If you’re looking for the ultimate 3 day Bangkok itinerary, you’re in the right place. This guide shows you exactly how to spend 72 hours in Thailand’s buzzing capital — from jaw-dropping temples and Michelin-recognized street food to rooftop bars, hidden cafés, and a live Muay Thai match. It’s fast-paced, experience-driven, and built to help you see the best of Bangkok without feeling overwhelmed.

Bangkok is a city that hits all your senses at once — golden spires glitter in the sun, longtail boats zip down the Chao Phraya River, and the smell of sizzling pad kra pao follows you down neon-lit streets. It’s chaotic in the best way possible, layered with history, flavor, and modern energy. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, Bangkok has a way of pulling you in and making you want more.

What You’ll Get Out Of This Article

  • A balance paced 3-day Bangkok itinerary, broken down by day, covering top sights, food, and culture.
  • Insider tips for visiting temples, markets, and local neighborhoods.
  • Must-try street food, cafés, and Michelin-recognized restaurants.
  • Guide for how to get around Bangkok efficiently.
  • Custom Google Map with every stop pinned for stress-free planning.
  • Practical tips to make your trip as stress-free as possible.

In This Article

3-Day Bangkok Itinerary

will and chantelle in wat pho bangkok

When it comes to building out what to do in Bangkok in 3 days, there’s definitely more to see and eat than what you can fit in. The goal was to put together something that would not only include the most popular sites but also get you out to areas that are the more recent local favorites.

This itinerary is perfect for those that are coming to Bangkok for the first time (Chantelle) or coming back to Thailand after a very long time (Will). Of course, as with all of our itineraries, feel free to cherry-pick what works for you and build one that works for your travel interests and style.

TOP TIPS FOR TRAVELING TO BANGKOK

  • Where to stay – We stayed at DoubleTree by Hilton Bangkok Ploenchit for its good location near BTS Ploenchit, making it close to many of the modern malls, hip new neighborhoods, and also the historic core.
  • Must-pack item – For women, it’s the lightweight, breathable scarf or shawl which is essential in Bangkok to cover shoulders at temples, sun protection, and staying warm in the air-conditioned indoors.
  • Recommended activity – The Muay Thai boxing match at Rajadamnern Stadium is a must. We can speak first-hand about how exciting it was to experience Thailand’s national sport, local culture, and high-energy atmosphere.
  • Before you go – Download Grab, Google Maps, Google Translate, and LINE before and get them all set up.
  • Car rentals – This is one city where we wouldn’t recommend renting a car in Bangkok.
  • Flights – If you are flying in from elsewhere use the Skyscanner “Everywhere” feature to find the best deals from your local airport. Check how much it would be for you to get to Bangkok!
  • Insurance – Make sure you’re covered with the best travel insurance. Our go to is HeyMondo, the rates are great, and it has solid all-round coverage including adventure activities. Also, with our link you automatically get 5% off!
  • Hottest deals – Make sure to bookmark our frequently-updated travel deals page.

Day 1 – Sacred Bangkok

wat pho reclining buddha between pillars

Your first day focuses on Bangkok’s most iconic landmarks, combining historic temples, cultural performances, and riverside views. Expect a full day of sightseeing with plenty of walking, balanced by relaxing moments and a memorable sunset with food and drinks.

A big reason why we chose the DoubleTree Bangkok Ploenchit is that they have an excellent buffet breakfast, so you’ll have no problem with fueling up each and every morning. It’s going to be a long but rewarding day of walking, sightseeing, and temple hopping.

A HEADS UP: As a temple day, make sure to dress appropriately for the day. If you look at the Wat Pho sign below, the main no-no’s are any sort of tank-top where shoulders are exposed and shorts or skirts.

wat pho dress code and rules sign

The most comfortable temple-wear is a t-shirt and long pants. A travel scarf is also very handy if you want more flexibility.

For guys, light breathable pants like this one, and for ladies, these quick drying cargo joggers are really good for travel.

