Food Tours in Bangkok

Bangkok is a multicultural wonderland, filled with soaring skyscrapers that scream modernity and intricately decorated ancient temples in equal measure. Alongside its mesmerizing landmarks, the city is also well-known across the world for its rich culinary scene.

Food tours in Bangkok enable you to explore the ingredients used in Thai cooking, from fragrant lemongrass to red hot chilies and sour limes. Alongside a passionate local, you’ll discover the dishes that Thai residents can’t get enough of!

Here's all you need to know about food tours, one of the best gastronomic experiences in Bangkok.

What are the best food tours in Bangkok?

Chef-led food tour in Bangkok

Enjoy the best of the best on this food tour with spots hand-picked by a local chef well-versed in the city's cuisine.

As part of a small group, you’ll weave your way through the buzzing Chinatown district of Bangkok, discovering how Chinese culture has perfectly fused with Thai traditions since the arrival of the first immigrants in the 13th century. Try dishes that can’t be found in the rest of the city and explore new flavors that are unique to Chinese cuisine.

Some of the dishes you can expect to sample include chive dumplings accompanied by a Thai chili dipping sauce, as well as hot, and sour seafood soups. You’ll indulge in more than 16 tastings, allowing you to gain a great insight into Thai-inspired Chinese cuisine.

Nighttime food tour in Bangkok

Those who are averse to Thailand’s sweltering conditions may consider choosing an evening food experience in Bangkok that takes place when conditions are more manageable.

Taking to the streets of Bangkok after dark, you’ll hop aboard a tuk-tuk to whizz around the city and visit the most esteemed food vendors, loved by locals. You’ll try dishes from all over the country, including those from the northeastern region. Among the dishes you’ll try are sizzling charcoal-fried noodles fresh from the wok, as well as Thailand’s most beloved meal, pad thai — made with noodles, egg and meat stir-fried in a tamarind-based sauce.

As you move between street food stalls, your guide will fill you in on the most popular ingredients used in Thai cooking, as well as the culinary techniques that have been passed down through generations. Breathe in the fragrant aroma of thousands of fresh blooms at the city’s famous flower market before heading to a bar to indulge in a frosty brew or non-alcoholic beverage where you can toast your group and gain a panoramic view over the city’s temples, and high-rises.

Bus food tour experience in Bangkok

Experience Michelin-starred cuisine on this bus tour through Bangkok.

If you wish to sightsee and dine on traditional Thai dishes at the same time, opt for a bus tour that combines the two. You’ll drive around Rattanakosin Island, which is home to some of the most significant monuments in the city, including the Grand Palace, which has served as the seat of the king of Thailand for more than 200 years, as well as the Buddhist temple, Wat Pho.

As you move along the streets discovering more of the city than you would on foot, you’ll be served a Michelin-starred menu, which differs depending on the time of day you book your excursion for. Choose from lunch, afternoon tea, dinner or supper and see the city in its different lights.

Private food tour in Bangkok

Wander the streets alongside a local to be let in on the city’s best-kept secrets on this private food tour in Bangkok.

If you’re looking for greater personalization than a group tour provides, you should consider choosing a private experience. You’ll walk alongside a guide who is dedicated to your enjoyment, listening to their insightful commentary on Thai cuisine and asking any burning questions that spring to mind. You’ll hop between various markets, from some that sell produce to others flogging flowers in every color of the rainbow, sampling the culinary delights on offer in each.

Try fresh and zingy papaya salad, which is traditionally topped with dried shrimp, and roasted peanuts, as well as the country's staple — pad thai. Fish cakes, satay skewers and banana fritters are all on the menu, as well as Thai curry, which typically comes in three varieties depending on your spice tolerance — red, yellow, and green. Finish off with Thai sticky rice topped with your choice of fruit before washing your meal down with a coffee in a local cafe where your tour ends.

Are there any combos available with food tours in Bangkok?

Markets, temples and food tour in Bangkok

Those who are seeking a full Thai cultural experience can do so on this combination tour that visits several spectacular attractions, including the 19th-century UNESCO-listed Wat Prayun, built during the Rattanakosin Kingdom. You’ll speed across the city experiencing a number of sights, including Chinatown, where you can explore the flavor sensations of two cuisines perfectly combined, as well as the city’s flower market. From noodles to omelets, you won’t go hungry on this tour that deep dives into the country’s cuisine.

