Bangkok Travel Guide (2026)
Thailand's capital, spreading along the Chao Phraya River. Golden palaces and temples blend with skyscrapers and rooftop bars, while street food and night markets keep the city humming late into the night. Famously affordable, it is Southeast Asia's great gateway and a top value-for-money destination.
- Recommended stay
- 4–5 days recommended
- Budget feel
- About USD 380–700 per person (excl. flights, 3-star hotels & local meals)
💰 As of 2026, a 4-night Bangkok trip for two costs about $800–$1,880 in total — $400–$940 per person. See full cost breakdown →
Food & dining
A street-food paradise. Pad thai, tom yum goong and mango sticky rice are everywhere, with choices spanning roadside stalls, food courts and Michelin-listed restaurants. You can eat well for just a dollar or two.
Getting around
Connected to the city by Airport Rail Link and taxi from Suvarnabhumi (BKK) and Don Mueang (DMK). Getting around is easy via the BTS Skytrain, MRT subway and Chao Phraya river boats.
Highlights
The Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew (Emerald Buddha), Wat Pho (Reclining Buddha), Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn), the Chatuchak Weekend Market, and the Chao Phraya River by night.
Places to visit
The Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaew (Emerald Buddha)
Thailands former royal palace, built in 1782, with the royal chapel that houses the Emerald Buddha.
Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha)
Bangkoks oldest temple, famous for its giant 46m gold-leaf Reclining Buddha.
Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)
The Temple of Dawn, whose 79m central spire clad in porcelain glows from across the river.
Chatuchak Weekend Market
One of the worlds largest weekend markets, with 15,000+ stalls of clothing, goods and food.
Asiatique The Riverfront
A large riverside night market on the Chao Phraya, with a Ferris wheel and river breeze.
Pad Thai — Thipsamai
A Bangkok pad thai legend founded in 1966; the egg-wrapped prawn pad thai is its signature.
Itineraries
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