We know some people say closed-toes shoes aren’t allowed but we didn’t see any restrictions on this, so sandals that are easy to slip on and off are great.

PRO TIP: Especially at Wat Pho, there are many different buildings to enter which will require you to take off your shoes, so make sure to wear something that’s quick to slip on and off.

We’re huge fans of Viator and so we checked them first when planning our trip to Bangkok.

In addition to experiences like the Wat Pho Thai massage experience, Grand Palace and Emerald Buddha tour, and ringside seats at Rajadamnern Muay Thai Stadium take a look at the Bangkok activities that might fit your interests.

A few day tours to consider are:

Check Bangkok Tours

Begin your Bangkok itinerary with an early morning start at Wat Pho, home of the famous 46-meter-long Reclining Buddha and one of the most important temples in Thailand.

The Buddha is covered in gold leaf and inlaid mother-of-pearl. As you walk around, make sure to pay attention to the details in the feet, the art that surrounds the Buddha, and the different areas to pray.

Wat Pho is also known as the birthplace of traditional Thai massage and was also Thailand’s first public university.

In the complex itself, you’ll find more than 1,000 Buddha images and dozens of intricately decorated chedis. A visit through here really is a crash course in Thai art, religion, and scholarship.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Address: 2 Sanamchai Road, Grand Palace Subdistrict, Pranakorn District, Bangkok 10200

Hours: Open daily 8AM-7:30PM

Price: ฿300 THB (cash-only)

Website: Wat Pho

Tips:  

  • It’s a good idea to visit Wat Pho first because they open 30 minutes before the Grand Palace, allowing you to squeeze more time out of the morning.
  • Arrive early to avoid crowds and heat.
  • Plan 1 to 1.5 hours to explore the full complex.
  • When visiting the reclining Buddha, you’ll need to take off your shoes. Unique to Wat Pho, you’ll be provided a plastic bag to carry your shoes.
  • Dress modestly, covering your shoulders and legs.
  • There are several opportunities to donate to pray for well-wishes. If you’re interested, make sure to have coins.
  • Be respectful; quiet voices and remove shoes when required.
  • There are several water-filling stations as you’ll see in the photo above. Make sure to stay hydrated throughout your time exploring.

If you’re interested in learning more about the techniques of Thai massage, what better way than to get hands-on at where it all began. Viator offers a Thai massage experience at Wat Pho Massage School where you’ll receive a 1-hour full Thai massage and 1-hour hands-on training. This also includes admission to Wat Pho with guide so it’s an awesome way to spend the morning.

HEADS UP: The experience will bring you out to the Chetawan Health Center which is located outside of Wat Pho.

PRO TIP: If you’re hoping to get a massage at the school separately, there is limited space at the Wat Pho temple location, so we recommend that you head here right away so you can either do a massage treatment first or make a booking for later.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Address: 2 Sanam Chai Road Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon,
Bangkok 10200

Hours: Open daily 9AM-7PM

Price: Prices vary based on service type. 30 minutes is ฿340 THB. See list of services and prices here.

Website: Watpo Thai Traditional Medical School

Tips:  

  • There are two names – Watpo Thai Traditional Medical School and Chetewan Health Center. Both are run by the same organization. The former is located in the temple complex and the latter is just outside of it. If you’re doing the Thai massage experience, it’ll be at Chetwean.
  • They have limited space at their temple location so try to go in to reserve a time slot first. There is no way to reserve online ahead of time.
  • Hydrate before and after. Thai massage can be intense; water helps your body recover.
  • For advice on tips, make sure to read our 10 Bangkok tips section.

From Wat Pho, you’re right next door to the Grand Palace, Bangkok’s most famous landmark. This sprawling complex was once the royal residence and remains one of the city’s most sacred sites.

This is the type of place that’ll instantly transport you to a different world with its sea of gold rooftops, mirrored mosaics, creatures propping up buildings, massive statues guarding gates, intricate carvings, and masterful paintings telling epic tales.

