If you are looking for a comprehensive Bangkok itinerary that combines the famous tourist attractions with a taste of the real Bangkok then we hope you’ll find this itinerary useful.

W have put together a complete guide covering how to spend 3 or 4 days in Bangkok, Thailand, after many visits to this huge, buzzing, metropolis that fuses the ancient and ultra modern together in a hot, heady mix.

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Day 1 – Old Bangkok – Grand Palaces and Temples
 

Morning: Start your Bangkok itinerary by diving into Thailand’s cultural heritage and ticking off the city’s most famous and spectacular sights, palaces and temples in old Bangkok.

Your first stop should be the stunning Grand Palace, a gorgeous glittering masterpiece of Thai art and architecture and the former residence of the Thai royal family.
 

The Grand Palace complex is also home to Wat Phra Kaew (The Temple of the Emerald Buddha) which houses a revered statue of the Buddha carved from a single piece of jade. Entry to the Grand Palace costs 500 Thai Baht for foreigners and it’s is open from 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM. We recommend getting there as early as possible.

If you’re not staying nearby then the best way to get there is to catch the sky train to Saphan Thaksin and then take the Chao Phraya Express Boat up the river to Phra Athit. It’s a fun and refreshing way to get around and see the sights. Check out this guide to getting around Bangkok by boat first.

After your mind has been blown by the Grand Palace you could check out the unique Amulet Market and then head to Wat Pho (The Temple of the Reclining Buddha) and marvel at the massive famous reclining buddha that is covered in gold leaf. You can also enjoy a foot massage at the traditional Thai medicine and massage school here.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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As these temples are religious sites they have a strict dress code. Both men and women must dress respectively (covering shoulders and legs) and remove footwear to enter. Shorts and sleeveless tops are not permitted, so wear loose, lightweight pants and a t shirt and be respectful of the local customs and traditions. See more tips for visiting temples in Thailand.

Be aware that there are a few scams around the Grand Palace and there’s so much detail to take in you might want to take a guided tour to learn about Thai culutre and spiritualty and have the best experience. If you’d like a guide consider this private and customizable full day Bangkok tour. Your friendly guide will accompany you wherever you want to go and help you get to know the city.

 

Lunch: For lunch, why not enjoy some traditional Thai food by the riverside. Near Wat Pho you’ll find a variety of restaurants including THE SIXTH 6th, a reasonably priced cosy and tasty Thai café.

If you’d like a lunch with a view try Eat Sight Story Deck, a cosy waterfront restaurant with views of Wat Arun. They serve a variety of traditional Thai dishes like green curry and pad thai, as well as some western favourites.

Afternoon: If you want to escape the afternoon heat and learn more about Thai culture and history why not visit one of Bangkok’s air-conditioned museums. The Museum of Siam is an interactive museum close to Wat Pho and makes the ideal activity to do after lunch.

Afterwards, cross the river and visit the iconic Wat Arun (the Temple of Dawn.) Wat Arun is one of the oldest temples in Bangkok and is dedicated to the Hindu god Aruna. It’s famous for it’s 70 meter high mosaic covered spire (phrang) which you can climb up for amazing views over the river.
Cross back over the river and grab a taxi or tuk tuk to Wat Saket Ratchaworamahawihan (The Golden Mount) in time for sunset and enjoy the views over the city. If you fancy trying some Michelin starred Bangkok street food then Jay Fay’s stall is close by. This famous goggled chef is renowned for her amazing crab omelettes.

Evening: A popular and relaxing way to end your first day in Bangkok is with a Chao Phraya River Cruise. These cruises usually include a buffet dinner (and some also have entertainment or karaoke) It’s a nice way to see the temples along the river and the skyline illuminated at night.

Or check out the infamous Khao San Road, a buzzing street popular with backpackers and budget travelers that is lined with street food stalls, bars and nightclubs with cheap drinks. Even if you’re not a backpacker, it’s a unique experience and worth a look.

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If you prefer something a bit more refined you could catch a boat down to the Asiatique night market on the waterfront where you’ll find plenty of stalls and shops, food and drink, a ferris wheel and a lively atmosphere.

If you’re tired after all the exploring, or still getting over the jet lag, then take the opportunity to relax with a traditional Thai massage, either at your hotel or in one of the many massage parlours and spas. Massages in Thailand are very affordable so why not treat yourself.

 

Day 2: Floating Markets and a Tuk Tuk Tour

After temples, another thing that Bangkok is famous for is floating markets, street food and shopping so get ready to explore these on your 2nd day in Bangkok.

 

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Morning: Bangkok is known as the Venice of the East due to it’s ancient waterways and traditionally many markets were held on the water. Nowdays, Bangkok’s floating markets are pretty touristy but it’s still a fun and unique experience.

