During my first Bangkok trip, I promised I’d return – the Land of Smiles is too wonderful to visit just once. We sandwiched a second Bangkok visit with our Phuket trip during the December 2025 holidays.
This weekend stopover balanced new discoveries with return visits to favorite spots. As with my first trip, Bangkok’s endless options left me wanting to be everywhere at once. Since I couldn’t fit everything in, I’ve also added places that I didn’t reach this time as possible recommendations.
Here was how it went down:
Day 1, Saturday
We Are Young – Cafe, Brunch & Art
We made our first stop straight from the airport to this lovely cafe in Bangna. Opened by a celebrity couple, the cafe is a space that blends food, drinks and art. The café lives up to its playful slogan ‘Sip. Savour. Slay’ with vibrant orange décor and a cheerful mascot setting an energetic, creative tone.
They did a collaboration with artist Red Loving Wolf when I was there, with merchandise and artworks displayed around the cafe for sale. The cafe does art collaborations with various well-known artists all year round. Couldn’t help to get some merch though prices were on the premium side. The café offers coffee, smoothies, and pastries in this Instagrammable space as you browse through the art.
There’s actually a bunch of other interesting cafes, restaurants and shops at The Glass Market Bangna.
Note: Securing a Grab from Bangna to the city center took considerably longer than expected—budget extra time for the journey.
Address: 645 หมู่ที่ 13 Bang Na-Trat Frontage Rd, Bang Kaeo, Bang Phli District, Samut Prakan 10540, Thailand
OneSiam Skywalk
A visit to Bangkok wouldn’t be complete without a stop at the OneSiam Skywalk! This spot is a must-visit for photos, shopping and pop culture. The iconic ‘Bangkok’ sign mounted along the BTS track, visible as you cross the sky bridge at Siam, has even caught the attention of celebrities. You get to bypass the heavy traffic to visit major attractions like Bangkok Art and Culture Center, the National Stadium, MBK Center, Siam Square, Siam Discovery and two BTS stations. Fan meetings and special events are also known to take place along the bridge, adding to its lively atmosphere.
Address: PGWJ+F6X, Phaya Thai Rd, Wang Mai, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
Siam Discovery
From the skybridge, make your way over to Bangkok’s version of Takashimaya. The open concept departmental store is one we often cut through on our way to the heart of Siam. Siam Discovery is a stylish, multi-level mall with trendy boutiques and mostly international brands but it still feels cosy and relaxed. I think there is also a Madame Tussauds attraction on Level 4 – worth a peek if you’re travelling with kids or just feeling a little touristy.
Address: 989 Siam Discovery, Rama I Rd, Pathum Wan, Pathum Wan District, Bangkok 10330
Siam Center (Halal options available)
You can always trust Siam Center with cool and trendy fashion, art, beauty and lifestyle finds. I feel that the mall has a distinctly hip energy to it – a curated mix of local boutique stores and homegrown brands that bring unique pieces to the floor. Trending names like Valichain and Leisure Projects have a presence here too, alongside international labels with Bangkok-exclusive offerings. The mall features multiple levels of retailers, services, and restaurants.
There are usually pop-up installations and booths at Siam Center and was so stoked to finally visit a physical BWB pop-up, a brand founded by three female celebrities. I managed to snag some good deals and even got my hands on their last piece of the BWB x GENTLEWOMAN blush.
And of course, had to visit the Minimelts store, though it did seem a little smaller than I remembered. Please don’t downsize further!
Lunch at NUATAIR Restaurant (Halal): The Thai-Western-steak restaurant was easy to spot with its iconic green sign as well as a halal sign at the store front.
Address: 979 Rama I Rd, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
Siam Square
Siam Square is one of those places that just has an energy to it — concerts, pop-ups, random celebrity sightings, candid interview moments, people doing their own thing, and an endless stretch of shops to explore. There’s always something happening, and I love it.
