About Bangkok
Bangkok is Thailand's capital and by far its largest city, a metropolis on the Chao Phraya River that grew from a small trading post of the Ayutthaya era into the political, cultural and economic heart of the country. At first the city can overwhelm with heat, traffic and noise, but it rewards anyone who gives it a few days. You will find gilded temples and royal palaces next to glossy shopping malls, canals lined with wooden houses, busy markets and a food culture that runs from street stall to fine dining. The centre combines well with the river boat, the BTS skytrain and the MRT, so you can avoid the worst traffic jams. For many travellers Bangkok is simply the arrival point, but it deserves more than a one-night stopover: there is easily enough to fill a week.
Best time to visit (indicative)
Best from November to February: drier and less hot. March to May is very hot; June to October is the rainy season, with the most rain in September, although showers are often short and fall in the afternoon or evening. Weather varies from year to year; this is a guideline based on the climate.
Getting there
Two international airports, Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang, serve the city. Within town you can use the BTS, MRT, river boats and taxis; trains and buses from across the country arrive at the main stations and bus terminals. Distances and travel times are rounded estimates.
Things to do in Bangkok
- Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew The former royal palace with the temple of the Emerald Buddha is the classic must-see; dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered).
- Wat Pho and Wat Arun The reclining Buddha of Wat Pho and the Khmer-style tower of Wat Arun face each other across the river and are linked by a short ferry hop.
- Chao Phraya river boat A river boat is a cheap, quick way to see temples, old warehouses and modern hotels from the water.
- Street food in Chinatown In the streets around Yaowarat you can taste everything in the evening, from roast duck to sweet desserts.
- Chatuchak weekend market Thousands of stalls with clothes, plants, art and snacks; arriving early saves you heat and crowds.
