In partnership with Value Alliance.
Thailand’s capital is a bustling city of contrasts, where historic temples rest alongside luxury shopping malls. With the Airport Rail Link to whisk you straight from Don Muang Airport to the centre of the city, a Bangkok stopover offers an exciting opportunity to explore the city’s top sights.
For a taste of Bangkok on your next adventure, the airlines under Value Alliance provide connecting routes. Once you’ve booked your flight, here’s a look at our top picks for what to do and where to go.
Stopover in Bangkok: what to do and where to go
The Grand Palace
A former royal residence, the golden Grand Palace is Bangkok’s most dazzling landmark. It’s here that you’ll find the Temple of the Emerald Buddha which houses the famous sculpture carved from jade. Wherever you look, get ready for awe-inspiring scenes like the majestic Demon Guardian statues, gold stupas, glass mosaics and an impressive model of Angkor Wat. A strict dress code applies for visitors, so go prepared with long trousers or skirts, sleeves to cover your shoulders and closed shoes.
Wat Pho
The 46-meter long Reclining Buddha is one of Thailand’s most popular attractions. It’s located in Wat Pho, just south of the Grand Palace, so you can visit both on a quick Bangkok stopover. The Wat Pho temple complex also boasts a courtyard with a Bodhi tree, gilded Buddha images, intricate murals, four chapels and the opportunity to experience traditional Thai massage on-site.
MBK Center
When shopping is at the top of your holiday wishlist, Bangkok layovers deliver. MBK Center makes it easy while you’re in transit, with a direct walkway linking it to National Stadium BTS Skytrain Station. Shop ‘til you drop across eight floors of retail goods, from bargain clothing to electronics, beauty products and souvenirs. MBK Center is located in Siam, the city’s legendary shopping district in Pathum Wan, so this is a fantastic area to book hotels if you’re staying overnight.
Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
If you have at least a day on your stopover in Bangkok, take a tour to the Damnoen Saduak floating market. Hop on board a longtail boat to explore a maze of narrow canals. Along the way, you’ll see boats piled high with exotic tropical fruits, handicraft stalls perched on the banks and scenes that evoke the traditional market settings of old. This is one of the best spots to catch colourful snaps for your feed.
Khao San Road
Backpackers love the vibrant energy of Khao San Road. Bright neon signs line the main strip, with street vendors selling fried insects outside trendy clubs, bars and restaurants. Sip cocktails and people-watch from a rooftop bar, bargain for cheap souvenirs and stroll down nearby alleyways to discover local life. When the sun goes down, Khao San Road lights up with action-packed nightlife. If you’re a night owl, book hotels here for longer Bangkok stopovers.
Bangkok Art and Culture Centre
The Bangkok Art and Culture Centre is a creative hub for a culture fix, displaying modern Bangkok through contemporary art. The eclectic space spans numerous floors with a mix of galleries, working studios and rotating exhibitions. Charming cafes and restaurants allow you to dine while exploring. While you’re there, pick up some souvenirs from a range of shops selling books, ceramics, paintings and more.
Chao Phraya River Boat Trips
To see the city from a different perspective, take a boat trip to explore the canals that flow through the heart of Bangkok. Choose from river taxis, longtail boats and ferries that run up and down the Chao Phraya River, stopping at main piers for sightseeing. For nighttime stopovers, launch from River City Pier. You’ll find an array of dinner cruises that include scrumptious feasts and live music.
Also read: The shopaholic’s guide to the best of Bangkok shopping
Note: These rates are based on search queries made on KAYAK.com.hk in April 2019. The prices are quoted in HKD. Flight prices are based on results for a return economy flight search. Hotel prices are for double occupancy and include taxes and fees. Prices are subject to change, may vary, or no longer be available.
