In the Southeast Asian city that never sleeps, we’re not surprised that Bangkok is the most visited city in the world!
If the Land of Smiles has been calling your name for the longest of times, a headstart in its capital is the perfect introduction. (Most international flights arrive here, so it makes sense to first spend a few nights in Bangkok.)
To make navigation easy in the big city, we’ve compiled a 3 days Bangkok itinerary, covering all you need to know for planning, from where to stay, eat, shop, the things to do in Bangkok and even the nearest metro stations.
Whizz up skyscrapers and drink in the views across the capital, shop at a famous floating market or til you drop at the other best markets in Bangkok, and get your cultural fix from peculiar museums, the royal Grand Palace and jaw-dropping temples.
Eat your way through Chinatown or join a street food tour, visiting Michelin-listed vendors!
When is the best time to visit Bangkok? Summer in Thailand is from June to September, but with no escape from the heat (except for the rooftop pools), it can be unbearable to visit when it’s so hot and humid. The best and busiest months to travel to Bangkok are between November and February when temperatures are (slightly) cooler.
Here’s everything you need to know about getting around, what to do, where to stay and eat in Bangkok!
Day 1
Views, temples, street food and shopping — what better introduction to the thriving metropolis Thai capital?
You’ll arrive at one of Bangkok’s two airports: Suvarnabhumi Airport or Don Mueang Airport, but most overseas flights land at Suvarnabhumi. (Flights from the USA and Europe typically land in the morning, so after passport control and luggage collections, you’ll be out around mid-morning.)
Organize a private airport transfer to Bangkok central or your accommodation (a 45-minute ride). Alternatively, catch the Airport Rail Link (ARL) from Suvarnabhumi Airport into the city.
Certain hotels may let you drop your bags off early or allow a pre-organized early check-in.
After a long flight, refuel at a specialty coffee house (30mins)
Coffee is always a good idea — especially after a long-haul flight. Bangkok has an epic coffee culture, with plenty of artisanal roasters and specialty stores around the city, as well as award-winning barista champions behind the counter.
Roots is a local institution that has been bringing the heat and sweeping accolades since 2013. They’re forever introducing cool new drinks, like a fizzy cold brew with an apple foam!
Their motto is Cup-to-Farm, sourcing beans from local Thai plantations. Roots has 12 locations around the city (including Sukhumvit, CentralWOrld, Silom, Sathon and Thong Lor).
Some more i.n.c.r.e.d.i.b.l.e. options are Gallery Drip Coffee, La Cabra Thailand (the first Scandinavian coffee roasters in BKK), Sometimes I Feel and Kaizen.
Learn more about unique Thai culture at the Jim Thompson House (1hr)
For a perfect introduction to Thai art and culture, architecture and a rather interesting history lesson, tick off your first sightseeing expedition at the famous Jim Thompson House.
Built in 1959, this was the former home of the Thai Silk King, i.e., James H.W. Thompson, and the American businessman is revered for helping to catapult the Thai silk industry to global recognition circa the 50s and 60s.
The traditional Lanna-style house is now a living museum, and the Jim Thompson Art Center is on the same grounds.
Guided tours are available around the Thai teak house, or ramble around at your own leisure, investigating the contents, exteriors and gardens. Explore traditional furniture, Chinaware, pottery, Buddha figurines, Benjarong porcelainware and so much more.
Transport yourselves with these lunchtime options (1hr)
In a city where themed cafes and restaurants are totally a thing, dive straight into a Hogwarts fantasy at Featherstone.
Stepping inside, candelabras hang from the ceiling, witchy elements decorate the space, smoking cocktails look like potions, and classic features like stained glass windows and dark woods personify a classic Thai setup.
Other great restaurants for lunch are Quince (for Mediterranean), Fatboy Izakaya for innovative and fun Japanese or Bar Storia del Caffè if you’re in the mood for Italian.
Stand in awe at Wat Pho (Temple Of Reclining Buddha) (1hr)
What’s a visit to Thailand without some spiritual extravagance? Prepare to be amazed by Thailand’s largest reclining Buddha, Wat Pho (also spelled Wat Po, its official tongue-twister title is Wat Phra Chetuphon Wimon Mangkhalaram Rajwaramahawihan).
Housed inside one of Bangkok’s oldest temples, the 46-meter-long glistening golden figure is the star feature, but there are loads of other mesmerizing attributes.
The Phra Rabieng corridor is lined with 394 seated Buddha statues; four embellished 42-meter-tall pagodas spiral toward the heavens and are guarded by Chinese rock giants for protection; and the impressive Assembly Hall (Phra Ubosot) is a perfect example of Ayudhya-style architecture.
Good to know: the complex has its own massage school, offering 30-minute to one-hour Thai or foot massages.
Check out the bars, food, temples and shopping in Chinatown (2hrs)
Culturally enriching, eclectic and bustling Chinatown is up next, experiencing a true taste of local Bangkokian life.
As one of the biggest Chinatowns worldwide, the shopping and dining options seem to never end, and the same can be said for the massive daily crowds.
We recommend starting on Yaowarat Road, taking your time as you stroll from one street food vendor to the next. Feeling peckish? Grab a plate of dim sum, seafood satay stick or oyster omelet.
Where to shop? Sampeng Lane is filled with everything and anything, Old Siam Plaza is set up with stalls and boutique shops, Little India is a textile haven, and the 200-year-old Talat Kao is where you’ll find all sorts of traditional Chinese medicines, herbs, spices and delicacies.
There are also a few important sacred sites in Chinatown: Wat Traimit and Wat Mangkon Kamalawat.
Catch a glass lift up King Power Mahanakhon for sunset hour (45mins)
Before you head back to your stay to freshen up and get ready for the evening, make a pit stop at King Power Mahanakhon — Bangkok’s second-tallest skyscraper!
Just in time for Golden Hour, its observation deck and skywalk are prime sunset spots overlooking the whole city.
From 314 meters above ground zero, drink in the sweeping panoramas from the indoor and outdoor areas.
Look below you on the 78th floor (if you dare) through glass tray tiles; completely transparent, you can literally see the traffic beneath your feet!
Experience live-fire cooking at Choen (2.5hrs)
Chinatown was just the starter, so we hope you’ve saved your appetites for dinner time!
Inspired by the flavors of Bangkok’s Chinatown, โฌณ Choen is all about wood-fire cooking — witnessing the chefs in action firing up the grill is mesmerizing!
Food presentation is on point; refined and innovative cuisine arriving on your table. The tasting menu changes every few seasons, transforming with Thailand’s localities.
Other options to blow your socks? Elegant Bisou Bangkok takes note from the streets of Paris, doubling as a gastro wine bar; or book a table at That Fat Kid Buddy for a creative tasting menu inspired by growing up in the capital in the 90s.
Fun foodie fact: Bangkok currently boasts close to 180 restaurants listed on the Michelin Guide!
Complete day 1 with drinks with a view
End off your first day on a high note at a rooftop bar, or ease into the night at an award-winning locale.
For drinks with a view, there’s ultra-trendy Paradise Lost, decked in soft pastel hues and dripping plants; for Peruvian Japanese flare and live DJs, head to Above Eleven; or swing into the night with Latin beats at MOJJO Rooftop Lounge & Bar, 32 stories off the ground.
Voted the sixth-best bar in Asia, Tropic City is a total vibe, luring patrons with its neon glows, funky interiors and tropical cocktails.
For stylish settings and cocktails that match, there’s the speakeasy Q&A BAR and Behind The Curtain (for Omakase dessert and cocktail pairings).
All about unique interiors, step back in time at Tax Bar or Chinese-inspired Tai Soon Bar is all about the craft beer!
Day 2
Day 1 was all about first-time intros and sussing out the vibes. Day 2 is a full-on sightseeing extravaganza, highlighting the best that Bangkok has to offer and the top not-to-miss landmarks and attractions.
New cities are there for new experiences — and trying things you usually wouldn’t in your home town/country.
Jam-packed with activities, wake up early and get a head start to see as much as possible.
P.S. If breakfast is not included in your stay, savor your appetites for the floating market’s local breakfast specialties.
Boat ride through internationally-renowned Damnoen Saduak Floating Market (4hrs)
The early wake-up call for the world’s most iconic floating market is totally worth it! Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is about an hour and a half from the city center (in Ratchaburi), so a 7 AM departure is a good time to start.
Traditional row boats glide along the canals, selling fresh local produce, tropical fruits, handicrafts and souvenirs.Rent a longtail boat and do your shopping on the waterway, and some of the floating vendors sell hot dishes — try the market’s famous boat noodles!
Join a Damnoen Floating Market tour, or there are local buses running here throughout the day.
P.S. If you’d prefer to sleep in and you’re vacationing in Bangkok over the weekend, swap the floating market for Bangkok’s famous Chatuchak Weekend Market (our favorite market in the entire world)! Split into 28 sections, there are over … wait for it … 15,000 stalls!!!
Read more: 23 Best Day Trips from Bangkok
Uncover fascinating collections at the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA BANGKOK) (1hr)
Keep up with the cultural endeavors when arriving back in the capital city, swapping outdoor lifestyles for local art.
Spread across five floors with permanent and rotating exhibitions, the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) showcases contemporary artists from Thailand and Asia.
Explore two permanent sculpture exhibition halls by acclaimed Thai artists on the Ground Floor. Fall into realms of mixed media creations (highlighting social issues) on the second floor; the third floor is dedicated to surrealist modern art with a side room for Thai literature.
Find paintings by Thai artist and philosopher Thawan Duchanee and other esteemed local creatives on level four. The fifth floor is reserved for European art dating back to the Victorian era, but also displays international modern works from the USA, Italy, Norway, Russia, Japan, Malaysia, Vietnam and China.
Get a taste of local Thai cuisine (1hr)
Yesterday you enjoyed a proper sit-down meal, now do it the authentic Bangkokian way and visit a quintessential local dining spot for lunch. Naturally, the options are plentiful!
Prepare to wait in line for the only street food vendor in town with a one-star Michelin status: Jay Fai. Garnering its famous accolade for the eccentric, goggle-wearing chef’s crab omelet, her signature dish is every bit worth the queue.
Visited by Ed Sheeran when he was in Thailand and claiming the “best pad thai” in the city, try the country’s most ordered dish at Thip Samai Pad Thai.
For the yummiest Southern Thai-style cooking there’s Janhom, or sample a local favorite (boiled rice and fish soup) from Khao Tom Pla Kimpo.
Join a unique workshop or cooking class (2hrs)
Take a break from all of the sightseeing with a hands-on workshop. Bangkok residents love showing off their creative side, and there are loads, from the traditional to the weird and wonderful; workshops for couples, a girl’s trip or the whole family.
Let your imaginations run wild at Paintbar, enjoying a glass of vino for an extra boost of creative confidence.
Learn the art of ceramics at A Clay Cafe, how to read tarot and oracle cards at Olive Creative Laboratory, the ins and outs of Thai silk weaving at The Loom, and the art of silver jewelry-making with Shannta.
For out-the-box workshops, kids can sew their own dolls at Monae Home or create beautiful flower wreaths and arrangements at Flower in Hand by P.
Skip lunch if you’re planning on joining a cooking class in Bangkok, as lessons typically end with a sit-down sampling of what you’ve mastered in the kitchen.
Imagine how royalty lived at The Grand Palace (1hr)
Conveniently located in Sukhumvit, it’s hard to physically miss the gleaming Grand Palace; home of the Thai monarchy since the 18th century.
A series of buildings comprise the royal complex grounds, leaving plenty to investigate in terms of local history, culture and architecture.
Golden stupas tower above ancient stone walls, Thai Khon masks (demon masks) protect staircases and entrances, tiered walls show layers of intricate colorful embossings and rooftops are edged with horn-like features.
The 21-hectare site is split into three areas: the temples, the residences and the museums. On that note, find the Queen Sirikit Museum of Textiles, the Wat Phra Kaew Museum, the Royal Thai Decorations and Coins Pavilion and The Arts of the Kingdom Museum at the Grand Palace.
Order an artisanal roast or tea at a unique coffee roaster (30mins)
After a full-on day of adventure, sightseeing and shopping, pop into a cafe for a quick refuel before making your way back to your accommodation to prepare for night two.
You’re in a new country, and that means trying new things!
To get to your table and chairs at Lhong Tou Cafe, you need to climb a short set of wooden stairs, and its authentic setting will make you feel like you’re somewhere in Taiwan! Order their Dirty Coffee or Lhong Tou Thai Tea, with a serving of traditional dim sum (sweet and savory options).
Other strong contenders are Cat Thieves and Bar for fro-yo (visited by Black Pink’s Lisa), One Ounce for Onion and La Mesa Coffee Co.
Shop and eat your way through Bangkok’s unique train market: Talad Rot Fai Srinakarin (2.5hrs)
It’s kind of a sin to visit Bangkok and not check out at least one night market! Our absolute favorite is Ratchada Train Night Market, and we always make a point of visiting this vibey and eclectic (massive) shopping and eating mecca.
Tonight, dinner is enjoyed market-style, picking up loads of street food bites from various stalls (gyozas, sushi, Doraemon donuts, deep-fried mussels), or there is a section of the market with local restaurants. Seafood lovers, don’t miss out on Monster Shrimp’s mixed seafood feast!
On the shopping front, it’s heaven for any flea market fans, with all sorts to shop for, from the latest fashion trends to vintage tees to old-school tape players, souvenirs, toys, funky socks, and so much more!
Lift your spirits further at a live music bar
Continue with the good vibes with a last round of drinks at a live music bar!
Located on the riverbanks, The Bamboo Bar is a super stylish live music venue, listed among Asia’s Best Bars in 2022.
For the sweet sounds of jazz, ever-ambient Iron Fairies is where it’s at!
Oozing classic speakeasy vibes, moody Maggie Choo’s does live music, DJs and LGBTQ+ nights.
If you’re not up for drinking and would prefer to end your last night with something quintessentially Bangkok, why not join a fun and exciting midnight tuk-tuk tour?!
Day 3
Can you believe it’s all come to an end so quickly? Check out of your stay before 10 AM, and if you don’t have to be up at the crack of dawn for your flight home, enjoy a last breakfast and some extra sightseeing before you have to be at the airport.
Pre-organize private airport transfers in Bangkok for when returning to the airport, traveling in comfort and style, or opt for the SkyTrain option again.
Grab breakfast at a trendy cafe (1hr)
The Aussies sure know a thing or two about a trendy breakfast; just take Toby’s, for example! This hip eatery has three locations around town: Sukhumvit, Ploenchit and Silom.
Plates and bowls naturally POP with color and freshness, and anyone who has visited Australia before knows how important a good coffee is — so no worries in that department, coffee snobs.
More options include American-inspired “eggcentric” Crackhouse, aesthetically pleasing Luka, OKONOMI for a Japanese-style brekkie and Fran’s (a local brunch hotspot).
If you have time, unwind at an authentic onsen before you fly (1.5hrs)
Catching a late flight out of Bangkok? If you’ve got time for more things to do in Bangkok, complete your trip with a relaxing and rejuvenating onsen!
These unique spa baths are the Japanese equivalent of a hot spring, utilizing naturally healing spring waters. In Japan, these bathhouses are typically set up around a traditional inn.
There are a few onsen spas in Bangkok, transporting you to the Land of the Rising Sun in a flash.
Best onsen spas in Bangkok? Check out Yunomori Onsen, Panpuri Wellness, Kashikiri Soda Onsen and Let’s Relax Spa.
Do a last round of shopping at CentralwOrld (2hrs)
For travelers who only need to be at the airport in the evening, clock in some last-minute shopping at the world’s ninth largest shopping complex: CentralwOrld.
Shopaholics, there are seven floors to make your way through, from international brand houses to local boutique stores.
(If your shopping fix is already at its limits, then explore the boho-loving Ari neighborhood instead. Hunt down insane street art, pick up a new novel at one of the cute bookstores and the area is a mecca for trendy cafes, bars, gelaterias and eateries.)
Where to stay in Bangkok for first-timers?
Thanks to the city’s MRT and BTS SkyTrain, it’s super easy to move around the capital, and popular areas to stay in include Sukhumvit, Silom, Siam, Chinatown, Pratunam and, of course, Khao San.
Check out these accommodations in Bangkok, with options to suit all wallet sizes.