Inside the palace grounds, don’t miss Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha), considered the most important Buddhist temple in Thailand.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Address: 2 Sanam Chai Road Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon,
Bangkok 10200. It’s worth noting that the entrance is only at the Mani Noppharat Gate (indicated on our interactive map).

Hours: Open daily 8:30AM-3:30PM

Price: ฿500 THB. Children under 120cm are free. There is also an audio guide service available for 200 THB (available in 8 languages and passport or credit card required)

Website: The Grand Palace

Tips:  

  • Ticket includes access to: The Grand Palace, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, The Queen Sirikit Museum of Textiles, The Arts of the Kingdom Museum and the Masterpieces by Artisans of Queen Sirikit Institute, and Khon, Thai classical masked dance. The ticket provides 7 full days of access from the day of purchase.
  • Currently, the online ticket purchasing system on the main Grand Palace website doesn’t work so you can either purchase a skip-the-line ticket or purchase it in-person. Buying tickets in advance will help you bypass the initial queue after security.
  • The ticket kiosk doesn’t necessarily save you time because there are only two kiosks vs. the 4-5 ticket booths that are open.
  • Grand Palace tickets don’t have a timeslot and can’t be sold out so in our opinion, there’s no need to buy in advance but if you do, it could save you a bit of queueing time.
  • There are bathrooms in the palace but there are also underground ones just outside the main entrance gate. We appreciated that these underground tunnels offer a break from the heat with air-condition as well.
  • Expect security checks at the entrance. Bags and water bottles are allowed but they will definitely flag down anyone that doesn’t follow the dress code (exactly the same as Wat Pho).
  • Avoid mid-day visits if possible as there’s very little shade. This will be unavoidable for most so take sun breaks in the covered areas and drink plenty of water.
  • If you’re interested in the history and want to learn the intricate details and stories of the artifacts and buildings, it’s a good idea to join a guided tour.
  • A common scam in the past are people telling you that the palace is “closed”. This is where they redirect you somewhere else. Do not listen to them.
khon performance of thai masked dance at sala chalermkrung royal theatre

A little-known fact is that your Grand Palace ticket includes free admission to watch a traditional Khon performance at the Sala Chalermkrung Royal Theatre which is located off-site from the palace. The secret is that there are complimentary shuttles that can take you to the theatre.

Here’s how it works: There are currently 3 shows a day – 1PM, 2:30PM, and 4PM. 30 minutes before each show, there is a shuttle that runs between the Grand Palace (location pinned in our map) and the theatre. When you enter, simply show your Grand Palace ticket.

The Khon performance is a traditional Thai masked dance that brings ancient stories from the Ramakien to life through elaborate costumes, music, and choreography.

Even if you’re not familiar with the story, the performance is visually captivating and they also have English captions at the top of the theater which makes it easy to follow.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Address: 66 Sala Chalerm Krung Charoen Krung Road, Wang Burapha Pirom Sub-district, Phra Nakhon District, Bangkok 10200

Hours: Monday to Friday, there are 25-minute performances daily at 1PM, 2:30PM and 4:00PM.

Price: Included with your Grand Palace ticket. It doesn’t look like you can buy tickets for the show individually.

Website:Sala Chalermkrung Royal Theatre

Tips:  

  • Seats are first-come, first-serve. The center seats are the best but honestly, there really isn’t a bad seat in the house.
  • There are shuttles 30 minutes prior to each performance.
  • No food or drink are allowed in the theatre. If there’s a visible water bottle on you, they will make sure you empty it.
  • Photography and video is allowed but just make sure your flash is turned off.
  • If you can’t make it to the show on the day of your Grand Palace visit, keep in mind that you have 7-day validity so you can always return another day.

After the Khon show, you’re not too far from the legendary 1 Michelin-star street food restaurant, Raan Jay Fai. This is the place to try their famous crab omelette, cooked over roaring flames by the begoggled Jay Fai herself.

