EPIC 4 Day Bangkok Itinerary For First Timers

Bangkok is one of my favourite cities in the world – an exciting concrete jungle that can be a big culture shock for first-time visitors embarking on their action-packed, epic 4-day Bangkok itinerary.

Personally, I didn’t know much about Bangkok before visiting. I had heard stories of its grittiness and seedy bars, but I was not prepared for the real Bangkok!

I found Bangkok to be a city steeped in Thai culture that dates back centuries, mixed with modern elements. One moment, you could be walking down a soi (small alley) with street food stands, and the next, you could turn out onto a street lined with skyscrapers!

On day one, I was overwhelmed by almost everything – the noises, the traffic, the smells, the tuk-tuks, the food! However, after a few hours, I slowly found comfort in the chaos.

My 4-day Bangkok itinerary is a helpful guide for first-timers, but I also hope that returning travellers find something new here. I’ve shared my favourite things to do, optimised by proximity, and included some of my favorite restaurants where I’ve dined, along with ones I discovered along the way! I hope you enjoy this itinerary as much as I did, so go ahead, steal this ultimate 4-day Bangkok itinerary for first-timers!

This is a long itinerary, so check out the table of contents below to jump to parts that interest you!

What Visa Do I Need For Bangkok?

Currently, citizens from 64 countries can get a visa on arrival, permitting stays of up to 30 days. No prior application is needed; your passport will be stamped when you go through immigration. Check if your county is on that list here.

Citizens from the following countries will be required to sign up for an e-visa prior to arrival. Apply for Thai E-Visa here.

  • Bhutan, Bulgaria, China, Ethiopia, Fiji, Georgia, India, Kazakhstan, Malta, Mexico, Nauru, Papua New Guinea, Republic of Cyprus, Romania, Saudi Arabia, Taiwan, Uzbekistan, Vanuatu

Sim Cards

The most convenient way to access mobile data while in Thailand is by signing up for an e-sim. While there are many options available, I found the most success with AIRALO after trying a few. To get started, download the app, choose the country and data plan, and then install it on your phone.

Always remember to turn off roaming for your home sim!

If you decide to go with AIRALO for your e-sim, you can get $3 off with my code TARA1104.

Bangkok traffic | 4 day Bangkok itinerary for first timers
bikes in Bangkok | 4 day Bangkok itinerary for first timers

Best Time To Visit Bangkok

Bangkok has three seasons: Summer, Monsoon, and Winter. For your first time in Bangkok, you would prefer dry and comfortable weather.

November – February: Bangkok’s ‘winter’ experiences a cooler period with temperatures averaging 28°C. Humidity and rainfall are also at their lowest during this time. This is the best and most comfortable weather for sightseeing, and I recommend first-timers to visit Bangkok during this period.

March – June: This is summer, with temperatures reaching as high as 40°C/104°F. The Songkran Festival takes place in April, a major event in Thailand where people take to the streets with water guns, soaking everyone in sight. You are guaranteed sunshine during this time, but it might get very sweaty in this heat!

July – October: This is the monsoon season, characterised by hot and humid weather with highs of 35°C, along with random heavy but short downpours. These usually occur in the morning or night, providing some welcome relief from the humidity. The risk of flooding is highest in September. One major positive of visiting Bangkok during the monsoon season is that accommodation is the cheapest during this time, and there are fewer crowds. However, be prepared to have some alternative plans on the days it does rain. If you do not mind changing your plans at the last minute, then this can be a brilliant time to go to snag some travel deals! If you are on a budget, these months are for you!

How Long Is Enough To Spend In Bangkok?

Bangkok is a city that no matter how many times you visit you will always find something new and exciting to do. It truly is an ever changing city!

I think for your first time in Bangkok four days is the perfect amount of time to spend here, it is enough time to see all the best parts, try lots of food, and experience some of the nightlife.

tuk tuks on streets of Chinatown Bangkok
streets of Chinatown | 4 day Bangkok itinerary for first timers

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Best Places To Stay For You First Time In Bangkok

Bangkok has 50 districts, the challenge is not finding a place to stay, but actually choosing the part of the city you want to stay! The good news is that accommodation is mostly affordable in Bangkok, you can find many nice rooms for as little as 970 baht / €25 per night!

