The bustling city of Bangkok is the heart of Thailand and packed full of things to do. Many travelers don’t stay here too long, if at all, but this vibrant city is a must see! Bangkok is the home to a royal palace, gorgeous temples, a vast variety of different markets, intense nightlife and world-class food. You can experience Bangkok on a budget or ball out of control with five-star services.

 

Where To Stay
Bangkok is a large, spread out city so staying in the right location is a hard decision to make. If you stay too far away from the “action,” transportation costs around the city could cost you a lot of money. If you’re interested in seeing the history of the city, I recommend staying near the China Town area because many of the temples and sights are easily reachable from that area. If you’re interested in the crazy nightlife of Bangkok, stay near Sukhumvit 4 or Sukhimvit 11. Backpackers tend to congregate around the Khao San Road area, another area with a vibrant nightlife.

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Things To Do

• Grand Palace
  Home to the monarch of Thailand, although he does not presently reside there, this palace was built in the 18th century. Also on it grounds are Wat Pra Kaeo and the Emerald Buddha. The palace is located in the Phra Nakhon district and the entry fee is 500 THB. It is open to tourists daily from 8:30-15:30 except during special events or holidays.
• Wat Po
  Directly adjacent to the Grand Palace, this complex of temples is where you will find the golden Reclining Buddha. It is 200 THB to enter, and this price includes a small bottle of water. Ladies, if you do not have proper attire to enter this temple, it will be provided for you. Opening hours are daily from 8:00-18:30.

• Wat Arun
  The Temple of Dawn is located in the Bangkok Yai district and is the former home of the Emerald Buddha. Even though it is called the Temple of Dawn, it looks particularly beautiful in the evening when it is lit up. It is 50 THB to visit, and opening hours are 8:00-17:30.
• China Town
  A fun and free activity to do while visiting Bangkok. Chinatown hosts a bustling market and some of the best street food in the world. The best noodle soup I have ever had was in Chinatown, and it was only 30 THB.

• Asiatique
  This new night market was once a busy international trade port. It boasts over 1500 shops and over 40 restaurants, so if you are looking for a leisure evening of shopping, this is the place. There is a Ferris wheel overlooking the riverfront, which provides a wonderful view of the city at night. Opening hours are 17:00-00:00.
• Sky Bar at Lebua
  Totally cliché, but totally worth it. Go for a cocktail at the location where Hanover II was shot and enjoy breathtaking views of the crowded city from 64 stories high. Cocktails are very expensive, so for budget travelers there are other rooftop options in the city such as Above Eleven. Dress code is strictly enforced, so don’t dress like a bum.