Bangkok Travel Guide 2025: What to See, Do & Know for First-Time Visitors
- Barry
- Aug 4
- 3 min read
Updated: 7 days ago
Thinking about visiting Bangkok in 2025? Whether you’re a family with kids, a solo backpacker, or a couple seeking adventure and culture, Bangkok is one of Southeast Asia’s most thrilling cities. This ultimate guide shares everything you need to know to make the most of your trip—including practical tips, local insights, and budget-friendly advice.
Why Visit Bangkok?
Bangkok is a vibrant mix of ancient temples, modern shopping malls, floating markets, and buzzing street food. It’s a city where you can ride a tuk-tuk to a golden temple in the morning and sip cocktails from a sky bar by night—all without breaking the bank.
Our Experience: We’ve explored Bangkok multiple times over the past decade and recently returned in 2024 with our two kids. From budget stays in old-town hostels to riverside luxury hotels, we’ve seen Bangkok from many angles—and we love it more each time.
Best Time to Visit Bangkok
Cool season (Nov–Feb): Best weather, most popular
Hot season (Mar–Jun): Fewer tourists, intense heat
Rainy season (Jul–Oct): Lush landscapes, afternoon showers
TIP: Book accommodations early for the cool season via Agoda - prices spike fast
Where to Stay in Bangkok
Choose your area based on your travel style:
Sukhumvit: Modern, great for nightlife & shopping
Silom: Business area, green parks, street food
Khao San Road: Budget travelers & backpackers
Riverside: Luxury stays, peaceful vibe
Old Town (Rattanakosin): Walk to Grand Palace & temples
TIP: Compare top-rated hotels in Bangkok on Agoda
Must-See Attractions in Bangkok
Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaew
Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)
Wat Pho (Reclining Buddha)
Chatuchak Weekend Market
Jim Thompson House
Asiatique Riverfront
MBK & Siam Paragon Malls
Bangkok’s Floating Markets (e.g. Damnoen Saduak)
Lumphini Park
Chinatown Food Walk
Getting Around Bangkok
BTS Skytrain – Best for traffic-free transport
MRT Subway – Connects to major spots
Tuk-tuks – Fun but negotiate the fare!
Grab App – Safer alternative to taxis
Boats on Chao Phraya – Scenic and cheap
Book Bangkok transport passes with 12go.asia
Day Trips from Bangkok
Ayutthaya Ancient City – UNESCO heritage (1.5 hrs)
Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
Maeklong Railway Market
Erawan Waterfalls in Kanchanaburi
Check top-rated Bangkok day tours via Viator
Is Bangkok Safe for Tourists?
Yes—but be aware of:
Common scams (e.g. tuk-tuk temple tours)
Pickpocketing in crowded areas
Avoiding ice in drinks from street stalls
We always travel with KBC travel insurance (CBC BANK) — it’s reliable, affordable, and covers families too. For travelers outside Belgium, Allianz is another excellent option.
Budget Breakdown for 2025
Budget: $30–50/day (hostels, street food, buses)
Mid-range: $60–120/day (3-star hotels, BTS, activities)
Luxury: $150+/day (resorts, rooftop dining, private tours)
Use Revolut or WISE to avoid currency exchange fees.
Our Top Tips
Stay hydrated (it's hot year-round!)
Get a Thai SIM or eSIM via Amazon
Carry small change for markets & transport
Dress modestly when visiting temples
Related Guides
Things to Do in Bangkok with Kids
Bangkok on a Budget
Best Hotels in Bangkok
Bangkok Night Markets Guide
Final Thoughts
Bangkok is a city that overwhelms and excites in the best possible way. Whether you're temple-hopping or tasting street food, every corner of this city tells a story. This 2025 guide will help you plan smart, travel safe, and enjoy every minute.
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