Here are some the best areas to stay for your first time in Bangkok!

  1. Khaoson Road is an excellent base, even if you do not want to party! You are well connected to the tourist boat, buses and walking distance from many temples and historical sites. I loved staying in Chillax Heritage Hotel, it was clean, had a rooftop pool and close to some great restaurants!
  2. Sukhumvit is on the BTS line making it an ideal location to explore the city. It is a modern area with lots of rooftop bars and trendy restaurants, along with being close to Korean town for some delicious bites.
  3. Siam is where all the large shopping centres such as Siam?Paragon, MBK, and Central World, along with rooftop bars and restaurants for all tastes.
  4. Ari is Bangkok’s trendiest neighbourhood, with its instagrammable cafes, laid back vibes, art gallaries, street food courts, and stylish restaurants. If you’re a foodie you will love this area, there is also a backpacker vibe here!
  5. Chinatown is every foodies dream! It is lively area throughout night and day, and has plenty of affordable accommodation options, such as Norn Yaowarat Hotel

Although there are lots of budget friendly hotels in Bangkok, THEE Bangkok Hotel on Sukhumvit stands out amongst the rest for its cosy and stylish rooms. It is also just a short walk from the lively bars of Soi Cowboy, and the shops of Emporium Shopping Mall!

Pathumwan Princess Hotel is located in Siam with direct access to MBK centre, and the BTS station. Although it is expensive it has incredible facilities, such as a rooftop running track, infinity pool, large modern gym, and spa.

Best Way to Get Around Bangkok

Bangkok is well serviced by public transport, but it is notorious for its traffic! It is not rare to be sitting in traffic for over an hour when you are only travelling a few kilometres!

  1. Tourist Boat
    • For first timers the tourist boat is a very convenient, not to mention relaxing way to get around Bangkok of transport.
    • The boat will take you to Khaosan road, Chinatownn, IconSiam, Wat Arun, The Grand Palace, among many other interesting areas in the city.
    • You can purchase tickets on the boat, or online. It costs 30 baht for a single ticket and departs every 30 minutes.
  1. BTS (Skytrain)
    • The BTS is a monorail, that travels through the city on an elevated platform, avoiding all the traffic!
    • Single tickets on the BTS start at 16 baht (€0.41) and one day unlimited travels costs 140 baht (€3.63).
  1. MRT
    • The MRT is the underground, there are two lines the blue and purple, you will most likely be using the blue line while in Bangkok as this is the busiest line.
    • Like the BTS, the MRT also avoids Bangkok traffic.
    • Ticket prices start at 16 baht (€0.41) for a single trip.
  1. Tuk-Tuks
    • If you are feeling brave then a tuk-tuk is great for short distances, these 3 wheeled motorbikes offer a fun alternative way to get around Bangkok.
    • the more expensive ways to get around, prepare to haggle with your driver who will start with an extortionate fare. Once you have agreed on the price, hold on and see this vibrant city in a whole new perspective.
  1. Taxi
    • The taxis in Bangkok are affordable and comfortable way to get around, however they come with one major negative, traffic! Bangkoks traffic is no joke, but if you don’t mind the extended journey times its a good way to get around.?
    • The best way to order a taxi in Bangkok is by downloading the app Grab, enter your destination, choose between a car or motorbike, and off you go!
  1. Bus
    • This is the cheapest and most authentic mode of transport in Bangkok
    • However, the traffic is so bad in Bangkok that hopping on the bus is usually not the best option.
    • Fare is cash only (have small notes), and will be collected by bus conductor, not the driver.
Chinatown is a must visit in this 4 day Bangkok itinerary for first timers
Chinatown | 4 day Bangkok itinerary for first timers

4 Day Bangkok Itinerary for First Timers

Bangkok Itinerary Day 1: Temples, Grand Palace, IconSiam, Khaosan Road

Day 1 of this 4-day Bangkok itinerary for first-timers is all about discovering the city’s heritage. Today, you will visit some of the city’s breathtaking Buddhist temples. Temples play a crucial role in Thai culture, as locals visit them to pray for good health, fortune, and wealth. Bangkok alone boasts over 400 temples.

