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The Ultimate Thailand Packing List

From linen tops to bug spray, here’s everything you need for a trip to Thailand.

Best Clothing

Best bags and accessories.

• Tips for Packing

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why Trust T+L

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure / David Hattan

Thailand lures every type of traveler, whether you’re seeking the luxury of Bangkok’s high-rise hotels or the lush white sand beaches of Koh Samui. Wherever you’re heading, you’ll want to pack light, as you’ll likely want to move around the country — which stretches over 1,000 miles from north to south, and spans hundreds of islands — and you won’t want your luggage to weigh you down.

“In Thailand, visitors need only worry about a wet or dry season. Either way, it will be hot and most likely, humid,” says Rosemarie Domdom, the director of sales and marketing at Rosewood Bangkok. Prioritizing pieces that are lightweight, breathable, and quick-drying will help to keep you feeling fresh throughout your trip, while accessories like an umbrella and a sun hat will come in handy throughout the year. Here’s everything you’ll need for a trip to Thailand, from Bangkok to the beach and beyond.

Thailand is hot and humid year round, so whether you’re taking in the sights and sounds (and smells!) of Bangkok, or snorkeling and sunbathing in Phuket, the main thing to keep in mind is to pack lightweight, casual clothing.

“Thailand has three seasons, which are summer, rainy, and winter. We do not dress that much differently from season to season as it’s still hot for all three,” explains Minnie Leelakhajornkiat, a tour director for EF Ultimate Break Thailand.

Versatility is key — you’ll want to prioritize neutral pieces that can mix and match easily between the capital city and the islands, to make the most of your travel wardrobe. Performance fabrics are always a plus, as anything moisture-wicking and odor-resistant will be incredibly useful in the country’s exceptional heat. During the rainy season, quick-drying clothing will also come in handy.

Casual, laidback style is the way to go in Thailand, where very few places will have a dress code besides religious sites. “Travelers, especially female travelers, are asked to dress conservatively, covering shoulders, upper body, waist, ankles, etc. for the Grand Palace,” Leelakhajornkiat says, noting that clothing shouldn’t be sheer or too form-fitting if you’re visiting a religious or royal site.

Layers of linen or other airy materials are ideal for keeping your luggage to a minimum, as they pair easily together. “People normally wear light or thin clothes that the wind can pass through,” Leelakhajornkiat says of how locals and visitors dress in the summer. She notes that during the rainy season, which peaks in September and October, an umbrella and waterproof layer are ideal. In winter, “Thai residents and travelers normally wear long sleeve shirts and long pants,” she says, adding that she recommends packing a lightweight sweater if you’ll be heading north to Chiang Mai, where the temperature dips. Note that packing light is ideal, as you’ll likely want to take hopper flights or ferries between islands, both of which typically have luggage restrictions.

Best Daywear

Best pants for women, amazon essentials women's linen blend drawstring wide leg pant.

Linen is a breezy, easily packable material that’s ideal for Thailand’s generally hot climate. These drawstring pants are an excellent, budget-friendly dupe of Reformation’s Olina Linen Pant — the primary difference being that these are a linen-cotton blend, and slightly more cropped. They offer a bit of sun protection during the day while still allowing plenty of air to pass through, and provide just enough warmth for breezy evenings by the beach. We love that these are easy to pair with just about anything in your suitcase and the darker shades in particular transition well from day to night. With 12 shades to choose from, you might even want to grab two pairs — you’ll be living in these!

Best Pants for Men

Coofandy men's casual linen pants.

Similar to the women’s style, these linen drawstring pants are breathable and easy to pull on, making them an excellent choice for daily wear whether you’re exploring the islands or cruising along the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok. They’re crafted from a blend of viscose and linen, which makes them even softer than a pure linen style would be. Rear buttoned pockets and side pockets ensure you can keep your phone, wallet, and other travel essentials on you at all times.

Best Casual Shorts

Everlane the easy short.

Everlane 

It’s hard to beat the Everlane Easy Short, which is — as the name suggests — easy to pair with just about everything in both the men’s and women’s styles. Slip them on with your favorite shirt and sandals for a day of sightseeing, or over your bathing suit when you’re heading out to the beach. The waistband offers a good amount of stretch while still maintaining its shape, and never feels constricting — so you can fill up to your heart’s content on Thai street food. Lightweight cotton twill is breathable and dries quickly, making these a great option for everyday wear when you want a laid back yet pulled-together look. Note that these are not considered appropriate for women visiting temples — opt for pants or a long dress instead.

Best Top for Women

Quince vintage wash tencel camp shirt.

A button-down is perhaps the most versatile top to have in your travel wardrobe, and this chic oversized version from Quince checks every box. It’s soft and breathable, with a relaxed fit that will ensure you never overheat on even the stickiest days — making it perfect for visiting temples. Generally, temples require you to cover your shoulders in order to enter, and this top does the trick, and allows excellent airflow to boot. It’s crafted from Tencel Lyocell, which is exceptionally durable, sustainably sourced, and boasts moisture-wicking capabilities to keep you feeling fresh all day long. The material is also resistant to wrinkles, shrinking, and static, making it a dream for backpackers who want a low-maintenance staple. Wear it open over a swimsuit or as a lightweight layer on breezy days.

Best Shirt for Men

Quince men's 100% european linen short sleeve shirt.

You can scoop up Quince’s best-selling linen button down in six shades, from classic white to a summery terracotta hue that’s sure to pop against Chiang Rai’s all-white temple, Wat Rong Khun. Lightweight and breezy, it’s a perfect layer for beach days, yet the classic fit is also refined enough to wear for an evening out at Bangkok’s famous Sky Bar . It’s a versatile wardrobe staple crafted from top-quality European linen, and we love that it comes at an unbeatable price.

Best Swimsuit for Women

Left on friday sunday top and wear to bottom.

Left on Friday

Whether you’re partying with an international crowd of backpackers on Koh Samui or enjoying a more relaxing getaway along the palm-fringed waters of Koh Kood, a swimsuit is absolutely essential — it may even end up being the article of clothing you wear the most throughout your trip. This set from Left on Friday feels secure and stylish, with a flattering and slightly compressive fit. The material is super soft, quick-drying, fade-resistant, and doesn’t easily stain from chlorine or salt water, so it’ll last you quite a few seasons. If you prefer more coverage or a high-waisted style, consider their Hi Hi Bottom instead.

Best Swimsuit for Men

Vuori banks short.

These buttery-soft, quick-drying shorts from Vuori earned our top pick for men’s swimsuits during our swimsuit tests, beating out over 40 options that we tried. We found that they worked as a swimsuit-shorts hybrid, meaning they’ll pull double duty in your suitcase: wear them from the hotel to lunch, and straight on to the beach from there — just note that they may run slightly long. They’re unlined, dry quickly, and boast a small zippered pocket for keys, making them a perfect option for all-day wear if you’re not looking to take your swimsuit on and off. We also love that the comfortable “VCycled” fabric is also made from recycled plastic bottles.

Best Rain Jacket

Outdoor research women's aspire super stretch jacket.

Thailand’s rainy season runs from July to October, with brief but heavy storms marking the earlier part of the season and daily deluges lasting throughout the later end. If you’re planning to visit during this time, a reliable rain jacket is a must-have. We tested 17 raincoats for men and 23 for women , and in both cases, Outdoor Research had the clear winner. It’s lightweight, which is ideal for Thailand’s warmer temperatures and for easy packing. It’s also incredibly waterproof — rain flew off of the jacket during a downpour without absorbing into the material at all. We also love that the back features a stretchy fabric, which ensures you’ll still have full range of motion for any hikes or cave explorations.

Best Nightwear

Reformation tyra knit dress.

Reformation

Fitted and ultra-flattering, this knit dress from Reformation is your one-and-done look for a night on the town in Bangkok. Whether you’re taking in the city’s magnificent views from the Sky Bar or dining at the Standard Hotel’s glamorous Ojo restaurant, it’s a chic way to look pulled together without having to put in much effort. With an elegant scoop neckline and a calf-length hem, it’s an understated and versatile piece that’s easy to dress up or down. Plus, the cotton fabric is lightweight and stretchy, so it’s easy to pack and won’t take up much space in your suitcase.

Best Light Layer

Everlane the ultrafine merino ribbed cardigan.

Despite Thailand’s generally warm climate, it’s always a good idea to pack a lightweight layer — you can wear it on the plane, or bring it out with you on breezy evenings. This ultra thin cardigan from Everlane is a versatile option that can take you from day to night, and can even be buttoned and worn on its own as a long-sleeved top. It’s made from super soft merino wool, which helps to wick moisture away from the body and thermoregulates to keep you feeling cool. Available in classic shades like black, gray, and taupe, it’s an easy neutral to work into your travel wardrobe.

Unless you’re planning upscale dinners or are staying at a luxury hotel, there’s no need to pack a pair of heels or fancy sandals for a trip to Thailand. The country is relatively relaxed, with most Thai people wearing flip-flops on the beach and in bars. They’re ideal for slipping on and off, whether you’re lounging by the waves or walking into a temple.

“Bangkok is a very walkable city with good public transport, however the sidewalks are not in the best condition and sometimes there are no sidewalks at all,” says Domdom, who recommends comfortable walking shoes for getting around throughout the day. ”I would not suggest heels for women unless they are going from door-to-door in a taxi,” she explains. For the beach, however, “flip-flops or sandals are perfect,” she adds. “Stay away from dress shoes if visiting the islands; they are not really necessary and you wouldn’t want them to get scuffed,” she says.

Best Versatile Shoes

Birkenstock women 's arizona soft footbed leather sandal.

Birkenstock

Packing light is crucial for a trip to Thailand, where you may often need to maneuver your luggage on small boats, planes, or trains when moving about the country — so you don’t want to sacrifice precious space on bulky sneakers. Instead, opt for a versatile pair of sandals like the iconic Arizona slides from Birkenstock. Gender neutral and incredibly rugged, these boast an extra foam layer of cushioning, as well as a lightweight EVA sole. The footbed requires a bit of time to break them in, but over time they’ll mold to the exact shape of your feet for maximum comfort. We love the darker shades in particular, as they are stylish enough to wear during the day as well as at night. Crucially, their slip-on construction is ideal for visiting temples, where you are required to take your shoes off before going inside.

Best Flip-flops for Women

Clarks breeze sea flip flop.

Clarks Breeze Sea Flip-flops easily beat out dozens of other pairs that we tested out , earning our top recommendation for their incredible comfort and long-lasting support. They feature a CushionSoft footbed, padded EVA midsole, and rugged rubber outsole that offers a little lift; together they help to cushion and stabilize your feet, so you can feel good in them for hours on end. They’re available in a rainbow of colors, but we’d recommend sticking with a neutral shade for versatility’s sake. We love the velcro strap on these, which enables you to customize the fit — making them perfect for hanging out at the beach or wandering around the island.

Best Flip-flops for Men

Adidas comfort flip-flops.

Durable flip-flops are a must have for traveling through Thailand, whether you’re kicking back at the beach or need an easy on-and-off shoe for indulging in Thai massages at the spa. This flexible, sporty style from Adidas earned our top pick when testing dozens of men’s flip-flops . They feature a padded polyurethane foam molding, putting a bit of pep in every step — so you can explore the islands in cloud-like comfort. The best part is that they’re comfortable enough to wear right out of the box, so there’s no need to spend time breaking them in.

Bags with smart security features — think zippered pockets, discreet compartments, and theft-resistant openings — are always a good investment for travelers. “Thailand, in general, is a safe place and everyone is genuinely hospitable,” explains Domdom, who says pickpocketing isn’t a particularly common occurrence in the country — but that you should still exercise your judgment and keep your belongings close, particularly in crowded or tourist-heavy areas. “I personally always carry a bag that zips closed,” she says, adding that fanny packs or crossbody bags are particularly useful for safely storing your belongings without sacrificing your ability to go hands-free.

Larger daypacks also come in handy on days when you’re heading to the beach and need to carry a bit more with you — namely, a packable towel and sunscreen.

Best Daypack

Cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack.

This vibrantly colored pack from Salt Lake City-based outfitter Cotopaxi earned our top pick for the best carry-on backpack, netting perfect scores when we tested for capacity, design, durability, comfort, and overall value. If you’re planning to travel with a suitcase, then this is the ideal companion to use as your personal item — it’s got a high 35-liter capacity and an unstructured style that makes it easy to stuff clothing and other belongings into every nook and cranny. If you’re setting out for the day, this has plenty of space for your lightweight towel, water bottle (even though there’s no designated holder), sunscreen, and more — and handles on all four sides for carrying convenience.

EINSKEY Unisex Sun Hat

Thailand’s average UV index is extraordinarily high (11-12), so in addition to frequent sunscreen application, it’s important to protect your face by keeping it out of the sun. This wide-brimmed hat will do just that. It’s made with a waterproof, sweat-wicking polyester blend that’s designed to keep you cool on hikes and beach visits, while mesh side panels help prevent sweat from gathering. We love that the material is easy to squish flat and pack, but retains its shape when shaken out a bit. The adjustable chin strap also comes in handy, both for a custom fit and for keeping track of the hat when you go inside temples, where you’ll need to remove it.

Best Sunglasses

Ray-ban mega wayfarer sunglasses.

Classic Ray-Ban Wayfarers are a sturdy and stylish classic for both men and women. They make excellent travel companions thanks to their durable, goes-with-anything design, and are flattering on pretty much everyone. We love this modern update on classic Wayfarers, which boasts a slightly thicker and more square frame. The straightforward nose bridge means there’s no need to worry about them getting caught in your hair when you take them on and off, and they won’t sit crooked. These also boast 100 percent UV protection, which is crucial given the intensity of the sun in Thailand. Grab them in a neutral shade that will match with your travel wardrobe — think black or tortoise.

Coolibar Women's Revilla Convertible Sun Wrap UPF 50+

A convertible wrap comes in handy on any trip, but is practically a must-have for a visit to Thailand. Beyond its incredible versatility, this one from Coolibar boasts UPF 50+ sun protection, meaning it helps block out 98 percent of the sun’s rays as you go about your day. It also doubles as a blanket when traveling on chilly airplanes, as a cover up at the beach, and most notably as a shawl when you’re visiting religious sites. We love that this one is made from Coolibar’s super soft ZnO fabric, which features cooling properties and zinc oxide protection.

Best Suitcase

Samsonite freeform carry-on spinner.

While backpacking is perhaps the most convenient way to get around Thailand, it’s not exactly everyone’s cup of tea — so anyone looking to travel with a suitcase instead should look to the Samsonite Freeform Carry-on Spinner. It beat out all 150 carry-on bags we tested, earning our top pick thanks to its generous capacity, durable thermoplastic shell, and smooth wheels. It’s easy to maneuver on two or four wheels, while the telescoping handle conveniently extends and locks with the push of a button. At just 5.6 pounds, it’s also easy to navigate with, whether you’re walking through Bangkok or taking an overnight train.

Best Day Bag

Notag waterproof crossbody bag.

 Amazon

Whether you’re heading to an elephant sanctuary or touring the kaleidoscopic labyrinth of Wat Phra Kew in Bangkok, it’s a good idea to keep your belongings secured to your person, particularly in crowded areas and tourist destinations. This budget-friendly crossbody bag is perfect for keeping your valuables safe and your essentials (like your travel-size sunscreen!) organized throughout the day — plus, it boasts a waterproof nylon construction. Inside, you’ll find plenty of zip and slip pockets for your phone, hotel key card, currency, and more.

You’ll want to keep things light besides packing your essential clothing, shoes, and an adapter — but certain toiletries are smarter to bring than to buy, such as sunscreen.

“We recommend travelers bring SPF-appropriate sunscreen to Thailand, as it is expensive to purchase locally,” says Leelakhajornkiat. She also suggests bringing any specific medications you take at home, whether prescribed or over-the-counter, as they may be difficult to track down in more remote locations.

While Thai pharmacies are easy to find and have just about everything you could need, it’s not a bad idea to come prepared with your own first-aid arsenal of sorts, including everything from motion-sickness medicine for bumpy ferry rides, to bug spray for the islands.

Best Adapter

Oneadaptr oneworld100 world adapter.

When traveling overseas, you never want to leave home without an adapter. Universal adapters ensure your devices will stay powered wherever you are in the world, allowing you to move freely between countries while minimizing your gear. If your Thailand trip turns into an extended exploration of Southeast Asia, you’ll be glad to have the OneAdaptr OneWorld 100 Adapter, which can charge up to five devices at once, including two MacBook Pro laptops at full speed, simultaneously. It boasts a universal AC outlet, two USB-C ports, and two USB-A ports.

Best Travel Towel

Sand cloud beach towel.

Portable and sturdy, this compact umbrella is absolutely essential for trips to Thailand during the rainy season, which tends to run from July to October. If you’re planning a trip during this time, it’ll pay off to be prepared for inclement weather with a packable umbrella and a rain poncho. This lightweight option is exceptionally waterproof, thanks to a Teflon coating that helps rain roll right off and ensures the material dries quickly. We also appreciate the automatic open-close feature, which keeps you dry in a flash when the skies open up unexpectedly.

Best Sunscreen

Mdsolarsciences spf 50 mineral creme.

There are plenty of toiletries you can buy once you get to Thailand, but sunscreen is one we’d recommend packing with you, as it can be quite expensive to purchase locally — and there will be fewer options if you’re looking for a specific SPF or sensitive-skin formula. Plus, the UV index is incredibly high year round, so it’s imperative to protect your skin throughout the day. Our pick is MDSolarSciences SPF 50 Mineral Creme, which earned a spot on our list of best travel-size sunscreens thanks to its absorbent, reef safe formula. It’s free of oxybenzone and octinoxate, which can cause coral reef bleaching — so you can feel confident diving into the vibrant waters of Koh Tao.

Best Bug Spray

Off family care insect repellent ii with picaridin.

Bug spray is a non-negotiable for a trip to Thailand, no matter the time of year. We love this small, family-friendly spray from Off!, which contains 5 percent picaridin — a dermatologist-recommended option, as it doesn’t give off the chemical smell of traditional DEET-based products. In our testing, it held up fantastically against heat and sweat, and never made us feel sticky. Plus, it fully protected us from bug bites, making this an essential for spending time on the beach or during a visit to the rainforest of Khao Sok National Park. Conveniently, it comes in a TSA-approved travel size, so you can easily bring it along in your carry on.

Tips for Packing for Thailand

Don’t forget rain gear.

Thailand’s monsoon season is no joke — the country sees heavy but brief storms throughout the summer, which can lead into a period of intense, all-day rainfall in September and October. A travel-ready umbrella is absolutely essential, while a rain poncho and waterproof shoes may also serve you well if you’re planning a trip during this time.

Remember your power adapter

While you’ll be able to find a power adapter in Bangkok, it may prove difficult to track one down on the islands or in more remote locations, warns Domdom. “Best to not forget this if you want to keep your phone charged!” she says. In general, packing an adapter like the OneAdaptr OneWorld 100 Adapter is the best way to go, as it’s capable of charging several devices at once and will keep your electronics powered up for all of your adventures. Just be sure not to leave it in your hotel room!

Bring lightweight garments to cover up at temples and religious sites

Local customs require shoulders and knees to be covered for exploring temples and religious sites, so you’ll want to pack an opaque scarf or cover up (sheer and gauzy won’t cut it) that you can layer over your outfit accordingly. A cover up is one of the most useful pieces you can bring to Thailand, as it can serve several purposes, from ensuring you’re appropriately dressed for religious site visits to adding some much-needed sun protection or acting as a blanket during the flight over.

While it’s best to bring one with you, most temples will have a shawl you can purchase to cover yourself in order to enter, says Domdom.

Can you wear shorts in Thailand?

When moving throughout cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai, wearing shorts is common and completely acceptable. They’ll come in especially handy for hot and humid beach getaways, when loose and lightweight clothing is practically essential. “Most venues do not have dress codes and smart casual or casual attire is widely accepted,” explains Domdom, who suggests visitors “use their best judgment when traveling.” If you’re planning any upscale dinners or nights out at a club, you’ll want to opt for something slightly more elevated — men in particular should opt for pants instead of shorts.

However, when visiting religious sites, it’s imperative to dress modestly for both men and women. Covering your shoulders and knees is required, so on days when you’ll be touring temples, it’s best to skip the shorts or bring a long skirt or cover-up to throw on over top.

Should I take a suitcase or backpack to Thailand?

Backpacking doesn’t have to mean hostel-hopping around the country — in general, carrying all of your belongings on your back is a great way to ensure you only bring the essentials with you. If you’re looking to go this route, we’ve rounded up a list of our tried-and-true favorite backpack brands , which can help you narrow down what qualities you’re looking for (namely, capacity and convenience).

While this is a great way to travel around Thailand, we’d suggest opting for a carry-on suitcase and a compact-yet-capacious daypack, like the combination of the Samsonite Freeform Carry-on Spinner and the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack we included here. For anyone who prefers to roll their belongings — or who may be planning a more luxurious getaway — a suitcase will feel more comfortable, and allow you more wiggle room to pack in souvenirs on the way home.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

For this story, T+L contributor Sophie Dodd spent hours researching the absolutely essential items for a trip to Thailand, from lightweight, neutral clothing to comfortable and versatile walking shoes. She also relied on her expertise as a travel writer and her own experience traveling through Thailand, considering what pieces were most versatile and those that she wished she’d brought along. Sophie also received expert advice from Rosemarie Domdom , the Director of Sales and Marketing at Rosewood Bangkok, and Minnie Leelakhajornkiat, a tour director for EF Ultimate Break Thailand, on cultural norms and what visitors typically wear throughout the year.

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9 things you should know before visiting Bangkok

Apr 25, 2024 • 6 min read

Make the most of your time in bustling Bangkok with our 9 insider tips © Witthaya Prasongsin / Getty Images

I moved to Bangkok in 1999, a time when most visitors to Thailand reluctantly did a night in this megacity before beelining to an island or the north. Synonymous with traffic jams, pollution and urban sprawl, the Thai capital was largely seen as an unwanted but obligatory stopover.

Decades later, things have changed and Bangkok is now the destination of choice for many visitors – with good reason. Easier to get around and cleaner than ever, with a vibrant eating and drinking scene that caters to just about every budget and an enviable spread of intriguing sights and fantastic-value shopping, the city has more to offer than ever before.

Yet like any big city, Bangkok has its quirks and surprises. Here's what you need to know before you go.

Find out what you should know in advance about Thailand , including important cultural, religious and legal issues, etiquette and health.

Bangkok is easier to get around than ever

Bangkok used to be synonymous with traffic jams and air pollution. The jams still happen, but the good news is that the city’s public transportation system has grown immensely. The various above and underground rail networks currently unite 10 different lines – with more in the works – and 192 stations, including trains linking both of Bangkok’s international airports and the city center.

On top of this, taxis remain ubiquitous and cheap – though subject to the issues that make the city’s traffic so infamous – while quirky public transportation systems such as the city’s river and canal taxis provide a slow but steady (and scenic) way to get around.

Crime happens but it's rare

Thailand has a low crime rate and is generally considered a safe country. Bangkok suffers from the same type of violent crimes as any big city, but anecdotally, is considered a safe place. Apart from occasional bag snatching and theft, the most dangerous thing in the city is its traffic (Thailand’s roads are some of the deadliest of any country). Solo women travelers and locals I’ve spoken to also report feeling safe in the city.

A particular Bangkok annoyance is scams directed at tourists. These typically involve taxi drivers who refuse to use their meters, or tuk-tuk drivers and/or well-dressed, English-speaking men who appear out of nowhere offering free tours that inevitably lead to dodgy gem shops or tailors. The good news is that most of these situations are easy to spot and relatively low-pressure; if something seems off, simply walk away.

It’s also worth noting that Bangkok’s police don’t have a great reputation. Steer clear of them unless you really need help.

Street food isn’t the only good food

Western chefs and food media have been raving about Bangkok’s street food for more than a decade. And it’s a fun, often delicious way to eat. But if you relegated yourself to street food alone, you’d miss the entire scope of Bangkok’s cuisine.

Supplement those streetside noodles with meals at the charming, decades-old restaurants in the old town – these are the places that get the most praise in the Thai-language media. In Bangkok’s newer districts, such as along Thanon Sukhumvit, consider a Japanese meal – the city is home to one of the largest populations of Japanese people outside of Japan.

If your budget allows, consider a splurge restaurant. While the rest of the world was obsessing over its street food, Bangkok's dining scene went in the opposite direction and today is home to several modern, cutting-edge upscale restaurants.

Sometimes it's too hot to handle

Bangkok is one of the hottest capital cities in the world, with an average mean temperature of 29°C (84°F). This heat is compounded by intense humidity and the urban environment, which reflects and retains heat, meaning the city often feels much, much ( much ) hotter. April is Bangkok's hottest month, with an average daily max temperature of 35°C (96 ° F) and during the “winter” in December and January, temperatures rarely dip below 20°C (68°F).

All of this means you shouldn't try to cover too much ground on foot – an already difficult task given the city’s lack of pedestrian infrastructure. If you do walk, learn the technique of regularly ducking into air-conditioned malls, hotel lobbies and 7-Elevens to cool off.

Likewise, pack light clothing, but remember – Thais are conservative when it concerns showing skin in public and Bangkok is not the beach.

Bangkok is a queer-friendly city

LGBTIQ+ people are made to feel welcome in Bangkok, which is generally considered Asia’s most queer-friendly city. The epicenter of the gay scene is Thanon Silom, especially in and around Soi 4, which is ostensibly Asia’s biggest queer nightlife area.

