Stopover in Bangkok
Bangkok is a perfect stopover on your way to Australia or New Zealand and one where you can experience one of the true highlights of Southeast Asia. Here, countless Buddhist temples, palaces, modern shopping centres and traditional markets await you.
Discover Bangkok as more than just a stopover
A stopover in Thailand’s capital is far more than a way to break up a long flight Down Under. Home to around ten million people, Bangkok is a modern, sophisticated city on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, offering cosmopolitan comforts alongside rich cultural experiences.
Explore the city by boat, travel on the modern Skytrain, or take a classic tuk-tuk ride through the streets. Bangkok also offers plenty to fill your time, from museums and family attractions to entertainment, wellness experiences and traditional massages.
Below, you’ll find our tips and information to help make your Bangkok stopover one to remember.
Best travel time
November to April is ideal for a stopover in Thailand, as this is the country's driest season.
In comparison, the months of November to February are the most pleasant in terms of temperature.
In March and April, the temperatures can reach 35° Celsius.
The rainy season is from June to September and this usually brings short but heavy rain showers, then the numerous shopping centres, cafés and spas offer shelter until the next rays of sunshine.
Flights and arrival
Your holiday already starts on the plane: relax on your stopover flight with Thai Airways. The airline will take you safely and comfortably to your destination, no matter in which class.
Bangkok is served by two international airports: Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) and Don Muang Airport (DMK). Suvarnabhumi Airport is the main airport with the most international flights, so most tourists travelling to Bangkok are likely to enter via Suvarnabhumi. From the airport, you then have numerous options for a transfer to the capital.
Hotels and getting around
Bangkok offers an impressive choice of hotels and accommodation, from modern five-star stays and relaxing resorts to traditional hotels with historic character and simple guesthouses.
With the right place to stay, your stopover can become a memorable part of the journey and help you arrive refreshed at your final destination.
Despite the city’s famously lively traffic, Bangkok has a very good public transport system. The Skytrain and underground connect the main business and shopping districts across Greater Bangkok, while the best way to explore the sights along the Chao Phraya River is by river taxi or express boat.
A ride in a traditional tuk-tuk is also well worth experiencing during your Bangkok stopover. For a more comfortable option, regular taxis are widely available and offer an easy way to watch the energy of the city unfold as you travel.
Temples and skyscrapers
Thailand is rich in culture and tradition, which is reflected in arts and crafts, unique building styles and customs. Above all, the numerous temples are a landmark of Thailand and particularly interesting both architecturally and culturally.
The Grand Palace from the 18th century is probably one of the most important buildings. Until 1925, it served as the official residence of Thailand's royal family. Today, the King resides in Dusit Palace, but the Grand Palace is still used for official events and state celebrations.
It is a large complex with several ornate buildings, pavilions, courtyards and perfectly kept gardens. One of the most important structures in the Grand Palace is Wat Phra Kaew, or the Temple of the Emerald Buddha.
It houses an impressive green emerald Buddha statue and is considered the holiest Buddhist temple in Thailand.
South of the great palace is Wat Pho, also called the Temple of the Reclining Buddha. It houses almost 400 gilded Buddha images. Most impressive, however, is its namesake giant reclining Buddha, 15 metres high and 46 metres long.
Along with Wat Arun, Wat Pho is one of six temples considered to be the highest tier of royal temples in Thailand. Other impressive temples to visit on your trip are Wat Saket with its huge golden roof and Wat Suthat Thepwararam with its 21-metre-high red gate.
Shopping and eating out
Bangkok is a true paradise for shopping and food lovers. The Thai city offers numerous shopping malls, markets and bazaars. Try Pad Thai in a restaurant or Guay Teow (noodle soup) from a street stall.
Bangkok is synonymous with street food. No matter where you look, no matter what time of day, something delicious seems to be waiting for you on every corner. The great thing about it: Western and Far Eastern influences create a particularly varied offer.
One of the best areas to try out is the area around Yaowarat Road in Chinatown. Here you will find some of the best and most famous street food stalls in Bangkok. Of course, you can also find international cuisine in the city's many restaurants.
Besides the food on hand, Bangkok is also famous for its markets. From food markets to weekend markets to floating markets and night markets, there seems to be a market for every taste in this city.
Visiting one of these markets is an absolute must on your trip, as this is also where the locals shop. Our favourites include Chatuchak Weekend Market, Or Tor Kor Market and Khlong Lat Mayom Floating Market.
Boat tours, islands and activities
Take a boat tour along the Chao Phraya River, which cuts through the city centre and serves as a daily transport route for thousands of commuters. For visitors, it is a scenic and relaxed way to reach some of Bangkok’s most famous sights, including Wat Arun, Wat Pho and the Grand Palace.
If you are looking for nature away from the bustle of the city, visit Bang Kachao, a man-made island created by a bend in the Chao Phraya River. Known as Bangkok’s “green lung”, it is home to mangrove forests, palm trees and jungle-like greenery.
With no skyscrapers, just rustic wooden houses and raised walkways over canals, it is a peaceful oasis best explored by bicycle.
Other popular things to do in Bangkok include watching a Muay Thai kickboxing match at Lumpinee or Rajadamnern Stadium, exploring the city’s vibrant bar scene, or visiting a spa for a traditional Thai massage.
Entry requirements
Details and information on the current regulations for a trip to Bangkok can be found here.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, Bangkok is a rewarding stopover if you want culture, food and a real change of scene between long-haul flights. It works especially well for travellers who enjoy temples, river life, markets and lively city energy rather than a quiet beach-style break.
The best things to do in Bangkok include visiting the Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew, Wat Pho and Wat Arun, then exploring the city by river boat, Skytrain or tuk-tuk. Chinatown’s street food, traditional markets and a Thai massage are also excellent ways to ease into the journey.
For most travellers, we would suggest 2 or 3 nights in Bangkok. That gives you time to visit the Grand Palace, Wat Pho and Chinatown, take a boat along the Chao Phraya River, and still recover from the flight without making the stopover feel rushed.