Ultimate Guide About Bangkok

Do you have questions about Bangkok?

Many people do, in fact literally millions of Bangkok vacations are taken annually by American or European travellers to this part of South East Asia.

Indeed a great proportion of these people have never been to Asia before, let alone Bangkok and they have heaps of questions.

Let's see if we can give you some information about Bangkok, encompassing its history, culture and attractions.

bangkok-airport-duty-free-12Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport sala

Bangkok, a vibrant melting pot of tradition and modernity, is a city that captivates the senses and offers a variety of experiences to even the seasoned traveller.

Known as the "City of Angels," it draws millions of visitors every year with its gleaming temples, bustling markets, delicious street food, and a pulsating nightlife.

This guide will provide a deeper understanding about Bangkok, covering its rich history, key attractions, cultural nuances, and practical tips for making the most of your visit.

bangkok-crocodile-farm-16Live animal shows at the Crocodile Farm

Are you among the countless travellers drawn to the vibrant allure of Bangkok, yet unsure where to begin?

You're not alone!

Many first-time visitors to Asia, and Bangkok in particular, share similar concerns and questions.

  • "What are the must-see attractions?"
  • "Is the food safe to eat?"
  • "How do I navigate the city?"
  • "What are the best areas to stay?"

The uncertainty can be overwhelming and you are sure to have many questions.

A Journey Through Time: Bangkok's Historical Tapestry

Founding and Early History:

Let's start with a little history lesson.

Bangkok was established as the capital of Siam in 1782 by King Rama I, marking the beginning of the Rattanakosin era.

King Rama IKing Rama I

Following the fall of the Ayutthaya Kingdom in 1767, King Rama I, also known as Phra Phutthayotfa Chulalok, united various factions and declared Bangkok the new capital.

The city was strategically located on the Chao Phraya River, facilitating trade and commerce.

The Rattanakosin period, which spanned from 1782 to 1932, was marked by significant cultural, economic, and architectural developments, including the construction of iconic landmarks such as the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew.

Growth and Modernization

The 19th and 20th centuries witnessed significant modernization, including infrastructure development and political reforms.

Since its founding in 1782, Bangkok has undergone rapid growth and modernization, transforming from a small trading post to a bustling metropolis.

bangkok shirt shopping 04Bustling Bangkok

Over time the city's population has swelled from just a few thousand to over 8 million people today, with Bangkok becoming a hub for business, finance, and tourism.

The unofficial population is around 15 million inhabitants, as many people come from the country areas to work in Bangkok and are still registered to that location.

Examples of modernity are evident throughout the city, from the sleek skyscrapers of the Central Business District to the trendy boutiques and restaurants of the Sukhumvit and Silom areas.

Bangkok is also home to two international airports, Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang, and a comprehensive public transportation system, including the BTS Skytrain and MRT Subway. 

The city also boasts world-class shopping malls like Siam Paragon and ICONSIAM, as well as state-of-the-art medical facilities and international schools.

Political Transformations:

Thailand transitioned from an absolute monarchy to a constitutional monarchy in 1932.

In 1932, Thailand underwent a significant transformation from an absolute monarchy to a constitutional monarchy, marking a major milestone in the country's modern history.

The transition was led by the People's Party, a group of Western-educated Thais who sought to introduce democratic reforms and limit the power of the monarch.

On June 24, 1932, a bloodless revolution took place, and King Prajadhipok (Rama VII) was forced to accept a new constitution that established a constitutional monarchy and a parliamentary system.

This marked the end of absolute monarchy in Thailand and paved the way for the country's gradual transition towards democracy.

Exploring Rattanakosin: The Heart of Bangkok's Heritage

The Rattanakosin period, which spanned from 1782 to 1932, was marked by a resurgence in temple construction and renovation, resulting in some of Bangkok's most iconic and revered temples.

grand palace figureGrounds of Wat Phra Kaew

One of the most famous is Wat Phra Kaew, located within the Grand Palace complex, which houses the revered Emerald Buddha.

Other notable temples include Wat Pho, home to a massive 46-meter-long reclining Buddha, and Wat Arun, with its striking 79-meter-tall spire covered in colorful ceramics and glitzy decorations.

