Flights to Bangkok with Air France from GBP 525*

* The displayed prices are applicable for one adult. All amounts are in GBP including taxes and surcharges, except where taxes are collected locally at the airport. A booking fee is not applicable, but a payment surcharge may apply. Prices and availability are subject to change without notice, see Air France Price Display for more information.

Bangkok, one of the largest cities in the world

The capital of Thailand is a fine example of a gigantic, octopus-like metropolis. Bangkok is one of the largest cities in the world: 7762 km² including the greater area. It is also one of the most populated cities in the world with nearly 14 million inhabitants in what they call “Greater Bangkok”. European visitors, not used to huge cities, are intrigued and amazed by this old city that has become a megalopolis. Bangkok is as big as its name which has many adjectives. It is, among others, the city of Buddha and of the god Indra. It is also crossed by one of the largest rivers in Thailand after the Mekong: the Chao Phraya. It is an important transportation artery for many shuttles, river taxis or “long-tailed” boats. You can easily get around using these boats and on the canals (Klongs), you will see the city's typical floating shops. Driving in the city is a bit more difficult, since traffic is often dense. Public transportation has greatly developed recently and is strongly recommended.

Bangkok, between tradition and modernity

Bangkok has many things to see and visit, from futuristic, dynamic districts to traditional Buddhist temples.

Temples

There are many temples in Bangkok that show how important Buddhism is in Thai culture. They each have their own specificities and their own history, but they are relatively recent. Wat Pho is the oldest temple that dates back to the end of the 18th century. It has an impressive reclining Buddha that measures 45 meters. The emerald Buddha, the city's symbol, is in the Wat Phra Kaeo temple within the walls of the Grand Palace. It is an exceptional site with its multicoloured roofs and wall paintings.

Traditional places in Bangkok

Visit the Jim Thompson House to see a traditional Thai house. It is entirely built in teak wood and painted red. Another example of traditional architecture is the Vimanmek Palace with European influences and built on three stories. Bangkok has many parks and gardens, perfect for relaxing walks. The Dusit or Lumphini Parks are pleasantly quiet.

Finally for those who want to get away from the city noise, the Island of Koh Kret, north of the capital, is an ideal place to go.

Traditional Bangkok coexists with the futurist, festive, luxurious and trendy city. Along with Thai markets and Khaosan Road, gigantic malls have sprung up in the capital. MKB, Sukhumvit and Siam Square are some of the huge complexes that are consumer paradises.

Bangkok also has a very dynamic night life, especially in Patpong, Silom and Sukhumvit. Every year, Bangkok hosts the Bangkok International Film Festival.

Dining in Bangkok

A trip to Bangkok is the occasion to discover Thailand's rich, quality cuisine, one of the finest in the world. Although strongly influenced by China and India, Thai cuisine has its own specificities. However, be careful if you are not used to eating spicy food, Thai dishes are quite hot.

In Thailand, conviviality is important and everyone shares their dishes. Among the most typical:

• Sautéed rice and noodles, accompanied by vegetables and meat,
• Prawn soup with citronella (tom yang kung),
• Dishes with green or red curry,
• Sautéed chicken with sweet basil,
• Green papaya salad.

Bangkok has many street restaurants as well as luxury restaurants.

Prepare your flight to Bangkok

You would like to go to Thailand for your next holidays? You may reserve a ticket online for a flight with a stopover in Paris. Thailand has a tropical climate with a rainy season from June to October. It is best to avoid travelling at that time of year. The months of March to May are also very hot. Winter months are milder and less humid. Check with the embassy for formalities to enter Thailand. A visa is not always required for very short stays. It is important to be up to date with your vaccinations and to be vaccinated for hepatitis A and typhoid fever. Others may be necessary depending on the length of your trip.