The Best Time to Visit Bangkok, Thailand

Last Updated on May 31, 2023

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Bangkok, the bustling capital of Thailand, is a city that never sleeps.

The city’s vibrant street life and cultural landmarks, such as the opulent Grand Palace and its sacred Wat Arun and Wat Phra Kaew temples, offer a thrilling experience for travellers.

But when is the best time to visit Bangkok? I’m often asked by those planning their trip, so I want to answer this question here in detail.

Choose the best time to visit Bangkok, Thailand, aerial view of city with skyscrapers standing tall amongst other buildings in a very built up area with a river winding through the city all under a dramatic yellow and blue sky with clouds — Photo by Waranont (Joe) on Unsplash

From the weather in Bangkok in June to the city in December, we will guide you through the year, month by month, so you can decide when it’s the best time to visit Bangkok.

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Now let’s dive into everything you need to know about the best time to visit Bangkok and whether it’s even worth a visit (spoiler: it is!).

Is Bangkok Worth Visiting?

Is Bangkok worth visiting? This question is often asked by those contemplating a trip to Southeast Asia. The short answer is a resounding yes!

With its rich history, vibrant culture, world-renowned cuisine, and bustling city life, Bangkok is undoubtedly worth a visit.

Here are some reasons why this vibrant city captivates the hearts of millions of travellers each year.

1. A Blend of Tradition and Modernity

Bangkok beautifully juxtaposes the old and the new, the traditional and the contemporary.

As you navigate through the city, you’ll find centuries-old temples and shrines standing amidst towering skyscrapers, a testament to the city’s unique blend of tradition and modernity.

You can spend the morning exploring the sacred halls of the Grand Palace, then head to the modern shopping districts of Siam and Sukhumvit in the afternoon.

This seamless blend of past and present ensures every traveller finds something to marvel at in Bangkok.

2. Gastronomic Delights

Bangkok is a paradise for food lovers. The city offers an array of culinary experiences, from street food stalls to high-end restaurants.

Bangkok’s street food is renowned worldwide, with stalls lining every corner and alley, serving everything from Pad Thai and Som Tam (green papaya salad) to Mango Sticky Rice.

Moreover, Bangkok is also home to several Michelin-starred restaurants, making it a must-visit for any foodie.

3. Shopping Extravaganza

For those who love shopping, Bangkok is a dream come true. The city offers various shopping experiences to suit every budget and preference.

The luxury malls of Siam Paragon and CentralWorld house high-end fashion labels, while the bustling Chatuchak Weekend Market, one of the largest markets in the world, offers a wide variety of goods, from clothing and accessories to home decor and souvenirs.

4. Cultural Experiences

Cultural enthusiasts will find plenty to explore in Bangkok. The city’s temples, such as Wat Arun and Wat Phra Kaew, are architectural masterpieces that offer insight into Thailand’s rich cultural heritage.

Moreover, the city’s numerous museums, art galleries, and cultural performances provide a deeper understanding of Thai culture and history.

5. Lively Nightlife

Bangkok’s nightlife is as diverse as it is vibrant. The city comes alive after dark, from the bustling night markets and street food stalls to the lively bars and clubs of Khao San Road and Sukhumvit.

Whether you’re looking for a quiet evening by the riverside or a night of dancing and music, Bangkok has something for everyone.

Whether you’re a history buff, a food lover, a shopaholic, or a party-goer, Bangkok has something to offer you.

Its vibrant street life, rich cultural landmarks, world-renowned food scene, and bustling nightlife make it a city that caters to various interests and preferences.

So, pack your bags and get ready to experience the magic of Bangkok – a city that never fails to amaze and inspire.

Don’t forget to take pictures of every place, you will go. And if you forget your charger in the hotel, a solar-powered battery pack is a good option.

Find out for yourself is bangkok worth visiting, very colourful bejeweled statues of pink and green creatures with tusks holding up bright gold coloured structure with ornate building behind on a bright sunny day — Photo by Worachat Sodsri on Unsplash

Best Time to Visit Bangkok

Deciding the best time to visit Bangkok depends largely on what you want from your trip. All the different seasons in Bangkok offer something different.

However, most travellers would agree that the cool season, between November and February, provides the most comfortable weather for exploring the city’s numerous attractions.

During the cool season, temperatures range between 20°C (68°F) to 31°C (88°F), and the weather is generally dry.

This is ideal for outdoor activities such as visiting the Grand Palace, exploring the floating markets, or enjoying a boat ride along the Chao Phraya River.

This period also coincides with several significant cultural events.