These temples, along with others like Wat Suthat and Wat Ratchabopit, showcase the unique blend of Thai architectural styles, including Ayutthaya, Rattanakosin, and modern influences, and are examples of the rich cultural heritage of Thailand, that particularly appeals to tourists wanting to experience more about Bangkok.

The Grand Palace:

A sprawling complex of opulent buildings, courtyards, and temples, showcasing the grandeur of Thai architecture.

grand palace chakriGrounds of the Grand Palace

Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha)

Home to the revered Emerald Buddha statue, a sacred and highly venerated image in Thailand.

Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha):

Houses a colossal 46-meter-long reclining Buddha statue covered in gold leaf.

bangkok district grand palace

Beyond Rattanakosin: Discovering Bangkok's Diverse Districts

Siam Square

A modern shopping and entertainment hub, featuring excellent shopping malls, street markets, and entertainment venues.

Chinatown (Yaowarat)

A bustling district teeming with street food vendors, Chinese shops, and temples, offering a taste of Chinese culture in the heart of Bangkok.

Thonburi

A historic district on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River, known for its traditional canals, floating markets, and temples.

chao phraya river cruiseChao Phraya River

Immerse Yourself in Bangkok's Cultural Tapestry

Respect for the Monarchy

The Thai people hold deep reverence for the King and the royal family.

The Significance of Temples

Temples (wats) are integral to Thai culture, serving as places of worship, community centers, and architectural marvels.

small thailand buddhist monks respectThailand Buddhist Monks collecting alms

Traditional Customs and Etiquette

Visitors to Thailand should have an awareness of local customs like removing shoes before entering temples and the wai greeting. Stepping over the threshold in a doorway is also customary.

In Thai culture, the wai greeting is a deeply ingrained tradition that holds significant importance.

The wai is a gesture of respect, gratitude, and hospitality, where the palms are pressed together and the head is slightly bowed. When a Thai person greets you with a wai, they are showing respect and acknowledging your presence.

As a tourist, returning the wai is a thoughtful way to show appreciation for the culture and the people.

To wai correctly, place your palms together at chest level, bow your head slightly, and smile. The higher the hands and the deeper the bow, the greater the respect shown.

This simple yet meaningful gesture helps build connections with the locals and enhance your overall Thai experience.

thai-massage-therapist-003Thai culture is deeply engrained in society

It is not neccessary to wai everyone, and nothing makes a first-time tourist stand out than completing this gesture inappropriately.

Here are some guidelines on who not to wai as a tourist:

In Thai culture, it's generally considered polite to wai those who are older, in a position of authority (eg bank staff or Government officials), or of higher social status.

However, there are some individuals who should not be wai'd:

  • Monks and novices: While monks and novices are highly respected in Thai culture, it's not customary to wai them. Instead, place your hands together in a prayer-like gesture and bow your head slightly.
  • Children: You don't need to wai children, as it's not expected in Thai culture.
  • People of similar or lower social status: If you're interacting with someone of similar or lower social status, such as a shopkeeper, taxi driver, or fellow tourist, a smile and a friendly "sawatdee" (hello) are sufficient.
  • People in service industry: When interacting with service staff, such as hotel employees, restaurant workers, or tour guides, a polite smile and a thank you ("khop khun krap") are appreciated, but a wai is not necessary.

More About Bangkok

If you're planning a Bangkok vacation, you're likely eager to research and book everything yourself, ensuring a personalized and unforgettable experience.

But where do you start?

Before diving into the nitty-gritty of planning, let's spark your excitement with some fascinating facts about this incredible city:

  • Bangkok is home to over 300 temples, or "wats," each with its own unique history and architecture.
  • The city's street food scene offers over 500 delicious dishes to try.
  • Bangkok's Chatuchak Weekend Market is one of the largest markets in the world, boasting over 15,000 stalls.

Now that you're intrigued, let's tackle the essentials. Here are some practical questions to help you plan your dream Bangkok vacation:

Get ready to immerse yourself in Bangkok's captivating culture, rich history, and warm hospitality!

Navigating Bangkok: Practical Tips and Insights

Transportation

Bangkok boasts an efficient public transport system, including the BTS Skytrain, MRT subway, and the Chao Phraya Express Boat.

