Is Bangkok Worth Visiting - 15 FAB Reasons to Visit Bangkok

Planning a trip to Bangkok and still on the fence wondering, is Bangkok worth visiting? Here’s 15 reasons to visit Bangkok and why is Bangkok a good place to visit. From temples to markets and cabaret shows to Thai massages, visiting Bangkok will make for a memorable vacation!

Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, is a whimsical mix of temples, markets, street food, cabaret shows, muay boxing, nightlife, and traditional massages.

The centuries-old religion and modernity go hand in hand, making the vibrant canvas of old and new. The warm and welcoming locals ensure your visit in Bangkok will be comfortable.

Do you still wonder is Bangkok worth visiting? Then let me give you a detailed list of 15 reasons to visit Bangkok and cover this colourful contrast as much as possible. A once-hidden city is now

transformed into a party destination in Asia where majestic temple towers stand shoulder to shoulder with glittering skyscrapers.

Have you ever come across such an interesting combination? All this and more makes Bangkok worth visiting, no matter how long you stay in this extraordinary city.

So, read on to decide and maybe then you could come back to this Bangkok itinerary!

Is Bangkok worth visiting?

Top reasons to visit Bangkok

Sacred temples with their ornate architecture

Bangkok is dotted with temples, called ‘wat’ in Thai. A Wat is a complex dedicated to Buddhist temples that reflect Thailand’s rich culture, diverse history, and harmonious religion.

Sites like 17th century Wat Arun make Bangkok worth visiting with its tall porcelain spire, coloured ceramics, and intricately decorated grand altar.

When you visit Wat Pho, you will see Thailand’s largest collection of Buddha images and statues, including a 46-meter-long reclining Buddha.

Its sprawling complex is where close to a hundred stupas along with multiple rock gardens can be found. Wat Pho is also known as the first public university in Thailand to focus on traditional medicine and massage.

I would suggest booking this Bangkok City Highlights temple tour where you can customize which temples you want to explore.

Wat Saket with its gleaming golden stupa, Wat Phra Kaew with its emerald Buddha statue, Wat Traimit with a large statue of the sitting Buddha, and Wat Ratchanatdaram which is home to the beautifully built Loha Prasat Temple are some of the reasons why visit Bangkok, Thailand.

Eccentric night markets with all their dazzle

Wondering what is Bangkok known for? It’s the combination of shopping, eating, and entertainment that this city delivers and attracts millions of tourists every year.

And what better place than a Thai night market to find all of this in one place, right? With more than 15 night markets in Bangkok, you can hop from one spot to another the whole night.

Chatuchak Weekend Market is one of the most popular places in Bangkok where you can find various foods and drinks.

Few of the drinks are a speciality of Chatuchak and are hard to find anywhere.

Asiatique The Riverfront is an open-air mall on the bank of Chao Praya River where everything from shopping and entertainment to food and sightseeing is available. Head to Asiatique in the evening to witness the sunset and then explore the market.

Pak Khlong Talat, also known as Bangkok’s flower market, is open 24 hours a day.

Not your typical Thai night market, but this colourful, fragrant canvas of a market is perfect for spending some time. Saphan Phut Night Market is where you can find multiple tattoo and piercing stalls along with shopping at low prices.

Is Bangkok worth visiting for all its night markets? Yes, you can spend days wandering around the markets and meeting interesting people.

This guided Midnight Food Tour by Tuk-Tuk in Bangkok is loved by tourists.

If you are looking for something that starts a little early, then this Market, Temples, and Food tour with a local guide starts in the evening.

Vibrant nightlife scene that ticks all the boxes

The nightlife in Bangkok goes beyond the typical bar hopping and clubbing.

It presents you with some of the wildest experiences and extravagant shows.

People line up for Muay Thai Boxing as well as cabaret shows, and believe me, both equally keep you on the edge of your seat. Is Bangkok worth visiting to experience this side of nightlife? Definitely!

Calypso Cabaret Show Entry Ticket will let you skip the line and you can get the front seats to witness this unique performance.

