Great hotels in Bangkok

Bangkok hotels

Bangkok hotels cover every budget. In Bangkok's five-star hotels – like Banyan Tree Bangkok, Lebua Tower Club and Shangri-La Hotel Bangkok – you'll find that stunning views of gardens, rivers or temples are accompanied by luxury spas, sweeping pools and plush rooms. But, if you're travelling on a budget, there are lots of cheap hotels in Bangkok to choose from. Places like Century Park boast a central location and a range of rooms for a reasonable price, while three-star hotels like BelAire and Le Fenix have everything you need for a comfortable stay.

Bangkok travel guide

Things to do in Bangkok

Bangkok is a whirlwind city, with a million things happening all at once. To ease yourself in to the organised chaos, start with a visit to the The Grand Palace complex, where you'll find beautiful grounds, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha – otherwise known as Wat Phra Kaew – and the Grand Palace itself. But Bangkok is also a shopper’s paradise, boasting air-conditioned malls, colourful floating markets and fascinating night markets. And, of course, no trip to Bangkok would be complete without having a delicious dinner of Thai street food, followed by a night out on Khao San Road.

Getting around Bangkok

The SkyTrain and the modern underground system make travelling within Bangkok city quick and easy. For a taste of more traditional Thai travel, though, take a thrilling ride in a tuk-tuk or board a public long-tail boat.

Local etiquette

If you visit a temple, it's important to dress respectfully with your shoulders and knees covered. You'll also be asked to remove your shoes. But, when you do, remember that feet are considered dirty, and showing the soles of your feet is thought to be very rude. When you're in a temple, make sure the soles of your feet never point towards a statue of Buddha.
You should also be aware that Thai people consider the head to be the most important body part, so you must never touch someone on the head – especially a monk or a statue of Buddha.