Bangkok, the vibrant metropolis of Thailand, is not only known for its impressive temples and historical sights, but also for its vibrant city life that will captivate every visitor. In the second part of our guide, we take you into the colourful world of Bangkok's floating markets, famous street markets and delicious cuisine. Discover the best ways to get around this bustling city, from the speedy Skytrain to the traditional Tuk Tuk and relaxing boat trips on the Chao Phraya. Indulge in the city's culinary delights and best restaurants, and enjoy breathtaking views from Bangkok's famous rooftop bars. Whether you're looking for authentic experiences, unforgettable flavours or a relaxing evening in one of the city's green oases – Bangkok has something for everyone!
Getting around in Bangkok can seem overwhelming at first, but with a little planning it's easy to find your way around the city. Here are some tips for getting around Bangkok safely and efficiently:
The Skytrain (BTS) and Metro (MRT) are the fastest and most reliable ways to travel in Bangkok. Both systems cover the main areas of the city and offer air-conditioned rides. The BTS runs above ground and offers great views, while the MRT runs underground and is a good alternative. To save time, it's best to buy a Rabbit Card for the BTS and a Stored Value Card for the MRT.
Taxis are available all over Bangkok and are relatively cheap. Make sure the driver uses the taximeter or negotiate the fare in advance to avoid being ripped off! Alternatively, ride-hailing apps such as Grab offer a convenient way to book a ride and avoid overcharging.
Riding a Tuk Tuk is a classic Bangkok experience. These three-wheeled vehicles are ideal for short trips around the city. Negotiate the price in advance and hold on tight during the ride. Although Tuk Tuks are more expensive than taxis, they offer a unique experience!
The Chao Phraya Express and other ferries are a scenic and convenient way to explore Bangkok. The boats provide access to major sights such as the Grand Palace and Wat Arun. A one-way trip costs just a few Baht, but day tickets are also available.
Buses are the cheapest but most complicated way to get around Bangkok. New, air-conditioned buses are more comfortable, but the traffic can be problematic. For short distances and if you have time, they are a good option. Make sure you know the correct bus number and fare.
Whichever method of transportation you choose, plan your routes in advance and avoid rush hours to explore Bangkok efficiently and stress free!
Bangkok is a culinary paradise with a variety of world-class restaurants and unique cafés. Here is a small selection of culinary highlights not to be missed during your stay in Bangkok:
Thipsamai is an iconic Bangkok restaurant known for serving the best Pad Thai in town. The traditional Thai dish is prepared to perfection and attracts locals and tourists alike. The fresh ingredients and authentic preparation make Thipsamai a must for Pad Thai lovers.
Opening Hours: Daily 09:00 am - 12:00 amGaggan Anand is one of Bangkok's most famous restaurants serving innovative Indian cuisine. Award-winning chef Gaggan Anand creates exciting, modern dishes that reinterpret traditional Indian flavors. The restaurant offers a unique dining experience with a creative and entertaining tasting menu.
Tip: Be sure to make reservations in advance. The restaurant is often fully booked!
Opening Hours: Thu - Sun 05:30 pm - 11:45 pmLe Café Louis Vuitton at Gaysorn Amarin in Bangkok is the brand's first café in Thailand and combines luxurious design with culinary delights. The elegant café features a botanically inspired décor with iconic Louis Vuitton design elements and an impressive curved counter. Culinary highlights include exquisite cakes such as the Star Blossom Cake and the Monogram Cake, as well as the refreshing Mango Sticky Rice Fizz.
Opening Hours: Daily 10:00 am - 08:00 pmJay Fai is a legendary street food chef whose Michelin Star awarded restaurant is known for its delicious crab omelets and other Thai specialties. Although it is a street food restaurant, the food is prepared to the highest standards and offers an authentic Thai taste experience.
Tip: Arrive early as the wait can be very long!
Opening Hours: Wed - Sat 09:00 am - 07:30 pmPaste Bangkok is known for its modern Thai cuisine that combines traditional recipes with contemporary techniques and presentation. The Michelin Star awarded restaurant offers an elegant setting with fantastic views of the city.
Opening Hours: Daily 12:00 pm - 03:30 pm / 06:00 pm - 11:00 pmBangkok is known for its impressive rooftop bars that offer breathtaking views and an unforgettable experience. Here are 5 rooftop bars that are definitely worth a visit:
The Sky Bar is world famous and made especially popular by the movie "Hangover 2". It offers a breathtaking view of Bangkok and the Chao Phraya River. Here you can enjoy the sunset with a cocktail and admire the city lights.