Thankfully, it looks like this queer-friendly vibe will extend to legislation. In 2023, the Thai parliament passed draft bills on same-sex marriage, which are expected to become laws, making Thailand the first country in Southeast Asia to allow same-sex marriage.

Keep in mind that public displays of affection between people of any gender are frowned upon in Thailand.

There are better budget options than Khao San Road

If you want to be based in the world’s most famous backpacker strip – and all that that entails – book a bed or room on Thanon Khao San, generally known as Khao San Road. It’s lively and fun, and provides easy access to the city’s old town.

But having moved slightly upscale in recent decades, Khao San Road no longer represents the best value area to stay in Bangkok. And with loud bars and a boozy vibe, it’s definitely not the most peaceful place to stay.

If you want to have access to the backpacker amenities but don’t want the noise and hassle, consider staying in the streets nearby, such as Thanon Rambutri or Thanon Phra Athit.

Monsoon season brings sudden surprises

During the annual monsoon, from approximately May to October, Bangkok’s streets occasionally turn into rivers. During this time of year, don’t be surprised if you have to camp out on an elevated street corner or in a 7-Eleven until the waters recede.

Malls are part of city life

While shopping malls are a dying breed in much of the west, they’re thriving in Bangkok. The city is home to some of the most over-the-top shopping centers in the world, which in contemporary Bangkok, have a dual function as (conveniently air-conditioned) social centers. Thais gather at the city’s more than 500 shopping centers to chat, eat, take selfies and occasionally make purchases, and so should you.

Bangkok essentially shuts down during the Thai New Year

Every year around April, Bangkok grinds to a halt during Thai New Year, known as Songkran or the water festival. The tradition has its origins in the cleansing role of water, but these days it essentially means that Bangkok becomes ground zero to a multi-day, raucous water battle.

Whether you're into it or not, you’ll be splashed with water and/or smeared with baby powder. Don’t even attempt stepping outside your door with your Sunday best on and don’t expect your favorite restaurant, or that museum or monument to be open (shopping centers, inevitably, will be operating). Discover more about Bangkok's festivals and seasonal attractions in our guide to the best time to visit the city .

Weed isn’t exactly legal in Bangkok

In June 2022, marijuana and hemp were removed from the Category 5 narcotics list in Thailand. However, there are still many restrictions and smoking marijuana in public is not legal and is not recommended.

Yes, there's a sex industry, but it's easy to avoid

“One Night in Bangkok” is indeed a reality. But if you steer clear of the main red-light zones at night – namely Thanon Patpong, Soi Nana and Soi Cowboy – it's likely you won’t even witness this side of the city.

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Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

There is no longer active cholera transmission and vaccine is not recommended.

Cholera - CDC Yellow Book

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Thailand.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to Thailand. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to Thailand.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

Japanese Encephalitis

Recommended for travelers who

• Are moving to an area with Japanese encephalitis to live
• Spend long periods of time, such as a month or more, in areas with Japanese encephalitis
• Frequently travel to areas with Japanese encephalitis

Consider vaccination for travelers

• Spending less than a month in areas with Japanese encephalitis but will be doing activities that increase risk of infection, such as visiting rural areas, hiking or camping, or staying in places without air conditioning, screens, or bed nets
• Going to areas with Japanese encephalitis who are uncertain of their activities or how long they will be there

Not recommended for travelers planning short-term travel to urban areas or travel to areas with no clear Japanese encephalitis season. 

Japanese encephalitis - CDC Yellow Book

Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine for US Children

CDC recommends that travelers going to certain areas of Thailand take prescription medicine to prevent malaria. Depending on the medicine you take, you will need to start taking this medicine multiple days before your trip, as well as during and after your trip. Talk to your doctor about which malaria medication you should take.

Find  country-specific information  about malaria.

Malaria - CDC Yellow Book

Considerations when choosing a drug for malaria prophylaxis (CDC Yellow Book)

Malaria information for Thailand.

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Rabid dogs are commonly found in Thailand. However, if you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other mammal while in Thailand, rabies treatment is often available. 

Consider rabies vaccination before your trip if your activities mean you will be around dogs or wildlife.

Travelers more likely to encounter rabid animals include

• Campers, adventure travelers, or cave explorers (spelunkers)
• Veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers handling animal specimens
• Visitors to rural areas

Since children are more likely to be bitten or scratched by a dog or other animals, consider rabies vaccination for children traveling to Thailand. 

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

Yellow Fever

Required for travelers ≥9 months old arriving from countries with risk for YF virus transmission; this includes >12-hour airport transits or layovers in countries with risk for YF virus transmission. 1

Yellow Fever - CDC Yellow Book

Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil

Clinical Guidance

Avoid bug bites.

Chikungunya

• Mosquito bite
• Avoid Bug Bites
• Mosquito bite

Leishmaniasis

• Sand fly bite
• An infected pregnant woman can spread it to her unborn baby

Airborne & droplet

Avian/bird flu.

• Being around, touching, or working with infected poultry, such as visiting poultry farms or live-animal markets
• Avoid domestic and wild poultry
• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Thailand, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Thailand. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Some diseases in Thailand—such as dengue, Zika, and filariasis—are spread by bugs and cannot be prevented with a vaccine. Follow the insect avoidance measures described above to prevent these and other illnesses.

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Thailand include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Leptospirosis, a bacterial infection that can be spread in fresh water, is found in Thailand. Avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Thailand’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Malaria is a risk in some parts of Thailand. If you are going to a risk area, fill your malaria prescription before you leave, and take enough with you for the entire length of your trip. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking the pills; some need to be started before you leave.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Thailand may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in Thailand, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

For information traffic safety and road conditions in Thailand, see Travel and Transportation on US Department of State's country-specific information for Thailand .

Traffic flows on the left side of the road in Thailand.

• Always pay close attention to the flow of traffic, especially when crossing the street.
• LOOK RIGHT for approaching traffic.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

To call for emergency services while in Thailand, dial 1669 for an ambulance, 199 for the fire department, and 191 for the police. Write these numbers down to carry with you on your trip.

Learn as much as you can about Thailand before you travel there. A good place to start is the country-specific information on Thailand from the US Department of State.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Thailand for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.

Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

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2024 BANGKOK TRAVEL GUIDE with Sample Itinerary & Budget

If backpacking were a college degree, Bangkok would have to be the 101 course.

Not only is Bangkok the the most visited city in the world, it also considered the global epicenter of backpacking culture. The famed Banana Pancake Trail, perhaps Asia’s most used travel route, often starts and ends in the Thai capital. No shock there, given that it sits at the heart of mainland Southeast Asia, boasts affordable prices, serves delicious local cuisine, and is home to some of the most hospitable people you’ll ever meet. Best of all, even during the pandemic, it remains tourist-friendly.

We have just arrived from our ninth — yes, 9th — Bangkok visit, and in this article, we’ll share with you all the tips and latest updates we’ve collected.

ESSENTIAL BANGKOK LINKS

Before we dive into the details, here’s a list of links to some of our recommended hotels, tours, attractions, and other must-haves, for easy reference in the future.

Top Bangkok Hotels Find Deals on Agoda! Top Day Tours on Klook Ayutthaya Day Tour Floating Market & Railway Market Tour Pattaya Day Tour Transportation Passes BTS Rabbit Card BTS One-Day Pass Internet Connection Data SIM Card Pocket Wifi

WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?

UNDERSTANDING BANGKOK

Bangkok is the capital and the commercial, economic, and political center of Thailand. The name Bangkok is an exonym, something that foreigners use. Thais call it Krung Thep (meaning City of Angels), short for its official name Krung Thep Maha Nakhon , which is also a shortened version of its full, ceremonial name: Krung Thep Mahanakhon Amon Rattanakosin Mahinthara Ayuthaya Mahadilok Phop Noppharat Ratchathani Burirom Udomratchaniwet Mahasathan Amon Piman Awatan Sathit Sakkathattiya Witsanukam Prasit.

At first glance, Bangkok appears as your typical highly-urbanized metropolis, but a closer look reveals it remains very much in touch with its past. The city’s roots as the capital can be traced back to 1782, when King Rama I, after the fall of Ayutthaya in 1767, ordered the people to move south and establish a new center at a more militarily strategic location along the Chao Phraya River. Many of Bangkok’s most visited attractions today were built under King Rama I, including the Grand Palace complex and the other temples that will be discussed in the guide.

Here are a few more facts you need to know:

• Language : Thai. For newly exposed non-native speakers, it can be quite intimidating, especially its lengthy words. It’s also a tonal language, i.e. the meaning changes with the tone. But many road and establishment signs are also written in Latin alphabet. English isn’t normally spoken. You’ll encounter taxi drivers and vendors who cannot speak English. But most younger locals can. And what the Thais lack in English fluency, they make up for with their friendly attitude toward tourists.
• Timezone: UTC+07:00 (ICT – Indochina Time), year round. No daylight saving time observed. Same time zone as Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos. Thailand, in general, is one hour behind the Philippines, Singapore and Malaysia.
• Currency : Thai Baht (THB, ฿). TTHB100 is roughly USD 2.89, EUR 2.72, SGD 3.9, PHP 161 (as of December 2022).
• Modes of payment : Cash. Although some restaurants and hotels accept credit cards, smaller establishments prefer cash.
• Religion: Buddhism is the predominant religion, practiced by almost 93% of the population. Most others identify with Islam, Christianity, Hinduism, Sikhism, and Confucianism.

WHERE TO STAY IN BANGKOK

Best area to stay.

Bangkok is a vast city, and many of the key attractions are spread apart. Thankfully, there are also plenty of neighborhoods that are ideal places to stay. What’s best depends on why you’re in Bangkok in the first place.

• If you’re on a budget , SIAM and SILOM have a good selection of hostels and budget hotels, especially the areas around BTS National Stadium Station or MRT Ratchathewi in Siam and BTS Sala Daeng and MRT Si Lom in Silom. From any of these, most of the attractions easily accessible, ensuring savings on transportation. Cheap food spots are also scattered around these districts.
• If you’re backpacking or after Bangkok’s wild nightlife, the KHAO SAN area should be your top choice. Khao San Road is loud, but it is where backpackers from around the world congregate. The area also harbors countless hostels and other lodging options for budget travelers. It’s also easily accessible from the Grand Palace and the city’s popular temples.
• If you’re here to shop ’til you drop , the PRATUNAM and SIAM areas are ideal because of the many bargain centers and shopping malls around.
• If you wish to experience modern Bangkok, the SUKHUMVIT area has a lot of dining, shopping, and clubbing options, including many of its famed rooftop bars. It’s also where most expats are based, creating a more cosmopolitan vibe.
• If you’re a foodie , SILOM and CHINATOWN are home to some of the best but affordable food spots in the city. Silom is the business district with the Lumphini Park, Bangkok’s largest green space, at its center, ensuring a balance between quiet and chaos. The BANGLAMPHU area (near the Democracy Monument and Khao San Road) also has a great selection of Michelin-listed pocket-friendly restaurants.

All these areas are conveniently located because there are BTS/MRT stations nearby. Well, almost. The only exception is KHAO SAN / BANGLAMPHU, which is a 30-minute walk away from the nearest BTS Station (Sam Yot) . But Khao San is close to a pier, where you can board a boat to get to key attractions along Chao Phraya River. Other than that, tuktuk and taxi are the main transportation options to and from Khao San. That said, I can still recommend staying there, especially if you wish to have a taste of Bangkok’s backpacking culture.

If you prefer to stay somewhere easily accessible, the SILOM and SIAM areas are my top recommendations. Both have a number of BTS/MRT stations and offer a little bit of every thing that the other districts have to offer — good food, shopping, and nightlife.

Top Budget Hotels & Hostels in Bangkok

Here are some of the top-reviewed hostels and budget hotels on Agoda that won’t break the bank:

• Tamni , near Hua Lamphong Station & Chinatown. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Daraya Hostel , Siam. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Siam Eco Hostel , Siam. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Kinnon Deluxe Hostel , Silom. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• HOSTEL URBY , Chinatown. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Baan Kun Mhor Hostel , Chatuchak. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• LOBSUEK Hostel หลบศึก โฮสเทล, Khao San Area. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• VIX Bangkok @ Victory Monument. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Lub d Bangkok Siam Hostel , Siam. Check Rates & Availability! ✅

Top Mid-Range/Upscale Hotels in Bangkok

If you have a bigger budget, here are the top properties on Agoda:

• Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok, Siam/Silom. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Carlton Hotel Bangkok , Sukhumvit. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Solaria Nishitetsu Hotel Bangkok , Sukhumvit. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Old Capital Bike Inn , Khao San area. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• ASAI Bangkok Chinatown . Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Ago Hotel Chinatown. Check Rates & Availability! ✅

Search for more Bangkok Hotels

How to get to bangkok.

Bangkok is one of the busiest and most connected cities in the world. If you’re living in a major city, chances are, there’s a direct flight from where you are to Bangkok.

The city is served by two airports:

• Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) , the newer and bigger airport, serving most airlines, except a few low-cost carriers. It’s situated east of the city proper, roughly 1 hour away.
• Don Mueang Airport (DMK) , serving mostly AirAsia, Nok Air, Thai Lion Air, and TigerAir Taiwan. It lies north of the city center, 45 minutes to 1 hour away, depending on traffic conditions.

Manila to Bangkok

If you’re flying from Manila, it’s easy to find direct, non-stop flights to Bangkok as multiple airlines operate this route. As of this writing, here are your options:

TO SUVARNABHUMI AIRPORT (BKK)

• Philippine Airlines
• Cebu Pacific Air
• Thai Airways

TO DON MUEANG AIRPORT (DMK)

• Philippines AirAsia

Travel time: 3.5 to 4 hours.

For our most recent visit, we flew with Philippine Airlines for many reasons:

• 30 kg check-in baggage allowance. Most other airlines only provide 20kg. Although we had been to Bangkok many times before, this would be the first time we intended to go shopping here. Bangkok is a retail paradise, so bargain hunters can easily have a field day at any of their shopping centers. It turned out to be a great decision because we really did use almost the entire 30 kg.
• FREE rebooking. There were a lot of uncertainties about this recent trip. When we booked our tickets, we still weren’t decided yet on how long we wanted to stay in Thailand. It was a multi-city trip and we weren’t sure if we also wanted to visit Chiang Mai and Koh Samui. We wanted more flexibility, just in case. As of this writing, PAL doesn’t charge additional rebooking fees if the new flight is within 60 days after the original flight. (But double check first because airline policies change often these days.) Fare difference still needs to be settled, though.

To compare ticket prices, you may search Skyscanner!

HOW TO GET TO DOWNTOWN BANGKOK

Just in case you missed it, Bangkok has two airports: Don Mueang Airport (DMK) , located 25 km north of the city center, and the new Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) , 30 km west of the city center.

We’ll be creating a more detailed guide about this. But here’s a condensed rundown of the ways to get to downtown Bangkok from either airport.

Suvarnabhumi Airport to Bangkok City Center

The AIRPORT RAIL LINK is the fastest way to get to the city proper because you’ll be dodging Bangkok’s infamous traffic jams. You can find the station at the basement of the airport’s passenger terminal. There’s a train every 15 minutes from 6am to 12 midnight (every 10 minutes within the peak hours).

It’s connected to the city’s BTS Skytrain at two stations: Makkasan (฿35) and Phayathai (฿45), the last station. Travel time: around 25 minutes.

Depending on where your hotel is located, you can switch lines.

• To SUKHUMVIT or SILOM Area: You can connect at either Makkasan or Phayathai Station. Find out the station closest to your hotel and transfer to either the MRT Blue Line at Makkasan Station (then to Petchaburi Station) or to BTS Sukhumvit Line (Light Green Line) at Phayatai Station.
• To SIAM Area: Alight at Phayathai Station and transfer to BTS Sukhumvit Line (Light Green Line). Catch a train bound for Kheha. Get off at Siam Station (or whatever station is closest to your final destination).
• To VICTORY MONUMENT Area: Connect at Phayathai Station and transfer to BTS Sukhumvit Line (Light Green Line). Catch a train bound for Kho Khot. Alight at Victory Monument Station.
• To KHAO SAN Area: Alight at Makkasan Station, transfer to MRT Blue Line at Petchaburi Station, and get off at Sam Yot Station. From here, take a cab, tuktuk or Grab to Khao San.

By Taxi or Grab

If you’re a group or if you have heavy luggage in tow, consider taking a cab or book a Grab car straight from the airport (especially if you’ll be staying Khao San area). If you opt for a taxi, always insist on using the meter.

Travel time: 45 minutes to 1 hour

TAXI RATES: Fare: around ฿400 Airport surcharge: ฿50 Highway toll fees: ฿75

GRAB RATES: ฿530 and ฿600, inclusive of toll fee or highway fee. This is based on the experience of our team.

Don Mueang Airport to Bangkok City Center

According to reports, the Don Mueang Airport was finally connected to Bangkok’s train network in August 2022. I say “according to reports” because we haven’t tried this ourselves yet.

From the airport, you can walk to the Don Mueang Station, along the SRT Dark Red Line . Board the train bound for Bang Sue and alight there, at the last stop. Transfer to the MRT Blue Line.

• To SILOM Area: Most stations in Silom are along the Blue Line, so just get off at the station closest to your hotel.
• To SIAM Area: Alight at Chatuchak Park Station and transfer to BTS Sukhumvit Line (Light Green Line) at Mochit Station. Catch a train bound for Kheha. Get off at Siam Station (or whatever station is closest to your final destination).
• To VICTORY MONUMENT Area: Connect at Phayathai Station and transfer to BTS Sukhumvit Line (Light Green Line). Catch a train bound for Kheha. Alight at Victory Monument Station.
• To SUKHUMVIT Area: The Sukhumvit area has a lot of stations that are either along the MRT Blue Line or the BTS Sukhumvit Line (Light Green Line). If the closest station to your hotel is along the Blue Line, it’s going to be easy because you’re already on the same line. If your hotel is closer to a Light Green line, alight at Chatuchak Park and transfer at Mochit Station. Then, board a train bound for Kheha.
• To KHAO SAN Area: Alight at Sam Yot Station (along the same Blue Line) and take a cab, tuktuk or Grab to Khao San.

If, for whatever reason, you do not like taking the train straight from Don Mueang Airport, you can also take the bus and the switch to BTS/MRT. And follow the steps above.

There are direct buses from Don Mueang Airport to select destinations around Bangkok.

• To MOCHIT BUS TERMINAL: Bus A1
• To BTS MO CHIT STATION: Bus A1
• To VICTORY MONUMENT: Bus A2
• To BTS RATCHADAMRI STATION: Bus A3
• To LUMPHINI PARK: Bus A3
• To KHAO SAN ROAD: Bus A4

Fare: ฿30-50 , depending on route

To see the complete list of stops, visit this page .

If you want a more straightforward journey, consider taking a cab or book a Grab car straight from the airport (especially if you’ll be staying Khao San area).

Travel time: 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic Fare: around ฿540 (including ฿50 airport surcharge)

If you opt for a taxi, always insist on using the meter.

POCKET WIFI AND DATA SIM CARD IN BANGKOK

Data Sim Card

This is the cheapest and most convenient option. Klook has two main options: TrueMove and dTac. Both offer:

• 15GB data for up to 16 days
• Internet connection anywhere in Thailand
• Inclusive of FREE call credits
• Pickup at Suvarnabhumi Airport or Don Muang Airport

✅ RESERVE TRUEMOVE DATA SIM HERE!

✅ RESERVE DTAC DATA SIM HERE!

Pocket Wifi

If your phone is locked to your home network or you have more devices to connect, you can rent a pocket wifi. You’ll find many wifi rental booths around Bangkok, but if you want to stay connected from the get-go, you can reserve one in advance via Klook and just pick it up at the airport, either at Don Muang Airport or Suvarnabhumi Airport.

If you’re coming from Manila, you can also get one at NAIA Terminal 3. Either way, they can accommodate up to five devices at one.

✅ RESERVE POCKET WIFI – BANGKOK PICKUP!

✅ RESERVE POCKET WIFI – NAIA PICKUP!

HOW TO GET AROUND BANGKOK

The Thais have their own address system and first timers in Bangkok can be easily disoriented. Wikitravel explains it really well: “Large roads such as Silom or Sukhumvit are thanon while the side streets branching off from them are called soi. Sois are numbered, with even numbers on one side and odd numbers on the other side. Thus, an address like 25 Sukhumvit Soi 3 means house number 25 on the 3rd soi of Sukhumvit Road.”

Although it is not as sweat-free as in Hong Kong or Singapore, commuting in Bangkok is quite easy. Vehicular traffic can get crazy during rush hour though. But if you’re used to the giant parking lot that runs across Manila called EDSA, you’ll be fine in Bangkok (or any other Southeast Asian city for that matter).

Getting around via public transportation means using one or more of these four modes:

• Train (BTS Skytrain/MRT) . Bangkok’s train system is fast and reliable, and will take you to many attractions throughout the city. I always find myself taking the train most of the time because many attractions are located close to a station. Also, it allows me to bypass traffic jams especially during rush hours. Although connected at a few stations, the BTS and the MRT are completely separate systems, run by different managements and use different tickets. The fares for both are similar, ranging from 16 to 52 baht. Most stations have a counter than can break your large bills and a ticket machine that accepts bills. For a more convenient journey on BTS, use a Rabbit Card (stored-value ticket) or a One-Day Pass (unlimited rides for 1 day).
• Boat . The two boat services operating in Bangkok are the Chao Phraya Express Boat, which plies up and down the Chao Phraya River and is popular among tourists for it stops at many of the city’s most popular landmarks; and the Saen Saep Express Boat, used mostly by locals who commute to work. The Chao Phraya boat is the best option for you if you intend to visit the Grand Palace complex (at Tha Chang) and Wat Pho (at Tha Tien), and Khao San Road (at Phra Athit) within one day! Both the Chao Phraya TOURIST BOAT and the cheaper ORANGE-FLAG BOAT will make a stop at these key tourist attractions. Fare: tourist boat, ฿50 single ride or ฿180 for day pass; orange-flag boat, ฿15 flat rate.
• Taxi/Grab . If my destination is too far from a train or boat station, I would just hail a cab. A ride costs more than in Manila but nowhere near the rates in Hong Kong or Singapore. The flagdown is 35 baht and the average ride within the city is probably around 100. You might encounter cab drivers who take advantage of tourists by not using the meter and then overcharging. If the driver refuses to use the meter, just get off the vehicle. Know that all cabs in Bangkok must use the meter. Many of these drivers wait for tourist passengers at the popular attractions like temples and Khao San Road.
• Tuktuk. I didn’t even bother. They are very expensive, even more expensive than cabs, and many (not all, but it’s hard to know) are involved in scams. If you really want to try for the heck of it, just agree on the price first.

THINGS TO DO IN & AROUND BANGKOK

Before we enumerate the many attractions waiting for you in Bangkok, allow us to introduce KLOOK PASS BANGKOK & PATTAYA . This ticket will give you up to 45% discount. The pass is valid for 30 days upon confirmation.

How it works is simple. With this pass, you’ll have access to a number of attractions. You get to choose how many and what these attractions will be. The first step is to choose how many attractions you want your pass to cover and purchase the pass. Once paid, you can go to the BOOKING section or your app or account, and redeem it. Say, if you purchase a 3-attraction pass, you can book up to 3 attractions from the list. Some attractions might also require you to reserve afterwards.

Here are the attractions in Bangkok and Phuket that you may choose from:

Mahanakhon Skywalk

Siam amazing park.

• Safari World
• SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World
• Madame Tussauds Bangkok
• Pororo Aquapark
• Sanctuary of Truth
• Dream World
• Frost Magical Ice of Siam
• Underwater World
• Ancient City Museum
• Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
• Grand Palace and Emerald Buddha
• Wat Pho & Wat Arun Walking Tour
• One More Thai Massage
• Chao Phara Princess Dinner Cruise
• Alcazar Cabaret Show
• Tiffany’s Show
• Bangkok Hop on Hop Off Bus

✅ CHECK RATES & GET PASS HERE!

How much you save depends on what you book. Regardless of the attractions you use it on, the price of the pass remains the same. So what we recommend is to use this pass on pricey attractions.

Here are examples on how you could save using this pass:

Grand Palace and Temples Tour

If you’re fit and you enjoy walking, you’ll be glad to know that many of the city’s key attractions are located within walking distance of each other. For example, Bangkok’s most popular temples and shrines, Chinatown, and even Siriraj Forensic Museum are easily accessible from the Chao Phraya River and can be easily visited in one day.

How to get there : If you’re from Silom, Siam or Sukhumvit areas, take the train to Saphan Taksin Station. Take Exit 2, and walk to the boat terminal. Buy a ticket and board a boat to either Tha Thien or Tha Chang. Boat fare is ฿50 if you board the tourist boat or ฿15 if orange-flag boat.

Here are the usual stops:

• Grand Palace. A complex of structures, pavilions, and courtyards including the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. The entrance fee also includes admission to “Khon: Thai Classical Masked Dance”. Boat stop: Tha Chang Pier (No. 9). Opening hours: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM (Ticket counters close at 3:30 PM). Entrance fee: ฿500.
• Wat Arun. Probably the most recognizable landmark in Bangkok with a 70m tall spire (called prang). Boat stop: Tha Thien pier (N8) and then cross the river on a smaller boat. Opening hours: 8:00 AM-6:00 PM Entrance fee: ฿100, inclusive of bottled water.
• Wat Pho. Famed for the enormous reclining Buddha that it houses. Boat stop: Tha Thien pier (N8) and then walk up the perpendicular road to Wat Pho. Opening hours: 8:00 AM-6:30 PM Entrance fee: ฿200, inclusive of bottled water.

