How to Plan Three Days in Bangkok, Thailand

Visits to Bangkok shouldn’t feel like you’re on a stopover before continuing with the rest of your trip to Thailand.

I get it. You want beaches and adorable elephants and some of the country’s most important historical sites.

The thing is, Bangkok is consistently ranked as one of the most visited cities in the world for a reason, and it’s not just because so many are passing through. If you give Thailand’s capital city its due, you’ll find it’s pretty special.

You just may need to work a bit harder to find that magic.

Despite the aggressive jet lag we were feeling during our three days in Bangkok, we really enjoyed the city. The delicious food we ate there helped.

The guide below is how we approached our Bangkok itinerary. It includes incredible temples, and, naturally, what to eat while you’re there.

How Many Days to Stay in Bangkok

You need at least two days in Bangkok to explore the city’s main highlights. Visit Bangkok in three days, and you’ll be able to spend a day outside of the city exploring one of the many day trip options.

When to Visit Bangkok

The best months to visit Bangkok are November through March when you’re most likely to avoid the heavy rains of monsoon season.

For cooler temperatures, December and January are ideal. You’ll have temperatures in the high 80s and low 90s otherwise, which makes for excellent beach weather on a Bangkok day trip.

The monsoon season runs from the end of April through October. You may be able to snag some \deals to Bangkok and the rest of the country during this stretch, but keep in mind what you’re getting yourself into and expect frequent rain, even downpours.

How to Spend Three Days in Bangkok

You can spend three days in Bangkok like this:

• Lounge on the Chao Phraya River or at Lumphini Park.
• Visit temples like Wat Arun, Wat Phra Kaew and the Grand Palace, and Wat Pho.
• Eat on Yaowarat Road in Chinatown or the MBK Food Island.
• Experience the buzz of Khao San Road.
• Visit the Jim Thompson House.
• Enjoy cocktails at the Baiyoke Sky Hotel.
• Plan a day trip to Kanchanaburi.

Three Days in Bangkok: Day 1

This itinerary assumes three full days in and around Bangkok, so be as aggressive as you can be. If you just arrived, you may want to go take a nap.

Luckily, your room probably isn’t ready until later in the afternoon, so you won’t have the chance to succumb to the jet lag time warp. That means you have to fill your day somehow.

Fun fact: The full ceremonial name of Bangkok is as follows: Krungthepmahanakhon Amonrattanakosin Mahintharayutthaya Mahadilokphop Noppharatratchathaniburirom Udomratchaniwetmahasathan Amonphimanawatansathit Sakkathattiyawitsanukamprasit. I’m not even joking. 

Stop 1: Caffeine Fix

Ease the jet lag with a caffeine fix near the Chao Phraya River, your first sightseeing stop of the day.

Elefin Coffee has a few locations but hit the one on Maharaj Road to be near the river. The shop pours locally sourced coffee in addition to both Thai and Western breakfasts if you’re hungry.

Stop 2: Chao Phraya River

Kick off your Bangkok sightseeing with a breezy stroll along the Chao Phraya River. I’ll have some tips on getting around Bangkok on the water at the end of this post. It’s not only a great mode of transportation, but a wonderful way to see the city.

Stop 3: Wat Arun

You’ll see this gorgeous wat, known by locals as the “Temple of the Dawn,” from across the river. It’s well worth a visit to see its towering spires and intricate sculptures and murals up close.

Note: It’s important to observe the strict dress codes when visiting Thai wats, or temples. Cover those knees and shoulders. If you need to, plenty of shops outside of popular wats sell super comfy “elephant pants” for you to cover up those bare legs.

The temple is named after the Hindu god Aruna, personified as the light of the rising sun, but the wat is also spectacular at sunset. The easiest way to visit the Wat Arun temple is by ferry from No. 8 Tha Tien to the Wat Arun pier.

READ MORE: If you’re here for temples, make plans to travel north to visit Doi Inthanon National Park.

Stop 4: Lunch

Take the ferry back over the river to start your journey from Wat Arun to Bangkok’s Chinatown along Yaowarat Road. It’s a perfect spot for lunch unless you have the misfortune of arriving on a Monday.

That’s street-cleaning day around here when most vendors are closed.

As far as where you should grab a bite, it’s really about what looks good at the moment. The delicious street food in Bangkok is a whole scene.

You’ll be overwhelmed by the sights and smells of fresh seafood and Bangkok cuisines like spicy noodles and mango sticky rice from the city’s street food vendors.

Just be patient. Opening hours can be quite random around here.

If you really can’t decide, start with Guay Jub Ouan Pochana. The namesake dish there is an indulgent rice noodle soup featuring pork innards. You’ve been warned…that it’s delicious. Pa Tong Go Savoey will develop your love of fried dough.

It’s about a two-mile walk from the riverfront to Chinatown, so if you don’t feel like working up an appetite, you can hop on the MRT Blue Line from Itsaraphap and ride the four stops to Hua Lamphong.

From there, it’s a short 0.3-mile walk to the heart of Yaowarat Road. There is also a bus line that will drop you off even closer, but you could walk faster.

Stop 5: Chinatown

Don’t leave Chinatown just yet. Belly full, it’s time to explore a bit more.

Take in the street art on your self-guided walking tour. If you want more wat action, Wat Traimit is the most impressive in Chinatown. The temple is known for its enormous seated Buddha, a gilded statue that dates back to the 13th century.

Wat Mangkon Kamalawat, about a half mile away, is the largest Chinese Buddhist temple in Bangkok. If you’re there during any of the major holidays, you’ll find this one packed, with locals floating flowers on the pools inside.

Things really pick up here once the sun goes down if you’d like to linger, with neon lights guiding you to your next snack spot.

Stop 6: Khao San Road

Some may say Khao San Road is a tourist trap. They’d be right. Khao San Road is also the shortest road with the longest dreams. Someone said that at some point about this road.

I mean, sometimes you need to check out the tourist traps, too, just to see what all the fuss is about. Turns out, it’s pretty tame before the sun goes down, and a great place to do some people-watching.

I would NOT recommend eating here, as again, it is a tourist trap. Have a seat at one of the roadside pubs instead, order a drink, and while away some time watching those tourists do the wobble walk.

To get here from Chinatown, it’s about a two-mile walk. You’re all fueled up, but if you need a ride, there is a bus line that will take you from Yaowarat Road to within 0.3 miles of Khao San Road.

Stop 7: Bangkok Nightlife

I’m assuming you have some jet lag to take care of by now, but if you have it in you, there are loads of options in Bangkok to keep those nightlife vibes going.

If you’re feeling aggressive, consider checking out a bout or two of Muay Thai, widely considered Thailand’s national sport. The largest and most well-known venues are the Lumpinee Boxing Stadium, Rajadamnern Stadium, and the Channel 7 Stadium.

If you’re interested, try to buy tickets in advance. Muay Thai fights are a big deal in these parts.

Three Days in Bangkok: Day 2

If you only have one full day in Bangkok, you’ll want to prioritize the Grand Palace. I’m assuming you built in a recovery day or two before you leave the city for the rest of your Thailand adventures, though.

Stop 1: Breakfast

Fuel up for a busy day of sightseeing before our next stop at the Grand Palace. You’re in Thailand, so seek out a Thai breakfast over the usual flapjacks.

You’ll find lots of street vendor options at the Tha Chang Pier nearby. Just don’t get roped into haggling with men trying to sell you on tours there. You don’t need ’em, and that’s how less smart tourists get scammed.

Stop 2: Wat Phra Kaew and the Grand Palace

Most visits to Bangkok include a visit to the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew, or the Temple of the Emerald Buddha.

Get there early for your best bet at beating the afternoon crowds. Visiting hours are limited to 8:30am-3:30pm daily, so you don’t want the day to get away from you, either.

Don’t believe the scam artists outside warning folks that the palace is closed. This is a classic ruse, and they’re waiting to take you somewhere else that gives them givebacks. You know better now.

Note: If you’re super prepared like we were, you can even purchase timed tickets online. You’ll be able to bypass the predictably long lines of visitors waiting to get in on their merits.

The admission fee for both the temple and the Grand Palace is 500 baht, which is about $15. If you’re a super short person, children under 120 cm get in free.

Head over to the temple next, where you’ll find a small Buddha that is nevertheless quite impressive despite its size. The statue is carved from a single piece of jade.

With more time, pop into the National Museum Bangkok and its 12 halls of displays from King Rama IV’s rule.

READ MORE: Love historical spots? Make plans while you’re in Thailand to visit Sukhothai Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Stop 3: Wat Pho

It’s a short walk south to your next essential Bangkok stop. Visit Wat Pho for the famous reclining Buddha statue, but stay for the massages at the Thai Traditional Massage School.

If you’re interested, head over to the massage school first before exploring further. You’ll likely encounter a wait, so put your name down for the first available time.

This isn’t a spa experience. You’ll be getting your massage in an open pavilion space, potentially surrounded by hairy white men who may have had a different idea about what this was all about.

No matter the clientele, this place is legit. Just do it. You’ll be in the right hands.

See what I did there?

Massage times are available until a half hour before temple closing. The entrance fee at Wat Pho is 300 baht, which is under $9.

Stop 4: Lunch

You’ve likely worked up an appetite from all that kneading or whatever. For cheap eats and nice portions, All Meals Sawasdee is a speedy option for seafood curries, Thai noodles, and fresh fruit juices.

The Sixth 6th nearby offers more leisurely sit-down meals. Pair papaya salads and green curry with a menu of fusion treats that include fried shrimp, pasta, and teriyaki platters.

If you left room for dessert, consider going all in on some mango sticky rice at K. Panich, also known as Kor Panit’s Sticky Rice on your map apps. This place has been doing its sticky thing since 1947.

Stop 5: Jim Thompson House

Get your culture on with a visit to the Jim Thompson House, the former home of, you guessed it, Jim Thompson, a Delaware-born silk mogul and art collector. He settled in Bangkok after World War II, after which he discovered his deep love of fancy things.

You can see all of the fancy things he collected at his home-turned-museum today, along with the Jim Thompson Art Center in the same complex. Beware of tuk-tuks hanging around outside, often up to no good.

To get here, you can pick up a bus at the Democracy Monument, a scenic spot in its own right, to get to within a few blocks of ol’ Jim Thompson.

Stop 6: Lumphini Park

You’re about two miles away from Lumphini Park, a lovely open green space and one of the best places in Thailand to relax in an otherwise very hectic city.

Stroll around the artificial lake — or rent boats to take a ride if you’re feeling special — and do some people-watching on the grassy knoll of your choice.

You may come upon some group aerobics or tai chi classes while you’re there, which are all kinds of fun.

To get there, hit the pavement to make some room for dinner. Otherwise, there is a bus line that will drop you within a few blocks of the park.

Stop 7: Dinner

We ended our second day in Bangkok with one of the best meals of our lives at Gaggan. It was one of those tasting menu-type establishments that you need to pinch pennies for a while after indulging there.

Unfortunately, the restaurant has since closed, possibly because basic humans like me discovered it on Chef’s Table and it lost its luster.

I’m telling you this to make you jealous.

Luckily, head chef Gaggan Anand couldn’t stay away from Bangkok for long, as he has since reopened a new version of his original place under the name Gaggan Anand. I haven’t been to that one yet, but it’s almost as renowned as the original.

There are also loads of delicious places in Bangkok, a city with some of the best cuisine in Asia. Bangkok is essentially a foodie’s paradise and perfect for travelers who like options.

Fun fact: I hope you’re able to avoid any interactions with the very stinky durian fruit, but if it’s unavoidable, know this: It is illegal to use durians as a weapon. You’re welcome.

If you want to stay within close proximity of the park and keep things fancy, consider the Michelin-starred Sra Bua by Kiin Kiin.

The delicious Thai food here is modern with whimsical twists. You’ll likely need to inject your food with things, which is how these things often go. Reservations are pretty much a must and are available online.

If you’re looking for cheaper eats, consider the MBK Food Island. Yes, it’s in a mall. Malls are a big deal in these parts, and where you’ll find locals housing platters of regional Thai delights.

Unless you’re eating from a street vendor, it doesn’t get more legit than this.

Stop 8: Baiyoke Sky Hotel

If you have the energy for some cocktails, consider ending things on a fancy note with drinks at the Baiyoke Sky Hotel, a short walk from your dinner options above.

Drinks at the tallest hotel in Bangkok are cheap by American standards but pricey by Thai standards.

Think under $10 for something that isn’t too crazy. If you’re not staying at the hotel, which I’m assuming you’re not because we’re all regular here, there’s an additional surcharge on entering the space. That fee includes a drink once you’re up there, though.

Three Days in Bangkok: Day 3

Leave a day on your three-day Bangkok itinerary to get out of the city and explore all that surrounds the city. You have some fantastic day trips at your disposal.

Here are a few suggestions:

• Hikers will love Bangkok’s easy access to lush Khao Yai National Park or Phetchaburi.
• Tchotchke seekers will want to visit the floating markets of Amphawa and Damnoen Saduak Floating Market or the Maeklong Railway Market.
• History buffs will want to see Kanchanaburi, home of the Death Railway.

There’s truly something for everyone within hours of the city.

Depending on the day trip you choose, you’ll either arrive with a full belly or starving. We find there is no in between when it comes to day trips.

For a meal with a view, try Rongros. With enough pre-planning, you can book a table on the terrace for excellent sunset views on the Chao Phraya River.

More Things to Do in Bangkok

If you have more time or don’t want to leave the city limits on your third day here, dive into Bangkok in more detail. Giving yourself more time in the city will allow you to find hidden nooks and bond with the locals.

Here are some ideas:

• Hit the markets. The Chatuchak Weekend Market is the largest market in Thailand and one of the largest in Southeast Asia. Put those bargaining skills to the test.
• Explore Bangkok museums. The Museum Siam will make you feel like you’re in Italy with its classical style.
• Visit the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre. Get dizzy on the spiral staircase before/after perusing the contemporary art collection.
• See the Golden Mount. More officially, the guilded temple is known as Wat Saket Ratchawora Mahawihan, or Wat Saket.
• Get more Thai massages. Heck, get one every day. I’m not talking about the special massage parlors here. You’ve been warned.
• Eat more. Decide for yourself whether the street food at Raan Jay Fai is overrated. Enjoy a meal with a view at NAAM 1608. Find your favorite Bangkok food court.

Getting Around Bangkok

Once you’re where you need to be in Bangkok, the walkability is fine. Getting to where you need to be can be a challenge. It’s important to understand all of the various ways of getting around the city so that you can make the most efficient use of your time.

I’ll get into detail on all of your options, but will start with this: be wary of tuk-tuks in Bangkok.

Tuk-tuk scams, where tourists are unwittingly taken on a ride to high-pressure sales tactics for kickbacks to buddies of drivers, are still commonplace.

If you really want the experience of a tuk-tuk, pre-book through your accommodations or set a price and destination with your driver before you board.

Trains in Bangkok

Bangkok is served by the Skytrain and metro, a system of trains that will get you to most of the main tourist sites. You may need to connect to a bus to get within walking distance to more off-the-beaten-path destinations.

An Airport Rail Link is also available for travelers who need to get from Suvarnabhumi Airport to Bangkok’s city center at Phaya Thai station.

The ride will take you half an hour, and tickets are available at the Automatic Token Dispensers on the first-floor station of the airport. You’ll need cash to pay for your tokens. The Airport Rail Link runs from 6am to midnight.

Buses in Bangkok

The Bangkok Mass Transit Authority runs a network of buses that will get you wherever you need to go, albeit perhaps not as efficiently as you’d like. That’s more of a product of the traffic in the city, rather than the bus network itself.

Taxis in Bangkok

Traffic in Bangkok is horrendous.

You can be sitting in a sea of cars for anywhere from an hour to three days, putting a real damper on your Bangkok itinerary. That’s how bad it is. Taxis then aren’t ideal when you’re trying to get from one end of the city to another.

If you need to take a taxi, know that you’re on the hook for a traffic surcharge and any tolls your driver may need to drive through.

All taxis are metered. If yours isn’t, get out.

It’s also not a bad idea to have access to a maps app while you’re in a taxi in Thailand. Download your maps before you head out to make sure your driver’s taking you where you need to go.

Songthaews in Bangkok

Songthaews are the red trucks you’ll see at tourist center areas. They won’t take you everywhere like a taxi might, as they’re typically set to a tourist route.

They’re a good, inexpensive option if you’ve got the time. They usually won’t take you to your destination unless they’re full of passengers, though.

If you’re a nice human, sometimes they’ll wait for you at your destination to take you back from whence you came when you’re done there.

Rideshare in Bangkok

We had a horrible experience using rideshare while in Bangkok. Uber has since merged with the local operator, Grab, so things may have improved. Make sure you’ve got some conversational Thai phrases at the ready if your driver starts doing his/her own thing.

Again, access to a maps app on your phone is always a good idea.

River Boats in Bangkok

River boats are a great way to get around Bangkok for sights along the Chao Phraya River. The Chao Phraya Express Boat Company has several options, and boats are marked by colored flags:

• No flag boats will make all stops. These boats only run on weekdays.
• Blue flags are tourist boats. They run daily and make any stop you request. They also come with some narration.
• Orange flags run daily and stop at the main piers.
• Yellow flag boats only run during rush hour on weekdays. They are large express commuter boats and stop at only 10 piers.
• Green flag boats are express boats for commuters and run on weekdays. They only stop at 13 piers.

Canal Boats in Bangkok

Canal boats in Bangkok take tourists to lesser-known spots not served by the Chao Phraya River options.

The Saen Saeb Knlong Express Ferry takes riders down the Khlong San Saeb canal from the Old Town to the mouth of the Bang Pa Kong River.

Things get a little precarious during rush hour as folks are jumping on and off and crowding the boats, but it’s an option if you’re avoiding Bangkok’s awful traffic. Your fare is paid once you’re on the boat.

As on the islands, Bangkok also has long-tail boats for tourists.

These are run by private companies, and you can book a ride at any pier. Price is set by the operator, and there may be some haggling involved, so be aware of that before choosing to take a long-tail boat tour.

We don’t like putting ourselves in situations where we may get hoodwinked, so we kept to the express boats during our stay.

If this is all getting quite overwhelming and you want to supplement your sightseeing with guided Bangkok tours, check out these options:

Where to Stay in Bangkok

You can stay in some very nice places for not many dollars while visiting Bangkok.

We stayed at the Baan Wanglang Riverside on our trip. I loved the proximity to the water and the general vibes of this boutique property. Those rooftop cocktails didn’t hurt, either.

Use the map below to browse more Bangkok hotels for your Thailand trip:

Safety in Bangkok

Bangkok is generally safe, even at night, but it’s always best to exercise normal precautions. Go out in groups. Stick to well-lit areas. Don’t flash your valuables.

If you’re traveling solo as a female, be mindful of your alcohol consumption if you go out at night. Unfortunately, that’s a good general rule of thumb, no matter where you travel, even somewhere as relatively safe as Thailand.

Bangkok is always worth visiting.

You’re likely starting there on a Thailand trip anyway.

Despite its overwhelming exterior, Bangkok rewards intrepid travelers with one of the best street food scenes in the world and a plethora of cultural attractions.

It also remains relatively inexpensive to visit, especially if you’re used to traveling around the United States or most of Western Europe.

I promise that it’s awesome underneath it all, and you will kick yourself if you don’t put in the effort to see what you can of this city with the time you have there.

Looking for more bucket list travel ideas? Check these out:

• A Guide to Trips to Easter Island
• Why You Need a South Africa Honeymoon
• Where to Stay on Visits to Yosemite
• How to Plan a Trip to Pompeii
• See the Cacti of Incredible Saguaro

More incredible cities that we love visiting:

• Explore the French Riviera from Nice to Cannes
• Plan the Perfect Day Trip from Brussels
• Why Bogotá Should Be on Your Bucket List
• An Insider’s Guide to Chicago, My Hometown
• How to See Giverny in the Spring

Want to see more?