Tip: Try the Hangovertini, a homage to the movie!
Dresscode: Smart Casual – No flip flops, sportswear or sleeveless tops for men!
Opening Hours: Daily 05:00 pm - 01:00 amThe Vertigo & Moon Bar, one of the highest rooftop bars in Bangkok, is located at the Banyan Tree Hotel. The elegant atmosphere and panoramic views make it the perfect place for a special evening. The bar offers a wide selection of wines and cocktails as well as an excellent grill menu.
Tip: Be sure to reserve a table in advance to get the best seats!
Dresscode: Smart Casual – Elegant clothing is expected!
Opening Hours: Daily 05:00 pm - 01:00 amOctave Rooftop Lounge & Bar spans three levels and offers 360-degree views of Bangkok. The bar is known for its creative cocktails and stylish ambience. It is a great place to watch the sunset over the city and enjoy the view until late at night.
Tip: For the best views and relaxed atmosphere, visit the top floor!
Dresscode: Smart Casual
Opening Hours: Daily 05:00 pm - 02:00 amTichuca is one of Bangkok's newest and hippest rooftop bars. The bar offers breathtaking views of the city and is known for its creative cocktails and modern design. The relaxed atmosphere and lively music make it a great place to spend the evening.
Tip: Walk in only – No reservation required!
Dresscode: Smart Casual
Opening Hours: Daily 05:00 pm - 02:00 amAbove Eleven not only offers fantastic views of the Bangkok skyline, but also a unique combination of Peruvian and Japanese cuisine. Located on the rooftop of the Fraser Suites, the bar offers a stylish ambience with comfortable seating and fancy cocktails.
Tip: Try Peruvian-Japanese fusion cuisine and enjoy a Pisco Sour, a classic Peruvian cocktail!
Dresscode: Smart Casual
Opening Hours: Daily 06:00 pm - 02:00 amBangkok is famous for its vibrant markets that offer an unparalleled shopping experience. From traditional to modern night markets, here are some of the best to visit:
Chatuchak Weekend Market is one of the largest markets in the world and offers an incredible variety of products. From clothing and accessories to handicrafts and exotic plants – you'll find it all! With more than 15.000 stalls, the market covers 35 hectares and is a true shopping heaven.
Tip: Arrive early to beat the crowds and get the best deal!
Opening Hours: Sat & Sun 09:00 am - 06:00 pmAsiatique combines the best of a night market and a shopping mall. Located right on the Chao Phraya River, it offers a variety of shops, restaurants and entertainment venues, including the famous Calypso Cabaret. Located in a former port warehouse, the market offers a nostalgic atmosphere with a modern twist.
Tip: Take the free shuttle boats from Sathorn Pier to the market and enjoy a nice boat ride on the river!
Opening Hours: Daily 11:00 am - 12:00 amA special highlight is the Maeklong Railway Market, a market held on and along the railway tracks. As the train passes by, the vendors quickly clear away their stalls – a fascinating spectacle! The market offers a wide variety of fresh food, spices and local delicacies.
Tip: The train passes through the market several times a day, so it is recommended to check the schedule in advance!
Opening Hours: Daily 07:00 am - 04:00 pmDamnoen Saduak Floating Market is the most famous floating market in Thailand and a popular tourist destination. Vendors sell fresh fruits, vegetables, snacks and souvenirs from colourful boats along the small canals. The market is very photogenic and offers an authentic atmosphere that gives a glimpse of traditional life on the water.
Tip: Visit the market early in the morning for the best selection and authentic atmosphere without the crowds!
Opening Hours: Daily 08:00 am - 04:00 pmAmphawa is another floating market popular with locals. There are many food stalls as well as souvenirs and handicrafts. The market stretches along a canal and you can buy fresh seafood and other local delicacies from boats.
Tip: Book a sunset cruise to experience the picturesque atmosphere of the market!
Opening Hours: Fri - Sun 2:00 pm - 09:00 pmThe "One Ratchada Night Market" in Bangkok, also known as "Ratchada Train Night Market", is a popular open-air night market which has been enjoying great popularity since 2022. The direct connection to the MRT makes it easily accessible. It offers visitors a wide selection of street food, trendy fashion, vintage items, handicrafts and hip accessories. In addition to the typical food stalls, there are many restaurants and iconic bars offering happy hour specials. A highlight is the spicy, braised pork ribs, for which people love to queue. The nearby viewpoint in the parking deck offers an impressive view of the market and is popular for photographers.
