City guides / Bangkok
Bangkok travel guide
Street food worth planning a trip around, and river boats to reach it.
Bangkok, Thailand · Local currency THB · Time zone Asia/Bangkok
Best time to visit Bangkok
Flights and hotels are cheapest in June, July, August, September. Expect to pay the most in January, February, April, December.
High tourist season during cooler weather and New Year's celebrations.
Continued high season with pleasant temperatures.
Average prices as temperatures start to rise.
Thai New Year (Songkran) leads to a surge in tourism.
Prices stabilize as the weather gets hotter.
Low season begins; monsoon rains may start.
Monsoon season peaks, raining regularly.
Continued low season due to rainy weather.
More rain; low prices attract few tourists.
Average prices resume as rains lessen.
Tourist numbers begin to rise, pleasant temperatures.
High demand due to festive activities and cooler weather.
Getting around Bangkok
Public transport
Public transport is reliable with the BTS Skytrain and MRT subway running frequently and accept top-up cards or cash.
Driving and parking (8/10 difficulty)
Parking can be challenging; using public transportation or ride-hailing apps is recommended instead.
How locals get around
Locals prefer using motorcycles or taxis; be aware to hold on tightly and watch for traffic when crossing streets.
Local customs in Bangkok
Tipping
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated; generally, rounding up your bill by 20-50 THB is customary.
What to wear
When visiting religious sites, modest clothing covering shoulders and knees is required; otherwise, casual wear is suitable in the city.
Cards and cash
Cash is widely used, especially for small vendors; keep some THB on hand, while major hotels and restaurants accept international credit cards.
Phrases worth knowing
- Sawasdee Khap/Ka
- — Hello (male/female). Use as a greeting at any time.
- Khop Khun Khap/Ka
- — Thank you (male/female). Use to express gratitude.
- Chai
- — Yes. Confirm facts or agree.
- Mai Ow
- — No thanks. Politely decline something offered.
- Hong Nam Yoo Nai?
- — Where is the restroom? Use when you need to find a toilet.
Plan a Bangkok trip in a couple of minutes
Journi builds a day-by-day Bangkok itinerary around how you travel — stays, food near each day's activities, hidden gems and a packing list, with costs as you go.
Plan a trip to Bangkok