Some of my favourite shops in the area are ASAP, a collection of local brands under one shop, and Nineties design, which does cute casual basics. Stop at SOON and FREAK for some nice streetwear and sports casual wear, or visit well-known stores like Matchbox, Beutrium, and GENTLEWOMAN. It was a delightful surprise to see Janeyeh as Gentlewoman’s ambassador and the brand also having a BwB collab! There are also many boutique stores to check out – from LOFT EYES, to MATTER MAKERS to RAVIPA. RAVIPA had just dropped a Butterbear collection at the time, with a pop-up in the open area of Siam Square to mark the occasion.
Come evening, the STREET OF DREAMZ festival brought the square to life with a lineup of local indie acts performing on stage. It featured a lineup of activities from leading brand partners and a stage for dreamers to showcase their talents. Not only the musicians but the audience was fully dressed in gorgeous drip. Right beside the space was a Popmart x Labubu Wackymart pop-up.
The actual mall, Siam Square One, also has plenty of shopping opportunities. There was a wholesale-style shop selling apparel and household items with some surprisingly cool picks, a shoe shop called Shu running a fun Butterbear collaboration, and EVEANDBOY — which had BamBam promotions on at the time. EVEANDBOY has lots of promotions, and even international brands there are priced more affordably compared to in Singapore.
Address: 1 Siam Square Soi 7, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
WATSONS
No trip is ever wasted from visiting any health and drug store, especially when overseas. Take the time to explore the local brands, including INGU and Gala Camille (with Mook as the face of the brand!). Makeup cleansing wipes are always a solid buy here. There are always promotions happening for a lot of products.
My other favourite health and drug store in Thailand is Boots! Their skincare items are gold mines, so effective!
Address: 258 258/1-4 ล็อก 16 หมอน 1-3, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
7-Eleven (Halal options available)
You can never go wrong with buys from the beloved 7-Eleven! There are a few locations in Siam, including one at my hotel lobby, and one right outside the hotel. This is a pit stop for snacks, drinks & daily essentials. Most of their skincare and beauty products are in sachet form, which is super convenient and act as samples to discover which brands suit you best.
Spotted so many Butterbear collab items including with Lays and 7E.
Tried out some of the self-made combi drinks which turned out pretty refreshing! One of the combos was a cup of ice, Strawberry Fanta and Strawberry Meiji Milk – Thailand’s version of Happy Soda.
Address: Rama I Rd, Wang Mai, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
Things I skipped on Day 1
HOLIDAY PASTRY Flagship Store
Holiday Pastry was founded by a Thai actor who has since built an impressive portfolio of F&B ventures. The flagship store is usually beautifully decorated based on the theme or season at that point of time. Word has it that the owner himself works during the Saturday shift, from 2 to 5pm to decorate desserts and serve guests. That sounds like a super fun experience!
Address: 240 Charoen Nakhon 10 Alley, Khlong Ton Sai, Khlong San, Bangkok 10600, Thailand
Amazing Thailand Countdown 2026 at River Park ICONSIAM
Had visited ICONSIAM during my previous trip – lots of high-end brands, together with local brands and crafts.
The end of the year season is usually an extra exciting time at ICONSIAM because of The Amazing Thailand Countdown. It is a grand celebration of Thai culture and innovation in the final weeks of December till the new year. For the 2026 countdown edition, it featured a lineup of over 200 Thai artists, including K-pop superstar Mark Tuan, a 4D sky show, fireworks and drone displays.
Entry is free, but you had to redeem tickets earlier on the same day. It had a very short redemption period of about 2 hours depending on the zones, and it was too much of a hassle to do that in between shopping and catching up with friends. Each day had an equally exciting line up, but the one that I wanted to really watch was on a Saturday – 4EVE, ATLAS, Pixxie, DMD Boys, and XEBIS entertainment artistes.
Address: 299 ซอยเจริญนคร 5, Charoen Nakhon Rd, Khlong Ton Sai, Khlong San, Bangkok 10600, Thailand
AWC’s The Season of Giving 2026: Give a Hug. Give a Miracle at Gateway at Bang Sue
Gateway at Bang Sue is a lifestyle shopping mall in Bang sue District, conveniently located beside an MRT Station. This large mall features multiple levels with a variety of international brands, dining options, and entertainment facilities such as a cinema and kids’ play area.
