Discovering Bangkok: A Complete Travel Guide

A Glimpse into Bangkok's Rich History

Bangkok, Thailand's vibrant capital, has evolved from a small trading post during the Ayutthaya Kingdom into a sprawling metropolis. The city, officially known as Krung Thep Maha Nakhon, became the capital in 1782 when King Rama I moved it across the Chao Phraya River.


Fun Facts About Bangkok

  • Bangkok is home to the world's largest solid gold Buddha, weighing 5.5 tons.
  • The city's full ceremonial name is the longest place name in the world.
  • Street food is an integral part of Bangkok's culture, with countless vendors serving delicious, affordable meals.

What Bangkok Is Known For

  • Temples: Wat Pho, Wat Arun, and the Grand Palace.
  • Street Food: From Pad Thai to Mango Sticky Rice.
  • Markets: Chatuchak Weekend Market and the vibrant floating markets.

Cost of Travel in Bangkok

Bangkok caters to every budget. Street food meals cost as little as $1, while mid-range restaurants charge $10-$20 per dish. Luxury experiences, like sky bars and five-star hotels, are available at comparatively lower prices than Western cities.

Culinary Journey Through Bangkok

  • Street Food: Try Som Tam (papaya salad) and Moo Ping (grilled pork skewers).
  • Restaurants: Jay Fai, a Michelin-starred street food eatery.
  • Cafes: The Coffee Club and Factory Coffee Bangkok.

Top Attractions

  • The Grand Palace: A stunning complex with the Emerald Buddha.
  • Wat Arun: Known for its riverside views and intricate design.
  • Chatuchak Weekend Market: A shopper's paradise with over 15,000 stalls.

Unique Experiences

Private Tour: Best of Bangkok in A Day on Viator

Explore Bangkok's most iconic sites with a guide.

Book here
Bangkok by Night: Temples, Markets and Food Tuk-Tuk Tour on Viator

Experience Bangkok's charm after dark.

Book here

Sample Itinerary

  • Day 1: Explore temples and the Grand Palace.
  • Day 2: Visit floating markets and enjoy a tuk-tuk tour.
  • Day 3: Experience the vibrant street food scene and Chatuchak Market.

Accommodation Options

  • Budget: Lub d Bangkok Siam.
  • Mid-Range: Novotel Bangkok Sukhumvit 20.
  • Luxury: Mandarin Oriental Bangkok.

Find hotels with Hotels.com or VRBO.

Getting There

Find flights with Trip.com.


Final Tip

Plan your perfect Bangkok trip with MagicTrips.ai for a custom itinerary tailored to your travel style.

Ready to book your trip?

Search Hotels
Search Homes

Traveling somewhere else?

Generate a custom itinerary