Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok, an IHG Hotel

The best time to visit is from November to February, when the weather is cooler and drier, with highs around 31-32°C and only a few rain days. March and April are the hottest months, with temperatures reaching 34°C and increasing humidity. The rainy season runs from May through October, with July and September being the wettest, so plan around those months if you prefer sunny days.

For first-timers, stay in Siam or Sukhumvit, both central with easy access to shopping, dining, and the BTS Skytrain. Siam suits those who want malls and convenience, with The St. Regis Bangkok and VIE Hotel Bangkok nearby. Sukhumvit offers a mix of nightlife and upscale hotels, like 137 Pillars Suites Bangkok. Riverside is great for a quieter, scenic stay, with the Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River. Silom and Sathorn are good for business travelers and those who like a lively street scene, with options like Le Meridien Bangkok and The Sukhothai Bangkok.

Start with the Grand Palace and the adjacent Temple of the Emerald Buddha, the city's most iconic landmarks. Cross the river to Wat Arun for its riverside tower, and visit Wat Phra Chetuphon for the Reclining Buddha. Chatuchak Weekend Market is a vast shopping experience, while Lumphini Park offers a green escape. Chinatown (Yaowarat) is a lively area for food and street life.

The full-day tours from Bangkok go to Ayutthaya, the old capital with its UNESCO-listed temple ruins, and to the floating markets and train market outside the city. For a classic day trip, Ayutthaya is the top pick for history, while the markets offer a lively glimpse of local life. If you prefer staying closer, a day at the Ancient City or a city tour covering the Grand Palace and Wat Arun also works well.

Plan 3 to 4 days for the main sights: the Grand Palace, Wat Arun, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, and Wat Phra Chetuphon, plus a morning at Chatuchak Weekend Market if you are there on a weekend. Add a day for a trip to Ayutthaya, which is a full-day tour from Bangkok. With 5 days, you can also include Lumphini Park and Chinatown at a relaxed pace.