Food tour plus Klong boat ride

Discover the city from a new perspective as you sail leisurely along the Chao Phraya River, which meanders through the center of Bangkok. Then, stroll through the streets with your guide experiencing a range of mouthwatering dishes, including Hokkien noodles, steaming spring rolls and catfish salads before heading to a market, which you’ll explore independently.

Which places are visited?

Chinatown

The Chinatown you see today has been nestled in the heart of Bangkok for more than 200 years. However, the history of the Chinese in Thailand travels much further back to the 13th century when trade began between the two nations. The main strip of Chinatown is Yaowarat Road where you’ll find a myriad of food vendors, whipping up all manner of delicious goodies.

From patongo — Chinese fried dough sticks — to scalding noodles stir-fried with minced pork and fresh shrimp, you’ll discover a range of dishes that fuse the two cuisines together. Other dishes that are popular in this corner of the city include dim sum, fish balls and guay jub — a rolled rice noodle soup.

How much do food tours in Bangkok cost?

Bus tours of Bangkok cost just under US$50 per person of any age and you can expect to be part of a large group, all aboard a luxury coach.

Nighttime food tours in Bangkok take place in groups of 16 and cost between US$60, and US$70 per adult. There is a minimum booking requirement of two individuals, and children between 3, and 12 qualify for a discounted rate of just over US$50 each.

Another tour that costs between US$60 and US$70 per adult is one that includes a Klong boat ride along the Chao Phraya River. You’ll be part of a small group capped at eight tourists and children between 3, and 12 cost half the adult rate. Those under 3 incur no additional charge.

Chef-led culinary tours also cost between US$60 and US$70 per person. However, children will pay the same price as adults on this excursion. You’ll be part of a small group limited to eight participants, which creates a personal experience.

A combination markets, temples and food tour costs approximately US$70 per person of any age if you choose the group option. However, you can choose to upgrade to a private excursion for US$170 each.

Private food tours in Bangkok cost just over US$90 per person if you book as a solo traveler. However, the price per head reduces with each person added to your party, and, as a group of eight (the maximum size,) you’ll each pay less than US$30.

What is included?

Food tours in Bangkok vary in the number of tastings they offer. Some include a handful of dishes to try while others enable you to indulge in more than 16 decadent treats. You may also have an alcoholic or non-alcoholic drink included in the overall tour price. These excursions also always include the services of a friendly and energetic guide who is an expert on Thai cuisine, and will lead you to the best spots in the city.

Where does it start?

Culinary tours in Bangkok begin at various easy-to-reach destinations across the city, such as train stations or shopping centers. You’ll be able to see the meeting point of each excursion before booking so that you can plan your route and arrange any necessary transportation ahead of time. Your guide will usually be wearing or holding an item that makes them easily identifiable once you arrive at the location.

How long does it last?

Generally, food tours in Bangkok last 4 hours, which gives you plenty of time to try a selection of the most popular and widely accessible foods eaten by Thai locals, and do a spot of sightseeing along the way.

Is it wheelchair friendly?

Bangkok food tours are typically not suitable for wheelchair users. However, each operator imposes different restrictions and so you should consult the booking page of any excursion that piques your interest to see if it is suitable for your group. Alternatively, those with limited mobility can select from a myriad of food and wine experiences in Bangkok.

When is the best time for a food tour in Bangkok?

Food tours in Bangkok are typically available throughout the day, with each time offering a unique experience. Morning tours include sampling breakfast foods and seeing the fresh food market in action. Afternoon tours may include lunch and snacks, evening tours may include dinner and street food options. However, if you want to experience the bustling street food scene, evening tours are especially exciting and usually start between 5pm and 6pm.

Is it safe?

Food tours in Bangkok are safe. Guides know everything about the city and usually select the best markets, areas and cooking classes. However, if you have a sensitive stomach, it's a good idea to carry your personal medication with you.

Are children allowed?

Of course! Kids can participate to a food tour and actually it is a great way to learn about new dishes and new cultures. Some companies even offer family tours with less spicy dishes to appeal to younger palates.

Travel tips

• Wear comfortable shoes and be sure to drink plenty of water.
• Open your mind and enjoy a variety of Thai dishes.
• Please let your guide know if you have any allergies or dietary restrictions.
• If you're a foodie and want to remember all the great dishes you've tasted, taking notes or taking pictures of the dishes might help.