The stunning Loy Krathong Festival takes place in November, where thousands of lanterns are set afloat in the rivers and canals, creating a mesmerising spectacle.

The city is festively decorated in December for Christmas and New Year’s celebrations, adding an extra sparkle to your visit.

However, the cool season is also the peak tourist season in Bangkok. This means popular attractions may be more crowded, and prices for flights and accommodations may be higher.

If you prefer fewer crowds and lower prices, the rainy season, from May to October, might be a better option.

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Despite its name, the rainy season doesn’t mean constant rain. It usually involves brief, heavy showers in the afternoon, with plenty of sunshine in between.

The city is less crowded during this time, and the rain brings a refreshing coolness and turns the city’s parks and gardens into lush, green paradises. Plus, hotel rates are often lower during this period.

On the other hand, the hot season, from March to June, is characterised by high temperatures and humidity.

While this may not sound appealing, it’s also the time when the city comes alive with the Thai New Year or Songkran festival in mid-April, a massive city-wide water fight to cool down from the heat.

The best thing to do in this case is to wear proper clothes. And you don’t want to walk in all that heat with sneakers. A good pair of Chaco’s sandals are always the best solution for moving around.

Bangkok is a city of endless attractions and experiences, and each season offers a unique perspective of the city and the best time to visit Bangkok is whenever you feel it to get your bags and travel to this amazing destination.

The cool season provides pleasant weather, the rainy season offers fewer crowds and lower prices, and the hot season brings unique cultural experiences.

Ultimately, the best time of year to visit Bangkok depends on your personal preferences.

If you can handle the heat and humidity or don’t mind the occasional downpour, any time can be a good time to visit this vibrant city.

But for the most comfortable weather and a range of cultural activities, the period from November to February is often the best time to visit Bangkok.

Discover the best time of year to visit bangkok, view of city from high up stone balcony with silhouette of person leaning on the edge looking out over skyscrapers and a bridge over the river all under a gloomy grey sky at dusk — Photo by Jakob Owens on Unsplash

Bangkok Weather by Month

Bangkok in January

January is often considered one of the best times to visit Bangkok. The city is in the cool season, with average temperatures ranging between 21°C (70°F) and 32°C (90°F).

The humidity is low, and rainfall is scarce. This makes it an ideal time to explore the city’s outdoor attractions like the Chatuchak Weekend Market or the beautiful Lumpini Park.

Bangkok in February

February continues the trend of pleasant weather—also the best time to visit Bangkok. The temperatures are slightly higher but still comfortable for exploring.

The Chinese New Year celebrations in Bangkok’s Chinatown are a sight, with dragon dances, fireworks, and delicious street food.

Don’t forget to take your camera with you so you can take some amazing pictures. I recommend the the Sony A7iii.

Bangkok in March

As we move into March, the temperatures start to rise, with averages from 24°C (75°F) to 34°C (93°F).

It’s the start of the hot season in Bangkok, but don’t let that deter you. It’s also when the city celebrates the Thai New Year, Songkran, with an enormous city-wide water fight.

I visited in mid-March and I had an incredible time despite the heat.

Bangkok in April

April is the hottest month in Bangkok, with temperatures soaring up to 35°C (95°F) or even higher—definitely, not the best time to visit Bangkok.

However, the Thai New Year celebrations continue, and the city is alive with festivities, making it an exciting time to visit.

Bangkok in May

May sees the onset of the rainy season, but the showers are usually brief and offer a respite from the heat. Maybe you want to add this month to the top of your list.

This makes sightseeing more comfortable, and the city is less crowded with tourists, making it a good time to visit if you prefer a quieter experience.

Bangkok in June

What about the weather in Bangkok in June? June is in the heart of the rainy season. While it does rain more frequently, these are usually short, heavy downpours, often in the afternoon.

This leaves plenty of time for sightseeing in the morning, and the city is lush and green. So for all you people that don’t like rain, not the best time to visit Bangkok.

Make sure to prepare for the weather in bangkok in june, close up shot of a colourful blue tuktuk taxi vehicle with bright neon illuminated signs on buildings behind under a black night sky — Photo by Tan Kaninthanond on Unsplash

Bangkok in July

July is similar to June, with frequent rain showers. However, the city celebrates the Asalha Puja and Khao Phansa festivals, making visiting a culturally interesting time.

Bangkok in August

August continues the rainy trend, but don’t be discouraged.

The city’s indoor attractions, like the Jim Thompson House or the fascinating Bangkok National Museum, offer perfect retreats from the rain.

Bangkok in September

September is the wettest month in Bangkok. However, this also means fewer tourists and shorter queues at popular attractions.

