seen it all.
• Rooftop sunset: Mahanakhon is the flashy one with the glass tray, Octave has our favourite actual sunset view, and Heaven near Mahanakhon gives us cheap beers with a skyline. Pick one—don’t chase five.

Have fun at Khao San Road at night

During our stay in Bangkok, we stayed just a few streets away from Khao San Road, which gave us a thrilling introduction to the essence of Asia. During the day, the street was calm and typical, but at night, it transformed into an energetic hub.

Khao San Road, which is 500 meters long, became lively after dusk, with bars welcoming travellers to drink a few drinks and experience the unique Bangkok nightlife. The street gently released revellers the following morning.

We had an unforgettable nights, enjoying drinks and moving from one club to another. Since the prices are reasonable, Khao San Road is a popular destination for backpackers.

You can afford luxury hotels for a very cheap price

The competitive pricing in Asia lured us, so we decided to skip a winter in London and take a one-way trip to Bangkok. Thailand is well-known for its affordable lifestyle, including luxurious hotel accommodations available at incredibly reasonable rates.

For as little as £50, you can snag a phenomenal hotel suite in a skyscraper with unparalleled views of Bangkok. Below, you can explore some of the most opulent hotels in Bangkok, all priced at less than £100.

Best time to visit Bangkok

The most favourable time to explore Bangkok falls within the dry season, stretching from November to April. The climate remains dry and mild during this period, providing an excellent setting for city exploration.

However, remember that this period aligns with the peak tourist season, so anticipate larger crowds and slightly elevated prices.

If you wish to avoid the hustle and bustle, contemplating a trip during the rainy season (from May to October) is more appealing, as there are fewer tourists and lower costs. Just be prepared for occasional rain showers.

Temperature and Seasons in Bangkok

Below, you will find a small brief on how temperatures vary:

Check out the weather forecast and temperature in advance to better pack. We can’t forget May 2023 with the record heatwave, which placed us in our hotel room during the day, every day for a week, because outside the temperature feel was 41°C.

Where we stayed in Bangkok

We stayed almost everywhere in Bangkok. In the centre, on the shopping strip, in Chinatown, close to the airport, in Khao San Road and more. One thing is sure: you must have a way to commute somewhere in Bangkok.

The city is so big that it takes a house to cross it. Your best bet is to be closer to the MRT or BTS. The alternative is to rely on the boat, which isn’t a bad option, to be fair.

If it’s a first visit, we’d pick Sukhumvit or Siam for transit and convenience, then move to Chinatown for a night when you want the night markets and alleys on your doorstep.

Bangkok: The wins, the fails, and the fixes

Win: Loy Krathong around the river and Golden Mount. Magical without the Instagram crowding, and you finally feel the heart of the city. We still talk about it.

Fail: Khao San ATMs and airport Wi‑Fi tangles. We stopped fighting it, got an e-SIM ahead of time, and avoided random cash machines in party zones—fees add up, moods go down.

Fix: We stopped over‑scheduling. One major sight in the morning, one neighbourhood in the afternoon, rooftop or park at sunset, then a market or Chinatown. Bangkok loves people who pace themselves.

Getting around without losing your sanity

BTS/MRT for the long hauls, boats for the river stretch, and feet for the short jumps. Tuk‑tuks are fun once; taxis with metres are better value; Bolt usually undercuts Grab. When a driver refuses the meter, smile and wave the next one down—it works.

From the airport, the ARL to Phaya Thai, plus the BTS, offers the best budget-to-speed ratio. Late at night, we always book a taxi through an app.

Thailand Travel Insurance

If you’re planning a trip to Asia, it’s essential to consider purchasing travel insurance, especially when visiting a country like Thailand. While Thailand is known for its beautiful beaches, delicious cuisine, and friendly locals, it’s always better to be prepared for the unexpected.

Bangkok Itinerary (3/4 days for first-timers)

Day 1: Old City + River

Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew at opening, hop boat to Wat Arun, cross to Wat Pho, late lunch in Chinatown, Talat Noi alleys, rooftop at sunset.
Full Guide: One-Day Itinerary in Bangkok.

Day 2: Parks, malls, massage, skyline

Benjakitti Skywalk to Lumphini near sunset, quick mall cool‑down, Thai massage, Mahanakhon/Octave for views, late snacks at a night market. Rooftop and market details inside our Bangkok cluster.

Day 3: Markets + neighbourhoods

Chatuchak (weekends) or Flower Market early, Song Wat Road coffee-and-street-art loop, canal boat or ICONSIAM stop, and a Chinatown food crawl at night.
Deep dives: Chatuchak guide and Song Wat Road guide.

Day 4 (optional): Side quests or chill DN day

Wat Saket + Wat Ratchabophit combo, Jim Thompson House, or a co‑working day near Thonglor, then sunset beers at a low‑key rooftop near Mahanakhon.
Nomad notes and areas in our Backpacking in Bangkok guide.

FAQ | Is Bangkok worth visiting?