Dress Code : The rule is to have your shoulders, knees, and heels covered. The following are not allowed:

• Shorts, short skirts, mini-skirts, tight fitting trousers
• Torn trousers/pants
• Sando, vests, sleeveless shirts
• See-through shirts

The management used to rent out pants to inadequately dressed tourists, but perhaps because of the pandemic, they only sell those now for ฿200 apiece.

Although it’s completely possible to pull this off DIY-style, it’s still much more recommended to join a guided tour so you have better appreciation of each site. These are historic and cultural landmarks that hold so much significance for the Thai people. You can book a guided tour on Klook, which includes all entrance fees, boat transfer fee, insurance, and the service of an English-speaking guide.

✅ CHECK ITINERARY & BOOK HERE!

Floating Markets & Railway Market

Aside from its ornate spires and temples, Bangkok is also best known for its floating markets. But the truth is, these boat-navigated markets are actually located outside the capital. Two of the most accessible are:

• Damnoen Saduak Floating Market in Ratchaburi Province
• Amphawa Floating Market in Samut Songkhram

A visit entails boarding a small boat as you negotiate the market canals. Plenty of souvenir and food options around!

Another market that has been attracting throngs of tourists is the Marklong Railway Market. Yes, railway, because it’s set up along the train tracks. And when a train chugs along, watch and be amazed by how the vendors make way for it. You can also spend an hour chilling at a railway cafe.

Klook has tours that combine Maeklong Railway Market with either Damnoen or Amphawa Market — your choice. There are several departure times available so choose the most convenient for you.

✅ CHECK RATES & OPTIONS HERE!

At 314 meters tall, King Power Mahanakhon is one of Thailand’s tallest buildings, housing a hotel, residential units and tourist attractions. From the outside, it looks like a pixelated skyscraper, a design that easily captivates. Inside, a multimedia elevator will take you to the highest outdoor observation deck in the country, allowing a magnificent view of Bangkok and surrounding areas.

But most visitors are here for the Skywalk. Atop the building is an area with a glass floor that you may walk on, creating a nerve-wracking but pretty mind-blowing experience.

You need to wear the shoe covers provided onsite before you’re allowed to step on it. And mobile phones (and other loose items) are NOT allowed within the glass tray area. This means that you won’t be able to take a selfie while on the glass. If you’re after photos, best to visit with someone else. Or if you’re traveling alone, make friends with other solo visitors and just take photos of each other.

Location: 114 1 Naradhiwas Rajanagarindra Road, Bang Rak, Bangkok Nearest Station: Chong Nonsi BTS Station Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday, 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Mahanakhon SkyWalk); Entrance Fee: Mahanakhon SkyWalk (Indoor & Rooftop) – Adult, ฿836; Child (3-15 y/o), ฿250; Senior (Above 60 y/o), ฿250.

Only a limited number of tickets are sold per day, so it’s best to book in advance. You can reserve online via Klook! You can also check out other Mahanakhon experience package options and choose the one that suits your preference.

✅ RESERVE A TICKET HERE!

Bangkok Nightlife

No Bangkok trip is complete without getting a taste of its (in)famous nightlife. We already mentioned Khao San Road , the backpacker mecca. It is crowded, loud, and wild. Thunderous music from nightclubs and the delicious smell of street food fill the air, while tourists fill every vacant seat, table and corner.

Aside from Khao San, Bangkok has several other nightlife districts! Most clubs and bars are safe, but as in any other major city, not all. Scams targeting tourists do exist at some establishments. You’ve probably heard about tourists entering a bar and then not being allowed to leave without paying a hefty price for a ridiculously overpriced drink.

If you want to try Bangkok nightlife and make sure you’re in good hands, you may join a guided tour. Klook has two main options: a bar hopping tour , more like a pub crawl, and a Hangover tour , where you get to visit the bars featured in The Hangover 2 movie (including a ping pong show)!

✅ JOIN HANGOVER TOUR HERE!

✅ BOOK BAR HOPPING TOUR HERE!

Dream World Bangkok

Bangkok has its fair share of theme parks, too! And on top of that list is Dream World , a 25-hectare adventure park featuring over 40 rides, shows, and other attractions, spread around four key zones!

Some of the most popular rides are the cable car, Sky Coaster (rollercoaster), Tornado, Vikings (pendulum ride), and Grand Canyon (water rapids)!

ENTRANCE FEE

• Dream World Visa (26 rides with unlimited time per ride EXCEPT Alien, Bump Car, and Haunted House, which can be enjoyed once only): ฿600
• Dream World Super Visa (includes all the rides for unlimited time): ฿1,000
• Children below 90cm : FREE

Opening Hours: Monday – Friday, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Saturday – Sunday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM. The schedule might change, so it’s best to check updated opening hours before going. Location: 62 Moo 1, Rangsit-Ongkharak Road (Km.7), Thanyaburi, Pathum Thani How to Get to Dream World: From Victory Monument BTS Station, take Bus No. 523 or 538 to Dream World.

Dream World is very popular even among locals, so you might want to book your ticket in advance to skip the line. You may also add transfers.

✅ GET SKIP-THE-LINE TICKETS HERE!

The Siam Amazing Park is the largest theme park in Thailand and is home to the largest wave pool in the world (according to the Guinness World Records). You can also enjoy exhilarating rides including Southeast Asia’s first suspended looping coaster with five inversions and the 7-story water slides.

Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM. The schedule might change, so it’s best to check updated opening hours before going. Entrance Fee: Adult, ฿1000; Child, ฿850; Children below 101cm, FREE. Location: 203 Suan Sayam Road, Khan Na Yao, Bangkok How to Get There: From Victory Monument BTS Station, head towards Ko Din Daeng Bus Stop via the circular skywalk, then take Bus No. 168 or 36ก to Siam Amazing Park.

Visitors must purchase their tickets at least one day in advance. You can book online via Klook! You can also choose the package — combine your ticket with an international lunch buffet or combine it with both lunch and shared transfer.

✅ GET DISCOUNTED TICKET HERE!

Ayutthaya Day Tour

Founded in the 1350s, Ayutthaya was Siam’s old capital before it was destroyed by the Burmese. Today, however, parts of its glorious past still shine through, especially at the Ayutthaya Historical Park, where four major temples stand up to this day: Wat Mahathat, Wat Phra Ram, Wat Phra Si Sanphet, and Wat Ratchaburana – the Royal Palace and Wiharn Phra Mongkol Bophit. It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1991.

Lying about 80 km from Bangkok, it is easily accessible and can be visited on a day trip. You can do this independently by taking public transportation and then hiring a tuktuk to tour you around. (We’ll write a separate post about it.) But if you need a guide and you want someone else to take care of everything for you, you can book with Klook.

✅ SEE OPTIONS & RESERVE HERE!

Pattaya Day Tour

Pattaya is another popular day trip destination from Bangkok, thanks mainly to its proximity, just around 150 km and roughly 2.5 hours away. The closest major beach destination to the capital, it is best known for water sports, island tours, and beach activities. But it also harbors some cultural structures like Wat Phra Yai Temple and the Sanctuary of Truth.

Jump-Off Point: Bangkok Eastern Bus Terminal/Ekkamai Bus Terminal or Mo Chit Bus Terminal (Bus); Hua Lamphong Railway Station (Train) How to Get to Pattaya: By bus, go to Bangkok Eastern Bus Terminal, then take the bus bound for Pattaya. The travel time is about two and a half hours. The one-way fare is ฿130-200 per person. By train, go to Hua Lamphong Station and get on a train to Pattaya. The travel time is 2-3 hours, depending on the type of train. The fare is ฿30-฿300, depending on the ticket class. The train for Pattaya normally leaves early in the morning — around 6:00 AM.

If you want a convenient roundtrip transfer between Bangkok and Pattaya, you can just join a guided tour. Klook offers Pattaya Beach and Koh Larn Coral Island Full Day Tour from Bangkok. This covers roundtrip transfers, an English-speaking guide, a Sanctuary of Truth ticket, insurance, and bottled water.

✅ CHECK RATES OR RESERVE HERE!

Muay Thai Match

If you’ve ever wanted to witness a live muay thai match, there’s no better place to make that happen than Bangkok! The two common venues are:

• Lumpinee Boxing Stadium 6 Ramintra Road, Anusawaree, Bangkok
• Rajadamnern Thai Boxing Stadium 1 Ratcha Damnoen Nok Road, Bangkok

You can secure your slot in advance and get discounted ticket by booking online through Klook!

✅ GET LUMPINI STADIUM MATCH TICKET HERE!

✅ GET RAJADAMNERN STADIUM MATCH TICKET HERE!

Other Attractions:

• Siriraj Medical Museum . Not for the faint of heart! Also known as the Museum of Death, it houses a huge collection of artifacts gathered in the 120 years of the Siriraj Hospital’s service as a pioneer in the medical field in the country. These pieces are divided into seven smaller museums dedicated to parasitology, anatomy, and forensic science among others. It’s a must-visit for dark tourism enthusiasts and those who simply wish to learn more about these fields. How to get there : Board the SkyTrain to S6 Saphan Taksin Station, take Exit 2, and hop onto a Chao Phraya Express Boat to Siriraj Pier N10 or Tha Rot Fai Pier, both on the west side of the river. Walk a couple of blocks into the hospital complex. Follow the signs to Adulyadej Vikrom Building. The museum is on the second floor. More info : Siriraj Museum
• iconSIAM . Opened in 2018, this massive shopping mall is one of the largest in Asia. It is bursting with retail shops including luxury labels and budget-friendlier options, and the first Takashiyama Department Store in the country. But it’s best known for its indoor floating market, mimicking those in nearby provinces and showcasing local products and cuisine. Nearest Station: Charoennakorn Station (Sky Train Gold Line via Krung Thon Buri BTS Station) or Saphan Taksin BTS Station (then ferry from Sathorn Pier to IconSIAM) Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday, 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM.
• Bangkok Chinatown . Popular for its shops, especially near Charoenkrung Road. But there are also temples around the district. To be honest, it’s not as grand or as visually arresting as Chinatowns in other countries, unless you visit during the Chinese New Year, when the district really comes to life. How to get there: Take the Skytrain to S6 Saphan Taksin Station (BTS Silom Line), take Exit 2, and walk to the boat terminal. Buy a ticket and board a Chao Phraya Express Boat. Alight at the Ratchawong Pier (N5) and make your way on foot from Ratchawong Road to Sampeng Lane and Yaowarat Road.

WHERE TO SHOP IN BANGKOK

Here are some of the best areas to satiate your inner shopaholic! We’ll be creating a separate, more detailed article about these spots in another post.

• Pratunam . Bangkok’s most popular shopping district. Between its busy alleys are even busier blocks filled with indoor and outdoor stalls selling mostly apparel and accessories. Smack at the heart of the area stand two massive malls — Platinum Shopping Mall and the Paladium World Shopping — both filled to the brim with bargain finds. Most of these specialize in wholesale, they also sell in retail quantities. How to get here : Take the MRT to Ratchaprarop Station and walk south from there. It should take around 10 minutes. Alternatively, you can also take the BTS Skytrain System and get off at Chit Lom Station.
• Chatuchak Weekend Market . If your visit in Bangkok falls on a weekend, squeeze this into your itinerary. This retail paradise is a labyrinth made of shops, once popular only to wholesale traders but eventually became a favorite attraction among tourists. Here you’ll find almost anything you can think of: from souvenirs to flowers to clothes to furniture to street food! Prioritize this over Pratunam. We found that most of the items in Pratunam are also sold here at a cheaper price. (That said, I think Pratunam has a much more diverse selection when it comes to apparel.) Nearest BTS Station: Mo Chit Station, take exit 1.
• Siam Square . Made more popular to foreigners as the shooting location for the hit movie The Love of Siam, Siam Square does not disguise itself with pretenses of being culturally significant. It is a shopping and entertainment district. Yet, if you think about it, it somehow represents a generation — a younger, more industrialized, more fashionable Bangkok. Catering mostly to college students and young adults, Siam Square comprises several blocks harboring a wide array of stores — over a hundred of ’em — apparel stalls, boutiques, bookshops, record stores, restaurants, cafes, even cinemas. How to get here : Take the BTS Skytrain System and get off at Siam Station.
• Ratchada (Train Night Market) . The colorful rows of tent stalls of Ratchada (New Rot Fai Market) will absolutely fill your stomachs with its wide selection of affordable Thai cuisine and international dishes— snacks, street food, sweets, exotic delicacies, and milk teas! The market also offers affordable clothing, accessories, shoes, and many more! Nearest Train Station: Bangkok MRT Thailand Cultural Centre Station. Take Exit 3, then walk towards Esplanade Mall. Ratchada is located just beside the mall. ⛔️ Opening Hours: As of this writing, Ratchada Night Market remains temporarily CLOSED!

WHERE TO EAT IN BANGKOK

We’ll be creating a more detailed version of this article soon. But in the meantime, here’s a quick rundown of our favorite places to eat in Bangkok.

• Thipsamai , where we had the best pad thai of our lives. It’s said to be the first store to serve the now ubiquitous noodle dish. It uses thinner rice noodles coated in shrimp oil. Michelin bib gourmand awardee Address: 313 315 Maha Chai Rd, Samran Rat, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand Bestsellers: Pad Thai, ฿105; Pad Thai with prawns: ฿150 Open: 10AM – 12MN for takeaway only; 5PM – 12MN, dine in & takeout
• Jeh O Chula (Jay Oh) , for the best affordable tom yum noodle soup! It’s crazy popular that queuing can take up to 2 hours, unless you arrive early. We arrived past 4pm, just in time for the opening. But barely 5 minutes after we arrived, the line grew quickly. If you could, reserve a table via Klook. Those who book with Klook have a separate line, which is much shorter. Reserve here! ✅ Michelin bib gourmand awardee Address: 113 ซอย จรัสเมือง Rong Muang, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand Bestsellers: Tom yum mama (spicy tom yum noodle soup), plain ฿150, with meatballs, squid, shrimps and crispy pork belly, ฿300; salmon salad, ฿300. Open: Daily 4:30PM-12MN
• Polo Fried Chicken , another Michelin-recognized establishment just across Lumphini Park in Silom area. It started out as a humble street stall but grew to become a proper eatery serving only a few Thai favorites. Address: 137/1-3,9 10 Sanam Khli Alley, Lumphini, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand Bestsellers: Fried chicken half, ฿130; som tam (papaya salad) with salted egg and dried shrimp, ฿80; pork larb/laap (spicy sour minced meat salad), ฿80. Operating Hours: Daily 7am-8:30pm
• Moo Yang Mae Sumontha , a hidden stall inside Chatuchak Market serving moo yang (grilled pork). But its version is roasted honey glazed, which is incredibly tender, succulent, and properly cooked. Address: 587 โครงการ 22 ซอย 4 /2ตลาดนัด จตุจักร 10 Kamphaeng Phet 2 Rd, Chatuchak, Bangkok Bestseller: Roasted honey glazed pork, ฿60 per 100g. Open: Weekends 8AM-6PM
• Kuang Heng Chicken Rice , established 1932. If you get hungry while shopping around Pratunam, this is the place to refill that empty tummy! It’s located just next to Platinum Mall and across the street from Palladium. Address: 930 Phetchaburi Rd, Makkasan, Phaya Thai, Bangkok 10400, Thailand Bestsellers: Hainanese chicken and deep-fried chicken, ฿50 (single); chicken/pork satay, ฿80 per 10 sticks. Open: Daily 7am-10pm
• Jay Fai , with one Michelin star and featured on the Netflix series Street Food . It’s so incredibly popular that we still haven’t been able to try it. It doesn’t accept reservations beforehand, so you need to show up and fall in line early to be considered for the waitlist. We attempted three times but the waitlist was always full by the time we arrived. Nevertheless, I’m adding it to this list so you could try it for yourself. Address: 327 Maha Chai Rd, Samran Rat, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand Bestsellers: Hainanese chicken and deep-fried chicken, ฿50 (single); chicken/pork satay, ฿80 per 10 sticks. Open: Wednesday-Saturday, 9am-9pm Closed: Sunday-Tuesday

USUAL PRICES IN BANGKOK

Below is the list of the prices of common items that you will need for a comfortable budget stay in Bangkok! Bear in mind that the figures are in Thai Baht.

FAST FOOD & CONVENIENCE STORE

• Bottled water (500ml): ฿6-12
• Bottle of softdrink (550ml): ฿20
• 7-Eleven rice meal: ฿40-55
• Big Mac (McDonald’s): ฿128

STREET FOOD

• Grilled meat: ฿10-30 per stick
• Pad thai: ฿50-60
• Noodle soup: ฿50-70
• Rice meals: ฿50-100

ENTRANCE FEES

• Grand Palace: ฿500
• Wat Pho: ฿200
• Wat Arun: ฿100
• Siriraj Medical Museum: ฿200
• Mahanakhon Skywalk: ฿836
• Dream World Bangkok: ฿575
• Siam Amazing Park: ฿650

TRANSPORTATION

• BTS/MRT fare: ฿16-52
• Taxi flagdown rate: ฿35
• Grabcar within the city: ฿100-280, depending on distance/traffic conditions

TOURS (with Transfers)

• Maeklong Railway Market + Damnoen/Amphawa Floating Market: ฿1356
• Ayutthaya: ฿1690
• Pattaya + Koh Larn: ฿2239

SAMPLE BANGKOK ITINERARY

Here’s a sample itinerary that you may use. We stayed much longer, but if you have only an extended weekend to spend in Bangkok, here’s something to consider.

Note that this itinerary assumes that you’re a party of 2 , splitting some of the costs, and that you’re staying at a hotel in Siam, close to BTS National Stadium Station. Feel free to adjust here and there to match your hotel location, flight schedule, and your travel preferences.

DAY 1: MAHANAKHON SKYWALK & JEH-O-CHULA 01:00 PM – Arrival in Bangkok – Pickup Data SIM Card & Rabbit Card 02:30 PM – Train to Phaya Thai Station ฿45 – Transfer to BTS to Siam, ฿25 03:00 PM – Walk to your hotel, check in, freshen up 04:00 PM – Train to BTS Chong Nonsi Station, ฿28 04:15 PM – Mahanakhon Skywalk, ฿836, Book here! – Chill and wait until sunset 07:00 PM – Train to BTS National Stadium, ฿28 07:15 PM – Walk to Jeh-O Chula 07:30 PM – Eat tom yum set at Jeh-O Chula, ฿350/pax, Reserve here! ! 09:00 PM – Walk or train to Siam, ฿22 09:30 PM – Back to hotel, lights out

DAY 2: DIY TEMPLES TOUR & KHAO SAN ROAD 07:00am – Wake up call 08:00am – Train to BTS Saphan Taksin Station, ฿37 08:30am – Walk to Sathorn Pier 08:45am – Board orange-flag boat, ฿15 09:15am – Get off at N9 Tha Chang Pier 09:30am – Grand Palace Complex, ฿500 10:00am – FREE Tour at Temple of Emerald Buddha 11:00am – Lunch, ฿100 12:00pm – FREE shuttle to Sala Chalermkrung Royal Theatre 01:00pm – Khon Performance (included in Palace ticket) 01:45pm – Walk to Wat Pho 02:00pm – Wat Pho, ฿200 03:30pm – Boat to the other side of the river, ฿5 03:45pm – Explore Wat Arun, ฿100 05:00pm – Boat to the other side (Tha Thien*), ฿5 05:15pm – Boat to N13 Phra Arthit, ฿15 05:40pm – Walk to Khao San Road 06:00pm – Dinner & drinks at Khao San, ฿400 09:00pm – Taxi/grab to Silom, ฿100/pax *Note: Tha Thien/Tha Tian Pier is temporarily closed for renovation, as of Dec 2022. For now, you may walk all the way back to Tha Chang and catch the boat to Phra Arthit Pier.

Day 4: SHOPPING, DEPARTURE A: If this falls on a weekend 08:00am – Wake up call, check out, leave bags 08:40am – BTS to Chatuchak Park Station, ฿42 09:00am – Shop at Chatuchak Market 11:00am – Lunch at Moo Yang Mae Sumontha, ฿120 11:30am – Continue shopping 02:00 PM – BTS back to hotel, ฿42 02:20pm – Back to hotel, pick up bags 02:50pm – BTS to Phaya Thai Station ฿25 – Transfer to ARL to Suvarnabhumi Airport, ฿45 03:30 PM – Flight check in 06:45 PM – Flight out B: If this falls on a weekday 08:00am – Wake up call, check out, leave bags 08:40am – BTS+ARL to Ratchaprapop Station 09:00am – Platinum + Palladium Malls 11:30 AM – Lunch at Kuang Heng Chicken Rice, ฿120 12:30pm – Continue shopping in Pratunam 02:00 PM – ARL+BTS back to hotel 02:20pm – Back to hotel, pick up bags 02:50pm – BTS to Phaya Thai Station ฿25 – Transfer to ARL to Suvarnabhumi Airport, ฿45 03:30 PM – Flight check in 06:45 PM – Flight out

If you follow this Bangkok itinerary, prepare to shell out ฿5000 (USD 144, EUR 136, SGD 195, PHP 7950) , excluding airfare and hotel but including a bit of allowance for wiggle room and to make up for any possible price adjustments and incidental expenses.

If you spend TH฿600 per night per person on accommodations, the same itinerary will cost you TH฿6800 (USD 197, EUR 185, SGD 264, PHP 10,800) , excluding airfare but with some allowance to cover adjustments and incidental expenses.

(If you’re coming from the Philippines, it doesn’t include the PHP1650 travel tax yet.)

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT BANGKOK

What are the covid-19-related travel requirements in thailand.

The Thai government has lifted COVID-19 restrictions for tourists. Travelers are only required to present the usual border requirements like passport (and visa if applicable). No proof of vaccination required.

But if your next destination is a country that requires an RT-PCR COVID test (like India and China), travel insurance is mandatory . It must cover the full length of intended stay in Thailand + 7 extra days.

* This section is as of January 2023

Is Bangkok safe?

Yes, Bangkok is generally safe and tourist-friendly. Of course, you should still use common sense at all times, and don’t flash your gadgets in the open or leave your valuables unattended.

My only frustration with Bangkok is that it has more than its share of scams targeting tourists, so always be careful.

What are the common Bangkok scams?

Bangkok’s scams are more organized than they appear. One widespread modus operandi involves people loitering by the gate of temples (or other tourist spots) and approaching tourists. I almost fell for this on my first trip. They are very friendly, and they usually introduce themselves as teachers. They claim that the site you’re about to visit is closed because it is a holiday and that they know a more beautiful place that is not on tourist maps. They then hail a random tuktuk (which isn’t random at all for the driver is part of the scam) and tour you around. You will be taken to a jewelry store selling overpriced gems and accessories. The tuktuk may also overcharge you for the ride.

Khao San Road is also rife with scams. You’ll find tourist agents selling all sorts of transportation tickets that turn out to be less than what they promise. For example, you’ll find plenty of “direct buses” to Siem Reap, but most of them are not really direct as they involve switching vehicles at one point during the trip. Worse, some of these buses stop at “travel agencies” that will sell you fake visa.

Patpong is also notorious for scams. You’ll be invited by barkers to a sexy club to see a “pingpong show” or other mind-blowing presentations, to say the least. They’ll say the show is free but you must order a drink. The catch is, the drink is ridiculously overpriced.

As in any other city, be careful and vigilant. If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

When is the best time to visit Bangkok?

November to February , when the temperature and precipitation levels are kind and low. But because of the pleasant weather, it is also the peak season. High season begins in November and ends in April, around Songkran Festival (Thai New Year, April 13-15). If you’re visiting within this period, prepare to share the city with millions of other tourists.

Bangkok could’ve been a year-round destination if it weren’t for the bouts of rain and flooding problems, which is why it is best to avoid the wettest months.

Rainy season is from May to October, but the wettest months are September-October. We have tried traveling to Bangkok in January, July, August, September, October, and November, and we can tell you that the precipitation level can definitely affect your overall travel experience. We’ve been stranded in some sites because of torrential rains and flooding and ended up wasting much of our time.

What is tipping policy in Bangkok?

Tipping is NOT mandatory in Bangkok, but it is surely appreciated.

When eating at sit-down restaurants, a tip of 10% of the bill should be fine. You can also just round off your bill. For example, if your bill is ฿135, you can leave ฿150. Same with cabs. If the meter is ฿105, round it off to ฿110 or ฿120. At hotels, you can give ฿20-50 to the porter who carries your luggage to your room, depending on the number of pieces. For a massage, tip ฿50. For full-day tour guides, at least ฿200 is alright.

Where to exchange money in Bangkok?

Bangkok has countless money changers, but most of them have poor rates, especially those at the airport. Trust me. I made that mistake and lost a lot in the conversion. If you really need to do so at the airport, exchange only a little or enough to get you to the city center.

At the city center, find a SuperRich Thailand branch. SuperRich has the best rates, make sure it’s a legit SuperRich branch.

What is the power socket used in Bangkok?

Most common sockets are sort of a combination of Types A and C. They have two holes that can accept both flat and round pins, the shape of two door knobs or rubber stamps facing each other. This type of socket can take plugs that are Types A, C, and F. If your plug has three pins, you will be needing an adaptor.

