Here’s my 4-day Bangkok itinerary, packed with the best activities to make the most of your stay
The country’s capital, Bangkok, is one of the world’s top destinations. It’s full of things to do, between temples, palaces, Thai boxing, and bustling markets, you’ll never get bored. Bangkok is also a great place to start your trip, and it’s a city that really deserves time to explore all its different sides. From street food to night markets, there’s always something happening.
Information and Tips:
- Always carry cash! Credit cards are not always accepted.
- Great selection of affordable hotels with pools and breakfast.
- Use Tuk Tuks for quick, fun rides around cities, always agree on price first!
Temple dress code:
- Men: Shorts allowed, but long pants required at Royal Palace.
- Women: Shoulders and knees must be covered at all temples.
- Remove shoes before entering temples
Day 1: The Old Town of Bangkok
Wat Pho, Temple of the reclining buddha
Most of the Buddhas you’ve seen are sitting, but in this case, they’ve created an enormous Buddha of 46 meters length and 15 meter height, lying down. It’s so big that it’s almost impossible to capture the entire statue in one photo! In Thailand, this Reclining Buddha holds an important place in traditional Thai massage and medicine. The entrance fee is 300 baht so about 8e per person. (near grand palace)
The Grand Palace
Not far from the Reclining Buddha is the Grand Palace. It’s a complex of many impressive temples all grouped together. The entrance fee is 500 baht, but it’s absolutely worth it. Most of the temples are viewed from the outside, but each one has its own unique style and details. The whole area is quite large, so you can enjoy a nice walk while being surrounded by impressive architecture and peaceful temple vibes.
The ticket to the Grand Palace also include a show where the hours are moted on the ticket. You can walk there or take the shuttle include in the ticket.
Attention: both men and women need to wear pants
Wat Arun, Dawn Temple
On the other side of the river from the Grand Palace is Wat Arun, also called the Temple of Dawn. You can hop on a small boat for just 5 baht to cross the river. The design of the temple is really different from the others, which makes it totally worth a quick stop. It’s open every day from 8 AM to 5:30 PM, with ane netrance fee of 50 baht/per.
Thai Boxing
Finish your day with one of the most, if not the most, famous activities in Thailand, Thai boxing (Muay Thai). Try to reserve in advance if you want better and cheaper seats, especially for the weekend fights. This was definitely one of the most impressive things I saw during my trip. The atmosphere is electric, people are cheering, shouting, and betting during the fight. Even if you’re not into sports, it’s such a cool experience to live at least once.
Day 2: Boat tour and Temples
Wat Saket, the Golden Mount
You’ll climb 344 steps to reach the top of Bangkok’s only hill. As the name suggests, it’s one of Bangkok’s most famous temples, known for its remarkable golden globe. On the way up, you’ll also enjoy some great panoramic views of the city. The entry is 100 baht/per so about 2.5e
Boat Tour
While you’re in Bangkok, I highly recommend taking a boat tour. There’s a great one near the Reclining Buddha at the Tah Tian Prier, that gives you a nice overview of the city from the water. But what makes it really special is that it also takes you through the quieter, hidden parts of Bangkok, narrow canals, local neighborhoods, and areas you’d never see from the main roads.
Thai Cooking Class
Thai cuisine may be simple, but it’s seriously delicious! One of the best things you can do is take a cooking class, start by hitting the local market to grab fresh ingredients, then learn how cook tradional Thai dishes like pad thai or green curry. It’s fun, hands-on, and you get to eat everything you make (the best part, obviously). You can find many fiddferent one on Get Your Guide for about 30e per person.
Day 3: Excurtion to the famous Market Train and Floating Market
1st Stop: The Train Market
A well-known place to visit near Bangkok is the impressive train market, where a train literally runs right through the middle of the market. The market existed before the train tracks were built, so instead of relocating, the locals adapted now, they quickly move their stalls and goods each time a train passes by. It’s one of the most popular attractions near the city, and while it gets extremely crowded (which can make walking through a bit tricky), it’s definitely a must-see experience.
2nd Stop: The Floating Market
Not far from there is another very popular attraction, the floating market. You can buy almost anything directly from your boat, which is a pretty original and fun experience. However, just like the train market, it gets really crowded, and the river can feel a bit too small for the number of tourist boats, which takes away from the charm a little. Still, it’s something unique and definitely worth trying at least once in your life.
- Chatuchak market, very overrated, it is just a lot of clothes (week end)
Day 4: Chinatown and the Gold Buddha
Chinatown
As with many big cities, Bangkok also has its own Chinatown neighborhood, and it’s one of the most vibrant and lively in the world. It feels like it’s never ending, you have food stalls, gold shops and souvenirs stalls everywhere. Just take walk in Chinatown and experience its vibrant energy.
Wat Traimit, the temple of the gold buddha
In Chinatown, you’ll see the largest gold Buddha in the world! The 5-meter-tall solid gold statue is definitely worth visiting, not just for its size, but also for the story behind it. It was actually hidden under plaster for centuries to protect it from invaders and was rediscovered by accident in the 1950s.
Lumphini Park
Lumphini Park is a great spot to end your day in a calm, green space right in the middle of the city. It was actually Bangkok’s first public park. You cannot miss the giant monitor lizards roaming around , they might look intimidating, but they’re harmless and fascinating to watch. The park is also perfect for a relaxed walk, paddle boating on the lake, or just sitting and watching locals do tai chi or jogging.
Thai Massage
You’ll find Thai massage spots all over the city, even at the airport! It’s definitely an experience to try at least once. Depending on the place and the person giving the massage, it can be super relaxing or a bit intense, so results may vary. Still, it’s a unique part of Thai culture that you should eperienced.