Temples have specific rules regarding acceptable clothing. Ladies are required to cover their shoulders and knees, while men need to wear shorts below the knee. Cover-ups are available in most temples, usually for a small fee.

Everything on Day 1 of this itinerary can be reached using the tourist boat.

1. Wat Arun

Wat Arun, meaning Temple of the Dawn, is renowned for its unique design and location on the Chao Phraya River, making it one of Bangkok’s most beautiful temples. The standout feature of Wat Arun is the 70-meter-high spherical tower, Phra Prang, adorned with small pieces of coloured glass and Chinese porcelain.

What can you do while you are here? Climb the iconic sphere, walk through the ordination hall, try to count all the Buddha statues in the courtyard, or, for something truly special, get blessed by a monk!

Entrance to Wat Arun is 100 Baht / €2.80 includes a small bottle of water.

The first 3 places on this itinerary are part of a half day tour that you can book online if you would prefer to have a guide.

2. Wat Pho

Just across the river from Wat Arun is Wat Pho, home to the iconic reclining Buddha. It is hard to grasp how magnificent this 43-meter statue is without seeing it up close and personal. I was blown away by its scale. It gets very busy; people queue to take photos, but as you slowly walk around, you can partake in a tradition of donating coins into each of the 180 bowls that surround the interior of the building housing the reclining Buddha.

In addition to being a temple complex, Wat Pho has a massage school onsite! Massages start at 260 baht / €6.70 for 30 minutes.

Entrance to Wat Pho costs 200 baht / €5.60.

?????Where to Eat close to Wat Pho ????
Khrua Khun Kung – I had the best Green Thai Curry in all my time in Thailand here!

3. The Grand Palace

The Grand Palace has been the official residence of the Kings of Siam since 1782. However, I was surprised to learn that no royal family members actually live here; the current King of Thailand resides in Germany! So, although you won’t spot any royalty, you will see a lot of cool things!

Starting with the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, thought to be one of the most revered Buddhas in all of Thailand! This Buddha statue has been carved from jade stone. Along with the emerald Buddha, other highlights not to be missed are a replica of Angkor Wat and a masked drama ‘Khon Performance’ at Sala Chalermkrung Royal Theater.

Did you know that Thai people have the utmost respect for their royal family? Any signs of disrespect toward the royals can land you in prison!

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4. ICONSIAM

You’ve spent the first half of the day soaking up the culture, now we are going to change things up and go to one of the best shopping centres in Bangkok, IconSiam. Easily reached on the tourist boat, with over 7,000 shops, 100 restaurants, a basement level floating street food market, and incredible views, make it deserve a place on your Bangkok itinerary

Expect to find high end luxury brands, western high street stores, Thai brands, homeware, cute coffee shops, and small stalls selling local items.

If you are not looking to shop I still recommend you check out IconSiam. Aside from the 7,000 shops here are some highlights of visiting IconSiam.

What not to miss at ICONSIAM

Fountain Show daily evening water show in front of the Chao Phraya river. We stumbled upon this show by chance while waiting for the tourist boat.

Sooksiam Floating Market – You will not be traveling down a river on a boat at this market, but it is an impressive indoor market with a small indoor river and a wide selection of Thai food. Why not try some classic Thai dishes such as durian, pad thai, pandan cakes, and fried rice.

Largest Starbucks in Thailand – you do not want to miss their huge courtyard overlooking the Chao Phraya river. Even if you are not a fan of Starbucks coffee, visit level 7 for a walk around!

Rooftop Bar – Grab a cocktail in Hobs during sunset! The views are some of the best you can get in Bangkok.

Gee’s Cookies warm, gooey cookies. Flavours include kinder, caramel, and peanut butter.

Pang Cha – Michelin guide shaved ice tea cafe. The portions are absolutely huge, there is usually a queue but it is fast moving. I really enjoyed the mulberry flavour. The reviews online are not great, but I liked it so much I went twice!

Art Exhibitions – There are new cool interactive exhibitions every few months, past events include Van Gogh Alive, Money & Friends Alive, and BTS. Check out current events here.

