8 Must-See Bangkok Neighborhoods and How to Visit

Sukhumvit is a cosmopolitan neighborhood in Bangkok that's a hub for expats and tourists alike. With trendy coffee joints, international restaurants, and upscale shopping malls like Terminal 21 and Emporium, Sukhumvit was made for those ready and willing to spend money on luxurious experiences and goods.

However, the neighborhood also has hidden gems ideal for the curious traveler, such as the Bangkok Art & Culture Centre and the ancient Erawan Shrine. Visitors can also explore the street markets of Soi 11 or Soi 38, indulge in some retail therapy at luxury malls, or experience the nightlife at the many bars and clubs in the area.

Silom is Bangkok's financial district, but it's also a popular destination for nightlife and shopping. Visitors can browse the stalls at the Patpong Night Market take a tour to learn the market’s ins and outs) or visit the upscale malls at Siam Square.

Silom is also home to some of Bangkok's best-known landmarks, such as the Sri MahaMariamman Temple, a colorful Hindu temple, and the Lumphini Park—keep an eye out for giant monitor lizards that wander the park. For an authentic local experience, tour the nearby Khlong Toei wet market with a chef.

Also known as Yaowarat, Chinatown is a lively and colorful Bangkok neighborhood that's a feast for the senses. With a rich history and a strong Chinese influence, it's renowned for its street food, gold shops, and ornate Chinese architecture.

Visitors can wander through the narrow alleyways of Yaowarat Road, sampling local delicacies like crispy pork and bird's nest soup and browsing shops selling everything from traditional Chinese medicine to jewelry. The area is particularly vibrant during Chinese New Year (when the dragon and lion dance performances occur on the streets) and at night when a local guide can walk you through some of the area’s best delicacies.

Related: 7 of the Top Chinatowns Around the World

Khao San Road is an iconic Bangkok street that's a backpacker's paradise. With cheap hostels, lively bars, and street food stalls selling everything from pad thai to fried insects, the lively street is a must-see destination for budget travelers. Visitors can browse the street markets, shop for souvenirs, or simply soak up the vibrant, youthful atmosphere with a cold drink in hand.

The road’s central location also makes it an excellent base for exploring Bangkok's historical landmarks, like the Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew), both just a short tuk-tuk ride away. Don’t skip the Khao San Art Market and the popular Soi Rambuttri, a quieter, more buttoned-up version of Khao San Road with some of the best food in the city.

A hip, trendy neighborhood, Thonglor is known for stylish cafes, boutique shops, and pulsating nightlife. Spend your time here exploring the art galleries and creative spaces, dining at cutting-edge restaurants like Haoma (Thailand's first urban farm and zero-waste restaurant), or partying the night away at a rooftop bar like Bar@494. Thonglor is also a great base for exploring the nearby Ekkamai and Phra Khanong neighborhoods.

Bangkok's Old City, also known as Rattanakosin Island, is a historic neighborhood that's steeped in culture and tradition. Home to some of the city's most iconic landmarks, don’t miss visiting attractions like the Grand Palace, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew), and the Temple of the Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho).

Old City’s visitors can also stroll through the narrow alleyways of Banglamphu, sampling local delicacies like mango sticky rice and som tam along the way. A guided tour is the best way to catch all the most prominent landmarks, as well as the flower market and India Town.

Chatuchak is a neighborhood in Bangkok famous for its massive Chatuchak Market, one of the largest in the world. Each weekend, you can browse through thousands of stalls selling everything from clothing and handicrafts to antiques and plants. (If you plan on doing in-depth shopping, consider a private tour with a guide who can help you communicate with vendors.)

The market is also a great place to sample some of Bangkok's famous street food, with a wide range of dishes available at affordable prices. But there’s more to Chatuchak than street food and haggling for bargains. In addition to the market, Chatuchak is home to some beautiful parks and temples, such as the 54-acre (22-hectare) Queen Sirikit Park and the Crocodile Temple (Wat Chakrawat), a 19th-century Buddhist temple known for the crocodiles that reside in its pond.

Ari (sometimes spelled Aree) is a trendy neighborhood in Bangkok that's popular among the city's young and fashionable. With charming cafes, boutique shops, and vibrant street art, Ari offers a laid-back vibe perfect for exploring.

Instagrammers flock to Ari Soi 4 to snap photos in front of picturesque cafés, but you can also check out local galleries or boutiques or simply relax in one of the neighborhood’s many green spaces, like Wachirabenchathat Park, home to a 1.8-mile (3-kilometer) cycling track.