Bangkok, the Thai capital, is one of the most visited cities in the world – and for good reason. This vast, sprawling metropolis pulsates with life, is both chaotic and exciting, and offers a true sensory feast from the moment you arrive. Imposing skyscrapers stand just a stone's throw from traditional Chinese shops, as do huge, modern shopping malls, delicious street food, and the world's largest open-air market. Add to that a vibrant nightlife, friendly locals, and affordable prices, and Bangkok becomes a place many visitors return to again and again. Here's a list of the absolute highlights and activities for anyone planning a visit to this fascinating city.

The Grand Palace

Anyone who hasn't visited the Grand Palace hasn't truly experienced Bangkok. Bangkok's most famous attraction is a sprawling complex of magnificently decorated, gilded temple buildings, surrounded by breathtakingly beautiful, manicured gardens, lawns, and courtyards. Located in the heart of Bangkok, the complex also houses the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew), considered the holiest Buddhist temple in all of Thailand and an absolute must-see for any visitor to the city. The centuries-old complex is still occasionally used by the Thai royal family for various ceremonies and state occasions. It can get very crowded during the day, so it's advisable to arrive early. Ignore anyone who tells you the palace is closed—it's not true; it's one of the oldest tricks in the book. Also, please dress appropriately: women should cover their knees and shoulders, and men should not wear sleeveless tops. Shoes must be removed before entering the buildings. If you would like to see more afterwards, Wat Pho is just a short walk away and is home to the world's largest reclining Buddha.

go shopping

A visit to Bangkok wouldn't be complete without spending a day or two strolling through its various shopping malls and markets. Whether you're looking for souvenirs, clothing, or electronics, you'll find something here. For bargain prices on clothing (e.g., T-shirts for $2 and shorts for $3), the Platinum Mall and the Pratunam Market right behind it are highly recommended. Haggling is customary and expected by the vendors. If you're looking for a wide selection, head to the famous MBK Mall. There you'll find clothing, shoes, electronics, computers, a huge food court, and on the top floor, an entertainment complex with a modern cinema and a bowling alley. Siam Paragon is a bit more exclusive (and correspondingly more expensive), but it offers a fantastic experience. Terminal 21 on Sukhumvit Road boasts themed floors and a great food court that's packed with locals every day. If you have time, you should definitely visit the Chatuchak Market. It's gigantic (imagine 15,000 stalls spread across more than 14 hectares) and offers almost everything your heart desires. For computer enthusiasts, Fortune Town is a huge, modern shopping center in the city center. It sells exclusively computers, computer parts and accessories, and other electronics at very good prices. So be sure to pack plenty of space in your suitcase!

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Try the local street food!

Bangkok boasts over 11,000 restaurants offering virtually every imaginable cuisine, including the ubiquitous international chains. However, the best and most authentic Thai dishes can be found at local street food vendors. These vendors typically sell their food from mobile carts and have a few small plastic chairs around them for customers to sit on. Expect to pay around 40–50 baht (US$1.32–1.65) for a bowl of noodle soup, a rice dish, spring rolls, or dumplings—the selection is practically endless. You might be put off by the appearance of these establishments or the fact that the vendor doesn't speak English, but they thrive on their established reputation, and many have been in business for years, if not decades. Therefore, the food is safe and delicious. You absolutely must try roast pork with basil and chili on rice (Pad Grapao Moo), Thai-style fried noodles (Pad Thai), Thai-style noodle soup (Guai Teow), northeastern-style sausage (Saigrok Isaan), and spicy papaya salad (Som Tam). These stalls can be found all over the city. Just pick one where lots of locals are eating – that way you're on the safe side.

Treat yourself to a Thai massage

Thais love massages, and indeed, there are hundreds of places throughout the city offering a wide variety of services. At an average massage parlor, which you can find on almost every corner in some areas, an hour-long Thai massage will cost around 300 baht (US$10) – a real bargain. Thai massage is more therapeutic than relaxing, as the masseur or masseuse will press and pull, and sometimes even stand on you! However, the experience is fantastic, and you'll feel reborn (despite having spent only ten baht). There are also more expensive, luxurious spas and studios, often located in upscale hotels and exclusive shopping malls, whose prices are more in line with what you'd expect back home. Even the more affordable studios offer a wide range of massages, including Swedish massages, various oil massages, hot stone massages, foot massages, and more, so don't hesitate to ask if you have something specific in mind. Beware of massage parlors where women in bikinis are standing outside – that's a completely different kind of massage.

Experience Bangkok's nightlife

Bangkok's nightlife is legendary. Khao San Road is known among backpackers and budget travelers for its relaxed atmosphere, numerous affordable guesthouses, inexpensive drinks, street food, and shopping. Here you'll find countless opportunities to unwind with a few drinks and people-watch: billiards, lounges, cinemas, several hotels with swimming pools, and many restaurants serving Western cuisine, including two Burger Kings and a McDonald's. For a more upscale experience, head to Sukhumvit Road. Here you'll find a seemingly endless selection of sports bars, nightclubs, and cocktail bars, as well as numerous restaurants where you can digest your drinks. You can also grab a beer and a snack at the night markets and do some more shopping. For a more sophisticated evening, visit RCA Plaza and observe the young, affluent Thais enjoying a chic night out – but be warned: dress appropriately!