Is Bangkok Worth Visiting In 2025? 11 Reasons You NEED To Visit
Wondering ‘Is Bangkok worth visiting’? This guide will outline all the reasons you need to add it to your itinerary.
Bangkok seems to be the sort of city that divides opinion. Some people love it, some people hate it. I guess it all comes down to your expectations. We’re solidly in the ‘I love Bangkok’ party, and we’re pretty sure you will be too.
Bangkok is the most visited city in the world. If it wasn’t worth visiting, how on earth did it win this title?!
Bangkok is cheap, beautiful, authentic, and so full of life. The locals are friendly, its so easy to get around, and there’s plenty to do to fill your time and keep you coming back for more.
So, if you’re wondering if Bangkok is worth visiting, we’ll highlight all the reasons why this vibrant city is worth a space on your travel itinerary.
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In a rush and don’t have time to read the whole post? Here’s the top 3 reasons to visit Bangkok:
- Stunning temples
- Delicious cuisine
- Affordable luxury
Why Is Bangkok Worth Visiting?
From vibrant rooftop bars, to the most beautiful temples in Thailand, let’s jump right in with why Bangkok is worth visiting.
1. Vibrant Atmosphere
Bangkok is a city that never sleeps. From dawn till dusk, and well into the night, it pulses with energy. As you wander the city’s streets, you’ll stumble upon hidden markets, sizzling hawker stalls, and street performers showcasing their talents. All the while, the unmistakable hum of mopeds fills the air.
For some, this constant buzz can be overwhelming. But for us, it’s comforting, a reminder that the city is very much alive. There’s a rawness to Bangkok that feels authentic, like you’re experiencing the real Bangkok, the one locals live in every day.
We’ve been to cities where it feels as if it’s been designed for tourism, almost as if they put up a facade. This isn’t the case in Bangkok. It invites you in with open arms and no pretenses. You get to know the city on a deeper level, feeding off the energy it gives out.
2. Delicious Cuisine
Bangkok really is a food-lovers paradise. We were a bit nervous before visiting as to whether we were going to go hungry, but that certainly was not the case. There are so many options to choose for, and plenty of places serving vegetarian foods.
Of course, you can’t visit Bangkok without trying a classic Pad Thai, the salty-sweetness of the noodles pairing so well with the warmth of toasted nuts, fried vegetables, and crispy tofu. We couldn’t get enough.
But there is so much more to Bangkok’s food scene than just Pad Thai. It’s mango smoothies, grilled satay skewers, mango sticky rice, fresh coconut ice cream served in a real coconut.
The best bit? It’s super cheap. You can easily get a Pad Thai from a nice restaurant for 100 Baht (around £2.20/$3). Street food and desserts such as ice cream can cost as little as 20 Baht (around £0.45/$0.6).
One of our favorite budget-friendly spots was The Family in Phra Nakhon. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming (bonus: they leave UNO cards on the tables and offer free mosquito spray), and the food is next-level. If you’re a foodie — even a budget-conscious one — Bangkok is 100% worth visiting.
One of the best ways to sample everything Bangkok has to offer is by joining an organised food tour. This is a great way to sample authentic local dishes with a local guide.
3. Stunning Temples
Bangkok is home to some of the most beautiful and iconic Buddhist temples in Thailand, if not in Southeast Asia. These temples are real works of art, beautifully painted in white, covered in sparkling gold and jewels, with iconic red, orange, and black tiered roofs.
Many of the temple complexes are vast, with multiple shrines and buildings to explore. You can easily spend days exploring them, as they’re all unique in their own right.
Step inside (shoes off, of course), and you’re welcomed by the sight of golden Buddhas, intricate shrines, fresh flower offerings, and quiet moments of worship. You might even spot monks in saffron robes peacefully walking the grounds.
Of course, you’ve got the famous temples such as Wat Pho and Wat Arun, which are worth visiting but you have to pay to enter.