Additionally, hotel prices can be lower during this time. So we would say that this is one of the best times to visit Bangkok for the ones with a budget.

Bangkok in October

By October, the rainfall starts to decrease, and temperatures become slightly cooler.

The Vegetarian Festival, with its street parades and food stalls selling delicious vegetarian fare, offers a unique cultural experience during this time.

Bangkok in November

November sees the end of the rainy season and the return of the cool season.

This, combined with the Loy Krathong Festival, where thousands of lanterns are released into the sky, makes it another contender for the best time to visit Bangkok.

Bangkok in December

December is often considered the best time to visit Bangkok. The weather is cool and dry, with temperatures ranging from 20°C (68°F) to 31°C (88°F), making it perfect for exploring the city.

Plus, Bangkok in December is a sight to behold, with Christmas and New Year celebrations lighting up the city.

Don't miss any of the beautiful seasons in Bangkok, aerial view of ludicrously colourful outdoor marketplace with many tents in all the bright colours of the rainbow lined up next to each other and illuminated from beneath with warm lights — Photo by Lisheng Chang on Unsplash

Places To Visit In Bangkok

Bangkok, Thailand’s bustling capital, is a city brimming with historical landmarks, cultural sites, culinary delights, and vibrant nightlife.

Here are some of the must-visit places in Bangkok that you shouldn’t miss:

1. Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew

The Grand Palace, once the royal residence, is a magnificent complex of buildings at the heart of Bangkok.

Inside the palace grounds is Wat Phra Kaew, also known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, which houses a 14th-century statue carved from a single jade stone.

The intricate architecture and historical significance of these landmarks make them must-visit sites.

2. Wat Arun

Wat Arun is a stunning riverside temple known as the Temple of Dawn.

Its towering prang (Khmer-style tower) adorned with colourful porcelain is a sight to behold, especially during sunrise or sunset when the temple seems to glow in the soft light.

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3. Wat Pho

Adjacent to the Grand Palace is Wat Pho, home to the Reclining Buddha, a 46-metre-long golden statue.

Wat Pho is also known as the birthplace of traditional Thai massage and hosts a massage school where you can experience this therapeutic practise firsthand.

4. Chinatown (Yaowarat)

Bangkok’s Chinatown is a bustling area known for its busy markets, gold shops, and street food stalls.

Walking through its narrow alleys, you can savour various Chinese Thai dishes, explore local markets, and visit the beautiful Wat Traimit, home to the world’s largest solid gold Buddha statue.

Find the best time to go to bangkok for you, overhead shot of person wearing large wicker hat tending to an outdoor marketplace grill on which a dozen whole fish on sticks are being cooked with various other bowls of ingredients and cooking implements nearby — Photo by Lisheng Chang on Unsplash

The Best Foods To Eat In Bangkok

We talked about which was the best time to visit Bangkok and now let’s talk about the best foods to try when you visit Bangkok.

Bangkok is a city that offers a wealth of culinary experiences for locals and tourists alike.

The city’s cuisine blends traditional Thai and international flavours, offering many mouthwatering options.

From street food to high-end dining, Bangkok has something for everyone. In this article, we will explore some of the best foods to eat in Bangkok.

1. Pad Thai

Pad Thai is one of the most famous dishes in Thailand and is a must-try when visiting Bangkok.

This stir-fried noodle dish contains rice noodles, bean sprouts, shrimp or chicken, eggs, and peanuts.

The dish is seasoned with a sweet and sour sauce made from tamarind, fish sauce, and palm sugar.

You can find Pad Thai in almost any restaurant in Bangkok, but some of the best places to try include Thip Samai, Pad Thai Pra-Too Pee, and Pad Thai Thip Samai.

2. Tom Yum Soup

Tom Yum Soup is a popular Thai dish famous for its spicy and sour flavours. The soup has lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, chili peppers, and shrimp or chicken.

The soup is typically served with rice and is perfect for those who love spicy food.

Some of the best places to try Tom Yum Soup in Bangkok include Tom Yum Goong Banglamphu, Tom Yum Noodle, and Tom Yum Kung Talay.

3. Mango Sticky Rice

Mango Sticky Rice is a popular dessert in Thailand and a must-try when visiting Bangkok. This sweet and creamy dessert is made with glutinous rice, coconut milk, and ripe mangoes.

The dish is typically served cold and is perfect for hot days in Bangkok. Some of the best places to try Mango Sticky Rice in Bangkok include Mae Varee, Kao Niew Moo Ping, and Kor Panich.