Remember to buy Muay Thai Boxing Tickets at Rajadamnern Stadium in advance to book VIP seating. An adrenaline rush is guaranteed during this traditional Thai sportsmanship.

You can also opt for a dinner cruise experience where live music and a delicious buffet will ensure your evening is perfect.

Lip-smacking street food and fusion of tastes

From the bustling night markets to small alleys, street food in Bangkok will greet you everywhere. If you are a foodie and wondering if is Bangkok worth it, then the answer is a definitive yes!

The combination of colours, textures, fragrances, and tastes will take your taste buds on a roller coaster ride.

Is Bangkok worth visiting for all its hyped street food? A hundred per cent yes!

If you are visiting this city for the first time, book this Incredible Food Walking Tour with Tastings and you are good to go. Visit Lumpini Park in the morning and you will find different stalls ready with food, juices, and sweets.

You can go to Liab Duan night market where different ramen bowls at cheaper rates are available.

Khao San Road is where you will get a fusion of classic Thai dishes and unconventional foods. This is the place if you want to try a variety of fired bugs. Thai Crepes, also known as Khanom Bueang, is the Thai version of flavourful tacos.

Khao Man Gai, Khao Phat, and Khao Kaa Moo are a variety of rice dishes where different ingredients like chicken, pork, eggs, crabs, or shrimp are used. Gaeng Massaman, green Thai curry, or red Thai curry are enough to make any meal satiating.

Explore the world’s largest Chinatown in Bangkok

The winding alleys of Chinatown dotted with temples and street food vendors welcome you with sensory overload. The smells, the noises, the crowd, the traffic, and all the corners worth photographing make it one of the best sights in Bangkok.

How do you know you have entered Sampeng Lane when exploring Chinatown?

You will be surrounded by shoes, jewellery, stationery, silk sarongs, toys, and all the knick-knacks you can think of. This narrow lane is buzzing with so many tourists and vendors that you will have a hard time navigating through shops.

Temples like Wat Traimit and Wat Mangkol Kamalawat make for popular points of interest.

Head to Yaowarat Road at night and you will find everything from exotic fruits to fresh seafood.

Exploring, bargaining, and shopping to your heart’s content

No matter when you are going to Bangkok and how many days you are spending there, shopping is a must.

With sprawling malls, diverse outdoor markets, and eccentric night markets, Bangkok is a shoppers’ paradise. And the best part is, you can shop till you drop without even burning a hole in your pocket.

You can head to the grand Icon Siam Mall if you want hundreds of high-end shops under one roof.

The indoor fountain and several restaurants serving different cuisines are a highlight here. Other places like Siam Paragon, Talad Rot Fai Train Market, and Central World make Bangkok worth visiting for shopping enthusiasts.

Chatuchak Weekend Market houses thousands of stalls in more than 25 different sections.

This is where everything from clothes, shoes, and food to antiques, art, and accessories can be found at cheaper rates. Bargain away and grab the best possible deal at Chatuchak Weekend Market.

If you are a digital nomad like me, then you will appreciate this list of cafes in Bangkok that are ideal for working online.

Ideal for family vacations as well

If you are planning a family vacation and wondering what is Bangkok like, know that this city holds so many attractions ideal for all age groups.

Along with different temples, visiting the Grand Palace is a must. Built in 1782, this royal residence has witnessed and shaped Thai culture and history over the centuries.

This ornate structure is known for its impressive architecture and also has the Museum of the Emerald Buddha Temple on the premises.

SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World is another place for adults and kids alike. With hundreds of marine species and different underwater experiences, this is one of the reasons why you should visit Thailand with your family.

Asiatique The Riverfront is proud to be the one-stop destination for everyone in the family.

Be it Bangkok’s tallest Ferris wheel or the Sirimahannop Heritage Ship, this place has so many attractions along with shopping and food.

You can spend half a day at Safari World Bangkok where different safari rides, live feeding sessions, an Orangutan boxing show, and a Cowboy stunt show will keep you engaged.

Lumphini Park, Jim Thompson’s House, Madame Tussauds, and Art in Paradise Museum are also perfect for your Bangkok itinerary.