However, some of our favourite were a little more hidden, off the tourist trail. We loved Wat Traimit, on the edge of Chinatown. It’s home to the largest solid gold Buddha in the world, and had a more peaceful, local feel.
4. Affordable Luxury
If you want to experience true luxury without the eye-watering price tag, Bangkok is absolutely worth visiting. There are so many incredible 4- and 5-star hotels, including rooftop pools with insane views, for a fraction of the price you’d pay in Western countries.
Bangkok is also home to spectacular rooftop bars. Whether you’re sipping a cocktail at Sky Bar or enjoying a laid-back drink at Octave Rooftop Lounge, there’s nothing quite like watching the sun set over Bangkok’s skyline.
Luxury massages, spa treatments, and fine dining are all incredibly affordable too. You can get a one-hour Thai massage for less than £10/$12, or dine at a top-tier restaurant for the price of a casual meal back home.
Bangkok proves that you don’t need to be rich to feel rich. If luxury on a budget is your thing, it doesn’t get much better than this.
5. River Cruises
Bangkok is a city built on and around the wide expanse of the Chao Phraya River. One of the best ways to see the city from a different perspective is to hop on a river cruise.
There are many key sights lining the riverbank, including Wat Arun, the National Museum, and you can even get a glimpse of the Grand Palace. The further you head down the river, the more modern the city becomes, with the spectacular ICONSIAM shopping mall and Asiatique right at the water’s edge.
Cruises on the Chao Phraya River can be surprisingly affordable.
If you’re on a tight budget, simply catch the public ferry from Asiatique to Phra Arthit. This is the longest journey you can take on the public ferry, and it takes around 25 minutes to reach Phra Arthit.
If you catch it at sunset, the views are spectacular. This journey will set you back around 40 Baht per person (around £0.90 or $1.20), making it super affordable. You can also opt to get the hop-on-hop-off boat and spend a day exploring all the sights along the river.
If, however, you want a bit more luxury, a bit more style, and a bit more of an experience, there are plenty of luxury river cruises you can book onto. Most offer dinner and free beer, some offer unlimited free wine, and others will also have a live band. This is a great way to relax in style, whilst seeing some of the most beautiful sights in Bangkok.
6. Nightlife For Every Vibe
We’re not big into nightlife, especially as we don’t drink, so we didn’t expect to pay much attention to Bangkok after dark. But surprisingly, even for someone who prefers a quieter evening, the city still had plenty to offer.
Take Khao San Road, for example. We walked through it one night and honestly, it was wild. Packed with bars, loud music, street vendors, and backpackers from around the world, it’s chaotic, colorful, and completely alive.
For some, it’s a must-see party zone. For us, it was more of a one-time experience: fun to witness, but a bit overwhelming.
But just a short walk away, we stumbled onto Soi Rambuttri, and it completely changed the vibe. This street felt like a hidden gem. It was way more relaxed, with an alternative charm. There were twinkling fairy lights, laid-back cocktail bars, street musicians, and cozy spots perfect for unwinding with a drink.
That’s the beauty of Bangkok’s nightlife: you don’t have to be a party animal to enjoy it. Whether you’re into wild nights, rooftop lounges, live comedy, jazz bars, or quiet streetside cocktails, there’s something for every vibe.
7. Lots Of Shopping Options
If you love shopping, Bangkok is the place to be. The city has so many options from luxury malls to huge street markets and thrift stores, it’s easy to find a bargain.
Make sure you check out ICONSIAM, one of the most insane shopping malls in Bangkok. It’s huge, sparkling, and incredibly beautiful. Think indoor waterfalls, flowers trailing from the ceiling, and huge glass walls overlooking the Chao Phraya River. You can find everything here from high-street brands to big luxury names, as well as local Thai names.
You can get high-end food and drinks, or head down to Sook Siam, on the ground level, to shop in a curated ‘street market’. Sook Siam is so much fun to explore, with beautiful boutiques selling clothes, jewellery, and bags, as well as a food market with dishes from all over Asia.
