Hello readers! It has been a while since I last updated this space. This next guide to Bangkok though- will be the best reference a trip with your girls! Eating, shopping, night market hopping… what more could girls ask for?!
I just had a wonderful trip to Bangkok, Thailand with a few girlfriends and I’d like to share some restaurant and activity suggestions for your next girl’s trip. I will also talk about which area you should stay in and transportation options to best explore the city.
That said, this guide will be the most useful for people with the same interests our group has: eating and shopping. Oh and if you collect cute stickers and are into window shopping, you’re in luck- Bangkok is the perfect city for that!
Table of contents
What to do in Bangkok
Eating
Thipsamai
If you get pad thai from anywhere, let it be Thipsamai! This legendary pad thai place has been around since 1939- and they claim to be the oldest pad thai restaurant in Thailand!
I tried the shrimp and chicken pad thai, and their Chicken Pad Thai won by a mile. It is so savory, chewy, sweet, and salty. I can taste the char of the wok hei, and this pad thai is one of the best I’ve had!
Do not forget to try their orange juice as well, it is a bestseller. The orange juice is naturally very sweet and pulpy, and these plump pulps burst in your mouth with refreshing texture. One juice bottle was enough for the three of us.
Here Hai
Here Hai is famous for its crab fried rice, and how generous the crab is! It is on the pricey side compared to the rest of the food court, but you have to try it at least once. Do not forget to dip into the green sauce, it adds such refreshing twist to the smoky fried rice and sweet crab pieces.
Thong Smith
Thong Smith is a boat noodle restaurant with many branches- and a queue and every single one of them. Thai boat noodle is a new experience for me- I recommend the egg noodles with beef/pork topping you’d like. Most tables also had a bowl of extra pork cracklings to indulge.
Jeh O Chula
This restaurant Jeh O Chula was all the rage in Indonesia a few years ago, and it was so packed that some people even paid for a queueing service to get in! They are famous for their Mama Tom Yum Noodle (100ΰΈΏ) and Crispy Fried Pork.
Kub Kao Kub Pla
This restaurant is also a chain, and they are in malls all around the city. They carry traditional Thai dishes, and you can try many different kinds here! Some recommended dishes: crab omelette, pandan chicken, and panang curry.
Jay Fai
This is one of Bangkok’s most iconic street food establishments, renowned for its Michelin-starred cuisine and the legendary chef behind it, Jay Fai. Located in the bustling area of Prachak Road in Bangkok, this humble street food stall has gained international fame for its exceptional dishes, meticulous preparation, and the chef’s signature goggles, which she wears while cooking over her fiery wok.
She makes every dish herself, which is why the queue can be as long as 2-3 hours. After a feature on Netflix’s Street Food series, her restaurant’s popularity exploded even further. Recommended menus:
- Crab Omelette (Khai Jiao Pu): A fluffy, golden omelette stuffed with chunks of fresh, succulent crab meat. It is rich, buttery, and perfectly cooked.
- Drunken Noodles (Pad Kee Mao Talay): Wide rice noodles stir-fried with seafood (like shrimp, squid, and scallops), chili, and Thai basil. The dish is packed with flavor, featuring a perfect balance of spicy, savory, and aromatic notes.
- Tom Yum Soup: A spicy and sour soup made with prawns, mushrooms, lemongrass, and chili.
Shinsen
Shinsen Fish Market Restaurant is great if you are in the mood for Japanese food. They offer an authentic Japanese dining experience with a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients. Located in the vibrant Sukhumvit area, its open-concept layout allows diners to see the fresh seafood on display.
The chirashi bowl and sashimi platter are my tried-and-true standout dishes. The chirashi bowl features a yummy mix of fresh sashimi-grade fish over seasoned sushi rice, while the sashimi platter offers an array of expertly sliced raw fish, ideal for sharing. It only had one downside- the portions are small!
Shopping
Siam Paragon area
Siam Paragon is one of Bangkokβs most iconic malls, known for its luxurious atmosphere and wide range of hip shops. There are many cosmetics store and popular cafes as well.
My favorite spot was Daddy and the Muscle Academy, a quirky store filled with adorable stickers, accessories, and stationeryβitβs impossible to leave without buying something because everything is so irresistibly cute.
Emsphere
Emsphere is a newer, contemporary mall that caters to a younger, trendier crowd. With its glitzy art exhibitions, stylish shop choices, and fun pop-ups like the Butterbear CafΓ©, it offers a fresh and modern shopping experience. The mallβs lively vibe and unique events make it a standout destination for those looking for something different.
Em Quartier
EmQuartier, on the other hand, exudes a more classic and upscale vibe, featuring a wide array of branded stores and luxury boutiques. Its elegant design, complete with lush greenery and a stunning spiral walkway, creates a sophisticated shopping atmosphere. While itβs less quirky than Emsphere, itβs perfect for those seeking a refined retail experience.
