VasilisKarantousis

📍 Bangkok

✓ Visited in 2022

Thailand · Central Thailand

Thailand's buzzing, energetic capital known for ornate shrines, vibrant street life, and canal passenger boats.

🗓️ Best time to go

November to February when it is dry and relatively cool. April is the hottest month, and September–October is the wettest.

🚆 Getting around

The BTS Skytrain and MRT Subway are clean, air-conditioned, and skip traffic. Express boats on the Chao Phraya River are great for reaching historic sites. Avoid taxis in rush hour.

About

A sensory explosion of high-rise skyscrapers, historic gilded temples, chaotic street food stalls, and bustling night markets.

Interesting places to visit

  • The Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaew

    The spectacular former royal residence housing the highly revered Temple of the Emerald Buddha.

  • Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)

    An iconic heritage temple decorated with colorful porcelain pieces that catches the sunset beautifully.

  • Wat Pho

    Home to the massive, 46-meter-long Reclining Buddha and the birthplace of traditional Thai massage.

  • Chatuchak Weekend Market

    One of the world's largest outdoor markets, featuring over 15,000 stalls.

What to eat

  • Pad Kra Pao

    Stir-fried minced pork or chicken with holy basil and chili, served over rice with a crispy fried egg.

  • Som Tum (Papaya Salad)

    Spicy, sour, sweet, and salty shredded green papaya salad.

  • Boat Noodles (Kuay Teow Reua)

    Rich, dark herb-spiced noodle bowls, traditionally served in small portions at Victory Monument.

  • Mango Sticky Rice (Khao Niew Mamuang)

    Sweet glutinous rice cooked with coconut milk and served with fresh yellow mango slices.

Practical tips

  • Dress respectfully for temples

    Shoulders and knees must be covered. No sandals/flip-flops at the Grand Palace.

  • Watch out for tuk-tuk scams

    Never trust drivers who say a major temple is 'closed today' and offer to take you shopping instead.

💶 Rough budget

€35–€75 / day

Street food and public transit are incredibly cheap. Mid-range hotels are excellent value.