???? Where To Eat in IconSiam ????
The Never Ending Summer?is just a 5 minute walk from IconSiam. Delicious Thai food in a large loft style space.

5. Experience The Craziness Of Khaosan Road

No visit to Bangkok is complete without a night on Khao San Road! Frequented by backpackers, it’s known for its crazy bars, unusual street food, knock-off designer clothing, and not to mention the ping pong shows – it really is insane! It gets a bad rap from many people, but it truly is a fun place to experience.

See it for what it is – a very lively place with cheap drinks where you can meet fellow backpackers and go on a pub crawl! You can also try scorpions, maggots, and other creepy crawlies; this is where those cheap drinks come in handy!

Expert Travel Tip – If Khaosan road gets a bit too much for you then around the corner is a beautiful alley called Rambuttri, it is much more chilled but has plenty of clothes markets, pubs, and restaurants. Madame Musur does a delicious Khao Soi!

khao soi that you need to try during your 4 day trip to Bangkok
The best place to eat on Khaosan road, Madame Masur | 4 day Bangkok itinerary for first timers

Bangkok Itinerary Day 2: Lumpini Park, Terminal 21, Korean Town, KingPower Skywalk & Nightlife

Today is all about discovering Bangkoks longest road, Sukhumvit. You are going to shop in 9 different countries, make friends with some wild lizards, walk on a glass platform on Thailands tallest building, AND, have a night out!

Sound fun? Lets kick off day 2 of our 4 day Bangkok itinerary

1. Explore The World In Terminal 21

Fancy gazing at the fountains in Rome in the morning, walking through Istanbul’s bazaars at lunch, and by dinner go star spotting in Hollywood? Well in Terminal 21 you can do that, kind of!

Terminal 21 is an airport-themed shopping mall, with each of its 9 stories representing a different destination, including Rome, London, Istanbul, Tokyo, San Francisco, the Caribbean, and Hollywood! Departure gates are located at the escalators, passports serve as shopping guides, and even the toilets are themed. My tip is to check out every bathroom on each floor – they are very cool!

The range of shops are diverse from classic Western brads like H&M to smaller boutiques and souvenir shops. Trust me, this is one of the most unique places in all of Bangkok!

There are 3 large shopping centres nearby Siam Paragon, MBK, and Central world. They are all worth visiting but sadly we can’t fit everything into this 4 day Bangkok itinerary. I included Terminal 21 because I think it is such a unique place, unlike any other mall I have visited, but you can always start your day in one of the other three! They are all so cool!

2. Korean Town

Just a 5 minute walk from Terminal 21, is Korean town. Even if you do not want to eat Korean food, it is a nice place to stop by to take a few photos.

Korean food is really having its moment. I feel I cannot go on TikTok without seeing someone post about Buddak noodles and spicy Korean chicken. Personally, I love Korean food; it’s decadent and delicious, so I knew I had to visit Korean town (also called Little Korea) in Bangkok!

Korean town is in a small multi level plaza, there are a small number of Korean shops, but really it is mostly amazing restaurants, 18 of them to be exact!! It really comes alive at night!

I am still dreaming of the dishes from Doo Rae, and New Mong.

???? ASOK Pethouse Cat Cafe ????
Love cats? This cat cafe is beside Korean town.

3. Meet The Residents Of Lumpini Park

How do you feel about getting close to some big lizards? That’s exactly what you will be doing in this part of the itinerary.

Lumpini Park is home to an estimated 400 water monitors, common lizards found throughout Southeast Asia. These creatures may appear intimidating, but they generally prefer to keep to themselves as they slowly move through the park. However, it’s essential to keep a safe distance as they are wild animals that may not respond well if provoked. You’ll mostly find them by the lake.

Located between the bustling areas of Sathorn/Silom and Sukhumvit, Lumpini Park offers a serene escape amidst the hustle and bustle. If it weren’t for the skyline, you could easily forget you are in one of the busiest cities in the world.

Along with the water monitors, the park is home to snakes (which I did not spot), turtles, and many birds.

4. King Power Mahanakhon – Bangkoks Highest Glass Skywalk

At 320 meters, King Power Mahanakhon is Thailand’s tallest building and Bangkok’s most popular attraction. Easily distinguished from its exterior, you’d be forgiven if you thought it was made from blocks of Lego.

