Thailand · Capital · Bangkok

Bangkok Travel Guide: Temples, Markets & City Energy

Bangkok is where many Thailand holidays start or end. You get temples, river views, huge markets and rooftop bars in one city. You can keep things focused on culture and food or lean into nightlife and shopping – or mix all of it in a few days.

This guide helps you decide how long to spend in Bangkok, which areas to stay in and how to fit the city around your islands and northern Thailand plans.

Where to Stay in Bangkok

Bangkok has many neighbourhoods, but most visitors choose between areas along the river, central Sukhumvit or somewhere close to the Old City and temples.

Riverside

Riverside stays suit you if you like calmer evenings, views over the Chao Phraya and easy access to boat trips. Hotels here can feel like a quiet base in a noisy city.

Sukhumvit & downtown

This is modern Bangkok: malls, skytrain stations, rooftop bars and a big choice of places to eat. It works well if you enjoy city life and want straightforward transport connections.

Old City & Khao San area

Staying near the Old City puts you closer to the Grand Palace and major temples. The Khao San area adds a backpacker buzz, which can be fun if you like nightlife and people‑watching.

How Long to Spend in Bangkok

• 2–3 nights if you're mainly passing through on your way to the islands.
• 4–5 nights if you want time for temples, markets, a food tour and a slower day by the pool.

Practical Tips for Bangkok

• Use the skytrain and metro when you can – they help you skip some of the traffic.
• Dress modestly for temple visits (covered shoulders and knees) and bring a light layer you can slip on and off.
• Plan your days around the heat; consider early starts and slower afternoons.

For more on what to see and how to structure your time, you can open things to do in Bangkok and the wider Thailand itineraries section.