Jodds Fair Night Market
Jodds Fair Night Market is one of Thailandβs most popular night markets, known for its vibrant atmosphere, affordable street food, and unique shopping stalls. I tried Leng Zapp Restaurant, a standout spot offering novel and delicious dishes like their famous spicy ribsβbe prepared to eat with your hands (they provide gloves)! With its lively vibe, diverse food options, and Instagram-worthy eats, Jodds Fair is a must-visit for anyone exploring Bangkokβs night market scene.
Leng Zapp (Google Maps)
Banthat Thong Road
This is the most happening place to go for a night market experience- recommended by locals! The Banthat Thong Road area is occupied by street stall owners by nighttime, making it a one-of-a-kind experience for the shopaholics AND foodies.
This popular shopping street near Chulalongkorn University is packed with small shops and stalls. They sell everything; from clothing and accessories to unique handmade items. Itβs a great spot to find stylish, budget-friendly pieces.
Chatuchak Weekend Market
Chatuchak Weekend Market is one of the worldβs largest markets, offering an overwhelming variety of goods, from clothing and antiques to plants and pets. With over 15,000 stalls, itβs a paradise for bargain hunters and those looking for unique, eclectic finds. The marketβs lively atmosphere and diverse offerings make it a must-visit for anyone in Bangkok on a weekend.
I did find animal cafes and pet stores in the area- and had so much fun bottle feeding mini pigs ππ
Platinum Mall
Platinum Mall is a go-to destination for wholesale and retail shopping, especially for fashion lovers. Located in the Pratunam area, it features six floors of trendy clothing, accessories, and footwear at incredibly affordable prices.
It can get very overwhelming to venture out here- there are too many people and too many shops! Make sure your group loves to go bargain hunting.
December
December in the Pratunam Area is a hidden gem for bargain hunters, offering a mix of wholesale and retail shops with unbeatable prices. It is VERY compact and maze-like.
Itβs perfect for those willing to dig through racks to find stylish, budget-friendly fashion. Please do check the garment quality carefully though!
The areaβs lively energy and proximity to Platinum Mall make it a convenient stop for a full day of shopping.
Eve and Body
Eve and Body is Thailand’s answer to Sephora. Visit one of its many branches to browse local and international beauty brands. Some makeup brands I recommend:
- Browit by Nongchat: Created by a famous makeup artist in Thailand, Nongchat
- Chat Cosmetics: My MUA actually mixed in Chat foundation to use on me on my wedding day!
- Meilinda: I am an avid user of their pencil eyeliner. I live in a very, very hot and humid (think 90%+ humidity) country- so this is saying something!
Spa
A girls’ trip is the PERFECT time to get group massages on a spa day. There are many options and packages depending on your location. Pick a Thai massage place near you and get ready to be stretched, baby!
For a luxurious spa experience, Health Land Spa & Massage is a top choice, offering affordable yet high-quality treatments like traditional Thai massages and aromatherapy. Another recommendation is Oasis Spa, known for its serene ambiance and indulgent packages, including herbal compress therapies and rejuvenating facials. If youβre looking for something unique, Divana Divine Spa combines traditional Thai techniques with modern wellness practices in a tranquil, beautifully designed setting.
Sightseeing
Chao Praya River
A dinner cruise along the Chao Phraya River is a magical way to see Bangkokβs iconic landmarks, like the Grand Palace and Wat Arun, illuminated at night. Many cruises offer buffet-style dining with a mix of Thai and international cuisine, accompanied by live music and traditional dance performances.
Cafe Hopping, Drinks, & Dessert!
Coffee at the library
For a peaceful cup surrounded by books, go to Coffee at the library. This quiet cafe serves yummy drinks, snacks, and other kinds of food. I have gone in the morning and afternoon- and the morning light in this space is unbeatable.
Factory Coffee
Craving for a morning dose of caffeine on your Bangkok girls trip? Factory Coffee is a cafe you have to try at least once while you are in the city!
Do be aware that the queues can take as long as 1-2 hours. Yes, for coffee! It is better to order it on Grab, so the driver can queue up for you and your party. (Give extra tips though! π)
They won the Top 2 Espresso World Champion back in 2022 and was the Thailand Barista Champion in 2020!
We tried the drinks Mrs. Cold and White Citrus. Mrs. Cold is a double layered espresso with secret milk (it was very thicc, I wonder what it is!). White Citrus, on the other hand, is citrus-infused coffee mixed with milk.
I personally enjoyed their pastries as well! The Thai Tea Charcoal Croissant and Coconut Charcoal Croissant were flaky, sweet, and thoroughly mixed with Thai flavors. A must-try if you’re visiting.
After You
If you love desserts, After You is a MUST visit! This cafe is famous for its kakigori (shaved ice) and thick honey toast. The two top flavors for shaved ice is Mango Sticky Rice and Thai Tea. These are not just plain shaved milk- it has great toppings inside.
The Mango Sticky Rice Kakigori has actual sweet mango pieces and chewy sticky rice- soo yum! On the other hand, the Thai Tea Kakigori has pieces of cubed bread. We tried the Matcha Toast as well, and my oh my- the bread was so fluffy! 10/10 desserts in my book!
