First Time in Bangkok? Must-See Spots, Best Places to Stay & Tourist Traps to Watch Out For
Headed to Bangkok for the first time? This guide covers the best attractions, where to stay, and what not to do. Avoid common tourist mistakes and make the most of your trip!
Welcome to Bangkok: Get Ready for the Ride!
Bangkok. It’s loud, it’s chaotic, and it’s completely unforgettable. The streets are buzzing with motorbikes, tuk-tuks zip through traffic, and the scent of street food is everywhere. It can be overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time here.
And let’s be real—there’s a lot to see, a lot to do, and a whole lot of ways to get scammed if you’re not careful. But don’t worry. We’ve got you covered with the best places to visit, the smartest areas to stay, and what to avoid so you can actually enjoy your time in Thailand’s capital.
Must-See Attractions in Bangkok
There’s a reason why Bangkok gets millions of visitors every year. It’s packed with history, culture, and food that’ll ruin your taste buds for anything else. Here are the top spots you can’t miss:
1. The Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaew
- Why go? It’s Bangkok’s most famous landmark. Think gold-covered temples, intricate architecture, and a jade Buddha that’s over 500 years old.
- Watch out for: Scammers outside claiming it’s closed. It’s not. Walk right past them.
- Dress code: Cover your shoulders and knees. If you show up in shorts, they’ll make you rent some questionable-looking pants.
2. Wat Pho & The Reclining Buddha
- What’s the big deal? A giant, gold-covered Buddha that’s 46 meters long. It’s like he’s napping in style.
- Bonus tip: Get a traditional Thai massage at the temple’s school—it’s the real deal.
3. Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)
- Why visit? The temple looks straight out of a movie, especially when it’s lit up at night. You can climb the steep steps for an epic view.
- Best time to go? Sunset. Grab a drink at a riverside bar and enjoy the view.
4. Chatuchak Weekend Market
- What’s cool here? Over 15,000 stalls selling everything from handmade crafts to fried insects (if you’re into that).
- Pro tip: Bargain. If they say 500 baht, offer 250 and work from there.
5. Floating Markets
- Are they worth it? Some are crazy touristy, but Amphawa and Taling Chan still have a local feel. Skip Damnoen Saduak unless you want to be surrounded by selfie sticks.
Where to Stay in Bangkok (And Where to Avoid)
Bangkok is huge. Like, really huge. Picking the right neighborhood can make or break your trip. Here’s where to stay based on what kind of traveler you are:
| Area | Vibe | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Sukhumvit | Trendy, modern, nightlife-friendly | First-timers, shopping addicts |
| Riverside | Scenic, laid-back, luxury hotels | Couples, honeymooners |
| Siam | Central, easy access, lots of malls | Families, shopaholics |
| Khao San Rd | Party central, budget-friendly | Backpackers, night owls |
| Chinatown | Authentic, street food heaven | Foodies, culture seekers |
Where NOT to Stay
- Near Nana Plaza or Soi Cowboy (unless you’re into Bangkok’s red-light district scene).
- Too far from public transport (Bangkok traffic is a nightmare—stay near a BTS or MRT station).
Bangkok Tourist Traps & Mistakes to Avoid
Bangkok is an incredible city, but let’s not pretend it’s perfect. There are plenty of scams and tourist traps that first-timers fall for. Here’s how to dodge them:
❌ 1. The “Palace is Closed” Scam
- Some guy outside the Grand Palace will tell you it’s closed. He’s lying. Walk inside.
❌ 2. Tuk-Tuks That Take You “Somewhere Special”
- If a tuk-tuk driver offers you a “special tour” for a low price, you’re about to get hustled. They’ll take you to overpriced souvenir shops where they get a commission.
❌ 3. Overpaying for Street Food
- Some vendors hike up prices when they see tourists. Ask for the price before ordering. If they refuse, walk away.
❌ 4. Getting in Unmetered Taxis
- If a taxi driver won’t turn on the meter, get out. Use Grab (Thailand’s Uber) instead.
❌ 5. Trying to See Too Much in One Day
- Bangkok is hot, humid, and crowded. Don’t cram too much in. Pick 2-3 major sights per day and leave room for random adventures.
FAQs About Visiting Bangkok for the First Time
1. Is Bangkok safe for solo travelers?
Yes! But like any big city, watch your stuff and don’t get too drunk alone.
2. What’s the best way to get around?
- BTS Skytrain & MRT Subway = Fast & cheap
- Taxis = Only if they use the meter
- Tuk-tuks = Fun, but negotiate the price first
3. What should I pack?
- Light, breathable clothes (Bangkok is HOT)
- A scarf or sarong for temples
- Comfy shoes (you’ll walk a lot)
4. Is Bangkok expensive?
Not really. You can live on $30/day if you’re on a budget, or splurge on luxury for $200+.
5. When’s the best time to visit?
November to February. It’s cooler, drier, and way more comfortable. Avoid April unless you want to melt.
Final Thoughts: Enjoy the Madness
Bangkok isn’t for everyone. It’s chaotic, hot, and full of scams if you’re not careful. But it’s also one of the most exciting cities in the world.
Go with the flow, try the street food, and don’t stress if things don’t go exactly as planned. Because in Bangkok, the best experiences usually aren’t planned anyway.
Safe travels! 🚀
