Bangkok is the heart of Southeast Asia. This vibrant city in Thailand attracts many travellers. Some come here to see the historical and spiritual sites, of which the city has many, some want to learn more about Thai culture, and others come to find themselves in Thailand.

Whatever your reason for travelling to Thailand, if you’re planning to solo travel in Bangkok, I share my recommendations of what to see and do in Bangkok solo, and if you’re unsure where to stay, I’ve included the best Bangkok hostels for solo travellers too! Click on the map to see their location in Bangkok. 

N.b. For every booking made through this article, I donate money to projects helping vulnerable girls about the globe. Thank you for helping! Lisa x

Solo Travel in Bangkok

Is Bangkok safe for solo female travellers?

Yes, Bangkok is safe for solo female travellers. You may encounter a few drunken tourists in the touristy areas and near the Go-Go bars so keep an eye on your valuables. Nevertheless, you should always be aware of your surroundings.

As a Bangkok solo female traveller, you may feel overwhelmed when you arrive in the city for the first time. It’s humid and noisy and trying to take a tuk-tuk may feel too much. The city is large and can be a bit challenging to navigate so you could find yourself feeling isolated if you stay in an area without other tourists.

But if you’re looking to be completely alone, then you may prefer to stay in a comfortable hotel with a rooftop pool in the city and take day tours to see the temples and sights. If you’re backpacking Thailand, one big tip for travelling to Bangkok alone is to head to Khao San Road.

It’s backpacker central, and you’ll find tour companies and hostels here. Here are the best things to do in Bangkok alone. Tip – Before you solo female travel in Bangkok, check what paperwork or visas are required for Thailand

Things To Do Alone in Bangkok

1. Marvel at The Grand Palace

The Grand Palace is, well, grand. But it’s really more than that, and it’s one of the tourist spots in Bangkok that you absolutely should not miss.

As it’s not the official residence of the royal family, the Grand Palace is open to tourists and provides people with a look at the stunning architecture, artefacts, and art that is housed here. Just remember to plan ahead: wear clothing that covers your legs and arrive as early as possible to avoid the crowds. If you can swing it, try to arrive by boat; it’s the most stylish and breathtaking way to arrive. * Check prices and availability: Grand Palace Tours

2. See Wat Phra Kaew

Wat Phra Kaew, known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, is located right next to the Grand Palace and is worth taking the time to explore. This is the royal family’s private chapel, and as such, you’re going to be expected to show a massive amount of respect. This means legs and shoulders are covered, as well as no photography inside the main temple.

But the complex houses more than just the temple. There are libraries that are sometimes open to the public; the Royal Pantheon, a series of statutes that can be viewed only on the anniversary of the founding of the dynasty; and the Phra Si Rattana Chedi, where the ashes of the Buddha are reportedly held. * Check prices and availability: Wat Phra Kaew Tours

3. Find Peace at Wat Pho

 

Wat Pho, or the Temple of the Reclining Buddha to tourists, is a massive temple complex that houses this famous statue as well as a variety of interesting architectural and sacred spaces. Most people just saunter through to see the Reclining Buddha statue but don’t make that mistake. Take the time to look around and find a sense of peace in Wat Pho’s many gardens and tucked away quiet spaces. * Check prices and availability: Wat Pho Tours

4. Shop at Chatuchak Weekend Market

If you’re lucky enough to be in Bangkok at the weekend, make sure to set aside time to head to the Chatuchak Weekend Market. This is one of the largest markets in Asia, housing over 15,000 different vendors, and you can find anything you could ever want or need here. Seriously, everything you ever want is here, from clothes and jewellery to souvenirs and even electronics.

5. Mingle With Others at Khao San Road

Khao San Road isn’t for everyone, particularly people who just want to relax, but it is worth mentioning. This is considered the nightlife market for ex-pats and tourists and is literally a road in Bangkok that can service your every need, from repairing your travel gear to giving you great street food at affordable prices. Get a Thai massage or just sit at a cafe or bar to meet others. 

6. Window Shop at Siam Paragon Mall

During your Bangkok solo travel, if you want to do some luxury shopping, Siam Paragon Mall is just the place with six stories of every type of shop imaginable. And even if you’re not in the mood for shopping, you can also visit the mall’s aquarium. Yes, this mall has an aquarium.

7. Find Solitude at Lumphini Park

When you’re ready to collect your thoughts, or you just want to get away from the hustle and bustle of Bangkok, walk over to Lumphini Park. This is the city’s biggest park, and it’s found right in the heart of the city. Go for a walk, lounge on the green or take a boat ride on the water and feel all your worries just disappear for a little while.

8. Experience Damnoen Saduak Floating Market

If you’ve never been to a floating market, the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is a good introduction. It is one of the most popular markets in Thailand and you’ll be floating past both tourists and Thais as you admire colourful garments and all types of exotic fruit and vegetables. It only operates in the morning, so make sure you get up early not to miss it. You can take a tour here or take the bus from Bangkok to get here. * Check prices and availability: Damnoen Saduak Floating Market

Accommodation For Bangkok Solo Travel

Best Place To Stay in Bangkok For Solo Traveller

Khao San Road is the best place to stay in Bangkok for solo travellers, because it’s the most sociable part of the city. It’s the place for backpackers so you’ll find many hostels and budget-friendly hotels and travel agencies helping you to book the next part of your trip or any transport that you may need to get around the country. Because there are so many tourists, it’s a safe area and it’s easy to meet fellow travellers because there are numerous bars and clubs (and you can see street performers here too). I’ve included the best hostels in Bangkok for solo female travellers below.