Mil Toast
This trendy cafe from South Korea is famous for its steamed buns and french toast! We tried two different kinds of steamed buns, but our favorite was the Ham and Corn Brioche. The French Toast was super delicious too- but my favorite is still with After You’s fluffy toasts.
Gaga, Chatramue (yay for thai tea!)
Try out the traditional Thai Tea in its home country! I would recommend ordering from Chatramue and Gaga for an authentic taste. Chatramue is the traditional thai tea you’d expect, while Gaga tops their thai tea with mousse. Try them out and let me know which one you prefer.
Thai traditional snacks
Don’t forget to sample local delicacies! They are sold in night markets, mall food courts- everywhere. Some traditional snacks I’d recommend:
- Mango sticky rice (khao niaow ma muang)
- Savory fishcakes (tod man pla)
- Fried bananas with sesame (kluai khaek)
- Coconut pancakes (khanom krok)
Bar / Speakeasy
Root Bar
This charming speakeasy is the best place to kiki with your girlfriends. The magazine
editorial-covered entrance opens up to a freight elevator. Not to worry, push the door to your left and you will be welcomed to this discreet joint.
When you come into Root Bar, you’ll be welcomed to a dark and cozy ambiance. They do not really have a menu– tell them the tastes you like and they will create a one-off drink for you! Sweet and sour or super strong, they can seemingly make anything. The drinks are super pretty as well! πΈ
Where to stay in Bangkok
Best area to stay in
On our Bangkok girls trip, we specifically stayed at the Pratunam and Sukhumvit areas. Pratunam is a very busy area, but is very strategic for shopping. Platinum mall and December is in very close proximity, and it is the perfect place to be where the crowds are.
For a girls’ trip, Sukhumvit is a fantastic area to stay, offering a mix of luxury hotels, trendy cafes, and vibrant nightlife, all within walking distance or a short ride.
The Siam area is another great choice, especially for shopping enthusiasts, as itβs home to malls like Siam Paragon, MBK, and Siam Center, along with easy access to public transport.
If you prefer a more quiet & cultural vibe, Riverside provides stunning views of the Chao Phraya River, upscale dining options, and a relaxing atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring.
Airport recommendation
Don Mueang International Airport is my preferred airport to fly into, as itβs closer to central Bangkok compared to Suvarnabhumi Airport. The airport is well-connected to the city via the A1 and A2 airport buses, which link to the BTS Skytrain and MRT, making it easy to reach popular areas like Sukhumvit and Siam.
Don Mueangβs smaller size means shorter queues and quicker check-ins, making it a less-stress choice.
If you take a taxi, keep in mind that they charge extra fees of 70 bahts to go from the airport to the city. Do tell them that you prefer to use the meter.
Getting around the city
Taxi
Taxis are an okay option to get around the city- I just hate that you have to bargain with the driver almost every single time! In my experience, most taxi drivers refuse to turn on their meters for trips around the city. They just call out a number depending on the distance, traffic, and seemingly their mood.
Travel tip: Prepare your Google Maps to show the exact address and location. Some do not speak English- though so far they are all nice even when they are confused about where they are taking you π
Ridesharing with Grab
For inner city and airport transportation, my preferred transportation is Grab just because of its convenience. If you are traveling with a large group of friends- you’d be pleasantly surprised! Grab vans for 10 people are so easily available! We mostly just used Grab everywhere.
Travel tip: Motorcycle rides in the city can be quite scary, make sure you have the heart capacity for some too-close-for-comfort traffic maneuvers!
Tuk Tuk
Ah, the classic tuktuk. You should absolutely try riding on a tuktuk at least once! With the right driver (impatient ones), it can feel like Fast & Furious Thai edition. π
Tuktuks are open air vehicles that can get around the city like no other. Ride on its three wheels through alleys and secret passages only the driver knows. You can bargain with the driver, and please do! It is part of the experience, you see.
The public transportation, on the other hand, I find to be quite reliable. You have to remember though: the MRT and BTS are two different systems! MRT is underground, while BTS is the sky train. Google Maps is quite reliable for navigation-it shows the closest exit number for your destination.
MRT
If you don’t know yet, Bangkok’s traffic can be an absolute nightmare at rush hours! Just like my city Jakarta, the traffic can stand absolutely still at some unfortunate areas. The only way around it is by getting a motorcycle ride from Grab or public transportation.
For payment, you can use a contactless credit card to get in and out of the gate. Really convenient! I only tried Visa and Mastercard, but they all work for the MRT.
BTS
Ah, the sky train. This is what you should ride to get the views! Only if it’s not rush hours though- it can get jam-packed for sure. Use the standalone ticket machines for one-off rides, or get the Rabbit card for convenient tap-to-pay.
Rabbit cards cost 100 baht for the initial fee, then you can add some THBs for stored value. They are valid for 30 or 60 days.
Ultimate transportation choice for Bangkok girls trip: Grab!
That is all for this not-so-short guide to the city of Bangkok, Thailand. Enjoy your trip and share the fun on the comments, or through my social media accounts!
P.S. = For more travel guides, check out my guide to France, Italy, Indonesia, and Japan!
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