Do I need a visa to visit Thailand?

Foreigners holding passports issued by the Philippines, Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, United States, United Kingdom, Germany and 40+ other countries can enter Thailand visa-free , provided that they stay shorter than 30 days.

To see the complete list of countries, visit this: List of Visa-Free and Visa-on-Arrival Countries

However, visitors must have the following upon entry:

• a valid passport (with at least 6 months validity)
• return or onward ticket
• at least 10,000 baht per person or 20,000 baht per family or equivalent in other currencies, cash.

It will also help to have a hotel reservation .

Note that if you’re not arriving by air, you’re only allowed to enter Thailand twice per year.

Do I really need 10,000-baht show money at the immigration?

In theory, yes. It is the law. But it’s not implemented all the time. Lately, they have been a bit stricter.

Our team has been in and out of Thailand recently but none of us were asked how much we carry. But it would help to just comply, just in case.

The amount should be 10,000 baht per person or 20,000 baht per family.

It doesn’t need to be in baht. It can be any currency as long as it has the equivalent value.

Updates Log

2024•1•5 – Removed travel insurance for test-requiring next destination as it no longer applies 2022•12•21 – First up

More Tips on YouTube ⬇️⬇️⬇️

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I stumbled upon your travel blog website and I’m absolutely loving it! Your posts are so informative and inspiring, and they’ve given me some great ideas for my own travels. I especially enjoyed your recent post on Travel blog, and I can’t wait to see where you’ll take us next!

Thanks for sharing your experiences with the world, and keep up the amazing work! I’ll definitely be following along on your adventures.

Thank you so much for preparing this blog, Yosh!!! I cannot imagine the length of time it took you to lay out this information, so thank you! I appreciate it a lot now that I am in charge of our Thailand itinerary – it’s crazy!

Glad it was helpful. And yes, it takes us days (sometimes, weeks) to produce just one travel guide. But it’s always worth it!

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Travel Happy

Bangkok Guide: 55 Tips To Help You The First Time You Travel To Thailand

If you’re travelling to Thailand for the first time, you’ll probably arrive and stay in Bangkok to begin with. Here’s a collection of useful Travelhappy links that will help you get the most out of Thailand’s amazing capital city.

Having lived in Bangkok for the last three years, I’ve written quite a lot here on Travelhappy about this fascinating and exasperating city. Here’s a handy list of links to all the info I’ve written up previously that will help you if you’re planning a visit to Bangkok.

Bangkok Holiday Essentials

• Where To Stay In Bangkok: See our guide to the best areas and the best hotels to stay in Bangkok .
• Things To Do In Bangkok: Check this huge list of Bangkok activities that you can book online.
• Flights To Bangkok: Find the cheapest flights to Bangkok and flight times from scores of airlines with Skyscanner .
• Bangkok Packing List: Don’t forget to take any of the essentials with our comprehensive Packing List For Thailand .
• Travel Insurance: World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Claim online anywhere in the world.

This is definitely not a comprehensive guide of Bangkok tips and things to do – a Bangkok guidebook is still the best place to look for that – but hopefully you’ll find my own take on Bangkok useful for planning your travels. It’s also wise to arm yourself with a proper map of Bangkok , even if you’re using GPS on your phone – a paper map gives you an instant overview of the city.

As ever, leave a comment to share your own Bangkok tips or if there’s something you need to know that’s not already been covered.

Before you arrive in Bangkok:

• How much money will I need for travelling in Thailand
• Thailand Backpacking: a quick guide
• How To Budget For A Backpacking Trip
• Bangkok On 30 Dollars A Day
• Where to find cheap flights to Bangkok
• Seven Reasons To Go Travelling Solo

Guidebooks and Maps

• The best Bangkok map
• Bangkok Scams and How To Avoid Them
• Taxi and bus prices from Suvarnabhumi Bangkok Airport to downtown Bangkok and Khao San Road

Check Hotel Availability And Pricing

Destination, check-in date, check-out date.

Bangkok Itineraries

Fit the most into your days in Bangkok with Travel Happy’s carefully planned out Bangkok itineraries

• 1 Day In Bangkok Must See Itinerary
• 2 Days in Bangkok Itinerary
• 3 Days In Bangkok Itinerary
• One Week in Bangkok Itinerary
• One Week in Bangkok and on the Beach Itinerary
• One Week in Bangkok and the Mountains Itinerary

Bangkok Area Guide

There are numerous areas of interest to travellers in Bangkok – here’s my key highlights of each Bangkok area to help you figure out where to go

• Bangkok Riverside
• Rattanakosin
• Khao San Road
• Lower Sukhumvit – Nana And Asoke
• Central Sukhumvit – Thonglor, Ekkamai And Phrom Phong
• Upper Sukhumvit – On Nut, Phrakanong, And Beyond
• Siam Square, Ratchaprasong and Ploen Chit
• Silom And Sathorn
• Victory Monument
• Ratchadaphisek

Bangkok Hotel Info

• Booking hotels in Bangkok online
• The best cheap hotels in Bangkok around Khao San Road
• Boutique Hotels In Bangkok and see the dedicated website Boutique Hotel Bangkok to easily compare Bangkok’s top 20 boutique hotels
• The Sukhothai – review of my stay one of Bangkok’s super luxury hotels
• The Davis – review of more affordable hotel my parents rated
• Finding Cheap Long Term Accommodation in Bangkok

When you get to Bangkok:

• Bangkok Airport Real Time Flight Information
• Getting Around Bangkok
• How to put a Thai SIM card in your mobile phone
• Reading Email On Your Mobile Phone With Gmail While In Thailand

Things to do in Bangkok:

• Bangkok Longtail Boat Canal Klong Tour
• Grand Palace of Bangkok
• Giant Reclining Buddha of Wat Po
• Vertigo – Highest Open Air Bar In Asia
• Three Sixty Bar, Bangkok Millennium Hilton
• The Mystery Of Jim Thompson’s House
• Bangkok Markets
• Bangkok Shopping Malls
• David Beckham Temple
• Visiting Prisoners In The Bangkok Hilton
• Bangkok’s Green Spaces

Food In Bangkok

• Thai Cooking Classes In Bangkok And Chiang Mai
• Where To Find The Best Food In Bangkok
• Bangkok Restaurant Guide
• Thailand Wines Worth Drinking – Monsoon Valley
• iPods in Bangkok – are they cheaper?
• Buying digital cameras in Bangkok
• Buying Computer Memory (RAM) In Bangkok
• Bangkok Bookshops – A Quick Guide

Bangkok Day Trips

• Bangkok Bike Rides
• Tiger Temple
• Ayutthaya, Thailand’s Ancient Capital

Leaving Bangkok

• Bus To Bangkok Airport From Khao San Road – Where To Catch It
• Thailand Airport Departure Tax (there is none anymore!)
• Thailand Overstay Info (do NOT overstay your visa)
• Angkor Wat from Bangkok
• Budget Flights from Bangkok to Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
• How To Get A Vietnam Visa in Bangkok
• How To Get A Myanmar Visa in Bangkok
• Cheap Flights From Bangkok to Jakarta
• Cheap Flights from Bangkok to Manila

Travelhappy Travel Guides

• Bangkok Travel Guide
• Living In Bangkok Guide
• Cambodia Travel Guide
• Hong Kong Travel Guide
• Indonesia Travel Guide
• Laos Travel Guide

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Travelhappy may be compensated for any bookings made through Agoda.com, Booking.com, Skyscanner.com, WorldNomads.com, GAdventures.com and any other commercial travel organisation featured on this website.

World Nomads provides travel insurance for travellers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

Love and Road

Ultimate Travel Guide For Your First Time in Bangkok: What to do & Where to Stay 

Some of our links are affiliated, we will earn a commission when you buy a service or product. This will have no extra cost for you. For further info please refer to our Privacy Policy

Feeling overwhelmed while planning a trip to Bangkok? No worries. We are here to help you out!

Visiting Bangkok for the first time can be overwhelming, and planning a trip to this bustling city is a real challenge. Thailand’s capital is a mix of ancient culture, food paradise and shopping heaven, but to get it right is not that simple.

After so many emails from readers asking us to help them plan a Bangkok itinerary, we decided to list the best travel tips for your first time in Bangkok: what to do and where to stay.

This is the ultimate travel guide to Bangkok [a long one], with all the top attractions, the best places to stay in Bangkok, how to get around, scams to avoid, and local experiences.

B angkok has been our “home” in Southeast Asia for more than a year, and every time we stay there we discover new things to do in Bangkok. But we also love to visit the traditional attractions, places that make Bangkok such an iconic city.

There are tons of things you need to do to organize your first trip to Bangkok.

Have you booked your flights to Thailand? Not yet?! You can find the best prices and connections at  Skyscanner .

Did you organize your travel documents? No!! Before flying check all the  documents you must have for an international trip to avoid any problems.

Now back to our travel guide to Bangkok, what to do on your first trip to Thailand! We are going to start with things to do in Bangkok, attractions that you can fit in a 4 or 5 days itinerary. So sit back, relax, and let’s plan your first trip to Bangkok!

When is the best time to travel to Bangkok?

First of all, it’s always a good time to travel to Bangkok, but some seasons are better than others, and here is why.

Plan your trip to Thailand during the dry months, from November to February.

From March to June it is the hot, super hot season, but if you have the chance to be in Thailand around April go for it! A festival called Songkran (the Thai New Year) happens around this time of the year and it is an amazing celebration!

The rainy months last from July to October which is called the monsoon. The monsoon is not so bad, we have been in Bangkok during all seasons and the hardest one was the summer. The only thing is that gonna rain every day, but not the whole day. If you are planning to go South to the Thai islands then it might not be the best time.

First time in Bangkok: Where to Stay?

Before we talk about what to do on your first time in Bangkok and places to visit, let’s talk about accommodation, another challenge for your Bangkok itinerary.

The city is huge and offers a wide range of hotels, hostels and apartments for rent. How to choose the best place to stay in Bangkok for the first time? Don’t panic, we are here to help and to point out the best areas to stay in Bangkok:

> Silom – Sathorn Area

This is the business area of Bangkok, with good restaurants, shopping malls and close to Lumpini Park. It’s one of the best places to stay in Bangkok for the first time because it’s close to many attractions and it’s connected by the BTS (Skytrain) and MRT (underground metro). With all these facilities and a premium location, hotels in Sathorn tend to be a bit more expensive, but great!

Two of my favorite 5-star hotels in Bangkok are located in Sathorn. No words to describe the impeccable service and classy décor of  Oriental Residence Bangkok, we had a romantic stay there and loved it.

Another great option is the  So Sofitel .  With a design that mixes French haute couture and Thai heritage, So Sofitel is artistic, fashionable and funky. It’s not your regular 5-star hotel, it has a unique twist and one of the best views from Bangkok.

To help you choose the best place for your first trip to Bangkok we put together some  good options for mid-range hotels and also  some boutique hostels in Sathorn, check them out and book your favorite.

> Pratunam Area  

This is the best place to stay in Bangkok for shopping! All the malls and streets stalls are at your doorstep. It’s one of the most touristic areas in Bangkok, and also a place you can find any type of accommodation, from luxurious hotels to budget rooms.

Around Pratunam, we loved  Amari Watergate Hotel , it is modern, super comfortable, surrounded by shopping malls, near the BTS line and even closer to the Airport Link train. It’s a perfect option if you want to be in the middle of the action and still have a perfect place to relax. We stayed in the  Executive Suite , and enjoyed the happy hour with free drinks and food at the Executive Lounge. Wasn’t enough to convince you? Check out the post we wrote about our  experience at the Amari Watergate .

Here is a list we made with more options of hotels in Pratunam area .

> Sukhumvit Area

Sukhumvit is a huge avenue that goes from West to East in Bangkok, but there is a particular area that is famous for shops, restaurants, bars and good hotels. We are talking about the area between the Nana and Phrom Phong BTS stations.

There you can find thousands of hotels from luxury to budget, from international brands to local boutique hotels. If you fancy a local hotel with a comfy and modern style,  Citrus 11 (book here with  Booking.com or  Agoda ) might be a good option. 

Novotel (book here with  Booking.com or  Agoda ) also has a superb location at Sukhumvit 20, right off Ekkamai BTS station with stylish rooms.

If you are looking for a spacious and fancy stay, S31 Hotel (book here with  Booking.com or  Agoda ) has double-floor apartments overlooking the city. We made a list of the  best hotels in Sukhumvit area, pick your favorite and book now .

> Chinatown

It’s not a common option for travelers visiting Bangkok for the first time, but it can be an incredible experience if you choose the right hotel.  Shanghai Mansion Bangkok is a good example of a unique experience in the middle of multicultural Bangkok. 

Chinatown is also the address for many 3 and 2 stars hotels , you can save up on accommodation and spend on the delicious food you will find around the neighborhood.

> Chao Phraya Riverside

This is the premium address in Bangkok, the banks of Chao Phraya River are filled with top hotels and boutique guesthouses. It’s one of the best areas to stay in Bangkok, and also one of the most expensive. 

The Peninsula ,  Shangri-La ,  The Siam ,  Mandarin Oriental ,  Royal Orchid Sheraton ,  Chatrium and Sala Rattanakosin are just a few of the international hotels lined up on the riverside.

> Khaosan Road

Khao San Road and Rambutree Street are known for being the cheapest area to stay in Bangkok. I agree and disagree, I would say that Khaosan Road is the best place to stay in Bangkok if you want to be surrounded by bars, and street food, close to the historical attractions and experience the backpacker scene. It’s not only about budget because you can find cheap and good hotels all around Bangkok.

The problem with Khaosan is that not all the hotels are as good as they seem on the website. What looks like a cozy & clean room, can be a dirty cubicle, without windows and full of cockroaches. Of course, there are good places in Khaosan,  our favorite is A&A Homestay , clean, comfy, and good value for money, and breakfast included.

Need more options for budget places to stay? Check out our  suggestions for hotels for your first time in Bangkok, and in Khaosan Road .

First time in Bangkok: what to do?

Most of the top attractions in Bangkok are temples or religious sites, my advice for your first time in Bangkok is to visit the main temples and the Grand Palace on the same day.

The sights are quite close to each other, and as you need to dress respectfully [cover your shoulders and wear long skirts or pants] it makes sense to schedule them on the same day of your Bangkok itinerary.

There are hundreds of temples in the city, we will recommend the most famous and most beautiful ones, attractions that you need to visit on your first trip to Thailand.

A quick tip to help you enjoy Bangkok safely and save money :

To see different sides of Bangkok and SAVE MONEY on the way, get your  Bangkok Day Pass !

It’s a digital pass that gives you access to attractions (like the incredible Mahanakhon Skywalk), restaurants, boat transportation, tuk-tuk- tours, massages and more. It’s way cheaper than if you would pay for each activity separately.

We used the Bangkok Pass and loved it ( here is a video of our itinerary ).

If you like the city pass idea, they also have the Phuket Day Pass ( here is our video traveling with it) , Chiang Mai Day Pass , Chiang Mai Premium Pass , Ayutthaya Day Pass , and Pattaya Day Pass.

The activities, attractions, restaurants and benefits in each city are different, so it’s worth checking them out.

Now let’s go back to our Bangkok Guide. 

> Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew

This is the number 1 attraction in Bangkok. To avoid tourist crowds you better wake up early in the morning. The complex is huge, inside the Grand Palace you can visit the famous Wat Phra Kaew and the Emerald Buddha, plus the gardens, the Royal offices, amazing statues and Thai designs.

The Grand Palace is open daily from 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM, and a quick visit can take more than two hours, so be prepared for long walks. Check the Grand Palace website for prices, location and about the dress code. If you want to make your first visit to Bangkok a learning experience, you can rent an audio guide at the entrance and follow the history behind each temple and building of the Grand Palace.

> Wat Pho and the Reclining Buddha

Wat Pho is right beside the Grand Palace, and it’s one of Bangkok’s main attractions. If you wake up early, you can visit the Grand Palace and Wat Pho on the same morning, it’s a smart way to save time on your first trip to Bangkok.

Wat Pho is another vast complex, with many corridors, stupas, statues, and a nice garden. The biggest attraction is the Reclining Buddha, 15 meters tall for 46 meters long, all covered in golden leaf, impressive!

The Wat Pho Temple is open every day from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, for more info on how to get there, the entrance fee, and about the Thai Massage University that is located inside the temple, check the Wat Pho official website.

> Wat Arun

On your first time in Bangkok, you must visit Wat Arun, also known as the Temple of the Down. You will be mesmerized by the beauty of the temple. On the banks of the Chao Praya River, Wat Arun is almost in front of Wat Pho, and to get there you need to catch a public ferry that crosses the river.

It’s a great experience, especially if you climb the 67 meters high pagoda. The stairs are steep, but the view from the top is simply stunning. The Wat Arun is open daily from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM.

If you are tired of walking but still want to admire the beauty of Wat Arun, grab a table at the  Sala Rattanakosin Rooftop bar and relax while watching the sunset. The sun sinking behind the temple will be a highlight of your first time in Bangkok!

> A personal recommendation:  Wat Ratchanatdaram

It’s not the most famous temple or attraction in Bangkok, but in my opinion, it should be. I love the architecture and design of this temple, especially at night-time when it is all lit up. The temple opens daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM and it’s free entrance.

> Floating Market, the real one, not the tourist trap!

Boats full of fruits and veggies, people trading on the banks of the canals, the smell of Thai food in the air… This is what you get when visiting a traditional floating market in Bangkok . But not all the floating markets are worth the visit, some of them are real tourist traps. As all the floating markets are outside Bangkok, you must go on a tour or use a guide to take you there. The problem is that most of the tours will take you to most tourist markets, with boats full of tourist groups, souvenirs, and selfie sticks.

We have visited some floating markets in Bangkok, and I was kind of disappointed, until my last experience. We choose a tour called  A Perfect Floa ting Market Day with TakeMeTour [click on the tour name to see the details], and we loved it. The name of the tour set some high expectations, but Maitree [our guide] and his family didn’t disappoint us. If you are traveling to Bangkok for the first time, this is the type of experience you need to have, a proper introduction to Thai culture.

Maitree is an enthusiast for Thai culture and food. We met him at the BTS station and headed together to the Klong Lad Mayom floating market. After a few minutes’ drive, we parked on a dirt road, full of people carrying shopping bags, kids playing and enjoying their Sunday.

The smell of food, the color of the fruits, and the sizzling sound coming from the wok pans were amazing. It was a sensorial experience, delicious in every sense, perfect for a first time in Bangkok. The wet market on the canal banks was just the beginning. After tasting some Thai sweets we caught a longtail boat and started a tour through the canals. Our first stop was on a temple, where we witnessed a ceremony and even received a blessing from a monk!

Our guide explained everything about the ritual, how we should behave, and what the monk would do. So we took off our shoes, grabbed an offering to the temple, and got down on our knees. A unique moment that made me feel close to the Thai culture, a moment while we didn’t feel like tourists, but actually like locals, surrounded by friends and families.

Then the boat kept navigating through the narrow canals, with twists, turns and some water splashing. Our second stop was in an Orchid Garden and then we headed back to the market. On the way, we passed by boats with monks, people selling food along the canal, and some wooden Thai houses that were truly masterpieces.

Book your floating market tour in Bangkok here!

Back at the market we bought takeaway food and headed back to Maitree’s grandma’s house, a traditional Thai house overlooking one of the many rivers in Bangkok. And there she was, Grandma, 81 years old, wearing a big smile and eyes full of wisdom. I didn’t speak any Thai, she couldn’t speak English, but we got along very fast.

She heated up the wok, and started cooking Pad Thai [one of my favorite Thai dishes], showing me the ingredients, how to maneuver the pan, and stir fry the prawns and noodles. She made everything looks so easy and yummy.

Then it was my turn at the wok, and show that a Brazilian girl can also cook Pad Thai. The heat from the fire, the hot pan that I had to hold, the endless stir-frying moves made me sweat. But yes, I cooked a Pad Thai, not as fast as grandma, but delicious. We recorded a  video of my cooking skills , check it out! We had a feast: Pad Thai, grilled fish, papaya salad, fish tartar, tropical fruits and Thai sweets. A table full of flavors and laughs, an amazing experience.

So now you know, on your first trip to Bangkok, you must do it right, visit a real floating market, and learn how to cook a Pad Thai. Book a tour that will be worth your money and time, and that will give you memories for a lifetime.

The address for delicious food, interesting shops and a truly Chinese vibe. Chinatown is a different world , especially if you venture beyond Yaowarat Road. Explore the streets and alleys, visit the temples, try street food and desserts. Visit the shops to buy tea, herbs and a lot of strange stuff that you can only find there. Arrive in Chinatown before 5:00 PM and visit the Wat Traimit Temple , there you can see the largest gold Buddha in the world, 3 meters wide and 3.91 meters tall. It’s beautiful! Check out this video:

> Jim Thompson House

A travel guide for the first time in Bangkok won’t be complete without a visit to the Jim Thompson House. In the middle of the busiest area of Bangkok, the house/museum is like an oasis, full of green, arts, and legends. Go there to admire the silk work and legacy of Jim Thompson, and also to discover the conspiracy story behind his life in Thailand.

> Lumpini Park

In the heart of Bangkok, Lumpini Park is a green escape for locals and tourists. My suggestion is to go there early in the morning, around 7:00 AM, so you can admire the groups doing Tai Chi Chuan with swords, yoga classes for all ages, people exercising in the middle of the garden, and the huge monitor lizards strolling around the park.

> Chao Phraya River

On your first time in Bangkok, you must cruise on the Chao Phraya River. There are plenty of ways to do it: private longtail boat tour , dinner cruise , or even on a normal  public transportation boat . It all depends on how much you want to spend and what kind of experience you want to have.

If you are looking for something more romantic on your first time in Bangkok, go on a private longtail cruise. The best is to book it in advance via GetYourGuide, or you can go to the Sathorn-Taksin Pier [Central Pier], where you will find many boats waiting for tourists. Don’t forget to negotiate the price.

Another option is to hop on the Chao Phraya Express Boat and commute along the river with other tourists and locals. The blue flag boat is the tourist route, and the yellow or orange flag is the regular public transportation.

> Muay Thai, The Thai Boxing

More than a sport, Muay Thai is a tradition in Thailand. If during your first time in Bangkok, you want to watch a real Muay Thai fight go to Lumpinee Stadium or Rajadamnern Stadium. Check on their website the dates/time of the fights, and book the ticket online. Please, don’t buy tickets from any vendor in front of the stadium, only at the ticket booth. There are plenty of scams happening there, you can end up paying twice as much or getting a fake VIP ticket.

> Khao San Road

This is one of the most famous addresses in Bangkok. Khao San Road is known for the backpackers’ scene, the bars, cheap drinks and street food. Some people love it, others hate it, that’s why on your first time in Bangkok you must go there and see it by yourself.

If you want to buy souvenirs this is one of the best places to go in Bangkok. During the day the street is packed with shops selling all types of crafts, clothes, tours, tattoos and much more.

At night time, the bars stretch their tables and chairs over the street and Khao San Road turns into a big party.

> Rooftop Bars in Bangkok

Bangkok has fine dining, international cocktails and views to die for. My recommendation for your first time in Bangkok is to go to a rooftop bar at least for one night. Be prepared to spend more than usual and dress nicely.

The best rooftops in Bangkok are Vertigo and the Moon Bar at Banyan Tree Hotel, Sky Bar – Lebua at State Tower [that became famous after the movie Hangover 2], Octave Rooftop Bar at Marriott Hotel, and the traditional ThreeSixty at the Millennium Hilton Bangkok. You must book a table in advance if you want to have dinner at one of them.

There are plenty of rooftop bars in Bangkok that are less famous, less crowded and less picky with the dress code than the ones I mentioned above. I love the Park Society at SO-Sofitel . It has a jaw-dropping view of Lumpini Park and the Bangkok skyline, a beautifully decorated place and great cocktails.

We are halfway through our first-time guide to Bangkok. Now it’s time to talk about markets and shopping malls, because on your Bangkok itinerary, you will be able to shop till you drop!

First time in Bangkok: where to shop?

In Bangkok, you can find shopping centers and markets for all tastes and pockets. From vintage clothes and antiques to trendy Asian designers and international brands. Bangkok is a shopping paradise. But before hitting the modern shopping malls, there are two traditional Thai Markets that you need to visit on your first time in Bangkok.

> Chatuchak, the biggest market in Thailand

Chatuchak is one of the biggest weekend markets in the world, a complex that covers a 35-acre area, with more than 8 thousand stalls, and on normal days over 200,000 visitors will be shopping there.

A visit to Chatuchak Market is a must on your first time in Bangkok. What to do when you arrive there? Try not to get lost and buy a lot of cool stuff! Clothes, furniture, crafts, food, and home wear, they even have a section for plants and a place to sell animals.

Chatuchak is insanely huge! It’s open on Saturdays and Sundays, from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM , go early in the morning to avoid the crowds and the heat.

> Pak Klong Talad, The Bangkok Flower Market

A universe of colors and scents, the  Flower Market in Bangkok is an intense experience, but sadly many travelers that visit Bangkok for the first time don’t go there. The market is open 24 hours, but it gets really busy after midnight. If you don’t want to miss your bedtime, go to the flower market around 7:00 PM and you will be able to see the ladies working on the bouquets and garlands.

