How to Spend a Layover in Bangkok

Over the years, I’ve have numerous layovers in BKK airport. As a major hub, you probably will too eventually. Is it worth it to leave the airport? Yes! Here’s a guide on how to spend a layover in Bangkok.

If You Like Temples

Depending how long your layover is, you may have to pick a few from this list. But, I have narrowed it down to the most beautiful temples in Bangkok.

The Grand Palace

Very famous and very touristy, but it really is a must see. This huge temple complex is home to the famous reclining Buddha.

Wat Pho

Just next door to the Grand Palace, and although smaller is just as stunning. This temple is famous for it’s colorful, mosaic tiled pagodas.

Wat Arun

Also called the Temple of Dawn, this temple really is best seen at dawn before the crowds. This temple is unique with its white mosaic tiles, with delicately painted floral design. It’s my favorite temple in Bangkok.

Wat Benchemabophit

A bit more difficult to reach, but not nearly as difficult as its name. This temple is further from the city center, but offers an artistic take on temples. It’s ornate, grand and very photogenic.

If You Want to Shop

Chatuchak – Outdoor Market

The biggest outdoor market in the world, this is your one stop shop for all your shopping needs. It’s an outdoor market, so prepare to negotiate, an essential experience and skill when shopping in Southeast Asia.

Centralworld – Biggest Mall in Thailand

This mall is massive, and offers all the major international brands you can think of. While I personally don’t see the point in shopping for western mass produced goods while in Asia, this mall does offer a great refuge from those hot Bangkok days.

Train Night Market

A night market experience truly is essential in Thailand, and this one is a local favorite. It’s so popular, the original one has been expanded to 2 other locations. Shop til you drop, then treat yourself to some street food.

If You Want to Eat

Wang Lang Market

Conveniently located near the Grand Palace, this is a good place to try some Thai street food and experience the hectic side streets of Bangkok first hand.

Raan Jay Fai – Michelin Star Street Food

While now super famous due to being featured in a Netflix series, this street food stall maintains its roots and still serves up street side eats. It’s super popular though, so you may have to reserve in advanced. Try her drunken noodles.

Silom Soi 10 Food Court

A local lunch spot, that offers a huge number of food stalls to choose from at local prices. You’ll have plenty of options from Thai food and beyond.

If You Want to Drink

If you’ve got an overnight layover in Bangkok check out some of these bars or neighborhoods.

Sky Bar – Rooftop Bar

This bar was featured in the Hangover Movie and due to it’s fame, can be crowded these days and not exactly a chill out spot. The drinks are pricy for Bangkok, and it is a bit touristy. But this place is huge, and offers possibly the best view of Bangkok.

Octave Rooftop Bar – Rooftop Bar

Another rooftop bar, this one is actually frequented by hip locals and not just tourists. This bar offers amazing views of the sunset and usually has a dj after dark.

Khao San Road – for Backpackers and Blacking Out

At least I’m honest. I can’t see why anyone would visit this part of town unless they are interested in binge drinking or meeting other backpackers. No negativity here though, I have had my share of good nights here, and they do offer fair drink prices.

And there you have it! A list of highlights and things to do, to help you spend your layover in Bangkok wisely. Have you been to Bangkok? Let me know in the comments what I missed for my next visit.

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