A GMMTV actor was the guest for the special show at Bang Sue, held from 3 to 4pm. There will always be celebrity appearances every other day in Bangkok – it is a norm here, so you have no choice but to prioritise your time. My first trip to Bangkok here was already stretched and I barely scratched the surface of such events.
Address: 162, 168/10 Pracha Rat Sai 2 Rd, Bang Sue, Bangkok 10800, Thailand
Day 2, Sunday
Ratchaprasong Skywalk (R-Walk)
This skywalk is the most efficient way to get around when shopping in Siam. The skyline walk connects several shopping centres and you will not have to walk under the hot sun or along cramped footpaths along the road. This includes Platinum Mall, centralwOrld, Big C, Gaysorn Village, BTS Chidlom and BTS Siam.
Platinum Fashion Mall (Halal options available)
This popular multilevel shopping center is the best way to start the morning. Situated across the Pratunam Market area, it offers a wide range of fashion styles and products, from Thai designer collections, quality no-name pieces, to international trends. Platinum Mall is known for its wholesale and retail fashion clothing and accessories. There is also halal food at the food court and along the streets outside the mall.
This place is great because there are a good mix and styles for both genders. There is also an extended building with a Boots store that had amazing deals, especially for its original brand. Also spotted SOFY x Butterbear pads there – a fun find. One thing I would advise against, however, is buying local snacks here. Big C tends to offer better deals most of the time, unless you’re confident in your bargaining skills.
Address: 222, PLATINUM FASHION MALL, Phetchaburi Rd, Khwaeng Thanon Phetchaburi, Ratchathewi, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
centralwOrld (Halal options available)
The cutest thing about this mall is that locals actually pronounce it as “San-tan-whirl”. The mall has eight floors with a wide range of shops, with everything from fashion, technology to beauty products. Visitors can also enjoy dining at numerous national and international restaurants. Unfortunately, I think NUATAIR Restaurant was the only halal restaurant there (but I may be wrong!).
There are a few department stores worth browsing too. Skincare products can run a little pricier here, but the local stationery finds could be a real treat for journaling lovers — and keep an eye out for the many Butterbear collaboration items scattered throughout. While familiar international names like Muji, H&M, Nitori, Apple, Uniqlo, and Shake Shack are well represented, it’s the local brands that truly steal the show. Names like just.in.case, Pavi Studio, GENTLEWOMAN, Mith Perfume, Butterfly Thai Perfume, Matter Makers, and Panpuri are just a start — there is honestly so much to discover.
Bought so many things in centralwOrld alone, even though I held myself back from some pretty pieces too.
After the shopping is done, rest and recharge with the endless snack and tea break options. From the viral Oh Juice!, which was pretty good and refreshing, to Blendies which is known for its Dubai chocolate ice cream, to Kanom Siam which you should eat while it is fresh and warm, YOLK and Holiday Pastry, and After You Dessert Cafe with good coffee and toast.
Address: 999/9 Rama I Rd, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
Usman Thai Muslim Food (Halal)
This restaurant is well-known amongst the Muslim tourists, and it is located near EmSphere. Previously thought this place was average but turns out I just did not try the correct dish. Their mushroom-only tom yum was so delicious, together with mango sticky rice and Thai milk tea.
Address: 259/9 Sukhumvit Alley 22, Khlong Tan, Khlong Toei, Bangkok 10110, Thailand
EmSphere
Love visiting Emsphere for a couple of things – pop-up events, wide range of mid-luxury tier local brands, and local food!
There was a portrait art photo exhibition by this versatile and talented actor where he showcased five different concepts through various character personas, all packed with hidden stories, under ‘Shades of DRM’.
Apart from the usual Gentlewoman, other local brands also include TwoTwice, Leisure Projects, Pipatchara and more.
There are so many dessert options here (depending on your dietary requirements). Had to check out Souri, where the celebrity CEO cheekily renamed his peach macaroon to celebrate his actor friend “Khun Thee” (Thee means peach in Thai) who went viral. IYKYK. This shop is said to be halal-friendly based on online sources.
Of course it is not complete without visiting the Butterbear Cafe! I controlled myself and only got some postcards, stickers, and a hair clip (which was so sturdy and literally the best hair clip I’ve owned thus far).