Tip: Take the MRT (Cultural Center Station) for an easy ride and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and culinary highlights of the market!
Opening Hours: Daily 04:00 pm - 12:00 amKnown for its wide selection of food and drinks, as well as fashionable clothing and accessories. Especially popular with young people and tourists.
Tip: Try the famous street food and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the market!
Opening Hours: Daily 05:00 pm - 12:00 amTalad Rot Fai Srinakarin, also known as Srinakarin Train Night Market, is a popular vintage night market famous for its retro items and antiques. The market also offers modern fashion and a variety of street food stalls.
Tip: Visit the market after 07:00 pm, when most of the stalls are set up and the atmosphere is at its liveliest!
Opening Hours: Thu - Sun 05:00 pm - 01:00 amBuilt around a decommissioned airplane, this unique market offers a mix of art, handmade items and culinary delights. In the evening, the market comes alive with atmospheric lighting and live music.
Tip: The market is especially beautiful in the evening, when the lights and live music create a special atmosphere!
Opening Hours: Daily 11:00 am - 11:00 pm (Closed on Mondays)A lively market known for its arts and crafts and diverse culinary offerings. Regular live performances by local artists add to the atmosphere.
Tip: Visit the market in the evening to enjoy live music and artistic atmosphere to the fullest!
Opening Hours: Daily 05:00 pm - 12:00 amBangkok is a city rich in history and culture. In addition to the famous temples, there are many other historical sites and beautiful parks to explore during your visit. Here are some of the most important:
Lumpini Park is Bangkok's green lung and offers an oasis of calm in the middle of the hectic city. Ideal for a relaxing stroll or a boat ride on the lake, the park offers a welcome break from the hustle and bustle of city life. The park is also a popular place for morning Tai Chi and jogging.
Tip: Keep an eye out for the banded monitor lizard, which can often be seen along the lakeshore and park trails!
Opening Hours: Daily 04:30 am - 10:00 pmBenjakitti Park is located in the heart of Bangkok and offers a breathtaking view of the city skyline. The park has large lakes, biking and jogging trails as well as green areas ideal for picnics. An ideal place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy nature.
Tip: Rent a bike to explore the park and surrounding area!
Opening Hours: Daily 05:00 am - 09:00 pmChatuchak Park is located next to the famous Chatuchak Weekend Market and is one of the oldest parks in Bangkok. It offers beautiful gardens, shady walkways and a picturesque lake. The park is a popular meeting place for locals and tourists who want to relax after visiting the market.
Tip: Combine your visit to the park with a shopping spree at Chatuchak Weekend Market!
Opening Hours: Daily 04:30 am - 10:00 pmKing Rama IX Park is the largest park in Bangkok and was created in honor of the 60th birthday of King Bhumibol Adulyadej. The park includes beautiful gardens, lakes, pavilions and a botanical museum. It is a peaceful place to enjoy nature and learn more about Thai flora.
Tip: Visit the park in December for the annual Flower Festival!
Opening Hours: Daily 05:00 am - 07:00 pmThe Ancient City is a huge open air museum with replicas of famous Thai buildings and temples. The impressive grounds cover 320 hectares and offer a fantastic opportunity to experience the architecture and history of Thailand in one place. You can explore the park by foot, bicycle or golf cart.
Tip: Visit the nearby Erawan Museum with its impressive three-headed elephant statue!
Opening Hours: Daily 09:00 am - 07:00 pmBangkok is a city full of contrasts and experiences that fascinates every visitor. Immerse yourself in the rich culture of the Thai capital, explore the magnificent temples, stroll through the lively markets and enjoy the flavors of the famous street food scene. Whether you want to explore the historical sights, browse the modern shopping malls or experience the exciting nightlife – Bangkok has something for everyone!
Take the time to experience this diverse city in all its facets and let yourself be carried away by its unique charm and dynamism. Watch the hustle and bustle on the canals, enjoy the spectacular views from the rooftop bars or relax in the city's green oases. Bangkok promises unforgettable experiences that will stay with you forever. Have fun exploring!
Want to learn more about Bangkok's fascinating sights and cultural highlights? In the first part of our Bangkok guide, you will find the most important activities and places that you shouldn't miss on your trip!
Click here to go straight to part one and find out more about Bangkok's highlights!
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