If you find the omelette prices to be too high or the queue too long, it’s also worth noting that Thipsamai is literally next door. We heard from numerous locals that this is the best Pad Thai in Bangkok.

We’re not ashamed to admit that we ate at both restaurants that afternoon. The good news is that neither restaurant had any issues with us sharing one dish.

PRO TIP: The Raan Jay Fai queues can be up to 1 hour as the restaurant is quite small. From our experience though, we noticed that the line disappears after 3PM. On the flipside, Thipsamai didn’t seem too busy at 2PM.

golden mount sign and entrance

After lunch, you’re also only a few blocks away from Wat Saket, or better known as the Golden Mount. A gentle climb leads you to panoramic views over Bangkok’s old town.

What you’ll appreciate here is how significantly less crazy the crowds are. On most days, you’ll only see a handful of visitors climbing the spiraling staircase up the artificial mountain that leads to the golden chedi at the top.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Address: 344 Chakkraphatdi Phong Rd, Ban Bat, Pom Prap Sattru Phai, Bangkok 10100

Hours: Daily 7:30AM-7PM

Price: ฿100 THB

Website:None

Tips:  

  • Visit in the late afternoon for cooler temps and soft light. They’re also open later than the other temples so there’s sunset opportunities here.
  • We saw the ticket booth attendant calling out visitors so make sure you’re dressed in temple-wear.
  • Make sure to do the circular walk around the base of the temple where there are smaller buddhas, bench area with mist for cooling, a beautiful wishing tree, and cafe.
  • Bring lots of water as there’s little shade on the climb.

Next is Wat Arun, one of Bangkok’s most photographed temples. Its porcelain-covered spires glow beautifully in the late afternoon light.

To get to Wat Arun though, you’ll need to take the ferry to get across. There are a number of ways to do it. The one we did is marked on our map which cost ฿10 THB but there’s also another at the main Tha Tien Pier for ฿5 THB which is cheaper. The crossing only takes 3 minutes.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Address: Pins for both ferry crossings are marked on our map.

Hours: Open daily 9AM-6PM

Price: ฿10 THB one-way (cash-only).

Website:None

Tips:  

  • You can also take the a cross-river ferry from Tha Tien Pier which is ฿5 THB.
  • It’s worth noting that the Chao Phraya Express Boat service does not do the river crossing.
  • If you’re trying to go around sunset, the lines can get long so plan to cross the rive earlier.

Also known as Temple of Dawn, this is easily one of the most recognizable landmarks in Bangkok. The Buddhist temple centers around a towering prang in the middle and symbolizes Mount Meru from Hindo cosmology. If you look closely, it is also decorated with tropical sea snails and porcelain from Chinese junk boats that used to visit here centuries ago.

Unlike others, you can actually climb partway and around it, offering great photography opportunities.

In fact, when you arrive, you’ll immediately notice how many people are dressed in traditional clothing and their entourage of photographers and assistants holding reflectors. Turns out, this is the most popular place to get photos in Thai costumes because they are affordable and easy to book.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

wat arun dress code sign

Address: 158 Thanon Wang Doem, Bangkok 10600

Hours: Daily 8AM – 6PM (last entry at 5:40 PM)

Price: ฿200 THB. Small children are free.

Website:Wat Arun – The Temple of Dawn (unofficial)

Tips:  

  • Visit in the late afternoon, but arrive before last entry (5:40 PM). Notice from these hours that it’s actually not possible to watch the sunset from Wat Arun.
  • Upon entry, each person will be provided a bottle of water.
  • Strict dress code is in effect.
  • You won’t be required to take off your shoes when you walk the temple but make sure to watch your step as they can be narrow and tall.
  • Bring water and sun screen because there’s little shade here.
  • Allow 30–45 minutes to explore.
  • Climbing partway up gives you great views of the river.
  • Be respectful as this is an active place of worship.
  • Again, be mindful of common scams. If anyone approaches you on the street, ignore them.