Head to the 74th floor for a 360-degree view across Bangkok, along with interactive displays to help guests identify some prominent city landmarks.

After this, escalators will take you to the top of the building to access the skywalk. The skywalk is a glass platform that hangs directly over Bangkok’s street, where you can walk and take photos. Before stepping onto the skywalk, you will be required to wear blue shoe covers and put phones away. They are really strict on the phone rule; you cannot even hold it in your hand.

Once you are on the skywalk, it’s not that scary. It takes a while to get used to, but it’s okay; the views are seriously incredible. Security will be happy to take your photo.

Aside from the skywalk, there are comfy yellow seats to take in the view and a bar; sometimes, there is a DJ.

I visited during the day, and although the views were spectacular, I was annoyed at myself for not thinking to visit at sunset!

King Power Mahanakhon is a must visit thing to do on this 4 day Bangkok itinerary
you too could have this cringey keep sake | 4 day Bangkok itinerary for first timers

Tickets for King Power Mahanakhon sky tower costs 880 baht / €22.70 for daytime tickets, and 1,080 baht / €27.90 for sunset tickets. Click here to book online.

???? Nearby Eats ????
Lon Lon Local Diner?is a Thai-Taiwanese fusion restaurant. Highly rated and amazing!!
Supanniga Eating Room is another Thai restaurant, the crab curry is so good!

5. Bangkok By Night

Bangkok has an electric nightlife, from upscale rooftop bars, 5 star restaurants to go go bars and erm, adult shows! There is something to fit all tastes and interests.

Sukhumvit Soi 11?is one of the most busiest streets in Bangkok, and is perfect for bar hopping with many cocktail bars, gastropubs, clubs and restaurants. You are guaranteed a fun night on Soi 11

Thonglor is the trendiest neighbourhood in Bangkok. Expect chic and upscale bars, rooftops, and restaurants. I loved Octave, Tichuca, and Kinki Japanese Bar.

Soi Cowboy is mainly gogo bars, catering mainly to tourists. It is one of three red light districts (along with Nana Plaza and Patpong). I encourage anyone visiting Bangkok to take a walk down here to see a different side to the city.

Bangkok is not just all about bars, there are some really fun tours to join such as this Midnight Food Tour by Tuk-Tuk with 7 tastings, or this e-scooter night tour of the city.

If you fancy a quieter night a trip to the cinema is always fun in Bangkok. The cinemas here are, like everything else in this city, totally extra and very cool! Western movies are in English with Thai subtitles, seats are comfy, and in general its clean.?The cinema in ICONSIAM is stunning, and the ideal place to unwind after a day of exploration.

Bangkok Itinerary Day 3: Bangkok’s Green Lung + Chinatown

1. Cycle The Mangroves Of Bangkok’s Green Lung

Affectionally known as Bangkok’s green lung due to its shape on the map, and its natural surrounds that offer some respite from the city away from the smog of the city centre. You could say that Bang Krachao is a bit of a “hidden gem” in Bangkok! It feel a million miles away from Bangkok!

Getting here is a bit of adventure involving lorries, alleys, and a small long tail boat, but more on that later!

On Bang Krachao the absolute best thing to do is rent a bike and cycle through the mangroves. You can rent a bike as soon as you get off the boat from, M-Bike. It is so much fun just getting lost on the tiny elevated paths amongst the lush landscape. You will be sharing these paths with locals on motorbikes (don’t worry, we did not come across many motorbikes) so pull in when it is safe to let them pass you.

Another wonderful place to visit is Sri Nakhon Khuean Khan Park & Botanical Garden, there are lots of different paths, small coffee shops, and a large pond.

So, how do we get to Bangkoks most tranquil location? The following is the easiest way to get to Bang Krachao:?

  1. Firstly, you need to get to Wat Khlong Toei Nok Pier. The closest MRT station is Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre, from there you can get a 10 minute taxi to the pier.