4. Green Curry

Green Curry is a classic Thai dish famous for its creamy and spicy flavours. The dish has green curry paste, coconut milk, chicken or beef, eggplant, and bamboo shoots.

The dish is typically served with rice and is perfect for those who love spicy food.

Some of the best places to try Green Curry in Bangkok include Baan Khanitha, The Local, and Green Curry House.

Discover the best time to visit Bangkok this year, plate of Som Tum - a papaya salad with green and red vegetables sitting on a sky blue plate on a wooden table with a glass of ice water behind

5. Som Tam

Som Tam is a spicy papaya salad that is a popular dish in Thailand. The salad has shredded green papaya, chili peppers, lime juice, fish sauce, and peanuts.

The dish is typically served with sticky rice and is perfect for those who love spicy food. Some of the best places to try Som Tam in Bangkok include Tum Thonglor, Som Tam Nua, and Kor Panich.

6. Massaman Curry

Massaman Curry is a mild and flavourful dish that is popular in Thailand. The dish has curry paste, coconut milk, potatoes, peanuts, and chicken or beef.

The dish is typically served with rice and is perfect for those who love mild and flavourful food.

Some of the best places to try Massaman Curry in Bangkok include Massaman Curry Restaurant, The Sixth, and The Local.

7. Kway Teow

Kway Teow is a popular noodle dish in Thailand that is a must-try when visiting Bangkok. The dish contains rice noodles, pork or chicken, bean sprouts, and eggs.

The dish is typically seasoned with soy sauce and is perfect for those who love simple and flavourful food.

Some of the best places to try Kway Teow in Bangkok include Kway Teow Tom Yum, Kway Teow Nam Sai, and Kway Teow Rua.

8. Roti

Roti is a popular street food in Bangkok that is a must-try for those who love sweet and savoury flavours.

This Indian-inspired dish is made with flattened dough and cooked on a griddle. The dish is typically served with various fillings, such as egg, banana, chocolate, or condensed milk.

Some of the best places to try Roti in Bangkok include Roti-Mataba, Roti-Wee Nam Kee, and Roti-Krua Apsorn.

9. Khao Pad

Khao Pad is a simple and delicious fried rice dish popular in Thailand. The dish has rice, egg, vegetables, and meat or seafood.

The dish is typically seasoned with soy sauce and is perfect for those who love simple and flavourful food.

Some of the best places to try Khao Pad in Bangkok include Khao Pad Sap Khlong San, Khao Pad Sapparot, and Khao Pad Jay Fai.

10. Satay

Satay is a popular grilled meat dish that must try when visiting Bangkok.

The dish is made with skewered meat, such as chicken, pork, or beef, marinated in a blend of spices, and grilled to perfection.

The dish is typically served with peanut sauce and is perfect for those who love grilled meat.

Some of the best places to try Satay in Bangkok include Satay Khaosan, Satay by the Sea, and Satay Ria.

Bangkok is a food lover’s paradise with various dishes catering to all tastes and preferences. From classic Thai dishes to international flavours, Bangkok has something for everyone.

Try some of the dishes above to experience the city’s vibrant food culture when visiting Bangkok.

Learn about the best time of year to visit bangkok, close up shot of a line of gold painted statues of Buddha — Photo by Alexandre Chambon on Unsplash

Final Verdict

So, is Bangkok worth visiting? Absolutely. The city has something to offer all year round, from cultural festivals to mouthwatering street food and, of course, the city’s iconic landmarks.

But when is the best time to visit Bangkok?

If you’re looking for the best weather conditions, the cool season from November to February offers the most pleasant temperatures and the least rainfall.

However, the city will be more crowded with tourists during this time.

If you want to experience the city’s cultural festivals, consider visiting in April for Songkran or November for Loy Krathong.

And if you prefer a quieter experience with fewer tourists and lower prices, the rainy season from May to October could be the best time to go to Bangkok.

Bangkok’s weather varies significantly throughout the year, and each season offers a different experience.

Understanding these seasonal changes can help you plan your visit and ensure the best possible experience in this vibrant and exciting city.

Ultimately, the best time to visit Bangkok is whenever you decide to go! It’s all about finding the right balance for your interests, tolerance for heat or rain, and preference for crowd sizes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

✅ What is the hottest month in Bangkok?

April is the hottest month with average temperatures of 35°C (95°F) and some days even hotter!

✅ When is the rainy season in Bangkok?

The rainy season in Bangkok usually starts in late June and continues until early to mid-October. The rainiest time is mid-July to mid-August.

✅ What is the cheapest month to go to Bangkok?

Although there is no guarantee, it is normally cheaper to travel to Bangkok in April, June, and October.

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