> Siam Paragon, MBK, EmQuartier and much more…

The best places in Bangkok for shopping are around Sukhumvit Road. There you will find  Siam Paragon , Central World , MBK [the electronic paradise], and the super posh EmQuartier . Sukhumvit is also the address for bars and nightclubs, so keep in mind that during your first trip to Bangkok, you should spend a couple of hours there.

> Asiatique

Asiatique is a complex of restaurants, shops and fun, all in a trendy open-air mall built on the south banks of the ChaoPhraya River. To get there the best option is to go to Sathorn – Taksin Pier and from there get the free shuttle boat to the mall.

First time in Bangkok: what to do when you arrive?

You’ve made it to Bangkok and arrived at the airport safe and sound, so what now?? The first thing you need to do after passing the immigration is to buy a local SIM Card. Believe me, you will need an internet connection to explore Bangkok, get taxis, check the public transportation and find on Google Maps the nice places I recommended.

Look for a DTAC shop, there you can  get the Happy Tourist SIM card , it’s easy, fast and reliable. The staff from the shop can help you with the settings and you are ready to go. Choose between the 7-days plan or 15 days, both with unlimited internet plus calls. You’ll get great coverage all around Thailand

> How to get around Bangkok

Bangkok has two airports. Suvarnabhumi International Airport is the biggest one and from there you can get a train that brings you to the heart of the city where you can connect with other public transportation, or get a taxi to your hotel.

Don’t get a taxi straight from the airport to your hotel, you will get stuck in traffic for ages and that is something we don’t want for your first time in Bangkok.

If you land at Don Muang Airport, you can get the train that goes to Bang Sue Train station or you can get a taxi from the terminal to the BTS Station Mo Chit [ask the driver to take the tollway, it will be a 50 bath more expensive, but you will save time]. From Bang Sue Station or Mo Chit BTS station, you can reach almost everywhere in Bangkok.

If your hotel is in the Sukhumvit or Sathorn area you can definitely go by train. If you are staying at Khao San Road, Chinatown, or somewhere along the riverside, then a taxi might be the best option. Use the map on your cell phone to find your way.

The  BTS ,  MRT , taxis, buses, boats and tuk-tuks are the transports available in Bangkok, and you can use all of them, just be careful.

Taxi drivers tend to not use the taximeter [they ask for outrageous flat rates] and most of the time they don’t have a clue about the address. So download the GrabTaxi App on your phone, it’s fast, and safe and you will save time and energy.

Are you planning to travel around Thailand by bus or train?

Find all the routes, prices and book your tickets here on 12Go Asia.

First time in Bangkok: where to eat? What to eat?

Thai food is delicious but can be a challenge for first-time travelers, especially if you are not used to spicy food. It’s hard to suggest places to eat as we all have different tastes, some of us are vegetarian, and others have food allergies [as me].

We never had a problem eating street food in Bangkok, and we loved it. Before ordering have a look around the food stalls, if it looks clean enough, if you see locals eating there and if the food looks good, then give it a try.

Our favorite street foods are: Pad Thai, Som Tam [papaya salad], Massaman Curry, Braised Pork Noodle Soup [the best ones are the food charters in front of the 7-11 shops], Fried Rice, Chicken Satay, Tom Kha Gai Soup, Tom Yum Soup, and for dessert Sticky Rice Mango and Roti. Here is a  list explaining all the Thai dishes we mentioned and many more.

Chinatown, old town, Khao San Road and Sukhumvit are the best places to try street food on your first time in Bangkok.

If you are vegetarian or vegan, my favorite places are Ethos Restaurant or May Kai Dee , both close to Khao San. Also, don’t forget to try the fruits and juices, it’s safe to buy them from the stalls on the street.

For Western cuisine, the options are endless too, especially in Sukhumvit, Sathorn, and Thonglor areas.

First time in Bangkok: what to do to be safe?

Thailand is a safe country, but as in any other big city, in Bangkok, you must look after yourself.

So, what to do to be safe during your first trip to Bangkok? Before even arriving in Thailand you must purchase travel insurance to protect yourself and your belongings. We always have good insurance, so when I got really sick and was rushed to the hospital in Thailand, they covered all my expenses.

Travel Advice:

Don’t forget your Travel Insurance! You don’t want anything to ruin your trip, right? So don’t take the risk! Reliable travel insurance can help you in case of travel issues, from accidents to health problems, travel delays, and lost luggage.

There are many insurances in the market, our picks are  HeyMondo  and  SafetyWing . We used both and always had a good experience. Click on the insurance names to get a quote.

Also, don’t be too flashy, keep your money and passport in a safe place. We  use a money belt for our passports, big money and bank cards. If you need to exchange money, do it in a bank, it’s safer and they have good rates.

Another travel tip for your first time in Bangkok: ask the hotel reception to write in Thai the name, address and phone number of your Hotel, so you can show it to a taxi driver or to any local in case of emergency.

But is Bangkok really safe for travelers? Yes, but you need to be careful. We wrote a comprehensive guide about safety in Bangkok, read it here !

First time in Bangkok: how to avoid scams?

If you feel that something is wrong, or if the offer is too good to be true, pay attention! This is the moment your scam alarm should ring! Thai people are really nice and lovely, but if they are trying too hard to convince you about something, it might be a scam. On your first time in Bangkok try to avoid these common scams:

> “Today it’s closed, but I can take you to a better place!”

You stop a taxi or a tuk-tuk, tell the driver you want to go to the Grand Palace, or any other attraction in Bangkok and the driver tells you the place is closed. “It’s closed today my friend, but I can take you to another beautiful temple, and you can go shopping”. Those are the magical words, immediately get out of the car and walk away. This is one of the most common scams in Bangkok, every day dozens of tourists end up going to jewelry shops, tailors and being forced to purchase any kind of products.

> Super cheap tuk-tuk ride

Thailand is a cheap country, so if someone offers you a super cheap tuk-tuk or taxi ride you should run away [again]. The driver will probably take you to a tour operator, a shop or restaurant instead of driving you to the destination you asked for. They do that so they get a commission from the shops and restaurants.

>  “ I have a friend that can help you, very very cheap! ”

Again, be careful! Thai people are genuinely nice and helpful, but too many promises should make you think twice. If you have problems or any doubts about the city, ask at your hotel reception or call the Tourist Police at 1155, it’s free from any number.

>  “ You need to buy pants! ”

In front of the Grand Palace and other tourist attractions, you will see street stalls selling pants, scarves, sarongs and offering “official” tour guides. They will tell you that to enter the temple you need to wear proper pants and cover your shoulders, and you MUST buy from them because there is no other option inside the temple.

Part of this statement is true, you must dress respectfully to get inside the temples in Bangkok, but the other part is a lie. Inside the temples, you get FREE sarongs and scarves to cover yourself, and at the Grand Palace, you need to rent it, around 30 to 50 Bath per piece.

> “I can take you to a good and cheap ping pong show”

Every year hundreds of tourists get scammed in the red light district and ping pong shows. There is nothing wrong to enjoy the naughty nightlife of Bangkok, but do it in a safe way.

So, it’s your first time in Bangkok, what should you do to see a ping pong show? First: never trust a taxi or tuk-tuk driver that approaches you in the middle of the street offering a good and cheap ping pong show. Scam Alert! He will take you to a dodgy place, and you might get yourself into trouble.

To go to the girls’ bar, the best option is to get a normal taxi [Grab Taxi works fine] and ask the driver to take you to Soi Cowboy [the most organized red light district in Bangkok], Patpong [the most touristy one], or Nana Plaza [in the heart of Sukhumvit, famous for Ladyboys]. Before entering the bar check the entrance fee, the prices, and the rules.

Now you know almost everything! How to plan the itinerary for your first time in Bangkok, what to do, attractions, where to stay in Bangkok, safety issues and even how to avoid scams.

This is the longest post we wrote on our blog and believe me, we didn’t cover all the things to do in Bangkok. If you are staying more than 5 days and have the energy to explore further, we have one more travel guide for you:  uniq u e and cool things to do in Bangkok , like the second step from your first-time guide to Bangkok.

If you want to plan your travel budget, we have another post for you:  how much you need to travel in Bangkok and in Thailand , check it out.

Looking for more travel tips to Thailand? Read all our guides to Thailand here!

Still have doubts about how to organize your first trip to Bangkok, what to do and where to stay? Don’t be shy, leave a question in the comments below. And don’t forget to book your hotels and tour through our links, doing that you help us to keep writing great travel guides like this one!

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64 thoughts on “Ultimate Travel Guide For Your First Time in Bangkok: What to do & Where to Stay ”

What an incredible post! Really comprehensive, it definitely has everything you need for your visit to Bangkok. Makes me miss SE Asia even more. I’ll be back in January, but it’s not soon enough.

Hey!! Good to know you are coming back!! I believe we can’t get enough of Bangkok!!

Thanks for your comment! Nat

You’re right that Bangkok can be overwhelming. It’s a massive and busy Asian city. We really enjoyed visiting the Taling Chan floating market, which definitely didn’t have any tourists. We just took a taxi, which wasn’t very expensive, there and ate our way through whatever looked good. We also enjoyed Asiatique and going on the big ferris wheel.

Hi Jennifer!! We didn’t go to the Ferris Wheel, but it seems that you can have an amazing view from there. Thanks for stopping by! Happy Travels, Nat

Thanks for the great guide with so much good information! We haven’t been to Bangkok yet, but this will be super helpful for when we finally visit. Everything looks fantastic–the details at Wat Pho are amazing, the floating market looks so cool and the rooftop bars look great, too!

Hi Jenna!! You need to come to Bangkok, it’s such a unique city! Thanks for stopping by!

Holy cow!! What a wealth of information. This is awesome guys so useful for first timers in Bangkok!

Hi Anna, This is the longest post on Love and Road, and took me a few days to up all the info and details together, but I believe it was worth it. Bangkok is one of my favorite cities in Southeast Asia and I would love to inspire people to travel more and better here… Cheers, Nat

Awesome guide! I have been to Bangkok a few times and those were definitely the places and things I did as a first time tourist. Great tips for those planning their trip!

Hey Darlene, I’m glad that you liked the post! Great compliment coming from someone that already visited Bangkok! Cheers, Nat

Thankyou for the uber helpful post! We’ve been considering Bangkok for a trip next year – we’ve settled down in Australia now so it’s quite close to get to Asia. Though as you mentioned, it can be really intimidating knowing where to start and what to take in, because there’s just so much!! And I suffer from fear of missing out syndrome lol so I get very anxious if I can’t cram everything into one trip 😀 This really helps 🙂

Hey Megan, We are quite alike, I also try to see and visit as much as possible, I hate that feeling when I arrive home and discover that I have missed an important attraction during the trip… When you decide to come to Bangkok give us a shout, I’m more than happy to share more info! Cheers, Nat

Natalie, this is a great guide! We’ve never been to Thailand, but definitely want to soon. The Pad Thai feast looks amazing! Thanks for covering a little bit of everything – very handy. Safe travels and keep writing! -Carrick

Hey Carrick! Thanks for stopping by! Bangkok is a huge city, we tried to cover and show as much as possible. I’m glad you liked the post!! Happy Travels, Nat

Great tips, I couldn’t agree more on most of them. I’m heading back to Thailand for my second time soon but am flying directly yo Phuket but I’ll definitely keep this blog in mind for the future as it’s always great to re-read for inspiration!

Thanks!!! 🙂 Enjoy Phuket, I love that Islands, so many beautiful beaches and hidden places. Safe Travels,

This is such a useful travel guide. I have never actually been to Thailand but thinking a trip next year might be in order. Will be bookmarking this!

Thailand is an amazing country Anita, for sure you need to come over to explore Bangkok and the islands. Cheers, Nat

This is the ultimate guide to Bangkok and perfect for me because I will be a first timer when I eventually get chance to go! I’ve heard so many wonderful things about Thailand but Bangkok in particularly, especially the floating food market and Khao San Road. I want to go and see everything and then finish my time in that epic rooftop bar for a relaxing drink to enjoy the chaos below 🙂

Hi Mel, Sounds like you have a plan! Enjoy BKK! Cheers,

I’ve been to Bangkok a few times, but I think that is a very useful guide to a first-timer. I guess I wouldn’t stay in Khao San Road again though – it was quite ok when I was younger and newer to the world of backpacking, now I’d definitely look for something away from all that noise.

Hi Monika! Rambutree is a quieter road just beside Khao San. Although there are so many great places to stay all around BKK. Cheers!

Incredible guide of Bangkok! It’s high on my list – I so want to go to the floating market! Actually, all of their markets sound great. And I LOVE Thai food. Great post and photos, thanks for sharing 🙂

Hi Carmen, Tks!!! Hope you make to BKK soon 😉 Cheers!

Great post guys!! It will definitely help me during my next trip BKK. So many thing that I didn’t cover in the first one.

Glad to help Pericles!!!!

Awesome post. I have been 7 times in Bangkok and it’s one of my facorite city in Asia. Loved read again about şt.

Thanks Kemal!! Bangkok is one of our favorite cities too!! We learned to love it!

Cheers, Nat

The great thing about Bangkok is that every time you go there, you can have a totally different experience depending on where you’re gonna stay or what you’re gonna do. I love it and I can never get enough of it even though I’m not a fan of big cities. Great article!

That’s true, Bangkok is HUGE and offers everything 😉 Safe travels!

This is an awesome post. Definitely something I wanted to read since I will be traveling for the first time to Thailand. I do have a question on the sim cards, what type of phone did you guys use. I have apple iPhone and wanted to see if the sim card is compatible.

Hi Lily!! Rob has an Iphone 6 and I have a Huawei P9 (Android), but in any shop you can get all sizes of SIM Card, they even instal it on your phone for you. The only think is that your phone needs to be unlocked to work with a Thai SIM card. Happy travels, Nat

Awesome city, nice article. I wanted to go again after reading 🙂

Thanks Gezi

Awsome i bean to phuket thew month ago time to try bangkok looks great city

Enjoy! Bangkok is a great place!!!!

Hi Natalie, Travelling to Bangkok with my teens to see Coldplay. Thanks for the hints. Tourist SIM card fab! Will limit shopping to EMQuarter, AsiaTique… anywhere else? Catuchak market sounds amazing, giant buddha… any other musts??

Hi Donna, I’m so happy you liked the post! I’m sure it will be an amazing trip! I think you and the teens would love a nice bike trip to Bang Krachao, one of the islands in the middle of ChaoPraya River. You can find more info about this island and other cool things to do in Bangkok in this post . About shopping, Central World and Siam Paragon are other good options.

Have a great trip, enjoy Bangkok! Cheers, Nat

I am so glad I found your site! going for a 2 week holiday at the end of May to Bangkok and thinking of going to Krabi. Any suggestions for a cool place to stay at the beach for a solo female traveler over the age of 40? Where would you recommend if I wanted to hear some good house music during my travels?

Hello Nan, 9 Bar at Khao San Road has great DJs playing house & techno. We love 2 places in Aonang(near krabi) Alisea Boutique and Aonang Cliff Beach Resort . Both hotels are great! Enjoy Thailand!!!! Cheers, Rob

Hi Natalie, This is such an awesome and informative post. Exactly what i needed. We leave to Bangkok in two days and after reading your post it makes me feel a little prepared. Thank you.

Vrithi Pushkar

Hi Vrithi, Glad you liked! Enjoy Thailand! Cheers,

This was just SO HELPFUL! Thank you for putting some order in the chaos (:

Hi Noa! You are welcome, we are happy to help! Cheers, Nat

hey Natalie, thank you very much for such useful info…….Me and my friends (girls only) we going to Phuket for 7 days (end of November) but have decided to spend at least one day in Bangkok……we dont want to miss out…..any suggestions around airlines to use from Phuket to Bangkok and places to see and accommodation for one night……many thanks

Hi! Air Asia, Scoot, Bangkok Airways, Thai Lion Air have direct flights from Phuket to BKK. Our tips on what to do and where to stay are on the article above and on this one: https://loveandroad.com/unique-cool-things-to-do-in-bangkok-thailand/ Cheers!

Hi. Thanks for such informative post. This is by far the best post I read on Thailand travel. It would be great if you could answer a few questions of mine- 1) How do we bargain while shopping, since there is a language barrier? 2) For first time travel, is it fine to plan by ourself or plan via some MMT or thomas cook etc? 3) How much currency should we carry from India? How much does it cost to withdraw money there from ATM? Which is better?

Hello Mansi, Happy to help 😉 1 – Most of the vendors do speak English. The necessary to negotiate a deal. 2 – It’s pretty easy to organise the trip by yourself. We recommend Agoda for booking hotels, Skyscanner for flights and TakeMeTour for tours. 3 – On this post we give an idea of the costs in Thailand: https://loveandroad.com/how-much-does-it-cost-to-travel-in-thailand-guide/ Enjoy your trip!

So much info. Great sit. Question Is there a site that you recommend that does package deals eg. air/hotel/guided tours?

Hi Sharon, Sorry can’t help on that one… we always book our hotels, flights and tours by ourselves. Cheers,

Bangkok is my favorite place in the world. I am very happy with the text.

Great advice!! Still a bit overwhelmed …We will be in Bangkok for only 2 days then off to Krabi and Koh Lanta. Do you recommend booking internal flights sooner then later? Do you have a printer friendly version we can take with? Leaving this Tuesday! So excited!!

Hi Doron, I would recommend the internal flights in advance. Keep an eye on Air Asia, Nok Air and Scoot, usually they have good rates. We don’t have a PDF or printer friendly version of the post but you can save it on Pocket , and read it later even offline. BTW, we just published an article about Krabi 😉 Enjoy Thailand!

Loved this blog! It will be our first trip to Asia and could not be more excited! We are staying at the Lamphu Tree Hotel for 4 nights at the beginning of our 6 week trip (2 weeks each in Thailand, Cambodia and Sri Lanka) and will have one afternoon at the end of our trip (shopping!). I have not booked our last night yet as I am not sure which part of the city I should stay in. I was looking at the Shanghai Mansion Hotel in Chinatown but not sure if that will be around any good shopping? When I say shopping I don’t mean big malls! I would be interested in local art, unique gifts. I don’t know how often you update your blog, wondering if there are any things you would suggest for a January 2019 trip that are not currently in your blog? Thanks! Your blog was the most comprehensive article I could find on what to do in Bangkok.

Hi Judy, Tks for the kind words! Chinatown is definitely a great area to do some shopping. There you will find everything, from cheap fake stuff to antiques. This year I’ve visited Lhong 1919 and loved it. Old warehouses turned into shops and restaurants facing the river, there are a few local designer shops there. Another place that I like is the Rod Fai Market near Esplanade Shopping Mall, some local designers tons of food and a nice atmosphere. If you stay in Chinatown, Siam or Silom areas you can easily take a tuk tuk to Lhong 1919 or Rod Fai Market. Enjoy Asia!

Since my one and only day in Bangkok (on a cruise ship), I’ve been longing to return. Looking at the pictures in this guide makes my yearning to return even stronger. I just posted this to Flipboard and will retweet and save on both Pinterest and G+ as well. Thanks from

Hi Stacy! For sure Bangkok deserves more than 1 day 😉 Cheers,

Hi, Your post is really informative for first time travellers. We will be reaching Bangkok around afternoon around 3pm. Can you guide us on what should we plan for that day. We will have another two days on our way back from Krabi.

Hi Mona, All the main attractions are listed in the article, suggest to pick the ones you like the most and plan from there. We have more articles about Bangkok, Krabi and other cities on this page: https://loveandroad.com/category/destinations/asia/thailand/ Have a great trip!

What caused you to get ill in Thailand? I know you have to be careful with the food, but was that ever an issue for you or your partner?

Hi Jana, No, nothing related to food. In fact, during those 5 years of traveling the only time we got ill because of food was in a fancy restaurant in Istanbul. We ate our way in the streets of Asia and never got bad food 😉 Enjoy Thailand!

Due to my previous need for Visa Run from Myanmar have visited so many times Bangkok and found the area of Ekkamai one of the best in terms of hotels price & restaurants and easy to go. And while in Bangkok the Chao Phraya River it’s a must as you mentioned; did mine with Shangri-la Boat:

Love Ekkamai too!

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Travel Vaccines and Advice for Thailand

Thailand is a popular destination with its tropical climate, food, culture and beaches.

Thai is the official language of Thailand. But, other smaller languages spoken in rural areas. The primary religion of Thailand is Buddhism and is prevalent in many aspects of culture throughout Thailand. Islam is also practiced in Southern provinces.

Bangkok, Thailand’s capital city, is also the largest city in the country. Bangkok is highly populated with congested streets, modern buildings and temples. It is most known for its nightlife.

Thailand’s other major cities include Ayutthaya, Chiang Mai, and Chiang Rai.

Do I Need Vaccines for Thailand?

Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Thailand. The PHAC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Thailand: hepatitis A , hepatitis B , typhoid , cholera , yellow fever , Japanese encephalitis , rabies , meningitis , polio , measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) , Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) , chickenpox , shingles , pneumonia and influenza .

See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunizations:

• Hepatitis A – Food & Water – Recommended for most travellers
• Hepatitis B – Blood & Body Fluids – Accelerated schedule available
• Typhoid – Food & Water – Shot lasts 2 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator.
• Cholera – Food & Water – Cholera is rare, but present in Thailand. Vaccination is recommended for travellers at increased risk or visiting areas with active transmission.
• Yellow Fever – Mosquito – Required if travelling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission
• Japanese Encephalitis – Mosquito – Recommended depending on itinerary and activities. May be given to short- and extended-stay travellers, recurrent travellers and travel to rural areas. Present throughout country, especially northern regions. Most cases from May to October.
• Rabies – Saliva of Infected Animals – High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travellers and those who may come in contact with animals.
• Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) – Various Vectors – Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended.
• TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) – Wounds & Airborne – Only one adult booster of pertussis required.
• Chickenpox – Direct Contact & Airborne – Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox.
• Shingles – Direct Contact – Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles.
• Pneumonia – Airborne – Two vaccines given seperately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both.
• Influenza – Airborne – Vaccine components change annually.
• Meningitis – Airborne & Direct Contact – Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students.
• Polio – Food & Water – Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended.

See the tables below for more information:

Various mosquito-borne diseases are present in Thailand. Malaria poses a threat to travellers to some regions of the country. Make sure you are protected with antimalarials.

Dengue , Zika and chikungunya can also be found in Thailand. While there are no vaccines available for these diseases, there are steps you can take to prevent them. Be sure to use mosquito repellents, netting and wear proper clothing.

Medical treatment is adequate and common in urban areas. Healthcare is also available in rural areas, though the health care providers may not speak English.

To find out more about these vaccines, see our vaccinations page . Ready to travel safely? Book your appointment either call or start booking online now .

Customer Reviews

Passport health – travel vaccines for thailand, do i need a visa or passport for thailand.

If you are entering Thailand for tourism purposes under a 30-day period, you do not require a visa. All Canadian citizens must have a valid passport upon arrival. For those travelling to Thailand for business purposes, a business visa is required.

Sources: Embassy of Thailand and Canadian Travel and Tourism

Always carry your passport and visa with you to avoid arrest in Thailand.

Visit the Canadian Travel and Tourism website for more information on entry and exit requirements.

What is the Climate Like in Thailand?

Thailand is a country with a tropical climate that is hot and humid throughout the year. The temperature ranges from 25 to 35 degrees Celsius during the day. The weather can be different depending on where you are in Thailand. Here are some popular tourist destinations:

• Bangkok : Bangkok is hot and humid all year round. It rains a lot, especially between May and October.
• Phuket : Phuket is a tropical place. It can rain a lot from May to October. The temperature is usually between 75 and 90 degrees.
• Chiang Mai : Chiang Mai has a tropical climate with three different seasons: cool, hot, and rainy. The cool season runs from November to February, the hot season from March to May, and the rainy season from June to October.
• Pattaya : Pattaya is hot and humid all year round. It rains a lot, especially between May and October.
• Koh Samui : Koh Samui is an island that has two different seasons: dry and rainy. The dry season runs from December to April, and the rainy season from May to November.

Remember that weather can change, so always check the forecast before you travel.

How Safe is Thailand?

In the past few years, there have been periodic terrorist attacks at popular tourist attractions in Thailand,. This remains a high-concern today. There is an ongoing risk of terrorist attacks in Thailand.

The National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO) has placed strict restrictions on media and have banned political gatherings. Tourists may be detained by the military for openly criticizing the NCPO.

Pick-pocketing is common in Thailand as is sexual violence in bars and isolated areas.

Do not use your passport as collateral. Many rental places are scams.

In Southern Thailand (Yala, Pattani, Narathiwat, and Songkhla), martial law is still prevalent. Tourists are cautioned against travelling to these areas.

Temples in Thailand

There are over 40,000 temples in Thailand, making them popular tourist attractions. These temples range in age and architecture and many are still in use today.

Wat Pho, located in Bangkok, is one of the most popular due to its size and attractions within. It is one of the largest complexes in the country, holding many buildings. Wat Pho houses the largest reclining Buddha and largest collection of Buddha images.

The site is also headquarters for the teaching and preservation of Thai medicine. There, tourists can find two massage schools and pavilions.

You must take off your shoes to enter and you purchase coins to put into bowls for good luck. All the money goes towards renovating and upkeeping the site.

What Should I Take To Thailand?

Thailand is a hot and humid country, it’s important to pack lightweight and comfortable clothing. You should bring comfortable shoes for walking, sun protection like sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to avoid the strong sun rays. Mosquitoes are common in Thailand, so it’s important to bring insect repellent to avoid bites.