From Wat Arun, take the same ferry back across just in time for actual sunset.

Make your way to Wat Pho Pier. This is one of the best spots in Bangkok to catch golden-hour photos with Wat Arun glowing across the river with longtail boats loudly powering by.

Enjoy dinner at the Michelin Bib Gourmand recommended RONGROS, a riverside restaurant known for elevated Thai cuisine and stunning views of Wat Arun illuminated at night. It’s an ideal spot to relax after a packed sightseeing day.

HOT TIP: It’s recommended to make reservations through LINE as they get busy. The only catch is that if you want to book a table on the second floor or by the window, they require a non-refundable deposit and a minimum spend of 1,000 THB per person.

Cap off your first night in Bangkok with drinks at Eagle Nest Rooftop Bar (open 4PM–10PM). Located near the river, they offer one of the most romantic nighttime views of Wat Arun. It’s perfect for cocktails, light snacks, and soaking in the atmosphere.

Day 1 Summary

What you’ll see:

What you’ll do:

Where you’ll eat:

Where you’ll stay:

Day 2 – Spa, Cafe, Shopping And Michelin Lifestyle

will and chantelle at white wood green spa for traditional thai heritage massage

Day 2 in Bangkok is all about getting comfortable, finding cozy trendy spots in town, having a great massage, eating delicious food, and enjoying sunset views from a rooftop bar.

Start the morning again with breakfast at the Doubletree. Similar to the previous day, there’s a lot of walking (and eating) throughout the day, so a solid breakfast is key.

In putting together this itinerary, we’ve done our best to minimize back and forth between locations. That’s why we’ve tried to choose destinations for today that are within the same neighborhood of Ekkamai.

white wood green spa interior space

Head over to White Wood Green Spa & Wellness, a chic, zen, and beautifully designed space that’ll show you what a high-end spa experience is like. It’s the perfect mid-morning reset before a food-heavy day.

If you did the massage at Wat Pho the previous day, think of that as a teaser to Thai massage. For those that do the massage experience, you’ll have an even better appreciation of the technique and strength required to perform a massage.

We recommend booking a 90-minute Thai Heritage Massage which will invigorate your body and cure aching muscles. Booking in advance is pretty much mandatory because their time slots fill up quickly and helps you save a bit of money.

After you’re done with your massage, you’ll appreciate how they put guests into a private area of the spa to enjoy a heated neck compress and refreshing butterfly pea tea.

If you’re looking for more refreshments, White Wood Green Spa also has their own café next door which specializes in health-oriented drinks.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Address: Ekkamai Soi 12, House No. 53, Soi Sukhumvit 63, Khlong Tan Nuea, Watthana, Bangkok 10110

Hours: Open daily 10AM-9PM

Price: Price varies based on treatment but the Thai Heritage Massage cost us  ฿1,600 THB for Thai Heritage Massage.

Website:White Wood Green Spa

Tips:  

  • Since this is a popular spa, you’ll definitely need to make a reservation ahead of time so you can secure a time slot.
  • If you’re trying to come here in the morning during rush hour, we recommend trying to hail your Grab earlier than you think so you can make your appointment time.
  • Remember to request your massage receipt if you plan on claiming it.
  • With spas, we really debated about what time of day to go. In the morning, it’s nice because you’re not super sweaty yet but on the flipside, you’ve still got the rest of the day to get sore and achey from walking.
  • If you’re looking for a spa alternative, why not consider the Makkha Spa right in your hotel. This is great because you can come home at the end of the night and literally walk into the spa in your robes.
cup of cinnoffee at no tuesday in pridi cafe

We opted to walk around the neighborhood after our treatment to get a good preview of what’s trending in Bangkok. The two spots we suggest that you pop by are:

  1. ChumChum Grocery – A unique place to browse with its eclectic assortment of Disney paraphernalia. A heads up that if you want to take photos here, you’ll need to buy food or drink from the cafe.
  2. no tuesday in pridi – A cozy local cafe with a fine collection of coffee and hand-drawn art on their cups. We tried their signature Cinnoffee and it was superb.
famous dishes from here hai in bangkok

For your next stop, choose between two Bangkok food legends:

  1. Here Hai (Original Shop) – Famous for its Michelin-recognized crab fried rice, loaded with generous chunks of crab and cooked to perfection.
  2. Phed Mark – A go-to spot for Pad Kra Pao lovers, known for bold flavors, crispy pork, and serious spice by food influencer, Mark Wiens.