Address: 628 Sukhumvit Rd, Khlong Tan, Khlong Toei,Bangkok, Thailand, 10110
Asiatique The Riverfront
Asiatique was full of people enjoying the night even when we arrived at 10pm. This open-air mall and night market sits along the Chao Phraya River and offers a full range of nightlife activities to keep you entertained. This includes Thailand’s largest Ferris wheel at 60 meters high, a very fast-looking double-decker merry-go-round, the Haunted House of Mystery Mansion with occasional screams heard and even a Jurassic World immersive experience.
This was a former international trade port, and there are shops of all kinds, from traditional goods to souvenirs, to beauty, fashion and lifestyle products, gaming stops, to cafes and restaurants. There is also a Miniso land, which was the most crowded.
The Big C Foodplace Supermarket was very spacious and surprisingly had a bit more interesting items and snacks, and some that I couldn’t find in other places. There’s a dedicated section called ‘Tourist’s favourites’. There was a live seafood counter in Big C, including cooking service.
There was also a year-end music festival at Asiatique, and I wanted to catch Thailand’s Sheikh Haikel, F.Hero’s performance at the riverside at 7pm, but we missed it. I remember I had a great time watching him during Summer Sonic 2024.
Address: 2194 ถ. เจริญกรุง, Wat Phraya Krai, Bang Kho Laem, Bangkok 10120, Thailand
Things I skipped on Day 2
EmQuartier
While EmQuartier is adjacent to EmSphere, it is another huge luxury shopping mall that will take a few hours to explore. At the end of the year, they have an Extravaganza Sukhumvit Countdown 2026 – Winter Wonderland, which includes performances by Thai and international groups like Three Man Down, PERSES and PYSCHIC FEVER. The stage was set up earlier, so there were also performances on the weekend when we were in town.
Address: 693, 695 Sukhumvit Road, Bangkok 10110
Gateway at Bang Sue
End of the year season always brings the best shows for free in Bangkok. Wanted to catch Thai boyband PERSES who had a gig there from 3 to 4pm.
Address: 162, 168/10 Pracha Rat Sai 2 Rd, Bang Sue, Bangkok 10800, Thailand
Siam Square
Be there or be square – celebrity appearances galore for various pop-up activations. During that period, a GMMTV actor was scheduled to make an appearance at the Skywalk for the Mediheal pop-up event in the afternoon.
Address: 388 Rama I Rd, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
Ice Cream Samosorn
This dessert shop is located at am unassuming road and went viral for its melting Banana Creme Brulee sundae. The retro-style shop attracts crowds with its Thai-American fusion flavors, aesthetic and large-portion desserts. It was near our accommodation, so thought it would be a good supper spot to try, but we were too worn out.
Address: 368 ซอย จุฬาฯ 1, Wang Mai, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
Day 3, Monday
Phrigkiao Bangkok (Halal)
Back here for the second time because it is simply that delicious. Phrigkiao Bangkok is a two-level Thai restaurant situated along the shophouses at Siam Square. Certified by CICOT (The Central Islamic Council Of Thailand), the menu includes classic dishes like pad Thai and spicy green curry, and wagyu beef.
We may have over-ordered – four main dishes for two pax, but it was worth it considering the reasonable prices and good service. The ambience is cozy and inviting, suitable for both casual dining and special occasions.
Address: 410/5-6 Siam Square Soi 6, Khwaeng Pathum Wan, Pattumwan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
% Arabica Bangkok Empire Tower
Good coffee with a great view on the 55th floor. This is my second visit, and the view is still great if you like a panoramic bird’s eye view of Bangkok. You have to navigate through two beautifully designed areas before taking a luxurious elevator ride up. The only thing is the very limited in seats and you have many tourists who visit.
Bangkok’s cafe scene is unmatched. There are plenty of interesting cafes to explore even if you miss this one!
Address: Level 55, EA, Empire Tower, 1 S Sathon Rd, Yan Nawa, Sathon, Bangkok 10120, Thailand
BKK Airport
Potato Corner (Halal)
We can always count of Potato Corner for some halal snacks in Thailand. There is a Halal cert displayed at all locations we have seen in Thailand, including at the airport in Chiang Mai. Fried chicken and potato are always a no-regrets combo. It is found on Level 4 Gate F in the departure hall.
