How to Travel Alone in Bangkok: A Complete Guide

The bustling capital of Thailand, Bangkok is a must-visit for travellers across the world. Known for its bustling markets, ornate temples, and shopping malls, Bangkok is a city that never sleeps and always has something to offer. From the moment you land in Bangkok, your adventure begins. Travelling solo in this vibrant city is an experience like no other. Whether you are a seasoned solo traveller or a first-timer, this guide is for you.

Getting Here

Bangkok is served by two major airports, Suvarnabhumi Airport and Don Mueang International Airport, so getting here is quite easy. Most international flights land at Suvarnabhumi Airport, which is about 30 kilometres east of the city centre. From the airport, you can take a taxi, an airport limousine, or the Airport Rail Link to the city centre.

On the other hand, Don Mueang International Airport is used mainly for domestic flights and some international low-cost carriers. It is located about 24 kilometres north of the city centre and can be reached by taxi, bus, or train.

Getting Around

Bangkok has an extensive public transportation system, which includes buses, the BTS Skytrain, the MRT Subway, and boats. The BTS Skytrain and the MRT Subway are the most convenient ways to get around the city, as they are fast, efficient, and relatively cheap. Taxis are also widely available and are quite affordable. However, traffic in Bangkok can be very heavy, especially during rush hours, so it’s often easier to use public transport.

Best Time to Visit

The cool season, from November to February, is the best time to visit. This is when the weather is most pleasant, with low temperatures. However, this is the peak season, so it can be quite crowded and expensive.

From March to May is the hot season, which can be very uncomfortable for someone not used to hot temperatures. The rainy season, spanning from June to October, brings heavy rain showers, and it is also the least crowded and expensive.

Accommodation

Bangkok’s accommodation sector offers both budget and luxury options. From the likes of Avani Sukhumvit Bangkok to hostels and guesthouses, you can find a place that matches your budget. While a hostel is the best option for a solo traveller, for safety, comfort, and convenience, consider staying in a hotel in Sukhumvit Area.

If you are visiting during the peak season, make your reservation as early as possible – during this time, hotels and hostels book up fast. During the low seasons, you get discounts and hotel packages.

Things to Do

There is no shortage of things to do in Bangkok. Here are some must-see attractions and activities for solo travellers:

Visit the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew: These are two of the most important and beautiful sites in Bangkok. The Grand Palace is a complex of buildings that has been the official residence of the Kings of Thailand since 1782. Wat Phra Kaew, or the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, is located within the palace grounds and is considered the most important temple in Thailand.

Explore the markets: Bangkok is famous for its markets, which offer everything from fresh produce to clothes, handicrafts, and souvenirs. Some of the most popular markets are the Chatuchak Weekend Market, the largest market in Thailand; the Asiatique Riverfront, a night market located along the Chao Phraya River; and the Maeklong Railway Market, a market located on the railway tracks.

Take a boat ride on the Chao Phraya River: This is a great way to see the city from a different perspective and to escape the heat and traffic.

Visit the temples: Bangkok is home to over 400 temples, each one more beautiful than the last. Some of the most famous ones are Wat Pho, home to the giant Reclining Buddha; Wat Arun, the Temple of Dawn; and Wat Saket, the Golden Mount.

Try the street food: Bangkok is famous for its street food, which is delicious, varied, and very cheap. From Pad Thai to Mango Sticky Rice, there is something for everyone.