There is also the Airport Rail Link (ARL) going directly from Suvarnabhumi Airport to Bangkok city and terminating close to the Pratunam area of Bangkok.

bangkok skytrainBangkok Skytrain

Accommodation

From budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious hotels, Bangkok offers a range of options to suit every traveller's need.

Check out the best areas to stay in Bangkok.

Safety and Scams

While generally safe, Bangkok has its share of scams.

Be wary of taxi drivers refusing to use meters and unsolicited offers for tours or gems, as well as people wanting to see your country's currency, or asking where you are staying.

Generally Thai people are friendly and helpful if you approach them, but if they approach you, that would be a red flag to me.

Often groups of Thai school students are given a task to practice their English speaking skills. These groups are okay to interact with, and the questions will normally not be of a personal nature.

Bangkok After Dark: A City that Comes Alive at Night

Rooftop Bars

centara grand central world 03Red Sky Bar Centara Grand

Bangkok’s rooftop bars offer breathtaking views of the city skyline.

This is the Centara Grand roof top bar, which is called Red Sky Bar. It's located on the 56th floor of the Centara Grand at CentralWorld, offering stunning panoramic views of the city. T

hey serve creative cocktails and light bites, making it a perfect spot to relax and take in the views.

I suggest to get there around 5:00 pm so you can soak in the sunset over the Bangkok skyline.

4 Rooftop Bars in Bangkok

Here are four more well-known rooftop bars in Bangkok:

  1. Vertigo TOO at Banyan Tree Bangkok: Located on the 60th floor of the Banyan Tree Bangkok, Vertigo TOO offers stunning views of the city skyline and the Chao Phraya River. The bar serves creative cocktails and features a chic, modern design.
  2. Sky Bar at Sirocco, lebua State Tower: This rooftop bar is located on the 63rd floor of the lebua State Tower and offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the city. The bar is known for its extensive cocktail menu and has been featured in several movies, including "The Hangover Part II."
  3. Octave Rooftop Lounge & Bar at Marriott Hotel Sukhumvit: Located on the 45th floor of the Marriott Hotel Sukhumvit, Octave Rooftop Lounge & Bar offers stunning views of the city skyline and the Sukhumvit area. 
  4. Cielo Sky Bar at The Bay Sukhumvit: Located on the 46th floor of The Bay Sukhumvit, Cielo Sky

There is also a rooftop bar in the Hilton on the Chao Phraya River, if you are located on the other side of the river.

Bangkok Night Markets

Bustling with activity, night markets are perfect for experiencing local culture, street food, and shopping.

talad rot fai 19Bangkok Night market

Entertainment and Shows

Enjoy traditional Thai dances, Muay Thai boxing matches, or captivating performances at Siam Niramit.

Bang Pu dancingThai dancing at Bang Pu

Beyond the City: Day Trips from Bangkok

Ayutthaya Historical Park

Explore the ruins of the ancient capital of Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Bangkok travel buddha ayutthayaBuddha head in Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-visit destination for any traveller to Thailand.

Located just a short drive north of Bangkok, Ayutthaya offers a glimpse into the country's rich history and cultural heritage.

The ancient city, which was once the capital of the Kingdom of Siam, is home to numerous ruins and temples, including the iconic Wat Phra Si Sanphet, Wat Mahathat, and Wat Chaiwatthanaram.

As you explore the ancient city, you'll be struck by the sheer scale and grandeur of the ruins, which date back to the 14th century.

Whether you're a history buff, a culture vulture, or simply looking for a unique and unforgettable experience, Ayutthaya is an absolute must-visit destination.

GetYourGuide organises different tours to Ayutthaya that make the trip so much easier.

Floating Markets

kwan riam balcony view 2Kwan Rian Floating Market

Experience the unique charm of floating markets like Kwan Rian or Damnoen Saduak, where vendors sell goods from their boats and there is a range of Thai food stalls along the banks.

For trips like this it is better to go with a recognised vendor.

GetYourGuide organise several trips to the floating markets around Bangkok, so check them out.

Kanchanaburi

Visit the historic Bridge over the River Kwai and Erawan National Park, known for its stunning waterfalls.

Kanchanaburi, a province located in western Thailand, is a treasure trove of natural beauty, history, and culture, making it an unmissable destination for tourists.