For good 3-star hotels I recommend Tara Place Hotel Bangkok which is 10 minutes from Khao San Road. Or there’s the Old Capital Bike Inn which is just a 15 minute walk away.

In Bangkok you’ll find everything from simple hostels and 3-star hotels to international 4 and 5-star hotels. Below are places to stay as recommended by myself and our solo female community. * Click here for all Bangkok accommodation 

Best Hostels in Bangkok For Solo Travellers

There are so many hostels in Bangkok that you’ll be spoilt for choice and may be a bit overwhelmed by which one to pick. To help, below are the best hostels for solo travellers Bangkok as recommended by our solo female community.

The Yard Bangkok Hostel – This sociable hostel has its own yard (hence the name) so you can meet others in the communal garden. It’s close to the weekend market and there are restaurants nearby. They have female-only dorm rooms as well as private rooms and breakfast is included too! * Check prices and availability: The Yard Bangkok 

Prince Theatre Heritage Stay Hostel – Set in an old theatre that dates back to the 1900’s, this is a great hostel to stay in if you love movies. You can even order a signature cocktail that is inspired by the original films. The staff are super friendly, the rooms have high ceilings, there’s a Box Office bar and they have female-only dorm rooms too. * Check prices and availability: Prince Theatre Stay Hostel

Time Sabai 134 – This intimate hostel is in the heart of Bangkok. It’s quiet and peaceful and there’s a family restaurant nearby. The bunk beds have curtains for privacy and all rooms come with a garden view. Plus there’s free water and coffee! * Check prices and availability: Time Sabai 134

Bangkok – Once Again Hostel ($)

Once Again Hostel is one of the best hostels in Bangkok for solo travellers planning solo travel in Bangkok. Just a 15 minute walk to Koh Sang Road, and 20 minutes to the temples, this super stylish hostel is on a quiet street with a nice rooftop.

They offer daily activities as well as bike hire and have a 24-hour reception so you can arrive in Bangkok on a late flight and still be able to check in. The rooms are clean with comfy beds with your own personal curtain for more privacy. All of the rooms have balconies with a view. Choose from the 8-bed female-only dorm or a mixed 4, 6, 8 or 12-bed dorm room. * Check prices and availability: Once Again Hostel

Bangkok – Asia Hotel ($$)

This Thailand accommodation is the perfect place to stay in Bangkok with the Skytrain nearby. If you love food, the Asia Hotel has an impressive range of cuisine with 6 different dining options. The rooms are really spacious and include a fridge, minibar and flat-screen TV.

You can take a bath in your own marble bathroom or relax in the hotel’s hot tub after a workout at the gym. This 4-star hotel is great value for money, and you’ll feel like a princess walking into the Palacio surroundings on a traveller’s budget. * Check prices and availability: Asia Hotel Bangkok

Travelling After Bangkok

While this isn’t an exhaustive list of things to see and do on a solo trip to Bangkok, it will give you a head start for your trip to the Thai capital. There’s something for all types of solos here, from popular Bangkok tourist spots to fun activities to do in the city. Solo travel in Bangkok can be a bit isolating, so when you’re all citied out, head north to Chiang Mai or south to the stunning Thailand beaches to meet other travellers. 

If you’re planning a trip to Thailand, check out my Solo Travel in Thailand guide

Travel Insurance For Bangkok

Thailand is a great country to visit but it is always recommended to take out travel insurance especially if you’re planning on trekking in Chiang Mai after Bangkok or taking a tuk tuk ride. 

True Traveller and World Nomads are two insurance companies which can cover travel to Thailand. True Traveller is available to UK and European residents, and World Nomads is available to over 100 countries worldwide, including the USA and UK. For digital nomads, Safety Wing is a nomad insurance that covers people from all over the world.

All companies allow you to buy insurance when you are already on the road and offer different plans depending on your needs including additional adventure cover. * Check insurance prices and cover for True Traveller

N.b. World Nomads provides travel insurance for travellers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, I receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. I do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

Questions About Travelling Alone in Bangkok

• Are there Bangkok hostels Khao San Road? Yes! There are many located a short walking distance from Khao San Road. Check the accommodation section above for the best hostel for solo travellers Bangkok. 
• Is it easy to travel Thailand alone? Yes, Thailand is generally a safe country for solo female travellers. The highest safety issues are related to scams. * Read: Solo Travel in Thailand 
• Which island in Thailand is best for solo travellers? Koh Samui is one of the best islands for solo travellers. It is safe and easy to meet other travellers. * Read: Solo Travel in Thailand

Read more about Thailand

• Solo Travel in Thailand
• Best Areas To Stay in Phuket