If you want something a little different, head to Chatuchak Weekend Market, one of the largest outdoor markets in the world. You can easily spend a day exploring the lanes here, grabbing a bargain, and finding the perfect souvenir.
If you love to thrift, head to Pattavikorn Market, one of the largest second-hand markets in Bangkok. You might have to dig to find what you’re after, but you can stumble across some real gems here.
So, if you love to shop, Bangkok is worth a visit.
8. Warm Thai Hospitality
Locals in Thailand are notoriously friendly. We’d heard that Thailand was the ‘country of smiles’, and we can definitely say it rang true in Bangkok.
You’ll quickly get used to the sound of ‘sawasdee ka’ ringing around the city, as locals welcome you with warm smiles and beckoning waves. If you need help with directions or any advice, people are genuinely happy to help.
We felt so welcomed during our week in Bangkok. That is one of the things we loved most, and why we think you should visit.
9. Easy To Get Around
Bangkok is a huge, sprawling city. Despite its size, it’s pretty easy (and cheap) to get around. It has a fantastic public transport system, which kind of surprised us.
If you’re staying in the old town, the public boats along the Chao Phraya River are the easiest way to see many of the attractions, such as Wat Arun and ICONSIAM. We used this regularly as it’s cheap and much quicker than driving. A journey from Phra Arthit to ICONSIAM cost us just 21 Baht each.
Public buses in Bangkok are pretty rustic, but regular. Stick your arm out when they’re approaching, jump on and grab a seat as quickly as possible as they’ll barely stop for you, and then the conductor will come over for you to purchase a ticket (cash only). We took the bus from Phra Arthit to Lumphini Park for just 8 Baht each.
If you’re staying in the new part of Bangkok, the BTS Skytrain and the MRT subway are amazing. They’re so quick and convenient, and still super cheap. If public transport isn’t your thing, make sure to download Grab, Thailand’s version of Uber. You won’t have to wait long for a ride!
For a more adventurous way to get around, you can grab a tuktuk. However, this is likely going to be the most expensive option. Make sure to barter for a good price, and don’t be afraid to walk away if they don’t go low enough. It sometimes makes them drop their price suddenly!
10. Unique Cultural Experiences
Bangkok has so many traditional cultural experiences on offer. If you want to engage more deeply with Thai traditions, the city is full of opportunities.
Watching a live Muay Thai match is one of the most powerful cultural experiences in Bangkok. More than just a sport, Muay Thai is a centuries-old martial art with deep spiritual and national significance. Matches are often accompanied by traditional music, creating an electric and immersive atmosphere.
Thai cooking classes are another popular way to connect with the culture. Your class will start with a trip to the market to buy all the fresh produce you’ll need. You’ll then head to the kitchen where you can learn to cook classic dishes like Pad Thai, tom yum soup, and mango sticky rice. It’s a fun way to learn about Thai food, and take home a new skill.
No matter your interests, Bangkok makes it easy to dive deeper into Thai culture in meaningful and memorable ways.
11. Bangkok Is The Gateway To Thailand
Bangkok is often the stop-off place for most people visiting Thailand and Southeast Asia. With a large international airport, it makes a convenient base.
Whether you’re heading to the mountains in the north, or the beaches and islands in the south, Bangkok is the perfect starting place.
If you want to go further afield, to other countries within Southeast Asia, you’re sure to be able to get a budget flight from Bangkok.
So, if you’re flying into Bangkok anyway, why not spend a bit of time in the city? This is exactly what we did. We flew into Bangkok, spent a week there to get over jetlag and to explore, before flying down to Malaysia.
It makes perfect sense. And it has to be a reason why Bangkok is worth visiting.
Where To Stay In Bangkok
If it’s your first time visiting, we highly recommend you stay in Bangkok Old Town. While the new town is great for flashy hotels with rooftop pools, the old town has a certain charm about it. It makes exploring the main attractions super easy too.