We really wanted to go to both but only had the time and stomach space for one so we ended up at Here Hai which absolutely blew us away. The crab chunks were enormous, mantis shrimp delicious, and we couldn’t believe how huge the river shrimp was.

cum coffee latte and bag in bangkok

After lunch, we walked to The Office Thonglor, a modern co-working space and popular spot for expats. There are several restaurants and cafes operating here so it’s a great location to sit down to get some work done, have a meeting, or in our case, have a mini siesta.

The one café that stood out to us was a place called CUM Coffee. Name aside, they’re a hip specialist known for their creative caffeinated drinks and minimalist aesthetic. I got a chance to try their latte, and it hit its mark.

Bangkok is synonymous with rooftop bars. The city is one of the early pioneers of this going back to my first trip here, and since then the town has exploded with these everywhere. It’s basically gotten to the point where if you’re constructing a new skyscraper, it has to have a rooftop bar at the top.

All of this is to say that a visit to Thailand’s capital wouldn’t be complete without dropping by a rooftop bar to see what the hubbub is all about.

After considerable amount of research that involved looking at views, atmosphere, pricing, pretentiousness, and ratings, we ultimately landed on Tichuca Rooftop Bar.

Known for its jungle-inspired design and panoramic city views, it’s one of Bangkok’s most popular rooftop bars. At its center above the main bar is what looks like a tree straight out of Avatar with glowing tentacles that stretch downwards.

Overall, we enjoyed our time here although rooftop bars aren’t necessarily our scene. They certainly have brilliant views all around. That said, come up with the expectation of being surrounded by tourists and lack of DJ this early in the night.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Address: 46, Soi Sukhumvit 40, Phra Khanong, Khlong Toei, Bangkok 10110, Thailand

Hours: Open daily 5PM-12AM

Price: Entry is technically free of charge but each person needs to order a drink (starts at ฿350 THB).

Website:Tichuca Rooftop Bar

Tips:  

  • They don’t take reservations which is why so many people recommend coming here right when they open at 5PM. This way, you can be guaranteed a table when you arrive and you’ll be able to watch the sunset.
  • Physical passports are required for their security check. However, I made the mistake of forgetting mine in the hotel but had a photo of it and they allowed me through. There’s no guarantee this’ll work for everyone though so make sure to bring your passport.
  • There’s a minimum age of 20.
  • You do go through a x-ray machine and security check but they don’t seem very strict about bags and cameras.
  • Their food is a bit limited but if you’re feeling peckish, there are skewers and potatoes available.
  • Credit cards are accepted.
  • Unless this is really your scene, we recommend that you stay here until just a bit past sunset.
  • Outside food and drink aren’t allowed. However, if you have a water bottle that is empty, that is okay.

A Bangkok trip also isn’t complete without mango sticky rice. Close to Tichuca is Mae Varee, one of the city’s most famous take out spots for the perfectly sweet and ripe mangoes with sticky rice topped with popped rice and creamy coconut sauce.

emquartier helix quartier greenery in bangkok

For dinner, we suggest that you head over to EmQuartier Mall. As one of Bangkok’s many mega malls, this one is unique because of how they’ve infused futuristic design with brilliant use of greenery and open spaces. This is a great place to do some shopping but also grab your dinner.

The mall itself is divided into three sections. One is Glass Quartier which in addition to their luxury brands, they also have a food hall in the basement. Your other best bet for food is the Helix Quartier. Here, instead of distinct floors, there is a rising pathway that twists upwards and is filled with trendy cafes and restaurants.