Thailand uses different types of electrical outlets, so it’s recommended to bring a universal adapter. It’s also recommended to pack any prescription medication and over-the-counter medications such as pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medication, and motion sickness medication.

Thailand is a cash-based society, so it’s important to bring cash and credit cards. If you plan to visit the beaches or go swimming, don’t forget to pack swimwear and a beach towel. When visiting temples or other religious sites, make sure to dress respectfully, covering your shoulders and knees, and avoid wearing revealing clothing in public places.

Don’t forget to bring your passport, visa (if required), travel insurance, and any other important travel documents.

Canadian Embassy in Thailand

Canadian consular services can help travellers with many issues they may face including passport services. Once in Thailand, the information for the Canadian Embassy is:

Canadian Embassy Bangkok 15th Floor, Abdulrahim Place, 990 Rama IV, Bangrak, Bangkok, 10500, Thailand Tel.: +66 0 2646 4300

If you have any questions about travelling to Thailand or are wondering what shots you may need for your trip, schedule an appointment with your local Passport Health travel medicine clinic. Call us at or book online now! and protect yourself today.

On This Page: Do I Need Vaccines for Thailand? Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Thailand? What is the Climate Like in Thailand? How Safe is Thailand? Temples in Thailand What Should I Take To Thailand? Canadian Embassy in Thailand

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Thailand Travel Restrictions

Updated on April 23, 2024 by Siam Legal International, a Bangkok, Thailand law firm.

UPDATED THAILAND TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has announced that Thailand continues to welcome all international tourists in 2024 with no restrictions.

Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Public Health, said “International travelers arriving in Thailand are not required to show proof of vaccination.”

In addition, foreign tourists are not required to show ATK or RT-PCR COVID-19 test results.

Thailand does highly recommends COVID insurance for visitors from all countries when visiting Thailand.

After months of strict travel restrictions because of the COVID-19 pandemic, Thailand is restored to normalcy by easing all travel restrictions and quarantine requirements to allow tourists to enter the country.

Travelers around the world are now keen to find out when and how they can travel to Thailand in 2024. What important things do travelers need to know about Thailand Travel Restrictions if they are planning to fly to the Land of Smiles? Here is some helpful information for you.

Recommended Documents for Travel to Thailand in 2024

Please have the following documents ready.

• Passport with at least six month validity
• Visa or visa exemption qualification
• Buy Thailand Travel Insurance RECOMMENDED
• Boarding pass to be presented at Passport Control
• Hotel booking confirmation if asked by the Immigration Officer
• Note: Vaccination record no longer required

Incorrect documents will delay the entry screening by rules from the Thai immigration bureau and its Thai immigration officials.

Buy Your Insurance Now

Latest News as of April 25, 2024

• For up-to-date information and weekly updates regarding current Thailand travel restrictions, please visit the Weekly Updates for Thailand Travel Restrictions .
• As of October 1, 2022, Thailand will no longer have COVID entry requirements. Please exercise normal precautions as necessary when visiting Thailand.
• Buy your Travel Insurance now at AXA Thailand .
• Book your hotel in Thailand at Agoda.com
• Travelers may join our Facebook Group to ask questions, get help, and read the latest developments: https://www.facebook.com/groups/howtoenterthailand

Travel to Thailand

Travelers may enter Thailand with or without vaccination. Vaccination is not required.

No phone app for reporting or tracking is required.

No need to show proof of any vaccination or insurance coverage.

Entry and Exit Requirements

Each country or territory determines its own entry and exit requirements at its borders. If you fail to meet these requirements for your destination, your embassy will not be able to assist you. The following information is provided by Thai authorities and is subject to change without notice.

The entry prerequisites differ based on the passport type you are holding for travel.

Prior to your journey, consult with your travel carrier regarding passport stipulations, as their validity rules might be stricter than those mandated by the destination country.

Ensure that your passport has at least six months of validity remaining upon your arrival in Thailand.

Other Entry Requirements

Immigration officers at the Thai border may request to see a ticket for your return or onward journey, as well as evidence of adequate funds to sustain you throughout your visit. Failure to present these documents may result in denial of entry.

Entry Stamp

Obtain your entry stamp directly from an immigration officer when entering Thailand. Avoid acquiring your visa, visa extension, or entry stamp through visa shops or travel agents within the country.

Passports that have been modified or carry fake visas and entry/exit stamps will be considered invalid. Individuals caught with such passports may face imprisonment, fines, and deportation, and might also be barred from future entry into Thailand.

Do You Need a Visa to Enter Thailand?

Visitors from countries under the Visa Exemption List are not required to obtain a Thai visa in order to travel to Thailand for tourism purposes. The Thai Immigration Bureau will allow foreigners to stay in Thailand for 30 days. Tourists will be able to apply for a 30-day visa extension at any local immigration office in Thailand.

If you wish to stay longer or are traveling for a purpose other than tourism, please know that the normal 60-day Tourist Visa Thailand , Thailand LTR Visa , Thai Elite Visa , and other non-immigrant visas are available at Thai Embassies or Consulates around the world.

Are you a high net worth individual who wants to stay in Thailand for 5, 10, or 20 years? You may consider joining the exclusive Thailand Elite Visa membership program. It is an easy-to-apply and hassle-free visa application for your long-term stay in Thailand. For more information about the Thailand Elite Visa Program, you can start visa application, you can start today: https://www.thaiembassy.com/thailand-visa/thai-elite-visa

Thailand Pass is no longer in effect

As of July 1, 2022, Thailand Pass is no longer required for foreign travelers entering Thailand.

Vaccinated travelers do not need to provide proof of vaccination before arriving. Unvaccinated travelers are also under no restrictions and can freely travel to Thailand.

Thailand Travel Insurance for Foreigners

It is recommended for foreigners traveling to Thailand to have a travel insurance policy before departing to Thailand. This is for their protection during the course of their trip to Thailand.

Having a reliable travel insurance policy that covers disruptions protects the investment you’ve made so you can feel secure and covered while enjoying what Thailand has to offer. Purchasing this travel insurance protection is affordable and worth not paying the hospital bill out of your own pocket. The average travel insurance cost for a trip to Thailand is only around $50 to $100.

Purchasing a protection is affordable than paying the hospital bill out from your pocket. The average travel insurance cost for a trip to Thailand is only around $100 to $150.

Foreigners can get a Thailand travel insurance policy easily and conveniently. Visitors can buy travel insurance online with a credit card and the insurance policy and COVID-19 certificate will be sent to you instantly.

Purchase your Thailand Travel Insurance for foreigners HERE .

Flights to Thailand Have Resumed

Regarding flights to Thailand, the normal commercial passenger flights are operating as normal. Before booking flights to Thailand, travelers should ensure that they study the different categories of visas granted to foreign nationals at this time to determine the possibility of travel.

Check within your country’s state department for travel advisories during COVID-19.

No Quarantine Required

Traveling to Thailand has no restrictions at this time.

Travel Advisory for Thailand

Tourism is vital to the economy of Thailand. The Thai government has reopened the Kingdom of Thailand to foreign visitors during the COVID-19 pandemic without restriction.

It is important to review news about fast-changing developments within the country before you make travel plans. Information is available on this website, Tourism Authority of Thailand, and on government sites listed below.

Please research your destination of travel and its travel advisory so you have a pleasant experience for your stay in Thailand.

• Bangkok: No restrictions
• Pattaya: No restrictions
• Phuket: No restrictions
• Koh Samui: No restrictions
• Chiang Mai: No restrictions
• Hua Hin: No restrictions

List of Countries that may allow Travel to Thailand (Check with your Embassy for Travel Advisory):

• United States citizens should check with the US Department of State for any travel advisory, news, and emergency situations on their website for Thailand Travel Advisory .
• United Kingdom citizens can check for travel restrictions and news on the FDCO website for Foreign Travel Advice Thailand .

There are no travel requirements and restrictions in place at this time for foreigners entering Thailand.

We recommend contacting your local Thai embassy or consulate before making any plans or reservations. You may also leave your questions in the comment section.

Still have questions?

Visit our Facebook Group and read questions from fellow travelers to Thailand or ask your own:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/howtoenterthailand

Top 20 Questions Asked this Week by Our Visitors

What is the visa exemption scheme.

Thailand has a Visa Exemption Scheme that allows nationals from certain countries to enter Thailand for tourism purposes without a visa. Visitors under this scheme will be granted a stay of a specific duration, typically 30 days, but this may vary based on the traveler’s nationality and the current regulations in place.

Where can I apply for a tourist visa for Thailand?

You can apply for a Thai tourist visa at a Royal Thai Embassy or Consulate in your home country or in a third country.

Below are the general steps involved, but note that processes may vary slightly at different embassies or consulates:

Steps to Apply for a Thai Tourist Visa:

In Person or by Mail

• Find the Nearest Thai Embassy or Consulate: Look for a Royal Thai Embassy or Consulate in your country of residence or a neighboring country. You can usually find this information on the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ official website or by conducting a simple online search for the Thai Embassy and Consulate near me.
• Prepare Required Documents: Typically, you will need your passport (with at least six months’ validity), completed visa application form, passport-size photographs, proof of travel arrangements (like flight and hotel bookings), and evidence of financial means.
• Submit Application: You may need to submit your visa application and required documents in person, although some embassies or consulates may offer online submission or postal services. Be sure to check the specific submission guidelines for the embassy or consulate where you’re applying.
• Pay Visa Fee: There will usually be a non-refundable visa application fee, which can vary by location and visa type. Payment methods can also differ, so verify this in advance.
• Wait for Processing: Visa processing times can vary. Some applications are processed in a few days, while others may take weeks. Check the estimated processing time and plan accordingly.
• Receive Visa: Once approved, you’ll receive your visa, which will be stamped or affixed to a page in your passport. Carefully review the visa to confirm that all information is accurate and understand the terms of your stay.

Are there any restrictions on tourists coming to Thailand?

Travel restrictions and requirements for entering Thailand can change frequently due to the ongoing global situation with the COVID-19 pandemic, and other factors that might influence travel policies. The information provided here might be outdated, so it is imperative that you check the most current and relevant travel advisories and updates.

Here are some general restrictions and requirements for tourists entering Thailand.

General Entry Requirements:

• Visa Requirements: Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa to enter Thailand. Some nationals can enter under the Visa Exemption Scheme, while others might need to apply for a visa in advance.
• Valid Passport: A passport with at least six months of remaining validity is typically required.
• Proof of Funds: You might need to demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay.
• Onward or Return Ticket: Some travelers may need to show a confirmed ticket for return or onward travel.

Additional Restrictions:

• Travel advisories and restrictions can also depend on the ongoing global and local situation, such as public health concerns, security issues, or other emergencies.

How do I buy an ATK test?

You can also purchase an ATK self-test from pharmacies and 7-11’s in Thailand. They cost between 50-150 Thai baht. ATK testing is optional and not required by the Thai government.

Is Thai Airways operating normal flights in and out of Thailand?

Are masks required to be worn in thailand.

No. You will see many Thai people wearing masks for public health protection.

Is COVID-19 treatment and medicine available to foreigners?

Yes, you may visit any clinic or hospital in Thailand for treatment of COVID-19. Please exercise normal precautions while traveling to obtain treatment if infected or use telemedicine so you can stay safely in your accommodations.

Visitors insured with AXA Travel Insurance will have full coverage for COVID-19 medical treatment. AXA is the most popular Thailand Travel Insurance for foreign travelers.

What is the best time of year to travel to Thailand?

November to February is the best time of year to visit Thailand as it is during the cool season. Thailand has become extremely hot in recent years during the months of April and May.

What activities can you do in Thailand?

• Island hopping
• Scuba diving
• Boat ride in the Andaman sea
• Eat delicious food
• Savory and Tasty Thai foods

What is the best way to find hotels?

You can find listings for hotels in all areas at Agoda .

When is the low season for travel to Thailand?

April to May are the hot season. July to September is the rainy period during the year. These months are the low season.

Are there any restrictions for foreign passport holders?

Travel restrictions and requirements for foreign passport holders entering Thailand can vary widely based on a number of factors, including the traveler’s nationality, the purpose of the visit, the duration of the stay, and the current global and local health situation.

General Entry Restrictions:

• Visa Regulations: Visa policies vary, with some passport holders eligible for visa exemption, visa-on-arrival, or e-visas, while others must secure visas in advance.
• Passport Validity: A minimum passport validity, often six months, is a standard requirement.
• Financial Proof: Travelers might need to demonstrate they possess adequate funds for their stay.
• Return or Onward Ticket: A confirmed ticket for onward or return travel may be necessary.
• Travel History: Entry restrictions might apply based on recent travel history, including visits to specific countries or regions.

Specific Passport-Based Restrictions:

• Diplomatic/Official Passports: Holders of diplomatic or official passports may face different entry requirements or procedures.
• Restricted Nationalities: Some countries impose entry limitations or additional requirements on passport holders from specific nations due to diplomatic relations or security concerns.

Additional Checks and Requirements:

• Security and Background Checks: Security considerations can lead to additional screening, requirements, or restrictions for travelers from certain countries.

Can I rent a private car/taxi from the airport to the hotel?

Yes. travelers can find metered taxis available outside of the airport. All request the use of the meter. Private cars and car hire are also available at the airport counters. Grab is now available at both international airports in Bangkok.

Does the hotel provide transportation?

Hotels charge an additional fee for transportation to and from the airport. The easiest transportation is the metered taxi or on your Grab app.

What is the best way to exchange currency?

If you need money exchanged to use for transportation it is best to do it once outside the Customs area.

The best exchange rates for Thai currency can be found in tourist areas with popular exchange services such as SuperRich or Dee Money.

What insurance should I get?

The most popular insurance coverage is THB 750,000 coverage for medical expenses due to accidents and illnesses (including COVID-19) and THB 1 million for accidental death and disability. You can find trusted insurance coverage at AXA Thailand .

In case of an accident or sickness during the policy period which requires you to receive continued treatment in the hospital, AXA will cover until:

• For inpatient: You are discharged from hospital
• For outpatient: Policy expiry date

What happens after I get my AXA Insurance policy?

After applying for your AXA Insurance, you will receive an email with your policy. You can then upload the policy on your phone for easy reference.

City Travel Guide

• How to Travel to Bangkok
• How to Travel to Phuket
• How to Travel to Pattaya
• How to Travel to Chiang Mai
• How to Travel to Samui
• How to Travel to Hua Hin

Other Thai Elite Visa Pages

Related posts.

How to Travel to Thailand in 2024

Best Places to Retire in Thailand for Couples

How to Retire in Thailand for Couples

Thailand Travel Restrictions 2023

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588 Comments

Just to make totally sure, I’m gonna ask this very simply: I have no vaccination papers. I have no negative Covid test. I have no travel insurance. Am I still allowed to enter Thailand?

Hello, Lars Andersen.

Unless you are from one of the countries with yellow fever, you do not need to provide vaccination papers and are allowed to enter Thailand.

How much cash in gbp can I bring into Thailand (phuket) for spending money etc?

I would like to ask if I am holding an Indian passport with valid Australian tourist visa, do I need a tourist visa? or can I enter Thailand on the basis of my valid Australian visa?

Also if Nepalese passport holder has valid Australian student visa, do they need to apply tourist visa?

Hello, Chandar Parkas Dimri.

You cannot enter Thailand with any Australian visa. You will need to apply for a Thailand Tourist Visa to enter Thailand. If you’re coming to Thailand to study, you will need to apply for an Education Visa.

I have got a question regarding the updated guidelines as of January 9, 2023

>Airline passengers 18 years old or older must provide proof of full vaccination

I have full vaccination, but it was done in October 2021, do I need to get a new vaccine?

Yes, that is acceptable. You do not need to get a new vaccine. Thank you.

Hi there, we are looking at coming to Thailand for over 30 days but in 2 stints. We will be doing Bangkok and the north followed by the south a few month later. What kind of VISA do you recommend for this?

You can use the 45 days Visa Exemption stamp on each visit. There is no need to get a visa. Please check this information on this page: https://www.thaiembassy.com/weekly-updates/thailand-travel-restrictions-for-november-2022

We will travel Thailand this Monday..

What are the needed requirements?

Dear Marfele,

You may find the entry requirements here: https://www.thaiembassy.com/weekly-updates/thailand-entry-requirements-for-october-2022 Thank you.

If you are vaccinated and Travel to Thailand without PCR testing before leaving SA do you still need to do PCR when you arrive in Thailand but you are fully vaccinated?

Dear Deidre,

The latest entry requirements are posted here: https://www.thaiembassy.com/weekly-updates/thailand-entry-requirements-for-october-2022

Hi, is there a restriction to travel to Phuket from Malaysia by train? (Travelling from Malaysia to Padang Besar Train Station to Hat Yai Train Station to Phuket train terminal 2). Thanks a lot

Dear Oscar,

For this month, just prepare your vaccination card and passport. On October 1st, restriction will be removed.

For more information about travel to Thailand, please check this link: https://www.siam-legal.com/legal-guide/how-to-enter-thailand-2022-guide.pdf

Hi, I’ve read in some of your news that all corona rules fall away from 1 October, that we can travel into the country without having to show a test or certificate. is that right ? Vikram

Dear Vikram,

Yes. Official statement will be announce by the Gazette on October 1st.

For more information about travel to Thailand, please check this link: https://www.thaiembassy.com/weekly-updates/thailand-entry-requirements-for-october-2022

Hello . It says on some Thai websites that from 1 October no one needs a negative test or to show a corona certificate on arrival in Thailand. Is that right ? We will arrive on 1 October in Phuket. Should I be tested as I am not vaccinated?

Dear Albina,

On October 1st, restriction will be removed.

Hello. Should children aged 2 have a negative test ? Up to what age should children have a test ?

If the parents are unvaccinated, children will require too.

Hello again. Is it okay with an Antigen test taken at the hospital or do we have to take only PCR

Yes, It should be professional RAT.

Yordmanu, I have a current, one year ‘retirement’ visa extension and have just returned to UK after a 90 day Thailand Pass trip. I’ve booked a one-way flight back to Thailand for the 9th. November – Will I have to buy insurance & will I be allowed to travel back to Thailand on this one-way ticket? I have an a Thailand address (30 year lease) and a history of travellng back & forth. Peter

Dear Peter,

Insurance is now an optional. It’s not compulsory but still recommended.

Hello. We will travel to Phuket on 1 October. My husband has a dose of vaccine and has been infected with covid twice. Does he have to prove a negative test or does he have to have proof from the doctor that he has had covid twice and has a vaccine? I am not vaccinated but have undergone covid 2 times the children aged 14 and 11 have not been vaccinated, should they have a test before we arrive? Albina

If fully vaccinated, just vaccination certificate and certificate of recovery since he got infected.

For unvaccinated, you need to have negative RT PCR within 72 hours of your arrival. Same procedure with your kids.

I am a Thailand passport holder and returning to Chiang Mai from Kuala Lumpur. What requirements do I need to enter Thailand?

Passport and proof of vaccination.

Do you know the phone number of the Thai embassy in Thailand?

hi, i have 1 question. how about unvaccinated kids age 8-year-old and 4++-year-old?do they need to do pcr test?

If you are fully vaccinated , No. If unvaccinated, same procedure with parents.

I’m seeing conflicting info. Some websites say yes or no, regarding that before departing to thailand, one must show a negative pcr test. For the most part, it seems like no, you don’t have to.. but then more reputable sites say yes, people need to.

so which is it? planning to depart in october of 2022

Dear Balrto,

Negative RT PCR is for those unvaccinated.

Is a “supervised RAT travel test” signed and witnessed by a pharmacist in Australia permitted for entry to Thailand?

Dear Nathan,

Yes, it should be a professional RAT.

Me and my friends will fly to Phuket. Me and my husband have international certificate of vaccination without QR-code on Covid-19. Vaccine is comirnaty (we have two dose and booster) . On website: https://www.tatnews.org/2022/06/covid-19-vaccine-guide-for-travellers-to-thailand/ The information is that when vaccine comirnaty, the 2nd dose must be after 3 weeks, but in my and husband’s certificate is after 4 weeks (first – 19.05.2022, second – 16.06.2022 and booster is 22.01.2022). Is this a problem? Do we need to take a test? Thx You in advance.

No, it means 3 weeks after your shot, more than 21 days in valid.

Do I need to purchase health insurance if I’m only staying in Bangkok for 1 day since my destination is the following day when I arrived in Bandkok?

Insurance is optional. Not compulsory but still recommended.

do the vaccine certificates require to have a qr code? or is that up to the discretion of the airline?

Not really, any proof that you are fully vaccinated will be accepted. If so, then maybe it’s the airlines requirements.

i will arrive bangkok 17:00, transit to Taipei, Taiwan 12:55 on next day. do i still need to book hotel + insurance and proceed PCR test. I am unvaccinated.

Insurance is not compulsory but still recommended. If you are unvaccinated, you need a 72 hours negative RT PCR.

I have flight 06.10 I’m arrive g to Thailand 07.10. I’m not vaccined is that mean I have to take test 04.10 then is 72h before my arrival or I shuld take tests 05.10 or 06.10?

You can do it on 5.10 , validity should be 72 hours upon arrival.

Hello, I might be coming to Thailand in the next month or so, coming from China (not a Chinese citizen). I have been vaccinated but my vaccination shows on my phone – is this presentable?

Hi Charles,

Any proof that you are fully vaccinated.

How long is the Vaccine considered before expiring if I am vaccinated with 2 shots?

Last shot should be not more than 12 months.

Traditional herbal medicines are based on the use of natural remedies like Herbs and Roots, no special food, no lifestyle change to permanently cure drug resistance diseases. people who use this methods like me will definitely testify. three years ago I was permanently cured from herpes simplex virus by Dr Okosun, an African herbalist who eradicates diseases and viruses which the world believes has no cure today with the use of herbs Dr Okosun herbs are hundred percent natural, no after effect and is guaranteed method of getting rid of herpes and other drug resistance diseases which the doctors made us believe has no cure, im one of the hundreds of people cured by dr okosun and you can get in touch with this dr and get your healing just as i did via drokosun55@gmail .com his mobile or whatsapp +2348124363791

Is a photo copy or a photo of my covid card ok? I left my original at home so I wouldn’t lose it.

Yes, any proof that you are fully vaccinated.

On your website it says that the test should be done with 72 hours before departure. So is it before departure or arrival? A international flight might take More 30 hours. If there is a delay, 72 hours will easily be passed. If the test is invalid upon arrival, what should be done?

Validity should be within 72 hours of arrival.

I receive my PCR test result by email. Do I need to print it out to show upon arrival? If my result is expired upon arrival, can I do a pcr test I the airport? If so, how much is it?

The result should be valid within 72 hours of your arrival, incase you need to repeat again the test.

I was just reading a site through Japan Airlines for Thailand entry from United States, it says as of August 31 1. no test required 2. No quarantine

Is this correct?

Thank you Jim

Yes you’re right, no test required if fully vaccinated. If unvaccinated, 72 hours negative RT PCR.

If I’m unvaccinated I understand that I need to have RT PCR within 72 hours upon arrival, but do I also HAVE to quarantine upon arrival in addition to the test?

No quarantine upon arrival if you have negative result.

I have 2 doses of pfizer is it considered fully vaccinated? I got my 2nd shot last Oct. 2021 and I will be travelling on Aug.3. Do I need to show RT-PCR negative result ?

Yes, 2 doses is fully vaccinated.

I know that for the moment i can enter with test but what are the chances that the thai government will change the rules and make the vaccination obligatory again for 5 octobre? thanks

i am not vaccinated but i will be travelling to thailand on 5 october.

Do I only need a negative covid test to enter thailand?

And what are the chances that the thai government will change the rules and make the vaccination obligatory again? If so, how long before I should be vaccinated in order to travel safely on the 5th of october?

Yes, you can still enter even unvaccinated. You just need to have RT PCR within 72 hours upon arrival.

Hi there, just wondering if transiting in Bangkok (not leaving the airport) on the way to Malaysia if I still need to provide a RT/PCR test? I am not vaccinated. Thanks in advance

The unvaccinated or not fully vaccinated travellers without a negative test result within 72 hours of travel is required to follow the public health instructions and guidelines as deemed appropriate by the Health Control officer at the point of arrival.

A little urgent!

Hi! I am have 2 doses of pfizer vaccine but it has expired 2 months ago, I have read that i am still able to travel in there as thailand do not request for the booster.

Is that correct? Hope someone replies me fast. Thank you ser/madam!

Yes, 2 doses is fully vaccinated . Your last shot should not be longer than 12 months, otherwise, you need to get booster.

We are arriving in BKK on the 29th and are not vaccinated or recovered.

I would like to know if we can get vaccinated this week. Is the vaccine already valid or is it necessary, for example, to be vaccinated since 20 days minimum for the vaccine to be valid in Thailand?

Have a good day

Hi Grandjean,

14 days of your vaccination.

You do not need to be vaccinated to go to Thailand. Just take an official antigen test 72 hours before departure.

Hi, for the insurance policy how many days should I buy if I will be staying in thailand for 5 days?

You can get the period of your stay or even 1 week.

How long do we have to be vaccinated for the Covid certificate to be valid?

Not more than 12 months with your last shot. If so, you can get booster.

Hi, thank you for your work. So unvaccinated travelers who got Covid recently in a month can submit a recovery certificate instead of a negative test result to enter Thailand. Is that right that I understand? or must submit a negative test result even though got Covid recently? Also, what is the acceptable date for a recent recovery? Is it 30 days or 40days?

