What to Do in Bangkok: A Guide for Your First Visit

Known by many names—the City of Angels, the Big Mango, Krung Thep—Thailand’s capital welcomes millions of visitors each year, many of whom begin or end their Thai adventure here. Whether you’re drawn to the ornate temples, world-class shopping, buzzing nightlife, or some of the finest street food on the planet, Bangkok delivers on every front.

Today, we’ll help first-time visitors navigate the city’s highlights, answering the question “what to do in Bangkok?” From must-see attractions to practical tips on getting around, we’ll show you how to make the most of your time, whether you have two days or an entire week to explore.

What to Do and See in Bangkok?

Bangkok stretches endlessly in every direction, packed with experiences that could keep you busy for months. Here are the top attractions that should feature on any Bangkok itinerary: 

Grand Palace

The Grand Palace is Bangkok’s most iconic attraction, comprising over 100 royal buildings that showcase more than 200 years of Thai history. Gold spires pierce the sky above intricately decorated pavilions, each structure more elaborate than the last.

The entrance fee is 500 THB (~14 EUR/15 USD); however, the extensive Thai history and beautiful architecture justify the cost. Plan to spend around 1-2 hours exploring the grounds, though you could easily linger longer.

Wat Pho

Wat Pho houses one of Bangkok’s most photographed sights: a 46-metre-long gilded reclining Buddha. The statue’s sheer scale takes your breath away—its feet alone stand adorned with intricate mother-of-pearl inlays depicting 108 auspicious symbols. The temple is also home to the country’s largest collection of Buddha images and claims the title of birthplace for traditional Thai massage.

Wat Arun

Across the Chao Phraya River from the Grand Palace stands Wat Arun. The temple’s distinctive spires, decorated with colorful porcelain pieces, create a unique silhouette that even appears on Thailand’s 10 baht coin. Up close, you’ll notice thousands of individual porcelain fragments forming intricate patterns—a testament to the craftsmanship of Thai artisans. 

If you’re looking for an activity to enjoy at Wat Arun, many visitors rent traditional Thai royal costumes here for photos, typically costing around 150 THB (~4 EUR/4.50 USD).

Khao San Road

Khao San Road has long served as Bangkok’s backpacker hub, a neon-lit strip where budget travelers gather for low-cost accommodation, street food, and nightlife. The scene here skews young and touristy, with bars pumping music late into the night.

In contrast to the upscale hotels on Sukhumvit Road, Khao San Road offers affordable lodging and a glimpse into the city’s backpacker culture. If you’re traveling on a budget or want to meet fellow travelers, this area delivers.

Chatuchak Weekend Market

Every Friday evening through Sunday evening, Chatuchak transforms into the world’s largest weekend market. Over 15,000 stalls spread across the area, vendors and hawkers selling everything imaginable—clothing, ceramics, handicrafts, antiques, plants, books, and even pets.

The sheer scale can overwhelm. Sections are organized by category, making navigation slightly easier, though you’ll still likely get lost in the maze of vendors, which is an experience in itself.

Yaowarat (Chinatown)

Yaowarat, recognized as Bangkok’s Chinatown, ranks among the world’s largest. While red lanterns don’t dominate every corner, the streetscape differs noticeably from the rest of Bangkok. Narrow shopping streets like Vanich 1 Road overflow with tiny specialized shops selling trinkets and goods of varying quality.

Beyond shopping, Chinatown has earned its reputation as a street food paradise, with vendors serving everything from roasted duck to mango sticky rice. The area also offers characterful budget accommodation options for travelers seeking affordability with local flavor.

Shopping Malls

Beyond temples and markets, Bangkok has earned fame for its spectacular shopping malls. These aren’t just places to shop—they’re destinations featuring luxury boutiques, budget stalls, elaborate food courts, cinemas, and even gyms. Major malls cluster along the BTS Skytrain’s Silom Line between National Stadium and Phloen Chit stations, as well as around Phrom Phong.

