Bangkok, Thailand 3 Day Itinerary
Day 1: Explore the Grand Palace and Temple Tour
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Morning:
- Check-in at your hotel in the Rattanakosin area, such as Grand Hyatt Erawan Bangkok or The Siam Hotel, which are conveniently located near major attractions.
- Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Café Kitsuchi or Thipsamai for some delicious Thai street food.
- Visit the iconic Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew, the temple housing the Emerald Buddha. Be sure to dress appropriately (long pants/skirts that cover your knees and shoulders covered).
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Afternoon:
- Head over to Wat Pho, home to the Reclining Buddha and a traditional Thai massage school.
- Have lunch at Ratchabowri Restaurant, located within Wat Po, offering authentic Thai dishes.
- Take a short trip to Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) along the Chao Phraya River. You can take a riverboat from Saphan Taksin Pier.
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Evening:
- Explore the lively Chatuchak Weekend Market (only open on weekends). Alternatively, visit the Asiatique The Riverfront, an open-air retail and dining complex with a vibrant atmosphere.
- Dine at one of the many restaurants in either location or check out Levels Rooftop Bar for panoramic views of Bangkok.
Day 2: Discover Modern Bangkok and Shopping
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Morning:
- Start your day with a visit to Jim Thompson House, an enchanting teakwood house and museum dedicated to the American architect who revived Thai silk.
- Have breakfast at Blue Elephant or Sra Bua by Kiin Kiin for a taste of refined Thai cuisine.
- Take a Skytrain (BTS) to the CentralWorld area, and explore CentralWorld Plaza, home to various shopping options, entertainment venues, and restaurants.
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Afternoon:
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Evening:
- Visit Sukhumvit 38 Food Market for an authentic street food experience or try Gaggan, a Michelin-starred restaurant that combines Indian flavors with modern techniques.
- Take a nighttime stroll along Sukhumvit Road, stopping by the vibrant Nana Entertainment Plaza or Soi Cowboy (for a more adult-oriented experience).
Day 3: Experience Bangkok’s Nightlife and Street Art
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Morning:
- Have breakfast at Breakfast Story or Riverside Bar & Bistro before checking out of your hotel.
- Visit the famous Chatuchak Weekend Market (if you missed it on Day 1) or explore the Pak Khlong Talad Flower Market in the morning for a lively, colorful experience.
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Afternoon:
- Take a short boat ride to the trendy neighborhood of Thonglor. Grab lunch at Khua Kling Prince or Veganerie Green Café.
- Explore Bangkok’s street art scene with a guided tour from Street Art Bangkok or on your own using the map provided by Bangkok Street Art Map.
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Evening:
- Experience Bangkok’s famous nightlife in Thonglor, with options like Sing Sing Theatre for live music and performances or Octave Rooftop Bar & Lounge for panoramic views of the city.
- For dinner, check out Pizza Massaia Bangkok, an Italian pizzeria that consistently ranks among the best in Asia.
- Finish your trip with a late-night snack at Jay Fai or Soi Polo Fried Chicken before heading to the airport for your journey home.
Transportation: The most convenient ways to get around Bangkok are the BTS Skytrain, MRT Subway, and riverboats (Chao Phraya Express Boat). You can also use Grab, a popular ride-hailing service in Thailand. Taxis are widely available but may be more expensive than other options.
Things to Know:
- Bangkok is known for its intense heat and humidity; remember to stay hydrated throughout the day.
- Thais value politeness, and using “Khrap” (for men) or “Kha” (for women) when addressing others shows respect.
- Bargaining is common in markets, but prices at shops and restaurants are fixed.
- The currency used in Thailand is the Baht (THB). Credit cards are widely accepted in most establishments.
- Always check the opening hours of attractions and restaurants before planning your day. Some places may have irregular schedules or be closed on specific days.
- Respect Thai culture by dressing appropriately when visiting religious sites.
- Keep an eye out for scams, especially in popular tourist areas. Be aware of overpriced items, fake gems/jewelry, and people offering help with your belongings.
- Enjoy your trip to Bangkok, and don’t hesitate to ask locals for recommendations or assistance when needed!