Railway market and water markets

Want to know what can we do in Bangkok apart from all the popular sights? After all the famous night markers, you will find some unique destinations in and near Bangkok.

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market in Ratchaburi is less than 2 hours away from Bangkok and is one of the most sought-after destinations in Thailand.

Farmers in traditional blue shirts wearing straw hats and selling local produce of fruits and vegetables have become the identity of this place.

You can also visit the Khlong Lat Mayom Floating Market, Bang Nam Phueng Floating Market, Taling Chan Floating Market, and Kwan-Riam Floating Market.

The Maeklong Railway Market seems like a regular market that’s settled around the railway tracks. That is until the train horns echo from afar.

The moment you hear the horn, vendors start packing their stalls, pulling down umbrellas, and moving away the chairs from the tracks.

In a few minutes, the train will pass through the market, too close to the stalls, you may feel. But the locals are used to all the drills as they happen as often as 8 times a day.

Unique things like floating markets and the railway market are the answer to the question – is Bangkok worth visiting? You will enjoy these experiences when visiting Thailand.

If you are interested in a day trip from Bangkok, this Damnoen Saduak Market and Maeklong Railway Market tour is perfectly tailored for you.

Experience luxury without burning a hole in your pocket

High-end hotels, luxury resorts, chic spas, and upscale restaurants make Bangkok a hypnotising place. It is a destination where you can spend days pampering yourself and that too without spending a fortune.

If you plan your trip in advance or if you are visiting Bangkok during the off-season, chances are you will find accommodation rates way cheaper than regular.

Food and dining are usually affordable, no matter which cuisine you are eating.

If you are okay with street food and night markets, then it will be a treat for your taste buds as well as your pockets.

If you are an adventure sports enthusiast and want to know is Bangkok worth visiting, then you will find plenty to keep your adrenaline rushing. The same goes for adventure sports including scuba diving, surfing, rock climbing, and sky diving.

In major cities like Bangkok or Phuket, you may find that the rates are a little steep compared to other Thai destinations. But it is still cheaper than European or American destinations.

Boating to get away from all the chaos

Bangkok is a city that’s always buzzing with touristy energy and I won’t lie that sometimes it can feel like too much hustle and bustle.

If you are anything like me, I am sure you will try to find a peaceful spot to relax for a bit. There are tiny cafes hidden away from chaos, there are city parks where you be in the heart of nature, and then there is boating!

River taxis and lunch/dinner cruises are popular along the Chao Phraya River. Bangkok Canal Tour By Long-Tail Boat that lasts for 2 hours is also loved by tourists.

If you would like to explore the city during the day and reserve a night for yourself, then the River Dinner Cruise on the Chao Phraya Princess is a must for you.

Is Bangkok worth seeing from the water? Yes, the twinkling city lights and towering temple structures that highlight the skyline look fantastic.

Perfect for a day trip to Ayutthaya Ruins

Bangkok is less than a 2-hour drive from Ayutthaya ruins, making it an ideal city to stay in if you are a history buff.

This ancient Thai capital dates back to the 14th century and was a flourishing centre for politics, culture, trade and commerce. Unfortunately, it was attacked and burned down by Burmese forces in the 18th century.

Today, after weathering the storms for centuries, the expansive monasteries, temples, and splendid statues still stand tall. If you ever wonder why you should visit Thailand, then know that places like Ayutthaya make it worth all the time.

Witnessing Ayutthaya ruins, exploring the sites, and learning about all the historical and cultural developments here is an interesting experience.

The best way to ensure you understand the true significance of this place is to go on the Ayutthaya Temples Small Group Tour with a local guide where lunch and transport are included. You can spend a whole day exploring the ruins of Ayutthaya.

Welcoming weather most of the year

Bangkok is known for its tropical savanna climate that ensures hot weather throughout the year.

Many travellers wonder what is Bangkok like and how the weather is year-round. With 6 months of rainfall, humidity is also expected. But the best part about Bangkok’s weather is even with the rainfall and hot-humid climate, you can still explore the city comfortably.

The rainfall impacts a few outdoor activities, but the rainy months of June to October also mean cheaper accommodation rates and fewer tourists.