Notable malls include:

• Terminal 21: Themed floors representing different cities worldwide
• MBK Center: Eight floors of affordable goods and electronics
• Siam Paragon: High-end luxury brands
• CentralwOrld: One of the world’s largest shopping complexes
• EmQuartier and Emporium: Upscale shopping with rooftop gardens

Many malls connect via elevated walkways, which also link to BTS stations—a convenient way to explore while escaping Bangkok’s heat. These upscale shopping venues are great reasons to stay at a Bangkok hotel near the BTS for your first time visiting Bangkok.

How Many Days to Spend in Bangkok?

When it comes to exploring Thailand’s capital, planning your itinerary based on the number of days before your flight departure is often the recommended approach. 

What to Do in Bangkok For 2 Days 

A 2-day vacation in Bangkok might seem short, but you can experience both the city’s spiritual heritage and modern energy without feeling rushed. Here’s how to make the most of a short visit:

Day 1

• Morning: Start early at the Grand Palace and the adjacent Wat Phra Kaew. Then, walk next door to Wat Pho to see the Reclining Buddha. Cross the river by ferry to visit Wat Arun, then wander through nearby Chinatown for lunch at one of the many street food stalls.
• Afternoon: Explore the narrow lanes of Talat Noi before heading to Wat Saket for sunset views from the Golden Mount. 
• Evening: End your evening at a rooftop bar of your lifestyle hotel in Bangkok, watching the city’s lights flicker to life.

Day 2

• Morning: Begin your day at Benjakitti Forest Park or Lumpini Park for a peaceful morning walk. Spend the late morning exploring Bangkok’s shopping malls—Terminal 21 offers a fun themed experience, while MBK provides budget-friendly shopping.
• Afternoon: Visit Wat Benchamabophit for a different temple experience, then browse the stalls at Chatuchak Weekend Market if it’s Friday through Sunday. 
• Evening: Spend your evening enjoying Thai cuisine at one of Bangkok’s acclaimed restaurants.

What to Do in Bangkok For 4 Days

Having four days to spend in Bangkok allows for a deeper dive into Bangkok’s neighborhoods while maintaining a comfortable pace. Follow the two-day itinerary above, then add: 

Day 3

• Visit the Bangkok National Museum to understand Thailand’s rich history or visit the contemporary Bangkok Art & Culture Centre. Alternatively, explore more of Chinatown, including Wat Intharawihan’s standing Buddha.

Day 4

• On your fourth day, why not take a short day trip to Ayutthaya? It is home to a UNESCO World Heritage site and the former capital of Siam. See the impressive ruins of ancient temples and palaces. You can book a guided tour or arrange a taxi service for this easy 1.5-hour trip from Bangkok. If you prefer to stay in Bangkok, we’d suggest visiting the Erawan Museum or shopping for souvenirs at one of the many markets you haven’t yet visited.

What to Do in Bangkok for a Week

A week in Bangkok is often considered the ideal time frame for exploring the city’s hidden gems and special experiences. Beyond the four-day suggestions, you can:

• Take multiple-day trips to Ayutthaya, Ko Kret, and the floating markets
• Explore neighborhoods like Thonburi and the Old Farang Quarter
• Visit specialized museums like the Jim Thompson House
• Visit SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World aquarium with your kids
• Experience a traditional Thai massage at Wat Pho
• Explore Bangkok’s thriving cafe scene and specialty coffee shops
• Attend a Muay Thai match or practice Muay Thai yourself
• Take a dinner cruise on the Chao Phraya River

If you’re staying at a hotel in Bangkok with an outdoor pool, rest easy knowing there is a refreshing pool for you to cool off after a sweaty day exploring the city.

