Established in 1782 by King Rama I as the capital of Siam, Bangkok (Krung Thep) literally means “City of Angels”.

Bangkok Overview: the city of angels

Since then, Bangkok has developed into a huge metropolis that is packed with skyscrapers, luxurious hotels, high-tech shopping malls and a modern international airport, as well as an endless variety of good restaurants. It is a mixture of the old and the new, of East and West, and this is apparent wherever you go. Bangkok offers a wealth of great temples, museums, and other historic sights to enjoy.

Bangkok overview: Main areas in the city

Located in the central part of Thailand on the north of the Gulf of Siam, Bangkok is Thailand's largest urban city, covering a land area of approximately 1,500 square kilometres. The Chao Phraya River divides Bangkok city into two areas – Bangkok and Thon Buri.

Across the river is the old city of Thonburi, which existing long before Bangkok's founding. In fact, Thonburi was the capital of Siam for a short period before the new capital was established. One of the city's most recognizable landmarks, Wat Arun, is in Thonburi.

To the north of the old royal precinct is the Banglampu area, more commonly known as Khaosan Road, popular with budget travelers. Further north and slightly east is the Dusit district, where the royal family's current primary residence (Chitlada Palace) is, near to the houses of parliament and the Dusit Zoo.

To the east along the river is the city's Chinatown district, called Yaowarat. Further east are the big riverside hotels set amid the oldest embassies and former trading houses of the west. Heading north away from the river at this point is Silom Road, home to many of the main tourist hotels as well as the city's most notorious "entertainment" area: Patpong. Still further north of Silom is the main shopping district centered on Siam Square, which includes Mahboonkrong (MBK) Center, Siam Discovery, Siam Center, World Trade Center, Narayanapand, Gaysorn Plaza, Amarin Plaza and Central Chidlom.

A little further north of the Siam Square area is the Pratunam, the city's garment district. Heading west from Siam Square is the Sukhumvit road area, home to many more tourist hotels, business hotels and entertainment areas.