Itineraries for Your Trip to Bangkok
3 Days in Bangkok for First Timers
Bangkok was the first stop on my year-long odyssey through Asia. I vividly remember the thwack of humidity and roar of traffic as I stepped out of the airport—my first indication that I’d arrived in a city that would demand my attention. I’d never felt more excited.
For the most part, Thailand’s capital is loud, brash, and bustling—but it does offer pockets of peace in the form of Buddhist temples and gardens. Combine that with air-conditioned mega-malls and world-class cuisine from street vendors and Michelin-starred restaurants alike, and you’ve got a magnificent metropolis that’s guaranteed to leave a lasting impression. Here’s how to experience the best of Bangkok in three days.
Blue skies can become dark clouds in a matter of minutes, so make sure
If you only have time for one thing, make it a boat ride down the Chao Praya River—ample Bangkok attractions are easy to see from the water.
Dedicate your first morning to Bangkok’s exquisite temples. Admire the glimmering gold stupas of the Grand Palace, where you’ll find the 14th-century Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew), before crossing the river to see the vibrant spires of the Temple of the Dawn (Wat Arun).
Spend the afternoon exploring Bangkok’s world-famous street food scene. Wander to nearby Bang Rak for pad Thai, satay chicken, spicy sausage, or fried quail eggs before taking a break from the city’s bustle in Lumphini Park, where you’ll find calming fountains and a Chinese pavilion.
This morning, head to the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market. Though only an hour from the center of the city, you’ll feel worlds away as you float along canals and peruse boats piled high with exotic produce. Most tours that head here go via the Maeklong Railway Market, where you’ll see locals rush to clear their stalls before the train rumbles past.
Spend the afternoon and evening exploring Siam, a central district where classic and contemporary Bangkok collide. See art at the Bangkok Art and Culture Center (BACC), discover the city’s Hindu heritage at the Erawan Shine, and grab a sunset cocktail on a rooftop bar. Alternatively, return to the water for a Chao Phraya dinner cruise.
Today, delve deeper into the rich history of Thailand on a day trip to UNESCO-listed Ayutthaya. Only an hour from Bangkok, the ruined island city has been reclaimed by nature and boasts crumbling stone temples and benevolent Buddhas gazing out from the remains of more than 400 temples.
Spend your final night touring Bangkok's famous nightlife. Start in Chinatown to see the buzzing district in all of its neon glory—grabbing some roasted pork or crispy duck from the street-food vendors—before taking a tuk-tuk to Pak Khlong Talat, a 24-hour flower market. Top off the evening with a cocktail at 820-foot (250-meter) Sky Bar.