The winter months from November to March are downright pleasant where you can explore outdoor markets and enjoy different activities.

Want to know how you can combine Kanchanaburi and Phuket with Bangkok? Here is the best way to spend 7 days in Thailand.

Experience the magic of traditional Thai massage

Visit Bangkok and you will find Thai massage centres around every corner.

But look beyond the counterfeit massage parlours to find the one that embraces holistic therapy with all its ancient knowledge. Traditional Thai massage is a science that has been taught for generations. You can visit Wat Pho, where Thai massage was first taught publicly.

Even though this massage does not take place in a spa-like facility and is usually conducted in an open-air pavilion, Wat Pho massage is the guaranteed way to understand how it was done traditionally.

You can also check with the hotel staff and get recommendations for genuine places.

Safe for tourists from around the world

Bangkok is a city of smiles and warmth. With no hate crimes or racial crimes against travellers from all walks of life, Bangkok welcomes everyone with open arms.

Many a time, I have come across queries like – is Bangkok safe for American tourists? Or is Bangkok safe for Americans?

I understand people may feel wary when visiting a new destination, but believe me, Bangkok is generally safer for American and European tourists.

The petty thefts like bag-snatching or pickpocketing are common. You may also come across tuk-tuk scams where drivers take you for a city tour at cheaper prices but end up demanding money aggressively for different activities.

Such tourist traps in Bangkok can easily be avoided if you book your tours and activities with trusted agencies.

English is commonly spoken in major touristy cities like Bangkok, so communication won’t be an issue here.

All in all, Bangkok is safe for American/European tourists as well as travellers from other parts of the world. Plan your Thai vacation without worrying about safety.

Well-connected to Thailand as well as other major countries

The benefit of visiting Bangkok is that this Thai capital city is well-connected to the rest of the country.

The extensive network of trains and national highways make it easy to travel from Bangko to other parts of Thailand. There are 2 airports in Bangkok – Don Mueang Airport and Suvarnabhumi Airport – handling domestic and international flights.

So, if you are still asking yourself if is Bangkok worth visiting, then rest assured, that you can visit this city, stay for a few days, have fun, and explore Thailand comfortably afterwards.

You can check this detailed 7-day Phuket itinerary to plan your entire trip.

Is Bangkok worth visiting – all the necessary information

Best time to visit Bangkok

Even though Bangkok is a year-round destination, you may want to avoid it during certain months if you are uncomfortable with hot and humid months.

The best time to visit Bangkok is in winter from November to February.

The Bangkok winter is pleasant, rainfall is rare, and humidity is minimal with the temperature staying around 22 degrees Celsius. You can also visit Bangkok during the shoulder season in the summer months from March to May if you are used to hot weather.

Is Bangkok worth it in April? For those planning a lot of outdoor activities, April should be avoided as temperatures go above 35 degrees Celsius.

The month of October is also considered best for those travelling on a budget.

The monsoon is retreating and tourists from all over the world still have a couple of weeks to arrive. You will be able to grab good deals on accommodation and flight tickets during the Bangkok shoulder season.

It is highly recommended to check this customizable one-month Thailand itinerary and then decide when to plan your vacation.

How to reach Bangkok

Bangkok is the capital of Thailand and is well-connected with the rest of the world. You will find flights to Suvarnabhumi Airport from almost all the major cities.

This airport handles international flights to Thailand and is one of the biggest airports in Southeast Asia.

If you are planning to travel by road, then Thailand is connected to neighbouring countries by international highways. But you will need to take permissions and handle permits in advance.

How to get around Bangkok

For those visiting Bangkok for the first time, getting around and handling public transport may seem a bit confusing.

The crowd, the constantly buzzing streets, and the tourists, it can be hard to navigate. But read this simple guide and you will understand how getting around Bangkok works.

The Bangkok MRT Metro and Bangkok BTS Skytrain are the best ways to get around the city.

Navigating the transit lines can be a bit tricky and you will need to follow the official websites for detailed maps. But, once you get the hang of it, you won’t have to worry about traffic congestion in Bangkok.

