30 Best Things to Do in BANGKOK Itinerary (3-Days)
Are you looking for the best things to do in Bangkok? In this article, we will share the very best activities and locations that we experienced during our 3-day Bangkok itinerary. From majestic temples to raunchy nightlife, bustling markets and more – every type of traveller will find something to love in the things to do in Bangkok. Continue reading to find out more!
Bangkok is a city of contrast. Skyscrapers, mega malls and skytrains are juxtaposed by golden temples, orange-robed monks and street vendors. An attack on the senses, Bangkok has an electric energy that can’t be matched elsewhere.
Capital of Thailand, the Land of Smiles, Bangkok has the equally friendly nickname of The Big Mango and big it most certainly is! The size of the city can feel overwhelming at times however, it means you will never run out of things to do in Bangkok.
We have visited Bangkok three times and it is easily one of our favourite cities in the world. It’s one of those destinations that seems to have it all and is a great jumping-off point to the rest of Asia. We highly recommend you visit Bangkok and by the end of this Bangkok itinerary you will know why!
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Contents
Essential Travel Tools
✈️ Flights: Skyscanner
🚆Transport: 12GoAsia
🏨 Accommodation: Booking.com
📸 Tours: Viator/Klook
🚗 Car hire: Discover Cars
Best Time to Visit Bangkok
Having been to Bangkok a few times now we can vouch that the seasons are hot, hot and hotter. Unfortunately, being drowned in your own sweat is just part of the experience.
However, November to February are the cooler months when the city heat becomes more tolerable. Evening temperatures can drop down to a comfortable 22 degrees perfect for exploring on foot.
🎉 Bangkok’s Festivals
Songkran/Thai New Year (famous water fight festival): mid-April
Loy Krathong (festival of lights): November
Chinese New Year: usually late January/early February
How to Get to & Around Bangkok
Bangkok has two international airports Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) and Don Mueang International Airport (DMK). For the best deals on flights, we recommend that you use Skyscanner. Both airports are well-connected thanks to Bangkok’s transport systems. The easiest, cheapest and quickest will be via the modern rail network.
If you are arriving at Suvarnabhumi Airport, take the Bangkok Airport Rail link to the last stop Phya Thai BTS Station. The journey should take around 30 minutes and will cost only 45 Baht (£1).
As of 2022, from Don Mueang International Airport there is a newly opened ‘Red Line’ MRT service that will connect travellers to the north of the city centre with Bang Sue Grand Station being the last stop. The journey will take only 20 minutes and cost 33 Baht (£0.80).
Once you have arrived in the city centre there are plenty of modes of transport for getting around whether it be the metro, bus, Grab taxi, river ferry or even an iconic tuk-tuk. However, on our third visit, we still found Bangkok to be quite difficult to get around.
Unfortunately, Bangkok is massive. Everything seems to be so spread out and walks between things are painful in 35 degrees. Taxis save your energy but the traffic is another downfall of this city, making sightseeing feel a bit of a slog at times.
Our favourite method of transport was the river ferry. Most of the main sights are located along Bangkok’s river making the ferry the perfect way to explore them. It’s cheap, efficient and fun!
Where to Stay in Bangkok
First-timers who want to be in the centre of all the action will love staying near the infamous Khaosan Road. If you want nightlife, this is the place to be. However, if you look beyond the buckets of booze, this area is fantastic for all types of travellers.
Khaosan has a ferry port allowing you to utilise the river to see all the main attractions. It has an abundance of restaurants and bars open when the rest of the city is closed. Khaosan is also home to loads of great value hotels.
If you don’t want the craziness of Khaosan and are looking for somewhere more upmarket we recommend the central area of Siam. Here you will be well connected via the MRT or Skytrain and find some of the best malls in the city, relaxing parks and stylish accommodation options.
🏨 Hotels in Bangkok
Luxury: Siam Kempinski Hotel Bangkok
Mid-range: Chillax Heritage Hotel Khaosan
Budget: Lamphuhouse Bangkok
…find more accommodation options here.
