Bangkok, Thailand's vibrant capital, is a city of contrasts, where glittering skyscrapers meet magnificent temples, traditional street kitchens meet luxurious rooftop bars, and frantic bustle hides tucked-away oases of calm. Whether you wander the lively streets of Chinatown, visit the impressive Grand Palace or take in the colorful scene at the floating markets, Bangkok has something for everyone. The city captivates with a unique mix of culture, history, culinary highlights and modern city life.
Both temples are popular sights, if you want to avoid the big crowds, visit as early in the morning as possible. There's also a strict dress code: shoulders and knees need to be covered.
Central location with good connections around the city, €81 per night. For that price there are more modern, better-equipped hotels in Bangkok. Very friendly, attentive staff, a nice view over the city. Downside: the hotel feels dated, gym and breakfast aren't included in the price.
Verdict: Fine for one night, but next time we visit Bangkok we'd choose a different place to stay.
Perfectly central location, close to the party-bar street, yet despite the lively surroundings the hotel itself has a calm, pleasant atmosphere. €69 per night, good value for money. Relaxed and stylish ambience, great location for exploring, very good value for money. Breakfast could be more varied and higher quality.
Verdict: A recommendable hotel for anyone looking for a central yet quiet place to stay in Bangkok.
Central location, ideal for exploring, good connections to public transport. €71 per night, good value for money. Relaxed and stylish ambience, varied and tasty breakfast, great location with good access.
Verdict: A modern and comfortable hotel with a great location and good breakfast, an absolute recommendation for anyone visiting Bangkok.
We only had limited time in Bangkok, since we arrived in the morning and had to fly back the next morning. So we limited ourselves to visiting the markets and temples.
About 80 km from Bangkok, known for the unique spectacle of the train running right through the market. Vendors pull their goods and awnings aside, while some stalls stay right on the tracks. Alongside fresh food, spices and souvenirs there are plenty of street food stalls. Open daily 6am to 6pm, especially busy in the mornings.
Since many tours start early in the morning, we took a Grab taxi to stay flexible. Unfortunately we only arrived in the afternoon, when some stalls had already closed. The moment the train comes through was still impressive though. On the way back it was hard to find a Grab, luckily there was a nearby bus stop.
Getting there: Grab around €29 (one way), roughly 2.5 hrs. Alternatively train or bus (cheaper, but longer), or a guided tour (incl. Damnoen Saduak Floating Market) from €28.92 per person, roughly 6 to 7 hrs.
Verdict: A unique market with a special atmosphere. If you want to experience the train passing through, check the schedule beforehand and arrive early enough.
One of Thailand's best-known floating markets, about 100 km from Bangkok. Vendors sell fresh fruit, vegetables, traditional dishes and souvenirs straight from their boats. Very touristy, but with a special atmosphere. Open daily 7am to 5pm.
We went early in the morning, since it can get very crowded later. The boat ride through the narrow canals was exciting, though many stalls are heavily geared toward tourists and prices are often higher than at regular markets. Still, the visit was worth it for the unique setting.
Getting there: Grab around €35 (one way), roughly 2 hrs. Alternatively a guided tour (often combined with Maeklong Railway Market) from €28.92 per person, roughly 6 to 7 hrs, or public transport (cheaper, but more time-consuming).
Verdict: A market worth seeing, especially interesting for first-time visitors to Bangkok. If you're after a more authentic experience, you can also visit smaller, less touristy floating markets.
On the west bank of the Chao Phraya River, one of Bangkok's most impressive temples, known for its ornate towers that glow beautifully at sunrise and sunset. The central spire is decorated with colorful porcelain mosaics, with a fantastic view over the river and city. Open daily 8am to 6pm, admission around 100 THB.
Thailand's most important temple, home to the famous Emerald Buddha, a highly revered statue carved from jade. Richly decorated with golden stupas, elaborate murals and detailed sculptures. Since the temple sits within the Grand Palace, a visit pairs perfectly with a tour of the former royal residence. Open daily 8:30am to 3:30pm, admission around 500 THB.
Tip: Both temples are popular sights, if you want to avoid the big crowds, visit as early in the morning as possible. There's also a strict dress code: shoulders and knees need to be covered.