We visited Bangkok in January 2025.
Here is a list of our favorite spots and recommendations.
Phra Nakon
Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) and the Royal Palace
As in all touristy places, it is recommended to visit these places as soon as they open up.
Wat Arun opens at 8am.
The Grand Palace opens at 8:30am.
The Grand Palace ticket includes: Wat Phra Kaeo (Temple of the Emerald Buddha), Wat Pho (Temple of the reclining Buddha), Queen Sirikit Museum of Textiles, and a Sala Chalermkrung Royal Theatre’s Khon Dance Performance.
We recommend visiting both sites on separate days as soon as they open in order to get the early advantage at both sites and avoid the crowds.
The National Museum of Bangkok
Also worthwile. You can spend as much time there as you want.
Wat Saket (Golden Mount Temple)
This temple has a unique 360- view of the city. Nice place to visit by sunset.


Khao San Road
The place where all tourists hang out. Interesting for people watching. One night is enough. Not a “must see”.
Sathorn/ Sukumvit
Recommended (high end) restaurant:
Blue Elephant
Blue Elephant Bangkok | Royal Thai Cuisine in a luxury setting
They have 2 locations, one in Sathorn and one in Sukhumvit

Siam
Iconsiam is a unique shopping center. It has a massive food court and outdoor decks where you can dine, have a drink or just stop for a photo. I came across Iconsiam, looking for “authentic” souvenirs. The “Iconcraft” store, spreading over the 4th and 5th floor in the mall did not dissapoint.
https://www.iconsiam.com/en/shopping/fashion/what-is-iconcraft
Lumphini Park
Like Central Park, but with big lizards walking around….



Talat Noi
Neighbourhood mixing authentic “businesses” with street art and up and coming bars and cafes.
Our pick: Soul’s Cafe, Ice cream shop, located in front of the old So Heng Tai house in Talad Noi


Chinatown
Our pick: Zong Ter Dimsum Restaurant
https://www.facebook.com/zongter1962/



The bathroom situation
Public bathrooms are clean and plentyfull. Just be aware that there is no toilet paper!
Some bathrooms require a small fee, and toiletpaper is sometimes available for an additional fee. (usually, there isn’t).
To avoid walking around with wads of toilet paper in your pockets and bags, I hightly recommend bringing “coin tissues“. I absolutely love them and use them for everything. They also make great make-up removers.
For more travel ideas, you can visit my Thailand Photo Gallery