Map of The Best Things to Do in Bangkok
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Bangkok Itinerary
Day 1 – Temples and Khaosan Road
For the first day of your Bangkok itinerary, we recommend hitting up the sights along the Chao Phraya River. This way, you will be able to see some of the best things to do in Bangkok whilst also enjoying the riverside views.
1. Cruise the Chao Phraya River
Price: from THB 16 (£0.40) for the orange flag or THB 30 (£0.72) for the blue flag one way, THB 100 (£2.40) for an unlimited blue flag day pass
Start your day by cruising along the Chao Phraya River towards the most popular temples in all of Bangkok. Sightseeing along the river is easy and, in our opinion, the best way to travel around this busy city. Most of the key things to do in Bangkok are situated on the banks of the river and the refreshing breeze you get by travelling via boat is much welcome in the humid heat of the city.
There are a couple of ferry options here. Either board the cheaper local boats (orange flag) or the slightly more expensive tourist boat (blue flag). As this first day of our Bangkok itinerary involves an early start, only the local boats will be running so catch an orange-flagged boat around 07:30.
2. Wat Arun – The Temple of Dawn
Price: THB 100 (£2.40) per person including a small bottle of water
Our favourite temple and one of the best things to do in Bangkok, Wat Arun is simply stunning. Its presence as you approach from the river is a sight that will be burned into your memory.
Fittingly, aim to arrive at The Temple of Dawn as it opens at 08:00. You will be able to appreciate this special place even more with fewer people there.
The main tower is 80 metres high and the steep stairways on all sides are interpreted as stairways to heaven. Wat Arun’s symmetrical structure, intricate carvings and colourful ceramics are a feast for the eyes and make it extremely photogenic (you have probably seen it on Instagram).
There is plenty to see around the temple complex and you will need to carve at least one hour out of your Bangkok itinerary to do it justice.
3. Wat Pho
Price: THB 200 (£4.80) per person including a small bottle of water
From Wat Arun, board the shuttle ferry across to Wat Pho for THB 5 (£0.12) per person.
Wat Pho is well-known for its impressive 46-metre-long reclining Buddha. Once you see this Reclining Buddha statue, you will never forget it. You almost dwarf in size as it gazes down at you. There are 108 bronze bowls alongside the statue where worshippers can drop 108 coins (purchased for 20 baht (£0.48)) as part of a good luck ritual.
The grounds of Wat Pho also house the National Headquarters for Traditional Thai Massage. There aren’t many religious sights in the world where you could have a massage so why not experience one here?
4. Grand Palace & Emerald Buddha Temple
Price: THB 500 (£12) per person
The Grand Palace of Bangkok is an ornate collection of buildings. Whilst the Palace complex can feel overwhelming due to the sheer volume of things to see, you are truly spoiled for choice as some of the most impressive temples in Bangkok are right next to each other. It’s hard to know what to look at next.
The most impressive and big-ticket sight is the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Said to be the most important Buddhist temple in all of Thailand, the green figurine is carved out of a single piece of jade and clothed in gold and diamonds. As if the Emerald Buddha itself isn’t enough, the spectacular paintings that plaster the interior of the temple are also mind-blowing.
5. IconSiam
Price: Free
Amongst the largest malls in Asia, IconSiam stands out on the Chao Phraya riverbank.
Unless you are looking for designer clothes, the main draw to this mall is the staged street food market on its ground floor. Sook Siam features food from all 77 provinces in Thailand, allowing tourists to sample their way across the country. If you are a foodie, you can’t afford to miss this place as it’s the most convenient way to sample Thailand’s world-famous cuisine. We particularly loved the beef noodle soup stand and the roti stand.
IconSiam also offers a free shuttle boat across the river to Sathorn Pier and Si Phraya Pier which is well worth taking advantage of.