    You will need to be dropped at the 7/11 (click this for Google Map location).
  2. Now you are at 7/11, turn right down a small road with a temple, and continue down that road for about 5 minutes.
  3. You have reached the pier! Make sure you have cash to cover the 40 baht return boat fee.

???? Nearby Eats ????
Deep In Bang Kachao in Sri Nakhon Khuean Khan Park surrounded by all the tropical greenery

2. Discover Chinatown’s Charm

Leave behind the tranquility of Bang Krachao and dive headfirst into Bangkok’s most exciting neighborhood – Chinatown! I happen to think this is the best area in Bangkok city; it is crazy, endearing, intimidating, and welcoming all in one. No Bangkok itinerary is complete without a visit to Chinatown.

By day, it is a bustling market selling everything and anything; by night, it is the most fabulous street food market bursting with energy, flavours, and sounds!

My best tip for Chinatown is to visit on a weekday. Chinatown is never quiet, but it sees fewer crowds Monday to Thursday. The weekends can be hectic and difficult to actually order your food! It is also a task to get from one end of the street to the other due to the sheer number of people.

Let me share a few tips for you to navigate Chinatown, and have the best time! I have a feeling that Chinatown will even be your favourite part of this 4 day Bangkok itinerary!

– Talat Noi –

Imagine my surprise bumping into my first crush as I got out of the taxi to explore Talat Noi. Mr Jason McAteer was just lurking on the corner of a street. Well, him and some other iconic Liverpool FC players, thats right, it was a Liverpool mural! Random!

Thats not the only street art you will see in Talat Noi. This ancient Chinese Thai neighbourhood is full of colourful artwork, get your camera ready because it is a vibrant walk!

Aside from the street art, walking around Talat Noi feels like you have stepped backed a few decades, there are no skyscrapers here, just old buildings, and locals serving up some tasty food!

– Best Things To Eat in Chinatown –

The food in Chinatown can certainly be intimidating at first, there is a lot of smoke, different and sometimes unusual smells and flavours. However, you will find yourself coming back time and time again!

If you do not know where to start, below are a few places that will get your appetite going.

– Best rooftop bar in Chinatown –

Watch the sun go down on a comfy bean bag in Gen Z bar, located on the rooftop of Grand China hotel. This is the perfect place to unwind with a cocktail in hand in-between all your food tastings in Chinatown.

Bangkok Itinerary Day 4: Big Buddha & Floating Market

1. Amphawa Floating Market

The last day on this 4 day Bangkok itinerary involves floating down the river while getting served delicious fresh Thai meals, and shopping for souvenirs and clothing. It is an experience like no other and one that will stay with you forever.

One of the most famous floating markets in Bangkok is Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, however it has garnered a reputation for being a tourist trap in recent years, seeing large number of people day to day. Damnoen Saduak is not the only floating market in Bangkok…

if you are looking for a more authentic experience I suggest visiting Amphawa Floating Market.

Although smaller than Damnoen Saduak market, Amphawa Floating Market (also called Tha Kha market) is an all round nicer experience. It has a more chill vibe, slightly cheaper prices with friendlier vendors. Amphawa Floating Market is actually favoured amongst locals, it is especially busy during the weekends.

Located 50 km in southern Bangkok, the easiest way to visit Amphawa Floating Market is by joining a private tour, like this one. This tour also includes Maeklong train market and Rama II Park.

However, if you prefer to DIY it then the best way to get to Amphawa Floating Market by public transport is by taking the BTS to Bang Wa Station, followed by a taxi to Bangkok Southern Bus Terminal (Sai Tai Mai), and finally a minivan to Amphawa Floating Market.

2. Big Buddha at Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen Temple

Depending on whether you take a full day tour or visit Amphawa Floating Market yourself you might have time to fit one more place in to your day.

Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen Temple is no ordinary temple, it is the location of a ginormous 70 metre / 230 foot cross legged bronzed Buddha statue. This is no ancient Buddha statue, only built in 2017 it is a new feature to the city, and is generally not frequented by many tourists (yet!). However, the temple dates back to 18th century, founded by one of Thailands most famous monks Somdet Phra Phutthachan (Toh) Brahmaramsi, whose taught mindfulness and meditation.