If you recovered at covid, you need to get certificate of recovery . You still need to get a 72 hours negative RT PCR if you are unvaccinated, that is the requirements for unvaccinated traveler.

Hi!. I’m travelling from the UK to BKK on 30th Aug., 2022. I’m over 60 and had both my vaccination jabs plus a booster shot back in 2021. Is there anything else I need to enter Thailand?. 😀

Just vaccination certificate and passport.

hi iam travelling to Thailand from Kuwait will transit in Bangkok then internal flight to koh samui for 12 days then to Phuket for another 12 days iam not vaccinated please advise with needed documents and when i travel from koh samui to phuket do i need to do PCR?

and it will be undergo quarantine for unvaccinated travellers?

For unvaccinated traveler, you need to have negative 72 hours RT PCR.

Nice, Now you can visit and travel in Thailand with your pocket money. But how? It is possible due to the Discount code or promo code of Travel Accommodation Services Provider, Like Klook, Trip com and so many in the Thailand. So You can get Klook Thailand Discount code from here ส่วนลด Klook and save some amount.

Yes, most hotel had their own discount and promotion, you can stay in any hotel you want. You can also check here https://www.agoda.com/search?cid=1897011&city=9395

Hi We are travelling to Phuket Airport and on to hotel in Khao Lak on 25 November from UK for 15 nights. We have had 3 Vaccinations, the latest one December 21. Do we need another one given it will be a year since the last one. What is the longest time since last vaccination to be considered fully vaccinated.

It should not last more than 12 months.

Hi i am planning to visit in thailand next year with my family for a week, do we need to get a visa? Or what are the requirements? Thank you

You can check with this site if you are eligible for visa exemption which means that you can enter Thailand without visa for 30 days. https://www.thaiembassy.com/thailand-visa/thai-visa-exemption-and-bilateral-agreement

You can check this site if you are eligible for visa exemption which means that you can enter Thailand without visa for 30 days. https://www.thaiembassy.com/thailand-visa/thai-visa-exemption-and-bilateral-agreement

Hi, i am traveling to Bangkok 29th of august. I got world travel insurance her in Danmark, please let me know if need to buy any extra insurance. I am fully vaccinated. thanks

Hi Maqsood,

Insurance is not compulsory but highly suggested.

Hi, I am unvaccinated and got Covid 2 weeks ago and gonna visit Thailand in 14days. In this case, recovery certificate can be submitted instead of negative results from ATK or PCR test? Because dead covid virus can be left in the body and some people got still positive results after they got covid. I will flight from Korea.

Yes, bring your certificate of recovery.

Thank you. So do you mean that I can submit a recovery certificate in recent instead of the negative test result? Is that right that I understand?

You need to bring the certificate of you recovery so the health representative can check the level status of your infection just incase you get positive result again.

hi is a booster covid19 vaccine mandatory to enter Thailand? I’m vaccinated with 1 J&J last Aug 2021 which only needs 1 shot. would this be an issue?

Hello Vans,

If you’re fully vaccinated, you must show proof of vaccination a booster isn’t required for entry at this stage.

thank you mary for this.

I need to transit from BKK to Mumbai in 5 hours gap .Unfortunately,I can’t get thorough check in because I bought different airlines.So,I need to pass the immigration of Thuwaanabumi Air port and collect my luggage and again I need to entry into Department of that airport.Is it ok for me because I will re entry into BKK after 4 days.My trip is tomorrow.

Hi. If i’m travelling with my family from malaysia to thailand and one of my child 12 yr old is not vaccine can my child enter thailand together with us ( already complete vaccine . do she need to perform atk ?

Hello Saiful,

Children under the age of 18 do not need a certificate of vaccination if they are travelling with fully vaccinated parents. If they travel with parents who are not fully vaccinated, they must present an RT-PCR / Professional ATK COVID-19 test result issued within 72 hours before departure.

Im fully vaccinated , do i still need to stay at a SHAplus hotel when i visit thailand?

You can enter in any hotel you want.

I cannot enter into Thailand within 14th days from tested positive. Correct? Thailand Embassy of Japan and Singapore informed me like that.

As long as you are fully recovered and tested negative after your quarantine period, you can able to travel in Thailand.

For those previously infected with COVID-19 are considered fully vaccinated if they have received a single dose of COVID-19 vaccine at any time after their recovery.

Please be advised that your proof or medical record of COVID-19 recovery must be shown alongside your single-dose vaccination certificate.

My daughter got covid last Sunday. I have lived in Singapore, and in SIngapore, can go out from 7th day(1st day is positive day) I have a plan to go to Thailand this Sunday. When I called and asked Thailand embassy in Japan today, embassy officer mentaioned she cannot enter Thailand within14days from positive result tested.. Also it is showing in homepage in Thailand embassy of Japan. If she with negative and doctor record , she can go in Thailand before 14days?

Hello Kato,

My daughter got covid last Sunday. I have lived in Singapore, and in SIngapore, can go out from 7th day(1st day is positive day) I have a plan to go to Thailand this Sunday. When I called and asked Thailand embassy in Japan today, embassy officer mentaioned she cannot enter Thailand within14days from positive result tested.. Also it is showing in homepage in Thailand embassy of Japan.

Hello Do i still need a test 72 hrs before departure if I have 1 of the 2 Covid vaccines and just recovered from Covid? Thank you

Hello Tash,

Hi, I’m from Malaysia. Yesterday on 1 August 2022 I tested positive for covid-19 by using the RTK-Nasal swab self-test kit. According to Ministry of Health of Malaysia, I only need to quarantine for 7 days since I have taken the 3 dos of the covid-19 vaccine. However, I am required to attend a regional meeting in Bangkok on 15 August 2022. Can I enter Bangkok on the 14 of August since we will be traveling to Bangkok 1 day earlier?

Sorry to hear that. Yes, you can still travel to Thailand as long as after you have quarantined you tested negative. And just provide your proof or medical record of COVID-19 recovery alongside of your vaccination certificate.

I am travelling to Bangkok on 10th August to visit a bank on the 11th August and departing Bangkok on 12th August for UK. I am fully vaccinated in Cambodia with 3 vaccinations. I am a British citizen. Do I require a PCR test before I enter Thailand?

Hello Robert,

Since you are fully vaccinated you don’t need a negative RT-PCR test result. Just provide your proof of vaccination upon arrival, that would be enough.

hi im planning to visit phuket and bangkok , is there a minimum days i have to spend at phuket before going to bangkok ?

Hello Bell,

There’s no minimum days you can stay on each area in Thailand, as long as your visa are still valid you are free to travel around.

I have one shot of a two-shot vaccine + a booster (in total 2 shots). The reason I only had one shot the first time is because I had been infected with COVID and therefore according to local regulations one shot was enough. Am I considered fully vaccinated for travel to Thailand?

Thank you for your prompt response. To clear out, I have proof that I was tested positive and then subsequently negative test. The report is in Italian (I live in Italy), but the words “positivo” and “negativo” are pretty clear. The tests were conducted by an accredited private hospital in Milan, Italy. I assume I would be able to use this?

If you can provide the English translation that would be better, but if you only have written in Italian you can still use that.

Hi there, I am from UK. I plan to visit Thailand in mid of August 2022 with my 12 years old son. I had 3 Covid Vaccines but my son hasn’t receive them yet. Does my son need to do Fit to Fly Pro-Antigen Covid test or he doesn’t need to do it? Hope to hear from you soon. Thank you.

Hello Tidaratt,

Will I be able to enter Thailand with the negative result of PCR Test 72 hrs? The lab has the PCR Test. They said the PCR Test and the RT-PCR Test is the same thing.

Hello Usanee,

The RT-PCR test and PCR test are different, however, any of those are accepted as long as it was issued by a certified Clinic or Hospital, containing personal information of the travelers and information of the vaccine (name, batch number, dates).

I have an appointment with Medical facility in Bangkok, for yearly medical checkups at the end of August 2020. I have already took COVID 19 full vaccination (1st, 2nd and booster). My visa will stamped on arrival at the air port since my country is not in the list Thai visa except countries. So what else required from?

Hello Assefa,

The entry measures for Thai and Foreign Nationals are only proof of either a certificate of vaccination or a negative RT-PCR or professional ATK test result within 72 hours of travel. These can be in a print or digital format.

I am from Kuwait, I am a two-dose restaurant and I have health insurance. Do I need anything else to enter Thailand?

Hello Nael,

Hi, may I know what’s the procedure if foreigners get COVID during their stay in Thailand?

Anyone who tests positive, regardless of whether they have recovered from COVID-19 in the last 90 days, are required to quarantine at their own expense for 10-14 days or possibly longer depending on their situation and under the direction of public health officials.

Hi, do you need to be vaccinated to enter Thailand? Or is a PCR test acceptable when taken 3 days before arriving?

Hello Eliana,

Full vaccination is not mandatory to enter Thailand, however, if you provide your proof of vaccination, you won’t need to present a negative PCR test.

A negative RT-PCR or professional ATK test result must be issued within 72 hours before departure.

I need to make a trip to Thailand in early October for business meetings with our local office as well as clients in Bangkok. Since the trip is not for tourism purposes, do I need to get a visa (U.S. passport holder traveling from the U.S.)

Hello Dawn,

If you’ll stay less than 30 days in Thailand, you don’t need to apply for a visa since U.S Passport holders are entitled for 30 days visa exemption.

Hi. I m planning to travel to Thailand in September/October. I have 2 sinovac shots that are confirmed in a local covid19 vaccination card in English incl. Batch numbers etc but I don’t have the yellow WHO vaccination certificate booklet. Is my local certificate valid or do I need the yellow WHO booklet? Thanks a lot and kind regards Thomas

Hello Thomas,

You don’t need a yellow booklet, just provide the proof of your vaccination given by your country.

Hi , I am planning to travel to Thailand in October for 1 week . I have received the Johnson and Johnson single dose covid vaccine. Do I have to get a booster shot to or am I considered vaccinated

Hello Naomi,

Travelers to Thailand, foreign and Thai, are considered fully vaccinated if they get their second dose of a 2-dose vaccine no less than 14 days before their travel date to Thailand also if they get a single-dose vaccine no less than 14 days before their travel date to Thailand.

Hi I am a U.K. citizen I am fully vaccinated plus had a 3 rd booster jab in December 2021 , I am planing to go to thailand in October 2022 , for 2 weeks am I considered fully vaccinated or would I need a 4 th booster vaccination Thanks in advance

Hello Eddie,

Travelers to Thailand are considered fully vaccinated if they have already a 2-dose of vaccine.

May I ask Children under 18 without vaccinated who are traveling with vaccinated parents can enter to Thailand?

Yes they can. Thailand has no COVID restrictions anymore.

Dear, I am French citizen, I plan to come from 08/08 to Thailand: – Do I need visa or there is a 30 days exemption for French citizen ? – In case there is a Visa exemption, do I need to register somewhere or I just need to show up at the customs ? Thank you

Hello Quentin,

France Passport holders not required to obtain a visa when entering Thailand for tourism purposes and will be permitted to stay in Thailand for a period not exceeding 30 days on each visit. The visa will be stamp by the Immigration officer on the day you have arrived in Thailand.

Hi Quentin,

Check here if you are eligible for visa exemption, https://www.thaiembassy.com/thailand-visa/thai-visa-exemption-and-bilateral-agreement

Do you have to book a SHA hotel on first night if your already vaccinated?

Hello Timmy,

If you are fully vaccinated, you don’t need a hotel booking confirmation just provide a proof of your vaccination.

You can stay in any hotel of you choice.

Hi I am fully vaccinated 2 dose with moderna But it is 1 year ago already since I got my second dose. I do not have booster. Do I need booster to enter Thailand now?

Yes, last shot should not more than 12 months.

I am considering booking an airbnb in Phuket but have concerns about legality. I am seeing mix reviews online stating that it is illegal to book villas in Thailand for less than 30 days. Can you please clarify if it will be legal to book a villa in Phuket for 5 days or less. The villa is listed on Airbnb website.

https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/43272871?adults=6&children=0&infants=0&check_in=2023-05-20&check_out=2023-05-23&source_impression_id=p3_1658235414_A4%2B4qyfIvFCIfYDo

Dear Rochelle,

When you come to Thailand, you are allowed to stay in a hotel, hostel, villa or private residence such as house or condo. Thank you.

I live in HK and will have a flight to Australia and transit in Thailand. I am not vaccinated. Do i have to do test? Thank you

Yes, for unvaccinated you need 72 hours RT PCR .

Hi, Do I still have to fill up and get the Thai Pass and purchase USD10,000 covid coverage as of today 19 July 2022? Fyi, I am from Malaysia.

Thailand Pass was no longer required, no need to apply. Insurance is not compulsory but highly recommended, better to get for security.

Is 2time vaccination sinovac aprroved in Thailand ？

Fit to Fly Health Certificate for Travelers to Thailand

A ‘Fit to Fly’ Certificate, also called a  Fit to Travel Letter is a medical certificate that confirms to airlines that you are in the conditions to fly. This document is currently required from everyone traveling to Thailand.

Fit to Fly Certificate is no longer needed!

Update 1 April 2021! For the travelers arriving to Thailand from 1 April 2021 Fit to Fly Certificate is no longer needed!

This new regulation was published in Royal Gazette on 31 March 2021 ( click to see announcement , of course in Thai!)

Many embassies also stated that "Non-Thai travellers no longer need to present a Fit to Fly Certificate at check-in. It is sufficient to present a Medical Certificate with a laboratory result indicating that COVID-19 is not detected, using RT-PCR method, issued no longer than 72 hours before departure (in addition to the COE, health insurance & ASQ confirmation). However, certain airlines may have a different internal policy; please double check required documents with your airlines. "

COVID-19 Test in Bangkok

There's a high chance that a negative COVID-19 test result  or even a Fit to Fly Certificate will be needed when traveling home from Thailand. You can conveniently book a COVID-19 test in Bangkok online and even get a discounted price for the service.

Those preferring first class healthcare providers, can choose one of the top private hospitals in Bangkok - BNH Hospital, which is conveniently located in central Bangkok nearby  BTS Chongnonsi Station. The hospital is offering a package including the testing, Fit-To-Fly Certificate, test reports and consultant fees with results within just 24 hours (Next Day) for 7,000 THB.

If you are looking for an affordable COVID-19 RT-PCR test in Bangkok , in an easy to access in Ratchada Area (nearby MRT Ratchadaphisek station) you can find an officially accredited medical testing laboratory that is offering a hassle-free process and test results within just 24 hours (Next Day).

Due to the current COVID-19 pandemic, those who was flying to Thailand were required to present health certificate written by a doctor that confirms your fitness to fly. The health certificate must state that the passenger was "Fit to Fly".

You will also need health insurance  covering COVID-19 for no less than 50,000 USD. AXA Sawasdee Thailand  is an inbound travel insurance that meets all these requirements  set by Thai government and was successfully used by thousands of travelers to enter Thailand. You can conveniently  buy COVID-19 insurance online  and get your insurance policy with COVID-19 certificate instantly .

A Fit to Fly Health Certificate must be issued no more than 72 hours before departure. If you travel with the flight on 22 November 2020, your fit-to-fly health certificate must be “issued” or “reported” on 19, 20 or 21 November 2020. 

Photo by Royal Thai Embassy, Jakarta

Additionally, everyone needs to present a letter, Certificate of Entry (COE)  issued by Royal Thai Embassy or Thai Consulate certifying that they are flying home.

Having a "fit to fly" certificate is not enough for foreigners flying to Thailand as depending on the type of their purpose of traveling, they need to submit several other documents to Thai Embassy or Thai Consulate before traveling to Thailand.

Another important thing you should be aware of when planning to travel to Thailand during COVID-19 is that foreigners must stay at one of Alternative State Quarantine (ASQ)  or  Alternative Local Quarantine (ALQ)  for 14 days after entering the country.

Fit to Fly Health Certificate Form

There is no official form for a Fit-to-Fly Certificate. Some passengers on previous repatriation flights and Semi-Commercial Flights were denied boarding because they used forms that did not contain the word “FIT-TO-FLY” or “FIT-TO-TRAVEL”

This is the sample form of Fit to Fly Health Certificate from Royal Thai Embassy in Washington D.C. You can also click here to download (PDF) the same form on Thailand Department of Disease Control website.

Another example of Fit to Fly Certificate.

Fit-to-Fly Certificate vs. COVID-19-Free Certificate

Fit to Fly Health Certificate is a statement by a doctor that you are free from symptoms and fit to fly. While COVID-19-Free Certificate  is the test result with a laboratory output indicating that COVID-19 is not detected. Both documents must be issued within 72 hours before departure.

Update 1 April 2021! While Fit to Fly Health Certificate is no longer needed starting from 1 April 2021, all foreigners traveling to Thailand still must have a  COVID-19-Free Certificate  issued within 72 hours before departure.

The COVID-19 test result and fit-to-fly health certificate must be  two separate documents . It is your responsibility to present these two documents upon check-in with the airline and on your arrival in Thailand.

For newest updates on Thailand entry requirements  like our Facebook page !

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• A Fitness Lovers Guide To...

A Fitness Lover's Guide To Bangkok

Staying in shape while traveling for long periods of time can be difficult. Some travelers are not willing to take months off their daily workout routines, however. These travelers find themselves scouring the city in search of gyms, workout classes and anything else available. Working out is hard enough, and finding somewhere to do it should not be an added struggle. That being said, Bangkok has plenty of options, from gyms to Muay Thai classes, for tourists to explore. Here, a fitness lover’s guide to Bangkok .

The guavapass.

GuavaPass is a fairly new concept that has taken Asia by storm. With this pass, you no longer have to pay expensive fees to attend certain classes or scout out Bangkok for the best gyms to sweat in. GuavaPass has already done that for you, for only ฿3,699 per month. Yoga, kickboxing, spinning, dancing, CrossFit and even Pilates are just some of the available classes you will find around Bangkok made available to you with your GuavaPass. With this pass, you will never come up short finding new ways to sweat. This pass also has partners in cities including Hong Kong, Singapore, Dubai, Manila, Seoul, Jakarta, Taipei and Shanghai.

Bangkok’s Outdoor Gyms

‘Air-walker’ and ‘sit-up board’ are just two of the machines available at Santiphap Park, about a five-minute walk from the BTS Skytrain stop Victory Monument. You can also find an outdoor gym at Chatuchak Park, right off BTS Skytrain stop Mochit. If anything, watching people pendulum swing their legs from side to side as a means of working out is entertaining, to say the least.

Explore on Foot

Bangkok, for such an urban area, has its fair share of parks. If you feel silly using one of the outdoor gyms as a means to stay toned while traveling, simply grab a water bottle and a friend and go for a stroll around any of Bangkok’s best parks, including Lumpini and Chatuchak Park. There are plenty of parks just waiting to be explored in Bangkok, which are great for both jogging and cycling.

Cycle the City

Many of the parks in and around Bangkok have great cycling routes. Explore ‘Bangkok’s Green Lung’ on Bang Kachao, or take a more urban inspired route at Benjakiti Park, with trails made specifically for cyclists. Bicycles are usually fairly inexpensive to rent as well, costing about ฿20-30 for an hour or ฿100 for an entire day. There are also plenty of tour groups and guides that offer educational bicycle tours around the city, including Follow Me Bangkok Bicycle Tours , Grasshopper Adventures and SpiceRoads Cycle Tour .

Why not stay in shape while learning about Thailand’s national and most popular sport, Muay Thai ? There are an overabundance of gyms and classes around Bangkok that offer both private and group classes. Whether you have never stepped foot into the boxing ring before or plan on become a Muay Thai professional, Bangkok’s Muay Thai classes and gyms are a great place to for fitness lovers.

Recreational Classes

Bangkok is filled with both expats and fitness lovers. These two groups join forces in Bangkok’s many group sessions or classes offered around the city. Plan your time accordingly to find these classes, however. Show up at any given park at 1 p.m. in the afternoon and you will likely be one of only a few people there. Show up anytime after 5 p.m., and you will probably find yourself right in the middle of some cardio activity.

For example, on Tuesday and Thursday nights at 6:30 p.m., Lumpini Running Club meets for its evening jog, followed by drinks. Sunset yoga is offered at Benjakiti Park throughout the week. These are often sporadic and random, depending on when an instructor is available. Be on the lookout for these classes online before attending. Most of these classes are free or donation based. By Kelly Iverson

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

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Travel to China

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ISO15189 certified Lab Results issued by embassy certified lab

RT-PCR Test Compulsory Departing from Thailand to China

Travel to India

RT-PCR Test Compulsory Departing from Thailand to India

Travel to Japan

72hrs RT-PCR Test Result and Japanese form Required

Regulations Issued by Govt. of Japan

Get RT-PCR Test Now

Rapid Antigen Test 1,800 THB 990 THB

* without Medical certificate

1 Hour VIP Express 5,500 THB

3 Hours Result PCR Test 4,900 THB

6 Hours Result PCR Test 3,900 THB

24 Hours Result PCR Test 2,900 THB

Rapid Antigen test + Fit to Fly medical certificate 1,500 THB

CLEIA Lumipulse Saliva Test 2,500 THB

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Additional Information and Precautions

Travel Restrictions Entering India from Thailand for Vaccinated Travelers Negative (RT-PCR) Covid test result arrivals from Thailand to India

Hyatt Regency Bangkok Sukhumvit 2F Renewme Skin Clinic

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Test results of RT-PCR / Rapid-Antigen (ATK)

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Testing time│08.00 AM - 09.00 PM ▶ Result time│within 15 minutes

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Thailand Nomads

Sweat and the City: A Curated Guide to Bangkok’s Best Gym

Joy intisuk.

• March 30, 2023

1. Training Ground BKK

Training Ground in Sukhumvit 69 is a gym that stands out for its beginner-friendly approach to CrossFit and its inclusive, fun gym culture. They also provide personal training and nutritional services for holistic fitness management.

Free passes are given to anyone interested in a trial session, making the onboarding process clear and easy.

The gym is spacious, with individual workout stations for different classes. Thus providing a comfortable and efficient training environment.

Address: 36/2 Soi Sukhumvit 69 (Salinimit), Prakanong, Wattana, Bangkok, 10110

Phone: 097 396 7599

Website: https://traininggroundbkk.com/

2. Jetts 24-Hour Fitness Gym

Jetts is an international fitness chain with multiple branches around Bangkok.

One of the best features of Jett is that they are open 24/7. Therefore, you can work out anytime you want.

They aim their modern gyms at young, working professionals who are likely to enjoy the ease of working out on their terms.

All the necessary facilities for a perfect workout are available at Jetts. You can find a Cardio Zone and functional training in every gym.

In addition, there’s also a wide selection of free weights, training equipment, and machines.

Make sure to take advantage of Jetts’ free trial to experience the gym before buying a day pass or a membership!

Address: 348, 348/2 Sukhumvit Road, Khlong Toei Subdistrict, Khlong Toei District, Bangkok (BTS Asok Branch)

Phone: 063-850-3316

Website: www.jetts.co.th

3. The LAB Sukhumvit Gym

The LAB is a personal training studio that provides specialized programs, nutrition coaching, and group classes.

Their professional trainors focus on individualized approaches and functional training that work best according to the client’s fitness goals.

The owner, Richard, and his team are passionate about fitness and will coach and train you to increase your physical strength, endurance, athletic performance, or weight loss target.

Address: 9th Floor, Sukhumvit Park Bangkok, Marriott Executive Apartments

Phone: +6684 130 4001

Website:   www.thelabbangkok.com

4. BASE Bangkok

The BASE Bangkok is a fitness studio specializing in a mix of HIIT and strength training programs backed up by data-driven assessments of the client’s progress.

Aside from private and group sessions, the gym also offers pre and post-natal classes and youth training programs.

BASE has three locations in Bangkok – Thonglor, Sathorn, and Langsuan.

It has been conferred the title of ‘Asia’s Gym of the Year’ in 2018 and ‘Bangkok Best Studio‘ in 2020.

Address: Unit 208, Noble Remix 2, Sukhumvit Soi 36, Bangkok 10110 (Thonglor Branch)

Phone: 021606065

Website: https://basebangkok.com/

5. Crossfit Arena

Crossfit Arena is the most inclusive gym in Bangkok and has been in the business for over five years.

With high-intensity functional movements, CrossFit Arena has a philosophy that trains people to improve their physical and cardiovascular well-being regardless of their shape or size.

The coaches, Vartan and Jun, are very knowledgeable and helpful.

Address: 1643/5 New Phetchaburi Rd., Makkasan, Ratchathewi, Bangkok 10400

Phone: 091 720 97 27

Website: https://crossfitarbkk.com/

6. Muscle Factory

Muscle Factory Bangkok is famed as the biggest hardcore gym in Thailand. It’s designed to cater to all levels of gym-goers, from amateurs to professionals.

The gym offers coaching services, including Muay Thai, bodybuilding, personal training, and nutrition consultation.

Besides fitness and gym-lovers, this place attracts bodybuilders thanks to the gym’s wide selection of weights.

Address: Sukhumvit 56 Yak 3-1, Bangkok, Thailand, Bangkok

Phone: +66 2 331 5277

Website: https://mfbkk.com/

7. Fitness First

Fitness First Gym has offered a premium gym experience for over three decades internationally. In Thailand alone, it has 33 state-of-the-art facilities nationwide.

The gym emphasizes personalized fitness journeys. It showcases various personal and group classes each month, including mind and body, HIIT, and strength training.

