Travel guide
Visiting Bangkok
Bangkok is where most trips to Thailand begin. Give it at least two or three days: one for the Grand Palace, Wat Pho and Wat Arun, and the rest for markets, the river and a day trip out of the city.
Best time to go
Bangkok is hot all year. November to February is the most comfortable, with lower humidity. March to May is the hottest stretch. From June to October, expect a heavy shower most afternoons, which rarely stops sightseeing for long.
What to see
- The Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew, home of the Emerald Buddha.
- Wat Pho's reclining Buddha and Wat Arun across the river.
- The Thonburi canals by longtail boat, where houses still open onto the water.
- Chinatown's street food along Yaowarat Road in the evening.
- Day trips: the old capital of Ayutthaya, the River Kwai and Erawan Falls, and the Maeklong railway and floating markets.
Getting around
The BTS Skytrain and MRT subway avoid the traffic, and the Chao Phraya river boats are the easiest way between the Grand Palace, Wat Arun and the riverside hotels. Bangkok has two airports: Suvarnabhumi (BKK) for most international flights and Don Mueang (DMK) for many budget airlines.
Tips
- The Grand Palace has a strict dress code: covered shoulders, no short skirts or shorts.
- Start temple visits early to beat the heat and the tour groups.
- Ayutthaya and Kanchanaburi work well as day trips, but Kanchanaburi is also worth an overnight stay on the river.
Frequently asked questions
How many days should I spend in Bangkok?
Two to three days covers the main temples, a canal trip and one day trip. Add a day if you want both Ayutthaya and Kanchanaburi.
How far is Ayutthaya from Bangkok?
About 80 km north, roughly 1.5 hours by road. Our tour drives up and comes back by river cruise.
Is the Maeklong railway market still running?
Yes. Trains pass through the market several times a day, and the vendors pull back their stalls just before each one. Train times can change, so we plan the visit around the current timetable.