Discover the charm of Bangkok, the heart of the smiling Thai kingdom. Prepare for an unforgettable journey full of Buddhist temples, markets, and gastronomic experiences. Find out why Bangkok is a place you’ll fall in love with, whether you seek tranquility or adventure.
Table of Contents
Where is Bangkok, and What Does It Offer?
Bangkok is the capital of Thailand and, with over 8 million residents, the most populous city in this Asian country. The charm of this city lies in the incredible contrasts of all aspects of life there. In Bangkok, you’ll find a large number of landmarks and temples, as well as markets and bars.
Here, tranquility and meditation mix with the hustle and bustle of the metropolis, entertainment, smog, and the typical aromas of spicy Asian food. You’ll encounter busy streets, but also stunning temples full of Zen, tuk-tuks, the elevated BTS Skytrain, and boat transport along the canals, where you’ll truly experience how the locals live.
What to See in Bangkok?
If you’re planning a visit to Bangkok, you definitely shouldn’t miss these places:
Wat Pho: This temple, home to the Great Reclining Buddha, is one of the oldest and largest temples in Bangkok. The giant Buddha statue is covered in gold leaf and measures 46 meters in length and 15 meters in height.
Wat Phra Kaeo: The Temple of the Emerald Buddha, the most sacred religious site in Thailand.
Grand Palace: A complex of buildings that serves as the residence of the Thai kings.
Wat Saket: One of the most visited Buddhist temples in Bangkok. At the top of the Golden Mount, you’ll find a small shrine and enjoy one of the most breathtaking views of Bangkok, as it is one of the few elevated spots in the city.
King Power Mahanakhon: The most famous and striking skyscraper in Thailand. It was the tallest building in the country until 2016, when it was surpassed by the Magnolias Waterfront Residences. King Power Mahanakhon still boasts the highest rooftop observation deck.
Chinatown: The best place to sample Chinese cuisine in Bangkok.
Chatuchak Market: This market is one of the most popular tourist spots in Bangkok. It features around 15,000 stalls selling everything from clothing, flowers, spices, and souvenirs to furniture, antiques, and live animals.
Damnoen Saduak Floating Market: This market offers a unique shopping experience on boats and is an ideal place to taste fresh food and get to know the local people.
What to Taste in Bangkok?
In Bangkok and Thailand, you should definitely try:
- Tom Yum Goong: a spicy shrimp soup.
- Pad Thai: stir-fried rice noodles.
- Som Tum: a salad made from green papaya.
- Mango Sticky Rice: a traditional Thai dessert: sticky rice cooked in coconut milk and served with fresh mango.
Thai cuisine is known for its bold spiciness. If you prefer not to have overly spicy flavors, always tell the staff “not spicy.” This will ensure that the food is, at least, manageable. We also recommend avoiding Pad Kra Pao, which contains Thai basil, as it adds a very spicy kick to the dish.
What to Watch Out for in Bangkok?
Wondering if Bangkok is dangerous? Thailand is a very safe country for a vacation if you are cautious and:
Keep an eye on your personal belongings and do not leave them unattended – pickpocketing can occur in Bangkok.
Avoid dark and deserted areas.
Be careful when choosing exchange services if you need to convert your money into Thai baht.
The nightlife in Bangkok is currently very safe. However, it’s still wise to be mindful of what you drink to avoid any unwanted encounters, such as with a ladyboy—unless, of course, that’s something you’re interested in. 🙂
The entire Thailand, including Bangkok, is definitely worth a visit. This country, full of smiles and positive people, will captivate you so much that you won’t want to leave. Thailand offers endless opportunities for exploration and discovery, from beaches and azure waters to temples, grand Buddha statues, and the hustle and bustle of the city. Book your flight today and set out to explore the beauty of this Asian country!