The area is home to the infamous Bridge over the River Kwai, a poignant reminder of the region's turbulent past and the thousands of prisoners of war and locals who lost their lives during World War II.

Visitors can also explore the JEATH War Museum, which provides a harrowing insight into the lives of the prisoners.

Beyond its historical significance, Kanchanaburi is also a nature lover's paradise, with the stunning Erawan National Park, featuring turquoise caves, waterfalls, and limestone cliffs, and the Sai Yok National Park, with its ancient caves and scenic hiking trails.

Fun Facts about Bangkok

Islands near BangkokKoh Larn near to Pattaya

First off, do some research, just to get an idea of what Bangkok is like and what there is to do there.

Bangkok Travel Ideas is a great place to start to learn about Bangkok.

Think about the places you might like to visit and whether you will just stay in Bangkok, or maybe you will take a break and go to one of the nearby Bangkok beaches.

Jot some ideas down on a piece of paper about what you want to do in Bangkok.

Then have a read through the most common questions about Bangkok and follow the page links given and develop your Bangkok vacation plans from there.

Once you have your information, check out the range of Bangkok Tours that you can pre-book with GetYourGuide.

Three Fun Facts About Bangkok

Here are some fun facts about Bangkok that can make you shine in front of your travel colleagues.

1. The Thai National Anthem is played at the beginning of movies along with a movie trailer of the King's life and good works for the Thai community.

Everyone will stand for the few minutes that the Thai National Anthem is broadcast prior to the start of the movie.

As well as the National Anthem being played prior to the movie being shown, it is also broadcast in the Royal Parks and Government buildings in Bangkok.

If you are walking in one of these parks, you need to stand still and be quiet whilst the Anthem plays. 

The Thai National Anthem plays twice daily at 08:00 hours and again at 18:00 hours.

If you have never been to Bangkok then it is unlikely that you will know this about Bangkok and Thailand generally.

Things you didn't know about Bangkok.Crazy Bangkok traffic

2. Bangkok is not the city's correct name.

In fact Bangkok's real name is actually the longest city name in the world, which is why it is not used in daily conversation and is abbreviated to just Krungthep.

If you want to be fun at a party and show that you know everything about Bangkok, then you should learn the full name for Bangkok.

It is: 

Krungthepmahanakhon Amonrattanakosin Mahintharayutthaya Mahadilokphop Noppharatratchathaniburirom Udomratchaniwetmahasathan Amonphimanawatansathit Sakkathattiyawitsanukamprasit.

Of course when I say it is the longest city name in the world, it has spaces. 

If you want to know the place with the largest amount of letters and no spaces, then it is this location in New Zealand:

Taumatawhakatangihangakoauauotamateaturipukakapikimaungahoronukupokaiwhenuakitanatahu, with 85 letters. 

The length of this town name in New Zealand is followed closely by the town in Wales on the island of Anglesey:

Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch that has 58 letters.

Try saying these longest city names after a good night out.

Thailand tuk tuk to get around the city.Tuk-tuks in Bangkok

3. Bangkok Has the Tallest Air Traffic Control Tower

Due to the friendly rivalry between Thailand and Malaysia when both countries were building new international airports, both competed to have the tallest air traffic control tower in the world.

It was an intense battle.

Air traffic control towers are the tall buildings where the air traffic controller's sit and direct the movement of the in-bound aircraft.

Their job is to ensure sufficient space between each aircraft, so that they do not collide mid-air and they also direct the aircraft on the runway as they taxi to the air bridge location.

Second tallest air traffic control tower in the worldControl Tower at Suvarnabhumi Airport

Thailand's Suvarnabhumi Airport held the title of the world's tallest air traffic control tower from 2006 to 2014 at 132.2 m (434 feet).

However in 2014, the Kuala Lumpur International Airport in Malaysia was recognised by the Book of Guinness World Records as having the tallest air traffic control tower in the world, at 141.9 m.

Thailand now has the second highest ATCT, which is still no mean feat and an added safety feature to the busiest airport in Asia.

I bet you didn't know that about Bangkok.

People also ask:

How Long Should I Stay in Bangkok?

This is entirely up to you 7 - 10 days is a good start, if you are not intending to travel extensively.

With an 18 day vacation you can probably spend 5 days in each of three different locations and get to see more of Thailand itself.

