Why visit Bangkok?

Travel to Bangkok to discover a bustling metropolis that is modern and sophisticated but also steeped in tradition, with cultural landmarks and historic architecture dating back hundreds of years. The city’s floating market is a constant reminder of Bangkok’s fascinating past, and the reason the city was once called ‘the Venice of the East’.

The base from which to tour Thailand and its spectacular beach resorts, Bangkok is packed with things to do and many exciting attractions, from exquisite temples, glittering royal palaces and countless shopping malls, to traditional markets. After dark, Bangkok comes alive with plenty of entertainment on offer, including the city’s famous cabaret shows.

Why visit Bangkok

Explore fascinating temples, including Wat Traimit, with its 3m tall Golden Buddha.
Bangkok is home to the Grand Palace, Thailand’s most highly acclaimed royal monument.
Enjoy the vibrant nightlife, carefree atmosphere and exciting entertainment on Khao San Road.
The food in Bangkok is famously delicious.
Be pampered with a traditional Thai massage, an hour of relaxation and stress relief.
Shop at one of Bangkok’s famous markets, especially the Chatuchak Weekend Market with over 8,000 stalls to explore.
Bangkok is home to the world’s largest Chinatown.

Whether you are on holiday in Bangkok as a stopover on your Phuket honeymoon or using the city as a base from which to launch further Thailand adventures, let Thompsons Holidays arrange your Bangkok holiday package for you. Book today.

Things to do in Bangkok

Bangkok is a heady mix of old and new and offers so many things to do, whether you want to explore the incredible temples in the old part of the city or shop till you drop in the malls and markets. Dining is another exciting experience, as is browsing some 8,000 stalls in the Chatuchak Weekend Market. Entertainment abounds, especially in the evening, making an intoxicating Bangkok holiday hard to resist.

Things to do in Bangkok

Enjoy panoramic views of the city from the Sky Bar.
Visit Bangkok’s most famous temple, Wat Arun, with its spire covered in tiny pieces of colourful glass.
Cycle through Sri Nakhon Khuean Park.
Explore the Grand Palace, which comprises various temples and palaces including Wat Phra Kaew, Thailand’s holiest temple.
Discover Bangkok’s oldest temple, Wat Pho, also known as the ‘Temple of the Reclining Buddha’.
Visit the Suan Pakkad Palace Museum to see fascinating antiquities.
Visit the reconstructed Kamthieng House for a taste of rural living.
Explore the colourful Flower Market, open 24 hours a day.
Enjoy a street food tour in Bangkok to learn all about Thai cuisine.
Visit Asiatique to watch shows of Muay Thai fights or cabaret shows during the evenings.
Visit the Bangkok Floating markets.
Enjoy shopping at various night markets.

There are so many exciting things to see and do when you travel to Bangkok. Try to discover as many of its treasures as possible before you head off on further Thailand adventures. Thompsons Holidays will help you plan the perfect Bangkok holiday package, whether you are travelling with kids, your partner, friends, or on your own on a solo adventure.

Know before you go...

When is the best time to visit?

Bangkok is an all-year-round destination. However, there are factors to consider when planning your holidays, such as seasonal weather and prices of flights and accommodation.
Thailand has a tropical climate throughout the country, which means it is hot and humid year-round. The average temperature ranges from 18 to 38°C.
March to May: High humidity and temperatures.
November to February: Dry, cool temperatures and low humidity, the best time to travel.
May to October: Rainy season, generally sunny with quick showers in the late afternoon and evening.

Getting there

Flight duration from South Africa to Bangkok: 13 hours, 45 minutes with one stopover in Singapore.

Do I need a visa?

South African passport holders do not require a visa for Thailand for a stay of up to 30 days.
Passports must be valid for at least 6 months after travel to Thailand.
Make sure your passport has at least 2 unused pages for any required entry/exit stamps.
On arrival in Thailand, you will have to present a return ticket or onward travel arrangements.

What time is it?

Time zone – Bangkok is 5 hours ahead of South Africa.

Money matters

Currency: Thai Baht.
Accepted currencies: US Dollars are the most common, although UK Pounds and Euro are also accepted.
ATMs are found all over the country.
Credit cards are widely accepted.
Tip taxi drivers, waiters, guides and porters at your discretion.
Bartering is expected.

Language & phrases

Thai is the country’s official language.
English is fairly widely spoken in the popular tourist areas.

Culture & religion

Theravada Buddhism is Thailand’s main religion and a strong element of its culture. It is practised by 95% of the population.
When visiting sacred sites and temples, dress conservatively.

Health information

Drinking water is not safe. It is preferable to drink bottled water in Thailand.
No vaccinations are currently required. Please check with your doctor before you travel.

What must I pack?

Depending on when and where you visit, lightweight clothing for summer, warmer layers for winter.
Lightweight rain jacket.
Dress modestly when visiting sacred sites – no shorts or tank tops. Legs & shoulders must be covered. Long, loose pants and long-sleeved cotton shirts are best.
Comfortable walking shoes.
Sunscreen, lip balm, hat and sunglasses for summer holidays.
Mini first aid kit and regular prescription medication.
Hand sanitiser and insect repellent.
Camera.
Travel adaptor. Power outlets in Thailand generally feature flat, two-pronged plugs, though some feature holes for round plug ends. Few outlets feature three holes (grounded outlets) so it is often necessary to have a three-to-two-prong adapter. Thailand operates on a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz.