The Ultimate 3-Day Bangkok Itinerary
Three days in Bangkok isn’t much time, but it’s enough to see and experience most of what the city has to offer. Bangkok, also known as Krung Thep, or “City of Angels,” is a must-visit for travelers and tourists. They adore this lively and urban metropolis, with all of its life, exquisite street food, lush green parks, flowing rivers, incredible shopping, and, of course, its friendly people. If you’re in the city for three days, this is the perfect three-day Bangkok itinerary.
There’s something for everyone in Bangkok: from restaurants with plastic chairs that you can see on the sidewalk and amulet stalls to fine dining restaurants and the world’s hippest rooftop bars. As you walk down the streets of Bangkok, you will never be bored. You can still cross the major sights off your list and enjoy three perfect days in Bangkok before traveling to the islands, perhaps Phuket or Koh Samui.
If you’re looking for things to do in Bangkok, check out this Bangkok itinerary to learn about what to see and do so you can make the most of your three days in this beautiful city.
Day 1: Admire the Classic Landmarks Along Chao Phraya River
The region along the famous Chao Phraya River was once the ancient royal district, and it’s now home to the stunning palace and some of Bangkok’s most iconic temples, including Wat Arun.
To kick off this Bangkok itinerary, take the BTS, also known as the Bangkok Skytrain, to Saphan Taksin from the nearest station (marked as S6). This station is directly across from the Sathorn Pier. From there, you can quickly locate several boats operated by the Chao Phraya Express Boat Company, which run daily from 9 AM to 7 PM.
We’d recommend that you take the orange-flagged vessels, which pass every 15 minutes, and regardless of the distance, it only costs about 15 baht. There are also vessels with a blue flag that are larger and less crowded. For a single trip, they cost around 40 baht, and for an entire day trip, it costs about 100 baht, which allows you to take as many as you want.
Once you get off at Tha Chang (N9 Pier), start your adventure by checking out these famous landmarks for fun things to do in Bangkok:
1. The Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew
Your first stop should undoubtedly be the Grand Palace. The Grand Palace was built in 1782 by King Rama I and served as the residence of the royal family, the royal court, and the public administration for more than 150 years.
The imaginative and innovative architecture influenced by Europe is what makes this massive ancient complex so fascinating. The Outer Court, the Middle Court, the Inner Court, and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha make up the entire city, which measures 218,400 square meters. The Grand Palace is a must-see attraction for any first-time visitor to Bangkok.
Wat Phra Kaew, which you can find on the same premises as the Grand Palace, is another must-see attraction. The sacred statue of the Buddha made from a single block of jade is also a highlight of the temple’s distinctive architecture.
2. Wat Pho
Wat Pho is situated behind the Grand Palace, so getting there is only a 10-minute walk. It is Bangkok’s oldest and largest temple, dating back nearly 200 years to the Ayutthaya Period.
The 46-meter-long and 15-meter-high Reclining Buddha statue is, of course, the main attraction for most visitors to Wat Pho. You must see this gigantic golden picture for yourself because no words can adequately explain the incredible experience of taking it in, and no photo can accurately capture the extent and grandeur of it. If that isn’t enough to excite you, Wat Pho also has the most extensive set of Buddha images in Thailand, with over 1000 Buddha images.
3. Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)
Wat Arun is situated across the street from Wat Pho. All you have to do is take a 3 baht ferry across the Chao Phraya River to get there.
The temple’s most impressive feature is a 73-meter-high “prang” (Khmer-style tower) covered in Chinese ceramics and colorful porcelain parts. Wat Arun is regarded as Bangkok’s most beautiful temple due to its unique architecture. If you’re feeling more adventurous, climb to the top floor of the main tower, where you’ll be welcomed with panoramic sunset views over the Chao Phraya River.
Day 2: Going On A Shopping Spree And Relax
Unlike the first day, your second day is for exploring Bangkok’s modern side, and even if you’re a shopaholic or not, these places should be on your list of things to do in your Bangkok itinerary.
1. Chatuchak Weekend Market
If you’re planning on shopping at the night markets in Bangkok, the first place you should head to is the Chatuchak Market, especially if you’re in the city on the weekend. You don’t even have to get up early because many stalls don’t open until after 8 AM – 9 AM.
Chatuchak is Thailand’s largest market, covering 10,000 hectares. You can also find 27 different sections, with over 8,000 stalls selling a variety of goods. As a result, if you find an item you want, you should consider buying it immediately because the chances of finding that stall again are slim!
2. The Siam Area
If you aren’t in Bangkok on the weekend, begin your shopping day in the Siam area. This is Bangkok’s pride and joy. Central World, Siam Center, Siam Paragon, MBK Center, and Siam Discovery are only a few of the many large shopping malls within walking distance of one another.
It’s no wonder that you can find a selection of high-end clothing stores such as Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and Armani here. If you have time, visit the Siam Ocean World in Siam Paragon, Southeast Asia’s largest aquarium.
3. Enjoy The Nightlife On Khaosan Road
Take in the experience of Bangkok nightlife on Khaosan Road, which is one of the most well-known things to do in Bangkok.
With many tattoo shops, Thai massage parlors, street food stalls, inexpensive clubs, and bars on every corner, Khao San Road is Bangkok’s haven for foreign travelers. It’s loud and messy, as its name suggests, and packed with enthusiastic partygoers. You’ll have no trouble making new friends from all over the world and striking up random encounters with them.
Day 3: Take A Day Tour For Your Last Day
A final day trip around Bangkok is the perfect way to round off your dream holiday with this Bangkok itinerary. Luckily, there are many fun places within a few hours of the capital, so if you wake up early enough, you can easily get there and back in one day. Here’s what you can do:
1. Maeklong Railway Market
Begin your journey by visiting the Maeklong Railway Market. Its stalls sell various vegetables, foods, fish, sweet treats, clothes, and flowers, much like most markets. What sets it apart, though, is the presence of rail tracks that stretch the length of the sector. A small alarm bell sounds a few minutes before the train arrives while markets and sellers clean up their stalls. It’s a unique sight!
2. Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
You can stroll along the canals after a short drive from the Maeklong Railway Market to the boat pier. This will take you to one of Thailand’s oldest floating markets, the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, where you can find native handicrafts, various silks, handcrafted jewels, and several delicious dishes along the banks of the narrow canals. The perfect time to head to this market is early in the morning, when you can see the locals going about their daily lives before the market becomes a tourist hotspot.
3. Taste The Best Pad Thai At Thip Samai
Pad Thai at Thip Samai restaurant is a must-try for travelers in Bangkok. Thip Samai is ready to serve you from 5 PM to 2 AM. At any given time, a long line of people, including locals and tourists alike, will form in front of the restaurant. Many consider this to be the best Pad Thai in Bangkok, both in appearance and taste. Pad Thai Haw Kai Goong Sot, or known as Pad Thai wrapped in egg, is the most popular dish. When you’ve had your fill of Pad Thai, go to a rooftop bar for some high-end cocktails. Allow the breeze to caress your hair as you take in the breathtaking view of Bangkok’s skyline!
Conclusion
With this three-day Bangkok itinerary, you’re good to go! This guide includes several fun things to do in Bangkok. Sign up with TrulyThai today if you’re looking for a friend to make your days more fun. Have a fantastic time in Bangkok!