Getting Around Bangkok

There are numerous ways to get from your Sukhumvit hotel. For your first visit, consider planning your commute around these methods: 

• Walking – Use walking for exploring specific neighborhoods rather than as your primary means of getting across the city. It remains the best way to experience Bangkok’s street life, markets, and hidden corners.
• BTS Skytrain and MRT Subway – Bangkok’s elevated BTS Skytrain and underground MRT subway provide efficient, air-conditioned transportation. These systems are effective for avoiding traffic jams during rush hour. In addition, many shopping malls and Bangkok hotels near the BTS make it easy to hop between one area and another. 
• Taxis and Ride-Hailing Apps –  Taxis are plentiful, and you can flag one from any major street. Grab and Bolt are ride-hailing apps that function like Uber, often offering promotions and discounts with transparent pricing. However, during peak hours, wait times can be lengthy as drivers navigate congested roads.
• Boats – The Chao Phraya Express Boat provides a scenic and often faster way to travel along the river, connecting major piers near tourist attractions. Smaller canal boats explore Bangkok’s klongs (canals), offering unique perspectives of the city.

Tips for First-time Visitors to Bangkok

Bangkok can feel overwhelming for first-time visitors, but with a few practical tips, you’ll navigate the city like a seasoned traveler:

• Dress respectfully at temples: Cover your shoulders and knees when visiting religious sites. Some temples provide sarongs for rent if needed.
• Stay hydrated: Bangkok’s heat and humidity are intense. Carry water and drink frequently throughout the day.
• Bargain respectfully: Haggling is expected at markets, but do so with a smile and reasonable expectations.
• Be cautious of scams: Overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited tours or advice may have ulterior motives. Popular scams include closed temples (they’re rarely actually closed) and tuk-tuk drivers taking you to gem shops for commissions.
• Try street food mindfully: Bangkok’s street food is legendary, but choose vendors with high turnover and visible cooking practices to minimize health risks.
• Allow extra travel time: Traffic in Bangkok can be unpredictable and take extra time. Build buffer time into your schedule, especially when heading to the airport, catching trains, or commuting to famous landmarks.
• Bring cash: While many establishments accept cards and QR code payment, cash remains king at markets, street food stalls, and smaller shops.
• Use sunscreen: The tropical sun is strong year-round. Apply sunscreen liberally and seek shade during midday hours.

Where to Stay in Bangkok

Choosing the right location significantly impacts your Bangkok experience. Consider these factors when selecting accommodation:

Proximity to BTS Stations

Hotels near BTS stations provide easy access to attractions across the city. Popular areas include Sukhumvit (especially around Nana, Asok, and Phrom Phong stations) and Silom. These neighborhoods offer excellent connectivity plus abundant dining and entertainment options.

Shopping District Proximity

If shopping ranks high on your Bangkok agenda, consider hotels near Terminal 21 (Asok station) or the Siam area, where multiple mega-malls cluster near each other. 

Hotels with Swimming Pools

After hot days exploring temples and markets, nothing beats relaxing by a pool. Many Bangkok hotels feature outdoor swimming pools—a worthwhile amenity in this climate.

With these factors in mind, Aira Hotel Bangkok checks all the boxes.

Aira Hotel Bangkok: Stay with Comfort on Sukhumvit Soi 11

Aira Hotel Bangkok in Sukhumvit Soi 11, our 4-star hotel, caters to travelers seeking modern and stylish comfort in the center of Bangkok city.

Aira Hotel Bangkok welcomes guests with a breathtaking interior, inspired by the rich royal and cross-cultural heritage of the Rattanakosin era, which saw a unique blend of traditional Thai designs and European colonial influences. Choose from Superior, Deluxe, Premier, suite options, or the best-selling Jacuzzi Corner room, each reflecting refined comfort and attention to detail.

Our prime position on Sukhumvit 11 places you near the BTS Nana station and one of Bangkok’s most vibrant neighborhoods, with endless dining, shopping, and entertainment options just steps away. 

In your agenda of what to do in Bangkok, let Aira Hotel be your perfect stay and starting base for exploring all that Bangkok has to offer.

Book directly with us today and enjoy exclusive benefits.

Book Now: reservation.airahotelbangkok.com/propertyibe2/?propertyId=901&onlineId=4 

Visit: www.airahotelbangkok.com

For General Enquiries: enquiry@airahotelbangkok.com 

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Tel.: +66 2078 3999