What to Do On a Layover in Bangkok

Bangkok
Bangkok | © Roger Lee/Flickr
Iona Proebst

Bangkok is not only a travel hub for connecting flights to other countries in the region, it is also a main thoroughfare for linking the southern and the northern hemisphere. Only got a couple of hours to spare? Don’t worry, we’ve got your back. In this article, we cover how to make the most of your layover in Bangkok.

3 Hours

With only three hours to explore the wonders of ‘the big mango’, you won’t have time to discover the city’s main attractions, but you will have time to check out a few nearby places. If you are craving delicious local Thai food, a spot of cheap shopping and the opportunity to stretch your legs, head to Suvarnabhumi Outdoor Market. This traditional market is the perfect way to get a taste of local culture. Alternatively, you could head to Gorgeous Body & Skincare for a much-needed massage. Try a traditional Thai massage to give your body a good stretch.

Suvarnabhumi Outdoor Market, Lat Krabang Road, Lat Krabang, Bangkok, Thailand

Gorgeous Body & Skincare, 318 / 1-3 road Lat Krabang, Bang Phli, Bangkok, Thailand,+66 2 346 4135

Market grilled chicken

5 Hours

For those seeking a little adventure on your five-hour layover, check out the Samutprakarn Crocodile Farm and Zoo, home to what is believed to be the largest crocodile in the world in captivity. For those looking for a little more culture, check out the Bang Phli Temple and Floating Market. The temple is famous for having the longest reclining Buddha in Thailand and the floating market provides a unique insight into local Thai culture.

Samutprakarn Crocodile Farm and Zoo, 555 moo 7, Amphur Muang, Samut Prakan, Bangkok, Thailand,+66 2 703 4891

Bang Nam Pheung Floating Market, ถนน บัวผึ้งพัฒนา Bang Kobua, Amphoe Phra Pradaeng, Chang Wat Samut Prakan, Bangkok, Thailand,+ 66 2 819 6762

Bang Nam Pheung Floating Market

7 Hours

With seven hours to play with you have ample time to jump on the Skytrain and head into the centre of the city. For something a little different why not participate in a Thai cooking class, the bonus is you get to eat what you make. You could also check out some of the city’s best museums and art galleries or simply relax in Lumpini Park. The park is not only an ideal place to relax with a book it is also a lovely spot to stretch your legs in a quiet and tranquil oasis right in the centre of Bangkok.

Lumpini Park, 139/4 Thanon Witthayu, Khwaeng Lumphini, Khet Pathum Wan, Bangkok, Thailand,+66 2 252 7006

Lumpini Park

12 Hours

With time to kill, you’ll be able to see some of Bangkok’s main attractions on a 12-hour stopover. Discover the sights of the Temple of the Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho), Temple of Dawn (Wat Arun) or the Grand Palace, or choose to embark on an ancient journey as you discover the sights on a Chao Phraya river cruise. Make a trip over to the iconic backpacker haven of Khao San Road or, if you happen to be there on a weekend, navigate your way around the Chatuchak market and try out your bargaining skills. If your flight leaves later in the evening head to Above Eleven for exquisite sundowners overlooking Bangkok’s majestic skyline.

Chatuchak market, 587/10 Kamphaeng Phet 2 Rd, Khwaeng Chatuchak, Bangkok, Thailand, + 66 2 272 4813

Wat Arun

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