Before you go, there’s also open space on the ground floor in between the buildings that has a different themed market every month. The Waterfall Quartier is also a must-visit with their stunning indoor waterfall.

bartenders working at teens of thailand cocktail bar in bangkok

If you still have energy, you can try out Bangkok’s lively cocktail bar scene. The one we got a chance to check out was Teens of Thailand. They occupy a tiny space in Chinatown (Yaowarat) and are gin and tonic specialists.

We were supremely impressed with the aroma-filled and tasty Chrysanthemum Gin Tonic and Thai Tea Gin Tonic.

Day 2 Summary

What you’ll see:

What you’ll do:

Where you’ll eat:

Where you’ll stay:

If time allows, check out our guide to the top things to do in Bangkok, featuring must-see sights and local favorites to help you make the most of your trip.

Top 10 Things to Do in Bangkok, Thailand

Where To Stay In Bangkok

doubletree bangkok ploenchit room interior

For this 3-day Bangkok itinerary, we chose to stay at DoubleTree by Hilton Bangkok Ploenchit thanks to its central location, comfort, and easy access to public transportation. Situated near BTS Ploenchit, the hotel makes it convenient to explore both Old Town sights and modern neighborhoods like Ekkamai and Ari.

Spacious rooms, reliable service, and a relaxing pool area make it a great base for busy sightseeing days! Plus, that signature warm cookie is always a nice bonus after a long day out (yes you can always ask for more!).

For Hilton Honors Diamond status members, since they don’t have a proper lounge, you’ll also get vouchers for free alcoholic drinks from the lobby bar. The breakfast buffet is also included for free.

WHERE WE STAYED

main entrance and front sign to doubletree by hilton bangkok ploenchit

DoubleTree by Hilton Bangkok Ploenchit

A modern hotel near BTS Ploenchit, combining comfort, convenience, and reliable amenities. Perfect for sightseeing, with quick access to both Old Town temples and modern shopping districts.

HOSTEL

standard room with bunkbeds at nappark hostel @khao san

NapPark Hostel @ Khao San

A clean, social, and affordable hostel near Khao San Road, ideal for backpackers and budget travelers. Offers dorms and private rooms, plus easy access to street food, bars, and cultural attractions.

LUXURY

outdoor swimming pool at mandarin hotel

Mandarin Oriental Bangkok

An iconic riverside hotel offering elegant rooms, world-class service, and stunning views of the Chao Phraya River. Ideal for travelers looking for a high-end Bangkok experience with historic charm.

BOUTIQUE

large room with a view at riva surya bangkok

Riva Surya Bangkok

A stylish boutique hotel in Bangkok’s Old Town, steps from the river, temples, and markets. Cozy rooms, personalized service, and a riverside location make it perfect for travelers who want a more intimate, local-feel stay.

Map Of Bangkok Itinerary

To make planning your trip even easier, we’ve included a custom Google Map that pinpoints every location mentioned in this itinerary. Best part is you can save the map directly to your phone and use it on the go, making it simple to visualize each day, plan routes, and navigate Bangkok efficiently while you travel.

To make the most of the interactive map, you can actually create a copy on your own Google account.  First, maximize the map above.  From there you can click on the 3 vertical dots on the top right of the red menu.  Select “Copy Map”.  At this point, you’ll be able to give it your own name and then it’ll be saved onto your own account so you can edit the map as you please.  When you open up the Google Maps app, you can recall the map under the “You” tab and at the very bottom the button “Maps”.

What To Pack For Bangkok

Packing for Bangkok requires a balance of comfort, practicality, and respect for local culture.

No matter what time of year you’re going, it’s safe to say that it’s going to be hot and humid. This applied even for our trip in late-January and early February.