6. Ong Ang Canal
Price: Free
Next, jump off the boat at Memorial Bridge and stroll along the revitalised Ong Ang Canal.
Ong Ang Canal is a wonderful place for a stroll and provides plenty of photo opportunities with the many pieces of street art. The walking street is often frequented by street performers and food stalls so why not nibble your way along the canal? This area has seen a lot of investment into its beautification, giving tourists and locals a charming space within bustling Bangkok.
7. Wat Ratchanatdaram Worawihan
Price: Free
Continuing past the canal you will shortly arrive at Wat Ratchanatdaram Worawihan.
Known as the “metal castle” for its 37 iron spires to symbolise the 37 virtues to reach enlightenment, Wat Ratchanatdaram is one of Bangkok’s more unique temples. Only two other temples of this style have existed, one in India and one in Sri Lanka but Wat Ratchanatdaram is the only one still standing.
Climb to the top of the spire for a great view of the Golden Mount Temple opposite and across Bangkok.
8. Golden Mount Temple
Price: THB 100 (£2.40) per person
Head across the road to Wat Saket, or the Golden Mount Temple, to watch the sunset from Bangkok’s only hill. The final temple on day one of our Bangkok itinerary, Wat Saket has glorious views over the city.
The Golden Mount Temple is one of Bangkok’s oldest, dating back to the Ayutthaya period. The base of the “mountain” also contains a cemetery where mass graves were dug during the plague giving the surrounding neighbourhood the name “Ghost Gate”. Maybe don’t stick around after dark!
9. Khaosan Road
Price: Free
To conclude day one, let’s explore Bangkok’s lively nightlife on the infamous Khaosan Road. That’s if you have any energy left anyway.
Khaosan Road is legendary with backpackers where you can eat, drink and be merry, usually on a budget. You may have seen Khaosan Road in the film The Beach starring Leonardo DiCaprio, showing the raucous, leary party scenes the road is famous for.
However, there is more to Khaosan Road than partying. Tourists are able to shop for souvenirs and find tasty Thai dishes for bargain prices. We recommend visiting Khaosan Road at least once in your life.
Day 2 – Parks, Malls and Chinatown
Day two of this Bangkok itinerary showcases the best of Bangkok’s green spaces, the gigantic malls and dips your toes into the sketchier side of the city before ending with the culinary delights found in Chinatown.
10. Benchakitti Forest Park
Price: Free
Often overlooked on other Bangkok itineraries, Benchakitti Park is one of the most underrated things to do in Bangkok. Its brand new 120-hectare expansion makes Benchakitti the largest and most beautiful green space in Thailand’s capital.
This park is a true highlight for us as its landscape feels wild. The perfectly constructed wetlands attract a variety of wildlife from herons to monitor lizards that can be observed from the 1.2-mile elevated walkways.
Benchakitti park also has various cycle and jogging paths, an amphitheatre for events and a huge lake bordered by blossoming flowers. Try to get here early in the morning to beat the stifling heat.
11. Terminal21 Asok
Price: Free
Next, just a 10-minute walk from the north exit of Benchakitti Park you will arrive at Terminal21. We usually wouldn’t include malls on an itinerary but Thailand does malls so well, it’s hard not to list them as one of the things to do in Bangkok.
Terminal21 offers visitors a trip around the world with its whimsical architecture whisking you through some of the planet’s best cities. From the Carribean, through European highlights of Paris, London and Rome and Asia’s Istanbul and Tokyo before ending in San Francisco and Hollywood, Terminal21 is an adventure. Each floor is different from the last as this mall truly commits to its travel theme.
12. Siam Malls – Siam Paragon & centralwOrld
Price: Free
Have we already mentioned that Bangkok has a lot of malls? Some of the best malls in the world in fact. Whether you are a shopaholic desperate to browse the rails or just seeking sanctuary in that sweet AC, the malls are a must for any Bangkok itinerary.