Take a look at my Thailand Travel Diary to see how to add additional Thailand beach locations and cities to your itinerary.

If you need more information about Bangkok then check out the places to stay in Bangkok.

How Much Will It Cost to Stay in Bangkok?

Thailand is still a relatively inexpensive country in which to take a vacation and there is heaps of information about Bangkok to help you decide.

The costs of transport, food and accommodation are amongst the cheapest anywhere.

For many people though, Thailand is not as cheap as it once was because of the deterioration of the US or European currency exchange rate.

Do take the exchange rate into account when calculating how much money you need to bring with you?

The following prices can be used as a guide:

Room with fan 850 baht

Homestay or 2 star hotel 900 - 1400 baht (per room)

Hotel 4 -5 star - 3500 baht up (per room)

Movie ticket - 160 baht (per person)

Taxi - Airport to Bangkok - 550 baht

Noodle shop meal for two - 90 baht

McDonalds meal for two - 280 baht (Pattaya 330 baht)

McDonalds ice cream cone - 8 baht

Pizza Hut takeaway meal set for two - 650 baht

Thai restaurant meal for two  is 800 - 1200 baht

Thai Massage - 450 baht per hour (most places)

Thai Massage - 250 Baht per hour (On Nut)

Taxi from Bangkok Airport to the City - 480 baht

If your accommodation is already paid and all you have to outlay is meals and trips out, then a good guide is to allow a minimum of 1900 baht for two persons per day.

This will cover street food for lunch and a mid priced restaurant in the evening as well as fuel to get around or tours plus a couple of beers.

If you like to visit more expensive restaurants or consume more alcohol then allow more.

Should I Obtain Thai Baht Before Leaving Home?

You will get a much better exchange rate in Thailand at Bangkok Airport than you will in your home country.

If you have large amount of cash to change then Super Rich Thailand at Pratunam is the place to go.

Most tourist areas have currency exchange booths, the rates will differ between different ones, so it pays to shop around.

One of the reasons that it is cheaper to buy Thai Baht in Bangkok rather than your home country is that to reduce the amount of currency speculation, the goverment has both a local exchange rate and an overseas exchange rate.

It is one of the few countries to have such a dual rate.

You can find out more about Bangkok and exchanging foreign currency in Bangkok.

What is the Weather Like in Bangkok?

You want to know about Bangkok Weather?

The weather in Bangkok is hot and humid with three distinct seasons; Dry, Hot and Rainy.

Expect the temperature range to be 24 - 32 degrees Celsius but up to 40 degrees Celsius in the Hot Season.

Refer to the Bangkok weather page for a more detailed description of the current weather conditions and which is the best season to come.

The weather is one of the most important factors when thinking about Bangkok and especially if you are thinking of heading for one of the nearby Bangkok beaches.

How Far is Suvarnabhumi Airport from Bangkok?

The popular Pratunam and Sukhumvit areas are both 32 kms from Bangkok Airport.

In a car this journey takes about 35 mins on the expressway.

Sathorn is 38 kms from Suvarnabhumi Airport and takes about 40 minutes on the expressway.

Times are approximate and out of normal peak travel periods.

You should consult with your hotel prior to check out, as to the required time to travel to the airport.

Can I Drink the Water in Bangkok?

If you are on a Bangkok vacation you really cannot afford any time out to be sick or even mildly uncomfortable.

To be cautious, drink only bottled water and avoid salads that have been washed with water or appear wet.

Brush your teeth and rinse using bottled water.

All hotels will provide bottled water for drinking as they know their water supply is not suitable for drinking.

Perhaps this advice seems excessive and it may be for most people, but better to be safe than sorry.

One thing that many people do not know about Bangkok is that the water is purified to world standards.

Government testing has shown that samples taken at hydrants around the city are still within world safety standards.

However, once the water enters a building there are pumps and pipes and roof storage tanks over which the metropolitan water authority has no control. 

Gecko's  lizards and other fauna can enter these tanks to create a point of contamination which can vary from building to building.

Most buildings have point of use filtration or UV treatment.

This relies on the filters being changed regularly and the UV lamps being operational.

I don't know of any Thais that drink the tap water, they all purchase bulk water from the machine above or else they have a filtration system under their control.

It only costs one baht per Litre from a machine like this.