✅Best Budget Option – Alley & Pier
We stayed in Alley & Pier when visiting Bangkok and we could not recommend it highly enough. The rooms are large and spacious, perfectly clean and comfortable. There is free filtered water, coffee, and a washing machine. The location is super convenient, just a 2-minute walk from Phra Arthit pier, and a 20-minute walk from the Grand Palace.
✅Best Mid-Range Option – Chillax Heritage Hotel Khaosan
Chillax Heritage Hotel is a stylish boutique hotel located just a short walk from Khao San Road, in the heart of Bangkok’s Old Town. With elegant Thai-inspired decor, a rooftop pool, and modern amenities, it’s a great place to stay in Bangkok.
The location is ideal for exploring nearby temples, markets, and the Chao Phraya River, while still providing a calm escape from the city buzz.
✅Best Luxury Option – Chakrabongse Villas
Chakrabongse Villas is a hidden gem tucked right on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, offering a peaceful escape in the middle of Bangkok’s old town. Set in a former royal residence, and owned by a royal descendant, the grounds are lush and tranquil, with gorgeous views of Wat Arun across the water.
It feels like a little slice of calm and luxury, worlds away from the busy streets just outside. If you’re after something quiet, elegant, and full of character, this is it.
Is Bangkok Worth Visiting During Rainy Season?
We visited Bangkok during rainy season. We were a bit nervous booking our trip in rainy season and had no idea what to expect. But honestly? We’re SO glad we did.
Rainy season in Bangkok runs from around late May to October. During this time, you may get a heavy downpour once a day.
When we visited at the end of June/beginning of July, the rain showers were actually really easy to predict. They occurred every day at around 6pm, and lasted around an hour to an hour and a half. This meant we knew we needed to be in a restaurant or in our hotel around 6pm.
The showers don’t come out of nowhere, either. You can normally tell around half an hour before it starts. The wind picks up, the sky turns very dark, and the humidity rises significantly. If this happens, get to shelter!
But honestly, the rain was pretty fun. And it didn’t ruin our day in the slightest.
The thing we’re most grateful for? Rainy season is low season. That means no queues to see attractions, no need to book restaurants, no crowds! And it is for this exact reason that we actually recommend visiting Bangkok during rainy season.
Sure, you might get a little wet at times, and the days can be pretty humid. But it is completely worth it in our opinion. So don’t let rainy season put you off visiting!
FAQs
Still have a few questions about whether Bangkok is worth visiting? We’ve answered the most common questions below.
Is Bangkok Safe For Tourists?
Yes, Bangkok is generally safe for tourists. Like any big city, petty theft can happen, so keep an eye on your belongings and avoid scams. Stick to well-lit areas at night and use reputable transport options.
Is Bangkok Expensive To Visit?
Not at all! Bangkok can be incredibly affordable. Street food, public transport, and budget-friendly hotels make it easy to explore without spending much. Even luxury experiences are often cheaper than in Western countries.
How Many Days Should I Spend In Bangkok?
3 to 4 days is ideal for seeing the main sights, enjoying the food scene, and getting a feel for the city. If you’re planning day trips or want a more relaxed pace, 5 to 6 days works well too.
Is Bangkok Worth Visiting With Kids?
Yes, Bangkok can be a great destination for families. There are kid-friendly attractions like parks, boat rides, interactive museums, and animal encounters.
Wrap Up
Bangkok is bold, vibrant, and full of surprises. From glittering temples and buzzing street markets to rooftop bars and peaceful riverside spots, it’s a city that manages to be both chaotic and deeply charming. The food is incredible, the culture runs deep, and the mix of affordability and luxury makes it a destination that suits almost every kind of traveler.
Whether you’re visiting for the first time or the fifth, there’s always something new to discover. So yes, in our opinion, Bangkok is absolutely worth visiting.
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