Board the Skytrain at Asok and head over to Siam. From here you can visit Siam Paragon and centralwOrld. Filled with high-street and designer shops, entertainment options such as cinemas and bowling alleys, and incredible foodcourts with budget-friendly options, you are sure to enjoy your visit to Bangkok’s malls. If you are a techie in search of some new, cheap gear you can also find the tech malls Pantip IT Mall and MBK Center in this area.
13. Lumphini Park
Price: Free
Two parks in one day, are we mental? Despite being so close by, Lumphini and Benchakitti Park are completely different. Whilst Benchakitti has wild wetlands, Lumphini has manicured lawns, perfect for relaxing. That is until you see the huge monitor lizards emerging from the lake. Did you know they could climb trees? Because we didn’t.
One of the more fun things to do in Bangkok is to rent one of Lumphini Park’s free kayaks or swan pedalos and get out onto the lake. The park also features activities such as tai chi, and social dancing, and also has a library so you can get lost in a book – whilst keeping one eye on those lizards.
14. Patpong Museum
Price: THB 350 (£8.40) per person including a free guided tour
Dip your toes into the seedier side of Bangkok by visiting the Patpong Museum. This museum delves into the fascinating history of the Patpong area which became a CIA base during America’s secret war on Laos. Discover how some Chinese migrants became sex workers, contributing to Patpong becoming an affluent area of Bangkok, and how the ping pong shows came about.
We won’t give away too much but we thoroughly enjoyed our time at this museum. We recommend having the guided tour so you really get an understanding of the displays and our tour guide, Apple was so informative. Trust us when we say this will be one of the most interesting parts of your Bangkok itinerary.
15. Chinatown
Price: Free
Finally, end day two amongst the neon lights of Chinatown.
Bangkok’s Chinatown is the largest Chinatown on earth and arguably one of the best. Mosey on down Yaowarat Road indulging in whatever mouth-watering delights tickle your fancy. Amongst the street food stalls, you can also find Michelin-star eateries where you can sample top-notch food on a budget.
Chinatown is a colourful, bustling area well known for its quality street food, unusual desserts and Thai delicacies such as shark fin and bird nest soup. You are bound to come here at least once during your time in Bangkok but how adventurous you are is up to you.
We love Jek Pui which is tucked away from the busy main street and serves a limited menu of curry with rice or noodles.
Day 3 – Markets
Day three is dependent on whether your time in Bangkok lies on a weekend. Most of these day three activities are only open Saturdays and Sundays. Adjust the itinerary accordingly to make sure you don’t miss out!
16. Floating Markets
Price: from THB 856 (£20.55) – book your tour here
Probably one of the most famous things to do in Bangkok, visiting a floating market is a must for any Bangkok itinerary. Labelled the “Venice of the East” Bangkok’s daily commerce used to be conducted on the vast river and canal networks.
The two most popular floating markets; Damnoen Saduak and Amphawa are situated about an hour and a half outside of Bangkok so we suggest joining a tour. This way you don’t have to worry about expensive transportation and will be guided through the best of what each market has to offer. Board a longboat and sample lip-smacking Thai food, barter for souvenirs, or sit back and take it all in.
We have also included some other floating markets on our Bangkok itinerary map. These are located closer to Bangkok and some have a more authentic feel as they are slightly more off the beaten path such as Khlong Lat Mayom and Taling Chan.
17. Maeklong Railway Market
Price: from THB 856 (£20.55) – book your tour here
Usually combined with a tour of Damoen Saduak and Amphawa Floating Markets, the Maeklong Railway Market is one of the more unique markets in Asia. The market is based around an active railway track which transforms as sellers rush to retract their goods when the train charges down the tracks.
Whilst visitors are mainly drawn to the market to experience the novelty of the train passing by, it is actually one of the more authentic markets in Thailand. Yes, you will see some clothes and accessories but the majority of the market is made up of Thai sweets, seafood and fresh produce.
18. Chatuchak Weekend Market
Price: Free
Visiting Chatuchak Weekend Market is genuinely one of our favourite things to do in Bangkok. We haven’t come across a market anywhere else in the world that measures up to Chatuchak.