There is more to Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen Temple than the fantastic Buddha statue, the adjacent stupa is worth checking out, the dome of the top floor is hand painted in neon green, turquoise and blue, reminiscent of a peacock tail! We sheltered from a storm here just staring up at the dome in awe!

The temple complex is located on an island, surrounded by canals, and the best view of the big buddha is by boat. There are a number of tours that sail down the Chao Phraya River, this 2 hour boat tour takes you there and back.

You have come to the end of this 4 day Bangkok itinerary, why not check out some frequently asked questions to help you get ready for your trip!

Bangkok Frequently Asked

Is Bangkok safe?

Bangkok is a major city so crime does occur! However, it is generally considered a safe place for tourists, with most tourists never experiencing any trouble.

I personally felt very safe, locals were friendly, and there was a strong police presence.

Here are some ways that you can protect yourself while in Bangkok:

  • Bag snatching – wear your bag facing the inside of the street
  • Pickpocketing – keep your belongings secure and close to you
  • Drink spiking – never leave your drink unattended
  • Scams – book any tours through reputuable companies, and use apps such as grab when booking taxis

Is it safe to drink the tap water in Bangkok?

No, you should not drink the tap water in Bangkok. It is considered safe to use tap water to brush your teeth , but you should use filtered water for cooking and drinking.

It is also ok to boil the tap water before you use it, you can then put it in the fridge for later. However, bottled water is very affordable, and you will also find filtered water stations around the city that allows you to fill your bottle for as little as 1 baht!

Is Bangkok expensive?

Bangkok, just like the rest of Thailand is a very affordable destination! You can spend as little or as much as you want. In general, a nice meal in a restaurant should cost about €8, a cocktail €5, and a coffee will be below €2.

Ways to save money while visiting Bangkok is to eat from street food stalls, or local restaurants, take public transport, and withdraw large amounts of cash at once (withdrawl fees can be between €4 – €6 per transaction!)

Getting From Bangkok Airport

Bangkok has two major airports, Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK) and Don Mueang International Airport (DMK), both are well connected to public transport!

The Best Way To Get From Suvarnabhumi Airport To City Centre

Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK) is the largest airport in Bangkok, this is the airport you will most likely be arriving in. It is approximately 60 km from Bangkok city centre.

The following is the easiest way to get to your accommodation from this airport.

  • The Airport Link train to Phayathai Station departs from the basement of BKK airport every 10 to 15 minutes. the journey takes approximately 25 mins and costs 45 baht. BangkokAirportTrain.com writes in detail about it here.
  • S1 bus to Khaosan road goes from the 1st floor of the passenger terminal, Gate 7. It costs 60 baht per person and takes about 90 minutes depending on traffic.
  • Private transfer is a great option for anyone with a lot of luggage, or arriving late. It is pre-booked, your driver will meet you at the arrivals hall holding a sign with your name on it. A private transfer to the central parts of Bangkok starts at 1,150 baht.
    The time it takes depends on traffic bus should be between 30 mins up to 1 hour.
  • You can also take a metred taxi yellow taxi, these go from the ground level. Tickets are printed at a machine with the number of your taxi on it.

The Best Way To Get From Don Mueang International Airport (DMK)

Don Mueang International Airport (DMK) is much smaller than Suvarnabhumi Airport, it serves mainly domestic flights and budget airlines. It is approximately 30 km from Bangkok city centre, and getting there is easy.

  • A1 bus (blue air conditioned bus) to Mo Chit BTS station, here you can transfer to the city centre. The bus costs 30 baht per person, cash only. It goes every 15 minutes from the Terminal 1, exit number 6.
  • The Airport Limo Express bus will drop you at Lumpini Park close to many BTS stations, or Khaosan road. You can book this bus online, or pay on the day.
  • Metered Taxi: After your go through customs follow the signs for ‘taxi’. The metre taxis are regulated by the airport, do not go with people who will offer you a taxi as you are walking towards the metered ones because they tend to be a scam. There will be a 50 baht surcharge on top of the metered. fare. Make sure you have cash.
  • Private transfer to the city centre from Don Mueang International Airport starts at 1,150 baht. Your driver will meet you at the arrivals hall holding a sign with your name on it, this is a great option for flights that arrive late.

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