Radisson Hotels in Bangkok

Bangkok always gives an impression of towering skyscrapers, traffic jams and sweltering heat. But that's just one side of the story. The city offers so much more, from grand palaces and serene canals to lively night markets. It's a city that never stops surprising you.

The moment you touch the land, the energy, the smells, and the scale of it will all captivate you. Need some help navigating this megacity? Don’t worry—here follows a detailed guide on getting to and around Bangkok.

Getting to Bangkok

Bangkok is served by two major airports: Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) and Don Mueang Airport (DMK).

Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK): Located about 30 minutes ride south of the city center, Suvarnabhumi is a state-of-the-art transport hub ideal for international travelers. Flights from the US, Canada, Australia, Europe, and other long-haul destinations typically land here. The airport connects to the city via express train, buses, and taxis. A taxi ride to your downtown hotel usually costs around 400-500 THB (roughly $14), depending on luggage size and location.

Hotels near BKK offering airport shuttle service

Don Mueang Airport (DMK): This airport lies 20 minutes north of Bangkok and mainly serves domestic and short-haul international flights. It’s a budget-friendly option for regional travelers, with train and bus services connecting you to the city.

Top Things to Do in Bangkok

The Grand Palace: Built in 1782, the Grand Palace is a must-see historical and cultural landmark in Bangkok. This impressive complex of buildings showcases mighty architectural style and stunning craftsmanship of Thai people. It's also home to the revered Temple of the Emerald Buddha, making it a significant spiritual shelter.

Click here to check where to stay around the Grand Palace.

SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World: Located two floors beneath the Siam Paragon shopping mall, SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World is one of the largest aquariums in Southeast Asia. Spanning around 10,000 square meters, it offers a fascinating underwater experience with a wide variety of marine life, making it perfect for families and ocean enthusiasts.

After visiting the sea life Ocean World, Siam Paragon shopping mall is definitely a good choice for visitors to find some gourmet food. You can also hunt for international brands, from clothes, accessories, jewelries to watches, the design of which is splendid and only available here in Siam Paragon.

Safari World Bangkok: Safari World Bangkok is a popular drive-in zoo divided into two main areas: Safari Park and Marine Park. Visitors can enjoy a safari-like experience, seeing animals up close in their natural habitats, and watch entertaining marine animals and other wildlife performance.

Getting tired after a long day walking around? Why not treat yourself with an old-fashioned Thai Massage? From head to toe, immerse yourself in the comfort of skillful scrubing.

Getting Around Bangkok

Bangkok offers a variety of transport options that make exploring the city easy and affordable.

BTS (Skytrain): Ticket Price: $0.50–$1.40 per trip (฿16-฿59)

The BTS Skytrain is an elevated transit system that connects many of Bangkok's top attractions. You can buy Single-Ride tickets, a Daily Pass ($4.45), or a Top-Up card. If you’re planning to visit multiple sights in one day, the Daily Pass is a great choice.

Pro Tip: BTS uses side platforms, so if you accidentally end up on the wrong one, you'll need to take a round trip. This can be troublesome, especially in the heat.

MRT (Subway): Ticket Price: $0.50–$1.25 per trip (฿16-฿42)

While the MRT doesn’t cover as many attractions as the BTS, it’s still a convenient way to get around certain areas of Bangkok. Check the route map to see if it passes through your destinations.

Taxis & Ride-Hailing Apps:

Taxis: Always negotiate the fare upfront or ensure the driver uses the meter to avoid being overcharged.

Apps: Since Uber isn’t available in Bangkok, locals and tourists use Grab or Bolt. Grab is known for its reliable drivers and fair prices, while Bolt is a cheaper alternative. Download both apps to compare fares.

Boats: The Chao Phraya River winds through Bangkok, offering scenic views and an alternative way to get around.

Regular Boats: $0.50 per ride. The orange line is best for tourists, stopping at popular attractions.

Sightseeing Boats: $0.90 per ride. These are slightly pricier but include guided commentary for a more immersive experience.

What to Eat in Bangkok

Bangkok is always bustling around with fresh, affordable street food, well-known for its magical blend of sweet, sour, salt and spice. Here are some mouth-watering delicacies you must gotta try while strolling around the markets.

Sweet sticky rice with ripe mango

Things You Should Know before Visiting Bangkok

Weather in Bangkok & What to Wear

Bangkok is undergoing a tropical monsoon climate characterized by three main seasons: the cool season, the hot season, and the rainy season. The cool season, from November to February, is the best time to visit due to its pleasant temperatures and lower humidity. The hot season spans from March to May, with high temperatures and moderate humidity. The rainy season, from June to October, is marked by heavy rainfall and high humidity, but it also brings lush green landscapes and fewer tourists.

Best Time to Visit

• November to February: This is the ideal time to visit Bangkok as the weather is cooler and more comfortable for outdoor activities. The temperatures range from 71.6°F to 89.6°F, with lower humidity and minimal rainfall.

What to Wear

• Cool Season (Nov-Feb): Light clothing during the day, light jackets for cooler evenings.
• Hot Season (Mar-May): Light, breathable clothing to stay cool.
• Rainy Season (Jun-Oct): Light, breathable clothing, and rain gear such as umbrellas, raincoats, and waterproof footwear.