There are so many sections, it’s not surprising that it is the world’s largest weekend market with over 15,000 stalls and 200,000 visitors every weekend. Personal highlights are the art, interiors and antique areas. Seriously, the art section is like walking through a gallery!
You can literally get everything you can think of at Chatuchak Market. Stands selling scrumptious street food, indie boutiques selling boho home decor and a book stall with possibly every book under the sun. The shopping is limitless!
There is even a pet section but we find this area uncomfortable. Animals in cramped cages in the 35+ degree heat sold for bargain prices make for sad viewing. One shop was even seeing a big cat (we suspect it was a lynx). Skip the pet section and make your way to the much better bits the market has to offer.
19. Rooftop bar
Price: signature cocktails from THB 1,150 (£27.60)
Finally, end your time in Bangkok on a bang by sipping on a cocktail at a rooftop bar. Popular spots include the Sky Bar as featured in the Hangover 2 film or the SkyWalk Bar on the top of the King Power Mahanakhon building. Soak in the 360° views of the vast cityscape and raise a glass to a successful Bangkok adventure.
Day 4+ – Additional things to do in Bangkok
If you have more time in Bangkok or are just looking for alternative options for your itinerary, check out this list of additional things to do in Bangkok.
20. Khlong Bang Luang Floating Market
Price: Free
This is actually the floating market we decided to visit whilst in Bangkok. Whilst it is more of a canal with stalls on either side, you can still charter a boat and enjoy a tour of the city’s canal system.
Khlong Bang Luang Floating Market is much less crowded, with a more local feel to it. A key point of interest is the Artist’s House where you can sip a cuppa whilst beading a bracelet or partaking in other crafty activities.
21. Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen
Price: Free
A bit of a hidden gem, the Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen Temple has plenty of wow factor. Conveniently located by Khlong Bang Luang Market, the two can perfectly combine for a morning excursion.
Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen features a humongous golden Buddha statue and a green ceilinged pagoda that serves serious Wizard of Oz vibes. This is definitely worthy of a spot on your Bangkok itinerary.
22. Wat Samphran – The Dragon Temple
Price: Free – book your tour here
We think it is unlikely you have ever seen a temple like this one before. Wat Samphran is an extraordinary temple that features a dragon wrapped around a pastel pink 80m tower. The dragon symbolises a human’s journey from suffering to happiness whilst the 17-storey tower signifies Brahma’s heavenly realms one reaches in the afterlife. We’re sure we can all agree, this is seriously jaw-dropping.
Based 40km outside of Bangkok, the most comfortable way to reach this temple is by taxi or tour.
23. Watch a Muay Thai Fight
Price: from THB 1,000 (£24) – book your discounted tickets here
Join the cheering spectators at a Muay Thai Fight. Once used in military combat, Muay Thai is an ancient Thai martial art that thrills audiences worldwide. The best places to catch a fight are New Lumpinee Boxing Stadium on Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays or Rajadamnern Boxing Stadium on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays. Basically, you can watch one any night of the week.
24. Tuk-tuk Night Tour
Price: THB 2,480 (£59.50)- book your tour here
One of the best ways to see Bangkok is by night. Join a tuk-tuk night tour to experience the ultimate things to do in Bangkok all lit up against the night sky. You will visit famous landmarks, authentic local markets and be guided through the best dishes to try. If sightseeing by yourself seems a bit of a chore, we guarantee you will have so much fun whizzing through Bangkok on this tuk-tuk tour.
25. Tour the Jim Thompson House
Price: THB 200 (£4.80) for adults
Home to American businessman, saviour of the Thai silk industry and former spy, Jim Thompson, the Jim Thompson House is an architectural wonder. Built without nails and in the traditional Thai style, the house-turned-museum showcases contemporary art exhibitions alongside beautiful interiors. Tours are mandatory but cover the interesting story of Thompson’s mysterious and still unsolved disappearance.