Start your day by heading to the Damnoen Saduak floating market where vendors ply the canals in boats selling everything from snacks to souvenirs. Hop aboard a long tail boat to join in the fun and practice your bargaining skills.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Another interesting sight is the Maeklong railway market where you’ll experience the vendors packing up the stalls and jumping out of the way as the train comes through the market.

These markets are a bit out of the city so the easiest way to get there is with a tour. This floating market and railway market tour combines both into an easy half day trip.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Afternoon: If you visit Bangkok on a weekend then take the BTS to the massive Chatuchak weekend market. With over 15,000 stalls organized into 26 sections spread across 35 acres, this market is one of the largest in the world.

You can find everything at the Chatuchak weekend market, from clothing, accessories and souvenirs to home decor, handmade crafts, and antiques. It’s a great place to shop for bargains and souvenirs or just enjoy the bustling vibe and try some delicious Thai snacks.

 

 

 

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If you’re not shopped out yet, head to Siam – the heart of modern Bangkok where you’ll find the city’s best modern malls all conveniently located close together, and the Bangkok Art and Culture Center.

Some of the best malls include Central World, Siam Discovery, Siam Paragon and MBK. They also have huge food courts where you’re spoilt for choice with all kinds of Thai and international food at affordable prices.

Also nearby and well worth a visit is the Jim Thompson House Museum. Jim Thompson was an American businessman and art collector who helped revive the Thai silk industry in the 1950s and his disappearance in Malaysia remains a mystery to this day.

Located in a beautiful garden oasis in the heart of Bangkok near Siam Square, this unique museum showcases traditional Thai architecture and features a collection of art, silks, antiques and artifacts from all over Thailand.

And if you need an escape from the city hop on the skytrain and visit Lumpini Park, Bangkok’s central park and largest greenspace. This manicured park is home to some massive monitor lizards and offers a great view of the Bangkok skyline and business district. You can rent a pedalo for a fun way to explore the lake.

 

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Evening: Bangkok really comes alive after dark once the heat dies down so it’s a great time to explore. Not only is Bangkok’s nightlife legendary, the temples and skyscrapers are illuminated and the night markets and street food stalls come to life.

Bangkok’s street food stalls serve up cheap, fresh and tasty thai cuisine like pad thai, tom yam soup, mango sticky rice and loads of dishes you’ve probably never even heard off.

 

Trying the street food is an essential part of getting to know the city but it’s a good idea to take a guided food tour with a local to avoid any stomach issues!

A fun way to explore the city and it’s food at night is with a tuk tuk tour! This Bangkok by Night: Temples, Markets and Food Tuk Tuk Tour will zip you around Old Bangkok after day you’ll see the temples illuminated, explore bustling Chinatown, a colourful 24 hour flower market, and local street food markets.
Your guide will take you to only the best and most authentic street food stalls where they know the food is safe, so it’s a great way to try the local cuisine and get to know Bangkok after dark. The tuk tuk ride in itself can also be quite a thrilling experience!
 

If you’re up for partying afterwards head down Sukhumvit Road for a taste of Bangkok’s vibrant nightlife scene. Sukhumvit Soi 11 is a good place to start with plenty of bars and popular nightclubs like Sugar. Levels, and Candy.

Be aware that Sukhumvit is also home to infamous red light districts like Nana Plaza and Soi Cowboy. If you prefer to avoid that vibe then avoid those streets or check out the classier scene in trendy Thonglor and Ekamai. BangkokNightlife.com has more information on what’s happening after dark.

Just don’t stay too late as there’s still plenty to explore tomorrow.

Day 3 – Ancient Ayutthaya

Daytime: If you’re interested in Thai history and want to see some more iconic sights from Thailand’s past then Ayutthaya is a must visit.

The ancient city of Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is located just 1.5 hours from Bangkok so it makes an easy day trip. It was once the capital of Siam (the former name of Thailand) and a wealthy trading port.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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The Ayutthaya Historical Park contains the ruins of the ancient temples and palaces of the former capital. A highlight is the three impressive stupas (dome-shaped structures) of Wat Phra Sri Sanphet, the huge reclining buddha and the Buddha head entwined in tree roots at Wat Mahathat.

As the site is in ruins having a local guide will help bring the ruined capital to life so you understand it’s importance. This Ayutthaya day trip includes transport, a knowledgeable guide and also visits the nearby former summer home of the Thai kings – Bang Pa-In Royal Palace.

 

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Other Day Trips from Bangkok

Ayutthaya is the quickest and best day trip from Bangkok, but there are plenty of other options too:

• Kanchanaburi – A historically important town surrounded by natural beauty home to the famous Bridge over the River Kwai, the Death Railway, the Hellfire Pass Memorial Museum and the amazing 7 tiered Erawan waterfalls in the Erawan National Park. The easiest way to explore it all in one day is with this Kanchahaburi private tour, but it can be quite a long day as it takes 2 – 3 hours to get there and there’s so much to see.