P.S. In a city where 5-star hotels are more affordable than most, we say take advantage!
Budget-friendly
Clean, comfortable and loved for its central Sukhumvit location, book the suite option at the cozy THEE Bangkok Hotel by TH District.
Also in the same area is the S Box Sukhumvit Hotel, and it’s the top service and complimentary breakfast that guests love most.
Shopaholics: Lemontea Hotel Bangkok in Pratunam is close to major shopping malls, and guests love the spotless rooms.
Mid-range
Marble finishes, free-standing Victorian baths with views … the rooms and suites at IR-ON Hotel are fully equipped with everything you need, and if available, nab the Executive Suite.
Contemporary and dramatic, Mode Sathorn Hotel – SHA Extra Plus is in Silom, boasting views across Bangkok from its rooftop pool.
It’s hard to believe these next official 5-star stays are so affordable: The Salil Hotel Sukhumvit 57 – Thonglor, Mövenpick Hotel Sukhumvit 15 Bangkok, Akara Hotel and Hotel Muse Bangkok Langsuan – MGallery.
Fancy schmancy
How to even begin choosing between Bangkok’s list of fancy world-class 5-star stays? We guess we’ll just have to list them …
In Sukhumvit, you’ve got the Conrad Bangkok and Bangkok Marriott Hotel Sukhumvit.
In Silom, there’s the Shangri-La Bangkok; in Sathorn, there is the Ascott Embassy, The Capella or Villa Deva Resort and Hotel; and in Siam, the Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel.
Both Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort and The Peninsula Bangkok boast riverside settings.
How to get around Bangkok?
Bangkok is the largest city in Thailand, but there are plenty of options for getting around.
Private transfers
Pre-book airport transfers in Bangkok for when you arrive in the capital, conveniently traveling from the airport to your accommodation or first itinerary stop comfortably (and in air-con) with a private driver.
BTS Skytrain & MRT
Between its BTS and MRT, there are over 180 train stations in Bangkok! It’s undoubtedly the most convenient and cost-effective way to move around the city.
Both operate daily between 6 AM and 12 AM.
Consider booking a one-day BTS (Skytrain) Travel Pass or the MRT (Metro) Travel Pass, saving you extra baht and eliminating time waiting in ticket queues.
The Airport Rail Link (ARL) connects Suvarnabhumi Airport to Phaya Thai Station.
Car rentals
Rent a car for three days – if you have the patience for Bangkok’s traffic! Hire a vehicle and drive yourselves around, or there are rentals available with a private driver if you’d prefer.
A valid international driving license is essential.
Local taxis
It’s easy to hail down a local taxi from the streetside in Bangkok, or alternatively, book a ride online via apps like Grab or All Thai Taxi.
Local motorbike taxis
Motorbike taxis are also popular. Look out for a local motorbike taxi with a sign on it, or book a ride online on apps such as GrabBike.
You can also rent your own moped for your three days and two nights in Bangkok.
Tuk-tuks
One of the most popular modes of transport in Bangkok are tuk-tuks and this unique way of traveling is so quintessentially Bangkok! It’s easy to hail down one of the iconic motorized three-wheelers, or nowadays, there are online services to book your rides, for example, Tuk Tuk Hop.
Travel tip: because tourists love to take tuk-tuks, drivers sometimes hike up prices, so make sure you’re not getting ripped off!
Local bus
The local buses are really cheap, and if you plan on day-tripping out of the city, it’s often the easiest, most cost-effective route.
River ferries
These are totally a thing in Bangkok, offering boat rides to landmarks and attractions along the Chao Phraya River. There are public ferry or boat services, including the Phraya Express Boat and Saen Saep Express Boat.
They’re typically available from 6.30 AM to 7.30 PM.
Final thoughts
Now that you’ve got a jam-packed three days in Bangkok planned out for you, all that’s left to do is book your flight to the Land of Smiles!
There are so many unique and wonderful things to do in Bangkok, you might just end up extending your time, but two nights and three days ensures you get to see the very best of the Thai capital and its iconic landmarks and attractions.
If it’s not your first visit, what were some of your favorite Bangkokian travel memories? Share with us in the comments; we love hearing from our readers.
As always, happy travels!