26. Museum Siam
Price: THB 100 (£2.40) for adults
Originally built to educate Thai people on their own history, the Museum Siam is open to everyone to enjoy. Dedicated to the question “what does being Thai mean?” the Museum Siam uses interactive, playful elements to guide visitors through a journey of Thailand’s past, present and future along with its relationships with neighbouring countries. This lesser-visited museum is one of the more intriguing things to do in Bangkok.
27. Bangkok Art and Culture Centre
Price: Free with paid-for exhibits from THB 50-350 (£1.20-£8.40)
The Bangkok Art and Culture Centre displays an array of art from Thailand and beyond. With its Guggenheim-esque central atrium, visitors wind their way up the nine levels allowing their creativity to be nurtured by the different exhibitions. The building itself is Instagram-worthy as you look down at the white spiral from one of the higher floors.
28. Have a Thai massage
Price: from THB 200 (£4.80) per hour
After an admittedly hectic Bangkok itinerary, indulge in some self-care and have a relaxing Thai massage. Everywhere you look there are massage parlours so look for one with great reviews and at a price point that suits your budget. A traditional Thai massage focuses on yoga-like stretching as well as some of the muscle kneading you’re more likely to be familiar with.
29. Day trip to Pattaya
Price: from THB 200 (£4.80) – book your transfer or tour here
150km outside of Bangkok, Pattaya is a fun day trip to get out of the busy city.
Pattaya is a beachside resort town that offers travellers a variety of activities. If you are a beach lover, head to Pattaya Beach, Jomtien Beach or the coral island of Koh Larn for snorkelling.
Alternatively, you might want to explore the different markets such as the floating market or head to the Sanctuary of Truth, a magnificent wooden structure that perfectly blends Hinduism and Buddhism into this incredibly intricate castle.
30. Day trip to Ayutthaya Ancient City
Price: THB 1,692 (£40.60) per person – book your tour here
To conclude our list of things to do in Bangkok, we suggest going on a day trip to the Ancient City of Ayutthaya.
If you are interested in history and culture, or just want to feel like Indiana Jones for the day, this one is for you. Ayutthaya Historical Sight is full of temple and palace ruins. Perhaps the most popular sight, Wat Mahathat features a huge Buddha’s head statue entwined in the roots of a Bayan Tree.
Where to eat in Bangkok
- Jay Fei – famously featured on Netflix’s Street Food and Somebody Feed Phil for a Michelin-starred crab omelette. The renowned chef is recognised by her goggles and beauty spot.
- Jek Pui – legendary Thai curry rice stall nicknamed “Musical Chairs”
- theCOMMONS – Hip hotspot with vendors selling high-quality international comfort food.
- Cabbages and Condoms – Decorated with condoms, acknowledged as one of the best Thai restaurants in Bangkok.
- Err Urban Rustic Thai – Featured on Somebody Feed Phil, their signature dish is the Chicken Movie.
- Polo Fried Chicken – Fried chicken spot near Lumphini Park. Uniquely topped with deep-fried garlic. Yum!
- Nhong Rim Klong – Michelin’s Guide food stall serving scrambled eggs with crab meat.
- Wattana Panich Beef Broth – classic beef soup that is a must-try in Bangkok
- Soei – Famous Thai food restaurant that is a favourite of the likes of Mark Weins.
- Or Tor Kor Market Stall 11/40 – Regarded as the best Pad Thai in Bangkok
Bangkok Itinerary Conclusion
As you can see there are so many amazing things to do in Bangkok that it is hard to fit them all in. You could easily add a few more days to your Bangkok itinerary and not get bored.
We absolutely loved our time in Bangkok and would say it is one of our favourite cities in the world. We have visited three times now and still get excited thinking about the unique energy of this city.
Bangkok is a perfect travel destination for any type of traveller and would make an ideal gateway to Asia
if you have not been before. We couldn’t recommend it enough!
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