Things To Do in Bangkok Alone - A Solo Traveler's Guide

The Museum of Contemporary Art in Bangkok (MOCA) provides a great introduction to Thai culture and is a must for any art lover. It has everything a world-class art gallery should; natural light, well-spaced rooms, and beautiful thought-provoking art collections. Collections cover political and social issues that the country faces, as well as religion, corruption, prostitution and the loss of traditional values. The museum is open from 10 am to 5 pm Tuesday to Friday (closed on Monday) and 11 am-6 pm on weekends. Entrance, costs 180 baht for general admission, 80 baht for students and is free for visitors under 15 or over 60. If the history of Thai art is not what you’re looking for, try The Jim Thompson House. Considered one of the top things to do in Bangkok, the museum showcases traditional, beautifully maintained Thai home design, décor, art collections, and architecture. Jim Thompson was an American ex-pat, a former architect and silk entrepreneur who mysteriously disappeared, his former home is a fascinating jungle compound, open daily from 9 am to 6 pm and is located at 6 Soi Kasemsan 2, Rama 1 Road, close to the National Stadium. 

The off-beat and unique hipster hostel, Tales Khaosan, attracts everyone from digital nomads to enthusiastic backpackers. It’s at the heart of Bangkok’s well-known Khao San Road; one of the best areas to stay in Bangkok. Wake up to Matcha or Thai Tea Latte at the Tales cafe and a community of locals, travelers, and ex-pats! Rental space is available on the 5th floor and 2nd floor; including a night-owl working space for those who work at night. Alternatively, stay at NapPark Hostel, a couple of streets away from Khao San Road; great for both proximity and lower noise levels. Rooms have a traditional Thai vibe; white beds and sheets, with colorful with golden ornamental touches. There are all-female dorms available too, so perfect if you’re a Bangkok solo female traveler. Both hostels are within close distance to famous tourist spots like the Grand Palace and Wat Pho temple, both just 2 kilometers away.

Traveling solo and figuring out where to stay in Bangkok can be intimidating and unknown, but also one of the greatest experiences. You have the freedom to tailor and shift your itinerary and be more open to experiences. Thailand is known as the Land of Smiles, and the people are friendly and helpful so it is a great place to travel alone, particularly if you’re a Bangkok solo female traveler. That being said, there are a few things to do to ensure everything runs smoothly. One of the things you need to know before visiting Bangkok is that there are 2 train options available. The BTS SkyTrain is above ground and covers a good area in Bangkok downtown, while the MRT is underground and serves a more limited range of distance. Single-use tickets for BTS come in credit-card sizes which you can buy using coins at self-service machines. The MRT’s single-use tickets come in circular tokens which you scan upon entry, then slot in to return when you leave.

If you’re adventurous and want the Thai tuk-tuk travel experience, fares are the same regardless of the number of passengers, so you could team up with a couple of other travelers to save money. Agree the fare before setting off (expect to pay 100-150 baht for short Bangkok hops) and ensure you have the money ready on arrival. If you opt for a taxi, don’t take an unlicensed one. If you want to meet people, stick to the main backpacker destinations (including those listed above) and choose a dorm room. Bangkok is safe for solo travelers, but as with any major city, it’s important to keep your valuables on you and hidden at all times.