Bangkok doesn’t ease you in — it welcomes you full force. As soon as you land at Suvarnabhumi or Don Mueang Airport, you feel it: heat, movement, noise, energy. Bangkok is alive 24/7, and that starts the moment you step outside the terminal.
One very practical thing you’ll notice immediately: the huge Grab pick-up area at the airport. Thousands of people use the Grab app here. Yes, it’s busy, and yes, you might wait a few minutes
— but it works surprisingly smoothly. Cars come and go constantly. Tip: install Grab before you arrive. It’s hands down the easiest way to get into the city.
A Short History of Bangkok
Bangkok became Thailand’s capital in 1782 under King Rama I. What began as a riverside settlement along the Chao Phraya River grew into a royal city filled with temples, palaces, canals, and trade routes.
Unlike many Asian capitals, Bangkok was never colonised. That’s why Thai culture, monarchy, and religion remain deeply woven into daily life. Today, Bangkok balances ancient traditions with glass skyscrapers, luxury malls, and one of the most vibrant urban cultures in the world.
Landing in Bangkok
Bangkok doesn’t ease you in — it welcomes you full force. As soon as you land at Suvarnabhumi or Don Mueang Airport, you feel it: heat, movement, noise, energy. Bangkok is alive 24/7, and that starts the moment you step outside the terminal.
One very practical thing you’ll notice immediately: the huge Grab pick-up area at the airport. Thousands of people use the Grab app here.
Yes, it’s busy, and yes, you might wait a few minutes — but it works surprisingly smoothly. Cars come and go constantly.
Tip: Install Grab before you arrive. It’s hands down the easiest way to get into the city.
The Grand Palace – Royal Bangkok at Its Finest
The Grand Palace is Bangkok’s most important landmark. This former royal residence is a massive complex filled with golden buildings, detailed murals, and ceremonial halls.
Inside, you’ll find the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, one of Thailand’s most sacred religious sites. The level of craftsmanship here is unreal. Dress modestly, go early in the morning, and take your time — this place deserves it.
Wat Pho – The Reclining Buddha & Birthplace of Thai Massage
Right next door lies Wat Pho, home to the enormous Reclining Buddha. Covered in gold and stretching almost 50 meters long, it’s impressive and serene at the same time.
Wat Pho is also considered the birthplace of traditional Thai massage, which connects perfectly with Bangkok’s wellness culture today.
Wat Arun – Temple of Dawn
Across the river stands Wat Arun, one of the city’s most iconic silhouettes. Decorated with porcelain fragments and seashells, its central tower rises dramatically above the river.
Wat Arun is stunning at sunset. Taking the ferry across already feels like a small adventure.
Bangkok Street Food – The Best in the World
Bangkok is often called the street food capital of the world, and honestly, that title is well earned. The city has hundreds of thousands of street food stalls — some estimates go beyond 500,000 — serving everything from noodles and curries to grilled meat, desserts, and soups.
Street food here isn’t a backup option — it is the main event. Eating on plastic stools at midnight is normal. The food is fresh, fast, cheap, and full of flavour. You can also join street food tours, where local guides take you through hidden alleys and legendary stalls. If you love food, Bangkok is paradise.
Chinatown – Neon Lights & Endless Food
Bangkok’s Chinatown Bangkok comes alive at night. Yaowarat Road transforms into a sea of neon signs, smoke, sizzling pans, and crowds.
You walk, stop, eat, repeat. This is where Bangkok feels loud, chaotic, and absolutely alive. Even if you’re full — you’ll still want to taste something.
Khao San Road – Backpacker Chaos & Nightlife
Khao San Road is pure energy. During the day, it’s relaxed and messy. At night, it explodes into bars, music, dancing, street food, and neon lights.
You’ll see everything here — from travelers fresh off a flight to people partying until sunrise. Love it or hate it, it’s part of Bangkok’s DNA and worth experiencing at least once.
Lumpini Park – Green Escape with Giant Lizards
In the middle of the city lies Lumpini Park, Bangkok’s green lung. Joggers, tai chi groups, families, and office workers all share this calm space.
And yes — you’ll see giant monitor lizards (varanen) walking around like it’s completely normal. It’s surreal and fascinating. Lumpini Park is perfect for a morning walk or a break from the city’s intensity.
Rooftop Nights – Sirocco Sky Bar
For a completely different perspective, head up — way up — to Sirocco Sky Bar. Famous for its views over the city and river, this rooftop bar offers a cinematic Bangkok experience.
Drinks are expensive, but the view is unforgettable. Dress nicely, go around sunset, and enjoy seeing Bangkok from above.
Jodd Fairs Night Market
If you want to experience Bangkok at night without the chaos of backpacker streets, Jodd Fairs is the place to go. This modern night market is popular with both locals and travelers and feels cleaner, more organised, and slightly trendier than older markets.
Jodd Fairs is all about food, vibes, and easy wandering. Rows of street food stalls serve everything from Thai classics to international snacks. Think grilled seafood, pad thai, mango sticky rice, Korean-style dishes, desserts, and endless drinks. Prices are reasonable, portions are generous, and it’s perfect for trying lots of small dishes.
What makes Jodd Fairs special is the atmosphere. Neon lights, open seating, music in the background, and young crowds give it a lively but relaxed feel. You’ll see people sitting on plastic stools, chatting, eating, and just enjoying the evening.
Massage in Bangkok – Ancient Healing, Everyday Luxury
Getting a massage in Bangkok is almost mandatory. Thai massage is based on ancient healing techniques, combining pressure points, stretching, and energy lines.
You’ll find massage salons everywhere — from simple street-level places to luxury spas. Prices are low compared to Western standards, and the quality is often excellent. After long walking days, a Thai massage feels like a reset button.
Co van Kessel Bike Tour – Bangkok Beyond the Postcards
One of the absolute highlights in Bangkok is doing a bike tour with Co van Kessel. This tour was founded by a Dutch expat and is now one of the best ways to see a side of Bangkok most travelers never experience. Forget traffic jams and tourist buses — this is Bangkok at street level.
The tour takes about three hours and starts in the city, but within minutes you’re cycling through quiet backstreets, local neighbourhoods, and narrow alleys where daily life unfolds right in front of you. You ride past small temples, local markets, wooden houses on stilts, and suddenly you’re crossing the river by ferry, bikes and all.
Getting Around Bangkok – Easy & Flexible
Bangkok is huge, but transport is surprisingly good.
Use Grab for taxis, BTS Skytrain, MRT metro, river ferries, and yes — tuk-tuks for short, fun rides (always agree on price first).
