Bangkok, Thailand’s capital, is famous for dynamic street life and exciting night entertainment. In contrast to lively night life and entertainment opportunities, there are many shrines and temples throughout the city that offer tranquil environment for visitors to marvel at spectacular architecture and ornate statues.

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Quick facts

Name: Bangkok
Founded: 15th century
Population: 8.2 million
Area: 1,568 km2 (605 sq mi)
Known as: Capital of Thailand, ‘Krung Thep’ (‘City of Angels’)

The Chao Phraya River flowing past the royal district offers an incredible waterfront view of the Grand Palace and its temple Wat Phra Kaew.

Wat Arun and Wat pho are another two great temples to see (and visit) from there. Further on the river, there is an Asiatique The Riverside, mall complex and night market for shops, and Royal Barges Museum, for lovers of fine art, marine and history.

Also famous for great shopping experience, Bangkok offers range from the upscale malls of the Ratchaprasong district to the literally thousands of stalls at Chatuchak Weekend Market.

The city’s food places also offer an incredible variety from simple street food carts, over hundreds of regular restaurants, to many high-end eateries featuring exquisite Thai cuisine.

Main attractions in Bangkok

There are plenty of attractions in Bangkok, both inside the city and in immediate surroundings. We are listing here only a few top ones:

Grand Palace. Spectacular former royal residence and museum. Built in the 18th century, this ornate royal palace complex is a must-see when in Bangkok. Features museum with guided tours.

Khaosan Road. Popularized by the novel “The Beach” and the namesake movie, this 1 km long road in Bangkok is packed with shops, bars, guest houses, and other affordable accommodation for backpackers.

Wat Phra Kaew. Part of the Grand Palace complex, this sacred temple is a host of famous reclining emerald Buddha statue.

Safari World. These are two parks in one: marine park and the Zoo, offering many attractions and live shows.

Thonburi. A beautiful residential neighborhood west of the Chao Phraya River, with long-tail boats, passes through the river and is lined with charming wooden houses.

Golden Buddha. Officially named Phra Phuttha Maha Suwana Patimakon, is a gold statue weighing 5.5 tons, located in the temple of Wat Traimit, West Bangkok.

Wat Arun. A Buddhist temple in Yai district, on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River. Famous for iconic, ornately tiled central spire.

BTS Skytrain. The Bangkok Mass Transit System, also known as the BTS or the Skytrain. Great transport system connecting main points in Bangkok, including main landmarks and shopping malls.

Yaowarat Road. Busy area in Bangkok’s Chinatown, featuring temples, open markets, street-food venues and variety of shops.

Top things to do in Bangkok

Visiting top Bangkok attractions listed above (and many more) is a must, plus we recommend visit to floating market, which is unique experience; evening dinner cruise on Chao Phraya River; watch Siam Niramit show, largest stage productions in the world, or simply take bike tour.

Festivals and events in Bangkok

Bangkok is packed with festivals and events all year around. Here are some top recommendations.

Water Festival (‘Songkran’, April, not to be missed), Chinese New Year (January, February), Vegetarian Festival (October), YOLO Run (May) and many others that are not happening yearly.

Interesting facts about Bangkok

Here are some interesting facts about this amazing city:

The full name of Bangkok is (it will take some time to pronounce): Krungthepmahanakhon Amonrattanakosin Mahinthara Yutthaya Mahadilok Phop Noppharat Ratchathani Burirom Udom Ratchaniwet Mahasathan Amonphiman Awatansathit Sakkathattiya Witsanukamprasit.
There are over 400 temples in Bangkok.
Chatuchak Weekend Market in Bangkok, with 8,000 stalls, is the biggest market in the world.

Best time for flights to Bangkok

The peak season for flights to Bangkok is January, February and December. The low season for purchasing tickets is June, July and August.

Bangkok is served by these airports: Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) and Don Mueang International Airport (DMK). Direct flights to Bangkok are offered by 105 airlines.

Top hotel offers in Bangkok

Safe travels!

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