Pang Cha
Known for their Thai tea-flavored shaved ice with bread, it is a brand that serves Thai tea items. We saw the serving for their iconic shaved ice, and it was an insane size that would probably be for 3 – 4 pax. Trying the Thai milk tea with pearls was more than enough for us. It is also found at Level 4 Gate F nearer to the gates.
Things I skipped on Day 3
Many things were skipped on this day. So many interests, but I can only choose one.
RW Coffee and Wine
Opened by a celebrity couple who look super cute together, they opened up a cafe with a cool and cosy aesthetic softened by warm wooden accents and a minimalistic look.
You might be served by the power couple during their morning work shifts. The baristas are also known to be good-looking. The business grew such that they also opened a second Instgrammable branch.
Address: 126/39 ชั้น 1 อาคารปาร์คอเวนิว, Soi Sukhumvit 63, Khlong Tan Nuea, Watthana, Bangkok 10110, Thailand
Fried Banana Rama 5
Fried Banana Rama 5 is known for its Michelin-starred fried bananas, located away from public transport, so it is recommended to take a taxi or drive there. In addition to the crispy fried bananas, they offer sweet potato balls and various traditional dessert cakes. The waiting area doesn’t have air conditioning, but the queue moves quickly.
Address: 116/, Soi 1, บางสีทอง Bang Kruai District, Nonthaburi 11130, Thailand
TRUST Cafe and Studio
Did not have the time to visit the Ari district which is known for cafes and shops with various larger than life concepts. One of them is TRUST Cafe and Studio, with a playground, a basketball court and bright, whimsical decor. Visitors can always look forward to a good atmosphere with changing themes.
Address: 23, 1 Soi King Chamnan Aksorn, Phaya Thai, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
Beaker and Bitter
Beaker and Bitter is a coffee shop specifically designed with a scientific laboratory theme. The cafe is housed in a 1970s era building, with lab coats as fun photo-taking props. Also like the way the presented the coffee, which is true to its theme. I think the cafe was also used for drama series filming!
Reviews say it is a cosy place with different zones such as quiet areas for studying, regular seating, and private meeting rooms available for rent by the hour.
Address: 4 Sai Lom 1 Alley, Samsen Nai, Phaya Thai, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
Nature Thai Massage @siam soi5
Opened by a celebrity that also co-owns We Are Young cafe, I still have not had the opportunity to visit even though it is only a 1-minute walk away from the BTS and located in the city center. They have weekday discounts before 5pm.
Address: 392, 14 Alley, Khwaeng Pathum Wan, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
Central Pinklao
There was another celebrity appearance for a Tefal pop up event then at Central Pinklao. It was also located at a shopping center which had been given an upgrade in its looks and shopping variety. There are also a variety of entertainment facilities including a cinema and arcade.
Address: 7/1 Borommaratchachonnani Rd, Khwaeng Arun Amarin, Khet Bangkok Noi, Bangkok 10700, Thailand
Siam Paragon
There was another celebrity couple appearance for a brand event at Siam Paragon. The mall is more high-end, with international luxury fashion brands, exquisite watches, and even showcases luxurious cars (displayed in the mall itself!). The cinema here is also pretty amazing and always an eventful place.
Address: 991 Rama I Rd, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
Accommodation
We stayed at Ibis Bangkok Siam. The room was comfortable enough for two pax and comes with a pretty big window view. I thought they made use of the room layout pretty well. I personally liked that street because it was on the main road but still quiet enough, right in front of National Stadium BTS station, and walkable to the shopping in Siam. There was also a 7-Eleven at the lobby, and another physical store right next door at the row of shophouses. The convenience is 10/10.
Getting Around
Knowing the traffic conditions, public transport is the best option. Interestingly, we thought the traffic would be heavy during peak hours towards the BKK airport, but it was so smooth we were about an hour early for check-in. So, we could have left the city center slightly later, but all is good.
Another fast and furious Bangkok trip in the books – packed with shopping, good food, and the kind of chaos this city does best. Until next time, Bangkok, preferably with a few new spots to uncover.