Having said that, I have eaten out at many noodle shops around and about Bangkok where I have been served water in a cup.

I have also had many drinks containing ice and suffered no ill effects.

I have been around about Bangkok for many years and can honestly say that I only ever had one bout of mild food poisoning and I don't think I have ever had an issue with ice in drinks or wet salads.

So whilst hygiene is something to consider, I don't think you need to go overboard unless you are elderly or have a compromised immune system.

Which Are the Best Bangkok beaches?

Bangkok is an inland city so there are no actual beaches in Bangkok.

However if you travel just a short way out of the city then there are some really nice Bangkok beaches.

These places are close enough to spend the weekend or even just visit for the day for a trip out.

Want to find out more about Bangkok beaches?

Which Are the Closest Beaches to Bangkok?

If you are around and about Bangkok then you should know that Bangkok is located slightly inland on the Chaophraya River and there are no actual Bangkok beaches in the capital of Thailand.

Bad news eh?

To find a nice beach you need to travel about 2 hours out of the city.

The most popular beaches can be found at Bang Saen, Pattaya, Jomtien and then Koh Samet and you could easily take the bus or van to any of these places.

Koh Samet has one of the best beaches near Bangkok and it is well worth a visit to Sai Kaew beach. 

Where Can I Get My Shoes Repaired in Bangkok?

If you have that special pair of shoes that just requires a new heel or to have the sole re-applied, then why not throw them in your suitcase and get them repaired in Bangkok at a fraction of the price you would normally expect to pay in your own country.

Located just 100 metres away from the Soi 33 junction with Sukhumvit Road, you will find three enterprising guys set up by the side of the road.

The first stall is for shoe repairs.

Here you can have your heels replaced or new soles glued on to those expensive business or ladies shoes.

Expect to pay around 140 baht for the heel replacement.

I have even seen him repair a piece of leather hand luggage for a businessman whose bag zip split whilst he was packing for the airport.

He obviously couldn't travel with his broken bag, but within 10 minutes the problem was fixed.

Little treadle type sewing machines are all about Bangkok, these are the ones I have seen in recent times.

But there are others near Seacon Square and around the Pratunam area.

Where Can I Get Garment Alterations Done?

Right next to him is another stall that is set up with a treadle sewing machine and he specializes in hemming and clothing repairs.

You probably haven’t seen a treadle sewing machine since your grandmother’s day, so take your chance to see one still in use.

If you find that the hem has come undone on your trousers or you have bought a pair of pants down at the Bangkok markets that are a little too long in the leg, then let him take a look.

Men’s and women’s clothes are handled equally expertly.

I can’t really give a price, as it depends upon the work needed but prices are typically in the range 100 – 200 baht.

If you are around and about Bangkok then look out for these guys.

Where Can I Get a New Watch Battery?

Believe it or not there is a watch repair stall in the same location also just close to Sukhumvit Soi 33.

Get yourself a new battery or have links taken out of the wristwatch strap on the spot.

He usually has a range of wristwatch straps available, so if your existing strap is past its best, then it can easily be changed.

We all know how much wristwatch straps can cost and so this is a great opportunity to save some cash.

All three stalls are available every day except Mondays and they will let you know there and then if they can do the work.

You can either wait for your job or come back later in the day.

This is another great money saving tip from Bangkok Travel Ideas.

Are There Any Islands Close to Bangkok?

Actually there are a number of islands close to Bangkok.

The closest is Koh Lan just off the coast of Pattaya, but then you can travel further to Koh Samet, Koh Chang and right at the tip of the border with Cambodia is Koh Kood.

On the Western side of Thailand in the Gulf of Thailand are Koh Samui, Koh Nang Yuan and Koh Phangan.

If you like a bit of adventure when you travel, then on the  Western side of Thailand in the Andaman Sea just above Khao Lak, are places like Koh Phayam and Koh Ko Khao.

Electricity is generated locally, so it may not be available all day.

There is also another Koh Chang, just above Koh Phayam which is less well known.

So if you are ever discussing Koh Chang then it is more than likely to be the one to the East of Chantaburi as this is more popular with tourists.

Can I Sleep in Bangkok Airport?

There are a number of places that you can sleep in Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport, some of them more comfortable than others.