Motorbike taxis are common in Bangkok and are affordable as well. It is a pretty convenient option to navigate through Bangkok traffic. But for inexperienced tourists, riding on a bike may feel a little unsafe at first.

Taking a tuk-tuk ride in Bangkok is one of the must-have experiences. Keep in mind that drivers quote higher prices for tourists. Bargain the final price before getting in a tuk-tuk as there is no meter system.

The air-conditioned and non-AC buses run fairly well and cover long routes like Krabi, Pattaya, Phuket, Chiang Mai, and Ayutthaya.

Metered taxis are a comfortable way to move around Bangkok. But, Bangkok traffic jams are common and a taxi can take much longer to cover the distance.

You can consider water taxis if you are exploring riverside areas.

Where to stay in Bangkok

Bangkok is dotted with hotels, hostels, and homestays. This touristy city has something that will fit everyone’s budget.

If you are backpacking or looking for a budget stay, then the Khao San area is a perfect choice. Keep in mind that Khao San is a favourite amongst budget travellers and there aren’t many high-end hotels here.

If you book a stay here, keep in mind that loud music and traffic make it hard to catch some sleep at night. Depending on your budget, you can decide how many days for Bangkok you need. I would recommend at least 3 days in Bangkok to understand this city a little better.

Sukhumvit neighbourhood is for those who want to experience luxury and still stay close to all the popular places. The dining and nightlife in this area will keep you on your toes all through the night.

Silom area is where the famous Lumphini Park is located.

With numerous restaurants and cafes around, staying in Silom is a treat. If you are a shopping enthusiast, then Sial neighbourhood is for you. This is where malls like Central World and Siam Paragon can be found.

You can also consider staying in Chinatown where a mix of luxury and budget hotels awaits tourists. It will also mean being a part of this colourful canvas during your stay.

Here are a few recommended hotels in Bangkok –

Budget hotel in Bangkok – Here Hostel Bangkok is located near Khao San Road and comes with a plethora of amenities. There are AC private or shared dormitory-style rooms and storage cabinets for luggage.

Mid-range hotel in Bangkok – K.V.Mansion is where you will find a blend of comfort and budget. Located in trendy Sukhumvit, this Bangkok hotel comes with a private balcony, an on-site restaurant, free parking, and free wifi.

Luxury hotel in Bangkok – Renaissance Bangkok Ratchaprasong Hotel is the best place to stay where elegant rooms come with a classy spa, different dining options, fitness facilities, and an indoor swimming pool. It is conveniently located in the central district near Central World Plaza.

So, is Bangkok worth it? Absolutely! Be it backpacking across Southeast Asia or a quick, adventurous trip, Bangkok welcomes all with similar zeal.

Plan your visit in Bangkok without any delay and this Thai city will take you for a once-in-a-lifetime ride.

FAQs – Is Bangkok worth visiting

• How many days should I spend in Bangkok?

It is recommended to spend at least 3 days in Bangkok to explore top sights like Wat Arun, the Grand Palace, the Temple of Emerald Buddha, the Jim Thompson House Museum, a plethora of night markets, and shopping malls. So, when wondering is 3 days in Bangkok enough, know that you can make the best of your time.

• Is Bangkok city worth visiting?

Bangkok city is worth visiting for the fusion of history and culture it offers. Bangkok is also worth a visit as the bustling energy this Thai capital has is hard to find anywhere. From cabaret shows to food markets, there are several eccentric points of interest that make Bangkok worth all the time.

• Is Bangkok a good tourist destination?

Bangkok is one of the top tourist destinations in the world with warm locals welcoming travellers from all corners of the globe. Bangkok is affordable for budget travellers, offers a variety of foods, has a vibrant mix of shopping scenes, and is known for its bustling nightlife scene, making it one of the best places for tourists.

• Should I go to Bangkok or Phuket?

It depends on the kind of experience you are looking for. If you are interested in a bustling city where everything from cabaret shows to cheap street food is available around the corner, then Bangkok is for you. If you are looking for a beach vacation in a laid-back town, then Phuket is the ideal place.