Bangkok is Thailand’s vast, fast, exhilarating capital — golden temples, street-food alleys, mega-malls, river boats and sky-high rooftop bars. For most visitors it is the gateway to Thailand, and from Pattaya it is only about two hours away, making it an easy add-on.
Where to stay
Sukhumvit is the easiest base for first-timers — central, on the BTS Skytrain, packed with hotels, restaurants and nightlife. Riverside (near the Chao Phraya) is more atmospheric. Silom/Sathorn is the business-and-nightlife district. Khao San Road is the backpacker classic. The Old City puts you next to the Grand Palace but is quieter after dark.
Top things to do
The Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew, Wat Pho’s reclining Buddha and riverside Wat Arun are the temple trio. Add a longtail-boat ride through the canals, the enormous Chatuchak weekend market, a sunset rooftop bar, and a street-food crawl through Chinatown (Yaowarat). Shoppers have ICONSIAM and Siam Paragon.
Getting there from Pattaya
Frequent buses and minivans run from Pattaya to Bangkok’s Ekkamai and Mo Chit terminals in roughly two hours; a private car or transfer is faster and door-to-door. Both airports — Suvarnabhumi and Don Muang — also connect to Pattaya.
Best time to visit
The cool, dry season (November to February) is most comfortable. March to May is very hot; the wet season (June to October) brings afternoon downpours but thinner crowds.
Food & nightlife
Bangkok is one of the world’s great food cities — street stalls, Michelin-starred Thai and every cuisine imaginable. Nightlife runs from craft-beer bars and rooftop lounges to the clubs of RCA and Thonglor.
Day trips
Ayutthaya’s ancient temples, the Maeklong railway market and Damnoen Saduak floating market, and Kanchanaburi’s bridge over the River Kwai are all popular day trips.