If you have an interconnecting international flight then you can book in the Miracle Tavern Transit Hotel that is located in the international departures area.

Prices range from 2400 - 3400 baht.

For a very short delay between flights, you will find Lazee Boy reclining chairs at various points in the international departure areas.

These chairs may move location, but at the present time, there is a group at the beginning of Concourse C and Concourse E on level 3.

There is also another group outside the JAL and Emirates Lounge.

Another option for passengers that have to exit immigration and are waiting for a domestic connection or for their bus to arrive is to go to Gate 8 near the Magic Food Point food hall on the lower level.

Take the escalator down one more floor from where the bus to Hua Hin desk is located, to the level where the train to the City departs. Here is how to find Gate 8.

Underneath the escalator to the lower level, is a great place to set up camp.

There is even a power point in the wall to recharge your devices.

If you just want somewhere to sleep in relative peace and quiet and don't mind sleeping on the floor then this is a great choice.

Read about some more great places to sleep in Bangkok Airport.

Do I Have to Pay Departure Tax at Bangkok Airport

Previously it was the practice to have to purchase a Departure Tax ticket when leaving the old Don Mueang airport.

When the new Suvarnabhumi Airport was opened the departure tax was included in the ticket price and so for most travellers it is no longer necessary to purchase the departure tax any longer as they depart Bangkok. 

However there are a group of travelers who still need to purchase a Departure Tax ticket, which currently costs 700 baht.

Those travellers who are transiting through Bangkok will not have the Departure Tax added to their ticket if the transit time is less than 12 hours.

But anyone that decides to leave Bangkok airport and then come back to pick up their connecting flight will have to pay the Departure Tax at the time of check-in.

The Departure Tax tickets can be purchased at the check-in level at the large office at the back of the building beyond the Thai Airways check-in desks.

If you are in Business Class then they will send a member of staff to get the ticket for you.

For those who just transfer to another plane and continue their journey then there is not a problem.

So briefly:

If you transit in Bangkok and go directly to your next flight then the tax is not included in your ticket as you are technically not departing Bangkok as you are in transit.

If you are in transit for less than 12 hours the tax is not included in your ticket, so if you leave the airport and return then you will have to pay the 700 baht.

How far is Suvarnabhumi Airport from Bangkok?

Suvarnabhumi Airport is 35 km from Bangkok and takes around 40 minutes to drive. Once on the expressway the trip will be smooth, but be aware of the traffic from the hotel to the expressway as this can add significantly to your journey time, particularly during the rush-hours.

Last updated: 11-December-2024

Start to Plan Your Bangkok Trip Now!

  • Explore a range of Things To Do In Bangkok - there are loads of activities and tours you can quickly book online or simply use as inspiration for your upcoming Bangkok travel.
  • Don't forget to bring any of the essentials with our complete Packing List For Bangkok.

  • Explore a range of Things to do in Ayutthaya - there are loads of activities and tours you can quickly book online or simply use as inspiration for your upcoming Bangkok travel.

  • Need inspiration? Check our Bangkok travel books for ideas of where to go and what to do. Download or read online.

You might like these

Earn Money in Retirement with SoloBuildIt!

Imagine working from anywhere, on your own terms, and generating income during retirement, doing what you love. SoloBuildIt makes this dream a reality, empowering you to:

  • Create stunning websites: No coding required! Drag-and-drop your way to a professional website that showcases your skills and offerings.
  • Sell anything online: Easily set up an online store to sell products, services, or even digital downloads.
  • Attract new clients: Powerful marketing tools help you reach your target audience and convert visitors into paying customers.
  • Work from anywhere: Manage your website and business from any device, with complete flexibility and freedom.

SoloBuildIt is more than just a website builder:

  • All-in-one solution: Everything you need to succeed online is included, from website creation to marketing and sales tools.
  • Step-by-step guidance: Learn at your own pace with comprehensive tutorials, webinars, and expert support.
  • Thriving community: Connect with other SoloBuildIt users and gain valuable insights and inspiration.

Stop dreaming, start doing!

Take control of your future and start building your online retirement income stream today. Try SoloBuildIt and experience the power of having your own website.

Click here to start your trial and unlock your earning potential!

Affiliate Declaration: I am a SoloBuildit affiliate and can earn commissions from sales of this product. This income helps me produce content for this site.