Members enjoy access to globally recognized certified fitness coaches, cutting-edge fitness equipment, and innovative tracking tools like MyCoach and Boditrax to monitor progress.

With a focus on elevating fitness and a supportive community, Fitness First inspires members to go further in their fitness journey.

Phone: 02-118-6665

Website: https://www.fitnessfirst.co.th/

8. Physique 57

Physique 57 is given the name because it offers 57-minute classes of ballet-inspired barre workouts with intervals of cardio and strength training.

This unique workout style is said to have four pillars: interval overload, isometric movement, 360 sculptings, and stretching intermission.

The group classes at Physique 57 focus on improving muscle strength with specified movements and strengthening and toning the body.

For extra convenience, Physique 57 offers online class programs that you can access anywhere you may be.

Address: LVNL Co., Ltd. (HQ) 494 Ploenchit Rd, Lumpini, Phatumwan 10 10330

Phone: 66638832824

Website: https://physique57bangkok.com/

9. New Moves Gym

The New Moves gym has redefined fitness and training in Bangkok. Their primary objective is to get you focused on training, nutrition, and lifestyle.

Unlike traditional gyms, New Moves allows you to try unconventional fitness methods, whichever works best for your body.

Working with different tools and equipment to make their client’s experience more effective and result-driven.

The assistance of their skilled professionals has helped various locals and tourists attain their fitness goals in the best-fitting and most holistic way.

Address: Maneeya Center Building, Floor 3, Ploenchit Road, Lumphini, Pathumwan, Bangkok

Phone: (+66) 02 652 0539

Website: https://newmovesbkk.com/

10. Fitness 24 Seven

Fitness 24 Seven Gym is famous for its 24/7 operating hours – no more excuses. The doors of this gym are open to serve you any time of the day.

The gym has different sections catering to various programs, including cardio, free weights, stretch equipment, women’s gym, and personal and group training.

As a bonus, members are entitled to access the Fitness 24 Seven gyms worldwide.

Address: 3rd fl., 3/21 Sukhumvit 71, Bangkok 10110

Phone: 080-834-5179

Website: https://th.fitness24seven.com/

11. Cascade Club

Cascade Club is deemed one of the best gyms and the only 5-star health club in Bangkok.

It merges health and lifestyle amenities with world-class exercise equipment compatible with wearables, luxurious locker rooms, and highly educated personal trainers.

The club offers a variety of personal and group classes for yoga, Pilates reformer, Thai boxing, and TRX fitness.

It’s a space where members can focus on their health and social well-being in a high-end environment.

Address: Level 6 and 7 The Ascott Sathorn Bangkok 7 South Sathorn Road, Yannawa, Sathorn, Bangkok 10120 Thailand

Phone: 02 676 6969

Website: https://www.cascadeclubthailand.com/

12. Elite Training Center

Elite Training Center in Bangkok is a premium facility for combat, fitness, and contact sports.

With over 2,000 sqm of space, it includes a fully equipped gym, swimming pool, steam room, sauna, and locker rooms.

The center offers various fitness and performance classes tailored to individual preferences to enhance the mind and body.

Address: The Waterford Diamond Tower, 10th Floor Soi Sukhumvit 30/1 Sukhumvit Rd. Klongton, Klongtoey, Bangkok Thailand

Phone: 850-123-5021

Website: https://etcbangkok.com/

13. O2 Fitness

O2 Fitness in Bangkok offers a comprehensive fitness experience spanning two floors. The facility boasts a wide range of strength, cardio, and group exercise equipment.

Unique features include a dedicated Spin Room, Hot Yoga Studio, and male/female steam and sauna rooms.

The club aims to support members’ fitness journey with varied training options available for all levels.

Address: Park Village Rama II, 3rd Floor Soi Rama II, Soi 56 Samaedum, Bangkhunthian, Bangkok 10150 Thailand

Phone: +66 2 096 1881

Website: https://o2th.com/

14. Westin WorkOut Fitness Studio

The Westin WorkOut Fitness Studio in Bangkok is designed to cater to fitness enthusiasts seeking a comprehensive workout experience. It offers state-of-the-art fitness equipment, allowing guests to maintain their exercise routine while traveling.

This facility is part of The Westin Grande Sukhumvit Hotel. The studio emphasizes a holistic approach to health and well-being, ensuring guests have access to various free weights, gym cardio and strength training machines, and other equipment.

Address: 259 Sukhumvit Road, Bangkok, Thailand, Bangkok

Phone: +66 2 207 8000

Website: https://westin.marriott.com/wellness/

15. We Fitness Society

WE Fitness Society in Bangkok offers a diverse fitness experience with multiple locations, including a signature club at VIE Hotel.

They provide a good range of group exercise classes, yoga, Pilates, and specialized workouts like TRX and antigravity classes, catering to all levels.

Their facilities are designed to promote a holistic approach to health and fitness. It is equipped with premium gym equipment and provides a supportive environment for its members.

Address: 89 Phaya Thai Rd, Thanon Phetchaburi, Ratchathewi, Bangkok 10400, Thailand

Website: https://www.wefitnesssociety.com/ [siteorigin_widget class=”SiteOrigin_Widget_Accordion_Widget”] [/siteorigin_widget]

Your Takeaway

As we wrap up our guide to Bangkok’s best gyms, remember that each step you take towards fitness is a step closer to better health and better you.

Explore, experiment, and engage with the fitness community in Bangkok to unlock your full potential.

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Best Hotel Gyms in Bangkok

• Experience Led
• Updated March 5, 2023

We review the best hotel gyms in Bangkok to save you needing to traipse around an unfamiliar city just to get a workout. Spoiler alert – Bangkok did well.

Travelling to Bangkok and want to stay fit?

TLDR:  Asia’s major travel hubs have some excellent hotel gyms , Bangkok is no exception. In this guide we show you at least 10 ideas of hotel gyms in Bangkok that you’d be okay to train in, and a few that may even be better than your own home gym. The guide looks at options that are both high rated and affordable, and it’s why we avoid mentioning some brand hotels, because few can afford to stay at them. 

WINNER: Kimpton Maa-Lai- Click To See

About Bangkok

Bangkok is the bustling capital and economic hub of Thailand. Located in the Chao Phraya River delta in central Thailand, the city is known for its vibrant nightlife and shopping districts. Bangkok has an annual average sunshine of around 8 hours a day, making it a great spot to enjoy outdoor activities like sunbathing or sightseeing.

Bangkok is a great place for fitness lovers looking to enjoy an active holiday. With the number of big fitness events in the city, like the Bangkok Marathon and Dancing Rave Party, you can get your sweat on with like-minded people from all over the globe.

But it’s not just about big events; there’s plenty of options for everyday exercise too. Whether you’re looking for a fitness centre at your hotel or a place to work out outside, there are plenty of gyms in Bangkok that cater to all kinds of exercise styles and levels. Plus, if you’d rather explore outdoors, there are plenty of parks and open spaces where you can take part in jogging, biking or even climbing.

Quick Facts On Bangkok, Thailand

• Average Meal In Restaurant: €4 to €6 P/P
• Days Of Sunshine: 250-270 Days P/A
• Ave Annual Temp: 28 to 30°C (82-86 Fahrenheit)
• Warmest Months: April & Maya
• Ave Hotel Nightly Cost: €20 - €25 (Thailand Tourist Board)

How We Picked The Best Hotel Gym in Bangkok

I can’t speak for everyone, but if you’re an English speaker and arriving in Bangkok, you probably aren’t going back to your home gym anytime in the next couple of days. So, if you like to stay in shape, beyond the diet you will want to find a gym that keeps some continuity with your home workouts. Sure, it may not have that beautiful plate loaded hammer strength glute drive or Technogym leg press loaded to 300kg plus – but it’s got to be able to keep things pretty seamless. If for nothing else but your own sanity. 

We have years of experience in and around fitness, from training our bodies to others. You’ll even find our sage wisdom in wellness publications like  the Bustle . So what are we judging these hotel gyms in Bangkok on – can you hit all major lifts, does it accommodate for people who actually use gyms and can you leave the fitness centre satisfied. 

We are our audience. That’s the first thing you should know. We have made that walk into hotel gyms for over a decade now and know the disappointment that happens all too often, leaving you annoyed you paid extra for a place to stay that had a fitness centre.

The reality is most hotel gyms have been put together by someone who has never been to a gym in their life. We weigh up several facts when it comes to picking winners or calling out losers.

1. Can you complete the major compound lifts?  These include squats, deadlifts, presses and rows (or pulls). These are generally best served with a squat rack, maybe a smith machine and the presence of an Olympic barbell. Read about the “ Fundamental Lifts “.

2. Who does the weight load cater for?  The reality is most hotel gyms do not have sufficient weight plates or dumbbells for strong women, let alone adult males who visit the gym regularly.

3. Overall gym conditions.  This includes space to stretch, the condition of equipment, is there a/c etc. Nothing worse than trying to do an ab workout or flexibility movements on a wooden floor with no mats.

4. Cardio Range . What is the condition of the CV equipment and is there too much focus on machines that replicate the one exercise we can all do without a gym. Running/Walking. Yes – we will down mark for a room of treadmills….so stupid.

Table of Contents

The winners // hotels with gyms in bangkok.

Let’s get started, 5 of the best rated hotel gyms in Bangkok plus an extra 5 for luck. This is our Top 10 list of the best places to train where you sleep in Thailand’s capital city.

Too busy to read? Listen instead

Check In: 3pm

Check Out: 11am

Ave Price Per Night: £170 Neighbourhood: Pathum Wan Gym Hours: 6 am – 8.30 pm w/d – 8am – 8pm on w/e Max Dumbbell:  50 lbs Gym Brands Seen: Cybex, Technogym

1. Sindhorn Kempinski Hotel // Best Hotel Gyms In Bangkok

The first place we checked out and think you should to, is the Sindhorn Kempinski’s Hotel Gym in Bangkok. This award-winning 5-star hotel is located near the heart of Bangkok and boasts a stunning rooftop swimming pool in addition to some stunning views across the city skyline.

But what makes this a great spot for travellers who care about fitness? First up, it’s the equipment

The gym at Sindhorn Kempinski features a broad range of equipment, including cardio machines such as Arc trainers, free weights such as Olympic bars, Technogym resistance machines, punch bags, nice bit of astro  and, wait for it….an Olympic lifting platform. Sold.

According to reviews from visitors, they love the gym and have had no problems with it during their stay. The hotel also offers a variety of healthy options in its food service and their breakfast menu features items such as oatmeal, fresh fruit, and omelettes.

The average price per night at this luxurious hotel is around $200 USD, which does include breakfast.

So if you’re looking for a high-end place to stay with a great fitness centre in Bangkok, then look no further than the Sindhorn Kempinski Hotel Bangkok!

Reception: [email protected] Address: 80 Soi Ton Son, Lumphini, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand

Eleiko Power Rack Deadlift platform (very nice) Life Fitness Machines Punch bag Pilates Space

Could be open later on the weekend being Bangkok (Khao San T-Shirt Pumps)

Realistic Workouts Possible

• Olympic/Foundational Lifts
• Our Quad Mass Workout
• Pilates / Yoga
• GVT - German Volume Training

Check In: 4pm

Ave Price Per Night: £200 Neighbourhood: Pathum Wan Gym Hours: 6:00 am – 10:00 pm Gym Brands Seen:  Technogym, Hammer Strength, Precor, Jordan, Life Fitness

2. Kimpton Maa-Lai // Best Hotel Gyms In Bangkok

If you’re looking for a hotel gym that caters to serious fitness fanatics on their travels, then the Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok is definitely worth a visit. It offers all the major gym equipment from cardio machines to free weights and an array of impressive group classes. This place is legit as gyms go, it’s a crossfit and functional fitness fans shangri-la. You can get up for breakfast then head into the hotel gym and push a weighted sledge.

I mean, come on! No hotel gym you’ve ever been to has that.

What’s more, it’s one of the few hotels in Bangkok that offer healthy food options as a central part of their breakfast and food service. So you don’t need to worry about eating unhealthy while on vacation – they have you covered. Rooms here come in at an average price of around $200 per night, including breakfast.

Here are a few things you should know about this hotel gym:

It features modern exercise machines like treadmills and ellipticals as well as power racks with weights perfect for lifting and pressing exercises

There are also plenty of accessories such as stability balls, medicine balls, ab rollers and bikes to spice up your workouts

There are lots of group classes such as yoga, Pilates and HIIT for those looking for something more dynamic

The hotel also has a nice pool that can be used for swimming laps or simply cooling off after a tough workout session

Reception: [email protected]

Address: 78 Soi Ton Son, Lumphini, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand

Amazing gym Hammer strength Smith Machine Rock climbing wall Good use of space

Possibly a lack of dumbbells, but plenty of weight plates.

• Proper Leg Day
• Back Workout - Bent Row / Pendlay / Chins
• Fundamental Lifts

Check Out: Noon

Ave Price Per Night: £90-£110 Neighbourhood:  Yan Nawa Gym Hours: 6am to 10pm Max Dumbbell: 30kg Gym Brands Seen:  Life Fitness

3.Chatrium Residence Sathon // Best Hotel Gyms In Bangkok

Number 3 on our list of hotel gyms in Bangkok and we arrived at the Chatrium Residence Sathon. We came here on a leg day, but found ourselves doing a total body resistance machine workout, as we wanted a free-bar to squat, which it didn’t have. Still, it’s got a great selection of Life Fitness gym equipment, including resistance machines and free weights. It also has the standard treadmills and exercise bikes too. Best of all for your post workout, they have a decent sauna and steam room to help you let that pump marinade.

Customer reviews say good things about the place, particularly about the service. One area we didn’t test was their breakfast, which apparently has healthy eating options listed, so another win and how you can maintain that clean nutrition programme while on holiday!

Aside from the great gym facilities here you’ll also enjoy rooms with modern amenities such as flat screen TVs and complimentary WiFi so it’s a fantastic place to stay no matter if you’re planning on just using the gym or not. The average price for a room per night is around $100 USD (which does not include breakfast).

Reception: fitness.crst@chatrium

Address: 291 Naradhiwas Rajanakarindra 24 Alley, Chong Nonsi, Yan Nawa, Bangkok

Brand new refurb with Life Fitness Smith machine Olympic Bar Rubber Floor for Deads

Could do with more dumbbells. This is a recurring theme for many hotel gyms sadly.

• Yoga/Pilates Space
• Total Body Machine Workout
• Barbell Arms Workout
• Cardio Variety

Ave Price Per Night: £150+ Neighbourhood: Chatuchak Gym Hours: 09:00-23:00 Max Dumbbell: 15kg Gym Brands: Cybex

4. Centara Grand at Central Plaza Ladprao // Best Hotel Gyms in Bangkok

Another top hotel gym in Bangkok is Centara Grand at Central Plaza Ladprao Bangkok. Located close to the airport, this hotel gym is a great choice for tourists who care about fitness and accessibility to a major travel hub.

The gym has Cybex equipment (which makes  a change) and while it offers plenty of options for cardiovascular exercises, including treadmills and exercise bikes; they do really well when it comes to resistance machines and free-weights. For those who fancy something more organised to pass the time, you have the option of a separate room dedicated to group workout classes like HIIT and Zumba.

The hotel is well reviewed by visitors for its comfort and convenience in terms of its location and facilities; we checked it out when leaving Bangkok and can attest to that. The price for a room per night starts from $138 USD and includes breakfast, so it’s not the cheapest option but is a bit more executive so you expect that. The breakfast buffet has healthy eating options such as fruits, vegetable sticks, whole grain cereals, nuts, and MEAT! So if you’re heading out of town, or off to another part of the world, the Centara’s hotel gym and its location makes the place a good choice to check out.

Reception: [email protected]

Address: 1695 Phahonyothin Road, Chatuchak, Bangkok 10900, Thailand

Dumbbells to 30kg Recent Cybex resistance machines

Deads restricted to Smithy - with its limited range of motion (ROM)

• Multi Type Cardio Session - Sprint Intervals
• Resistance Machine Workout
• Bro Split Isolation Options
• Legs - Good Mix Of Options
• Plyo Floor Drills

Ave Price Per Night: £50 Neighbourhood: Huai Khwang Gym Hours: 24/7 Max Dumbbell: 30kg Gym Brands Seen: Cybex, Jordan

5. Golden Tulip Sovereign Hotel // Best Hotels Gym in Bangkok

Number 5 – in our list of the best hotel gyms in Bangkok and we bring you the Golden Tulip Sovereign. For us seeing the coloured smith machine plates, inspired a sense of Olympic lifting. While they aren’t bumper plates they are rubber coated and fitted to a smith machine so you’re not going to be hitting the floor with them. Mostly we like the slightly home gym style to the weights. It’s like a bodybuilding fan has collected odd pieces over the years because they are practical, meaning you end up with a useful gym.

The hotel itself has great reviews from visitors. It’s conveniently located near major attractions like Siam Paragon and MBK Shopping Centre, which makes it an ideal base for sightseeing in Bangkok. Plus, the rooms are comfortable and offer all the amenities one could need during their stay.

Prices for a room at this hotel start at around $60 per night, depending on the season. This price includes a basic breakfast that offers some healthy options like muesli, fresh fruits and yoghurt. The Golden Tulip Sovereign has a good little hotel gym and the with the variety of free weight kit, you’re going to be able to tick off most body parts well. For us it’s a really good affordable option.

Reception: [email protected]

Address: 92 Soi Rong Phayaban Phra Ram 9, Bang Kapi, Huai Khwang, Bangkok 10310

Cool visual vibes Smith Machine Technogym 4 Station Cable Pulley Machine

Dumbbells cut off at 22kg Not huge amount of kit

• Back - Smith - Dumbbells (Light) - Cable Pulley
• Biceps - EZ - Hammer - Overhand Barbell Curls
• Triceps - Close Grip Bench to French Press & Pushdown
• Chest/Shoulders - Smith Machine Primarily
• Core/Abs Space
• Legs: Front Squats/Back Squats Max 150kg
• Cleans/Olympic Lifting

Honourable Mentions in Bangkok (Click to see more)

Still not decided on your favourite hotel gym in Bangkok? Here are 5 more to consider. If you want to see more general images of the hotels and importantly their availability, you can hit the links associated with them below. If you book through those links we get about a dollar in compensation, which all goes toward our next protein bar. 

• Evergreen Place Siam Hotel:
• Emerald Hotel:

Carlton Hotel, Watthana

Mostly set up for casual gym users, but a smith machine, pulldown, dual cable column and a dumbbell rack that runs to 25kg sweetens the deal. Opens 6am to 9pm daily. Legs is going to be a slog. 

Sofitel Hotel, Khet Watthana

Technogym’s sales team deserve serious bonuses. There isn’t a top hotel gym globally that doesn’t hold their equipment. Nice resistance machine focused fitness centre – Open 24/7 too.

Amaranta Hotel, Huai Khwang

Free moving smith machine makes compound lifts on these, much less restrictive (for me anyway). Good quantity of weight plates means 160kg barbell lifts. Impressive for a hotel gym.

Do public gyms in Bangkok do day passes?

Yes, you can absolutely find gyms in Bangkok offering day passes. This is great news for travellers who don’t want to commit to an entire month or more of gym membership when they’re only going to be in the city for a few days. When looking for a gym to visit, you should consider the cost of the day pass, which ranges from around 300-700THB.

You can use apps like Reebok Fitness Club Finder and Omigo App to find gyms in Bangkok that offer day passes. These apps also list amenities like locker rooms and refreshments, plus equipment available like weights, treadmills and yoga mats. That way, you can easily tell what each gym offers before you even visit!

What are the best public gyms in Bangkok?

If you’re looking for the best public gym in Bangkok, then for overall appeal, look no further than Gym Zen. With a wide array of amenities and features, Gym Zen is the perfect place for bodybuilders, crossfitters, pilates devotees and MMA fighters alike.

Gym Zen has all the latest fitness equipment from leading brands such as Hammer Strength, Life Fitness and Nike Training. There’s also plenty of open-ended space in which to practise various techniques for MMA and boxing. The gym also offers a range of classes from Yoga to Bodybuilding to help you reach your fitness goals faster.

What’s good for bodybuilders?

I know we said we liked Gym Zen, well hold that thought for a moment, Muscle Factory just entered the chat .

Muscle Factory has no rivals for pure bodybuilding vibes. Bangkok has a load of decent public gyms but this one is a must visit for fans of lifting. I don’t need to add anything else to this section, other than, 300+ 5 star Google reviews must say something.

What’s good for crossfit?

Crossfitters can take advantage of the full range of free weights available at Base Gym, as well as the medicine balls, kettlebells, anaerobic cardio equipment they also have rows of landmines and Olympic lifting platforms to keep your workout routines from home uninterrupted.

What’s good for pilates? Yoga?

Yogis have plenty of options at Gym Zen; there is an entire section devoted purely to yoga poses as well as regular yoga classes by experienced instructors throughout the week. Pilates enthusiasts can take advantage of the wide selection of Pilates equipment available including reformers, rings and stability balls designed to help you build strength and flexibility.

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Have We Missed A Great Hotel Gym In Bangkok?

Think your hotel in Bangkok deserves to be on our list? Drop us a message to contact @ barbellsabroad dotcom, tell us why and we can take a look if you fancy. If you want to update your hotel’s details, reach out to us also. From bigger dumbbell sizes, to better opening hours – holler at your gym-bros. 

About the author

I feel like most hotel gyms are fitted out by someone who has never stepped foot in one. Spending fortunes on multiple cardio machines but not an Olympic bar in sight. We review hotel gyms so your next trip doesn't mean missed workouts. I am a Certified SAQ Trainer and REPs (UK) PT trained | @theskinnyboy on Insta

AFFILIATE DISCLAIMER:  Barbells Abroad offers recommendations and tips which may result in affiliate commissions being paid from a range of businesses.

Copyright © 2023 – Barbells Abroad – 1300 Coffeen Ave, Sheridan, WY, 82801, USA | [email protected]

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Marriott Executive Apartments Bangkok, Sukhumvit 101

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Welcome to Marriott Executive Apartments Bangkok, Sukhumvit 101

Luxury living in bangkok.

Enjoy short-, mid-, and long-term stays that feel like home at Marriott Executive Apartments Sukhumvit 101, where comfortably elegant studios and one- and two-bedroom suites combine the service and amenities of a luxury hotel with the space, ambience and privacy of home. Perfectly located near the Skytrain and the Bangkok International Trade and Exhibition Centre (BITEC), our hotel offers convenient access for businesses and residents alike. Whether you’re in Bangkok on an extended work engagement, relocating or traveling with your family, our serviced apartments will delight you with space to spread out and plush amenities with upscale décor. Accommodations include separate sleeping, living and working areas and gourmet kitchens. Enjoy hotel-style amenities like onsite dining, a Boardroom and a 24-hour fitness center with an outdoor saltwater pool. And dedicated 24-hour staff and security to make you feel at home. At Marriott Executive Apartments Sukhumvit 101, You don’t stay here. You live here.®

Rooms & Suites

Rates vary by date & room type

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Hotel information.

Check-in: 3:00 pm

Check-out: 12:00 pm

Minimum Age to Check In: 18

Smoke Free Property

Pets Not Allowed

Complimentary On-Site Parking

Guests can indulge in all-day dining at the vibrant Residence Lounge restaurant and its cozy outdoor terrace on the third floor. Experienced chefs craft special and unique dishes from 6:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

More Ways to Enjoy Your Stay

Fitness Center

Modern self service 24 hrs gym

GETTING HERE

3029 Sukhumvit Road, Phra Kanong, Bangkok, Thailand, 10260

Taxi; fee: 450 THB (one way) ;on request

Taxi; fee: 500 THB (one way) ;on request

Bus Station

Ekkamai Bus Terminal

Subway Station

BTS Punnawithi Skytrain station

Train Station

Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal Station

Property Details

Accepts: Cash, Credit Cards

Contactless mobile payments

Property has elevators

Languages spoken by staff: English, Thai

For more information about the physical features of our accessible rooms, common areas or special services relating to a specific disability please call +66 2-0882556

Accessible on-site parking

Service Animals are Welcome

Van Accessible on-site parking

Accessible Entrance to On-Site Pool

Entrance to On-Site Fitness Center is Accessible

Main Entrance is Accessible

Meeting Spaces are Accessible

On-Site Restaurants are Accessible

Room and Suites Access through the Interior Corridor

Accessible Vanities

Adjustable Height Hand-Held Shower Wand

Alarm Clock Telephone Ringers

Bathtub Grab Rails

Closed Caption TV

Deadbolts on Guest Room and Suites Doors

Electronic Room Key

Flashing Door Knockers

Guest Room and Suites Doors Self-Closing

Hearing Accessible Rooms and/or Kits

Lever Handles on Guest Room Doors

Lowered Electrical Outlets

Mobility accessible rooms

Roll-in Shower

Safety Chains and/or Latches on Guest Doors

Toilet Seat at Wheelchair Height - Toilet for Disabled

Viewports in Guest Room and Suites Doors

Frequently Asked Questions

The check-in time at Marriott Executive Apartments Bangkok, Sukhumvit 101 is 3:00 pm and the check-out time is 12:00 pm.

The pet policy at Marriott Executive Apartments Bangkok, Sukhumvit 101 is:

The parking options at Marriott Executive Apartments Bangkok, Sukhumvit 101 are:

The property amenities at Marriott Executive Apartments Bangkok, Sukhumvit 101 are:

Yes, Marriott Executive Apartments Bangkok, Sukhumvit 101 has free Wi-Fi available to hotel guests.

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