• Khao Yai National Park – A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest and most diverse national parks in Thailand with hiking trails, wildlife, scenic viewpoints and Haew Narok waterfall, famously featured in the movie ‘The Beach‘. It’s 2 – 3 hours from Bangkok and this Khao Yai National Park full day tour visits the highlights.

• Pattaya Beach – If you don’t have time to visit Thailand’s islands, luckily the beach resort city of Pattaya is only 2 hours from Bangkok. It’s famous for it’s nightlife, but there’s also lovely beaches, cultural sights like the unique Sanctuary of Truth, an impressive carved wooden temple, and the nearby island of Koh Larn to explore. This Pattaya day trip visits the highlights with plenty of time to enjoy the beach.
  
  Day 4 – Ancient City Museum, Backstreet Tour and Rooftop Bar
  
   

• If you are planning a 4 day itinerary for Bangkok then you’ve got time to get off the beaten track and discover some more authentic areas, now you’ve seen Bangkok’s major tourist attractions.

• Morning: Head just outside the city to the amazing Ancient City Museum. Also known as Muang Boran, this is the largest outdoor museum in the world and showcases the history of Thailand from ancient times to the present day in a fun way.

• This unique museum features over 100 replicas of famous Thai landmarks, including temples, palaces, and shrines. It’s like a whirlwind tour through Thailand’s most impressive sights with many great photo opportunities. It’s a sprawling 250 acre site that is best explored by bicycle or tram. Even if you’re not a museum person it’s well worth visiting. Get your tickets here.

• Have lunch in the Ancient City and head back to explore the real Bangkok!

• Afternoon: If you want to get a better insight into local life and experience parts of Bangkok that most tourists don’t see I recommend taking a tour of one of the more traditional and authentic neighbourhoods, like Thonburi.

 

 

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• Thonburi is the oldest district in Bangkok and a former capital, located on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River. It’s a laid back, more authentic, residential neighborhood with canals, wooden houses and beautiful temples, including Wat Arun.

• The best way to explore the hidden gems of this area is on a bike tour through the backstreets, or a boat tour of the canals, which will give you a unique perspective on the city and its history.
  
  Another area worth visiting is Bangkok’s Chinatown, a busy district full of energy, amazing food, markets, shrines, temples, gold shops and traditional Chinese medicine stores. You can also visit Wat Traimit (The Golden Buddha Temple) and check out the street art in Talat Noi nearby Chinatown.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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• The main street in Chinatown, Yaowarat Road, is where you’ll find some of the city’s best street food with vendors selling everything from crispy fried chicken and dim sum to steaming bowls of noodles. It’s a great place to take a food tour if you want to try the best dishes.

• This award winning Bangkok Backstreets Food Tour was designed by a chef and is lead by an expert food guide. You’ll explore the streets of Chinatown while indulging in over 15 tastings of Thailand’s best dishes such as chicken satay, Thai curries, noodles and more.
  
   

• If you’d like to explore the hidden gems of both Chinatown and Thonburi consider this Real Bangkok bicycle tour. where you’ll explore the narrow alleyways of Chinatown and the canals of Thonburi to see and experience things that you are unlikely to come across on your own.

• Evening: Bangkok is home to some of the best rooftop bars in the world, offering cocktails and dinner with stunning views of the city skyline – it’s the perfect way to spend your last night in Bangkok!
  
   

• One of the most popular rooftop bars in Bangkok is the Sky Bar at Lebua State Tower, which was featured in the movie “The Hangover Part II”. Another great option is the Sky Bar observation deck at Baiyoke Sky Hotel and the Octave Rooftop Lounge & Bar at the Bangkok Marriott Hotel Sukhumvit.

• The newest tallest building in Bangkok is the King Power Mahanakhon Tower, which has a glass floor observation deck and skywalk as well as a rooftop bar on its 78th floor called “Mahanakhon Bangkok SkyBar” which offers 360 degree views of the city.

• For the best experience go just before sunset to witness the city as it changes from day to night and be aware that many rooftop bars have a dress code, no shorts or sandals, so make sure to dress up for the occasion.

• If you want to carry the night on head either Sukhumvit or Khao San Road afterwards.
  
  And if you want to head north next check out our suggested itinerary for Chiang Mai,  or if you want to check out the islands read this Phuket and Krabi itinerary for more tips to plan an amazing trip to Thailand!
  
   

• As you can see, Bangkok has so much more to offer than just temples, malls, and bars, so I hope this blog has inspired you to explore more of the Thai capital!

• While the Grand Palace, golden temples, river cruises, floating markets, and rooftop bars are certainly a highlight there’s so many more things to do in Bangkok!

• It’s really worth spending 4 days in Bangkok so you can get a taste of the city beyond the popular tourist attractions. If you explore the backstreets and canals of the more traditional neighbourhoods and visit Ayutthaya you’ll see a different side to the city.

• How ever many times you visit Bangkok there’s always something new to discover!