This type of weather means lightweight clothing is a must, while also being mindful of the dress code required for temple visits. With the right essentials, you’ll be ready to explore temples, markets, and street food stalls without a hitch.

thailand hotel universal outlet plugs
ayutthaya buddha head in tree roots at wat mahathat
From Ayutthaya Full Day tour.

From our experience in planning trips, the tours and activities that you book become anchors for your itinerary.

Activities On This Itinerary

Looking at our trip, there are a few experiences that you should book ahead of time.

Tours You Should Consider

3 days certainly isn’t enough to do everything but if any of the below piques your interest, see if they fit your schedule for a longer trip.

Viator has a wide selection of tours in Bangkok and is a recommended first place to look as you plan your own trip.

Book Your Bangkok Tours

10 Bangkok Travel Tips

Here are 10 tips that we learned, some easy and some the hard way that you’ll definitely want to read over as you’re planning and also again before you make your way to Thailand.

  1. The good and the bad of Grab – Grab is the Uber of Thailand and is essential for getting around. That said, beware that during weekday rush hour traffic, getting a car will not be as easy as you think. On many occasions we waited over 15 minutes and required two accounts to try to get someone. That’s when we learned that in many situations, taking the BTS (sky train) or MRT (subway) is more efficient.
  2. Cash heavy – While credit card is accepted in large shops and restaurants, the truth of the matter is that you’re going to encounter a ton of temples, street vendors, Chatuchak Weekend Market, and small restaurants that are cash-only. We used a lot more cash than we expected. We highly recommend that you convert to Thai Baht in your home country ahead of time to avoid the stress of worrying about being scammed and just being able to hit the ground running when you land.
  3. Buying single-ride tickets on BTS and MRT – Currently, you can’t tap your international cards on BTS but you can on MRT. Ultimately, we found that it was easier to buy one-way tickets from the station’s ticket booth. Keep in mind this is cash-only.
  4. Tipping – Regarding tips, it’s not expected in Thailand but appreciated. The guideline we tried to follow in Bangkok is to tip 10% but it can vary. In reality, we only really tipped masseuses, bellhops, housecleaning ($1 USD per day), and Grab (only if they were really good). When it comes to masseuses, the best way to pay tips is to hand the cash over immediately after you walk out of the treatment room. This way, you know the tip goes to them instead of dividing it amongst multiple people. You’ll also want to pay the tip immediately after as you might not see them again afterwards.
  5. Massages can be free – If you have a health benefits plan from your employer at home, you can file a claim on your massages in Thailand. All you need is an official receipt from the spa with your name and the type of service in English. If possible, make sure the words “massage” are in there.
  6. LINE and Whatsapp – These are the two main messaging apps in Thailand. This is particularly useful because many businesses (typically restaurants and spas) use this as their customer support line. We recommend that you have these downloaded and set up ahead of time.
  7. The sun is intense – The sun is strong any time of the year so you need to be prepared both in terms of the clothing you wear but also how you plan your day. Go to the places that don’t have much shade (i.e. temples and palaces) early in the morning and try to be indoors mid-day. With the oppressive heat, you’ll also be moving slower and have less energy so plan your trip with that expectation.
  8. You don’t need your passport (most of the time) – The general consensus is that you don’t need to bring your passport with you when you’re in the city. That said, there are several exceptions. 1) If you plan on doing duty free shopping (minimum spend of ฿2,000 THB per store) or 2) You’re going to Tichuca Rooftop Bar. Otherwise, it’s best to keep it in the safe at the hotel and simply take a photo of your main page and the Thailand entry stamp.
  9. Drinks in Thailand are sweet – In fact, they’re a little too sweet. What caught us off guard is when we ordered green tea at a restaurant or bought a bottle of tea at 7-Eleven, they were fully sweet. Handy to know is that if you’re making a made-to-order drink, you can always ask to adjust the sweetness level.
  10. Get a good deal on a tuk tuk – We always had the impression that tuk tuks were a bad deal compared to Grab. That’s not actually the case where we used Grab as a baseline price and landed on a rate that was less. Of course, they started at more than double but after walking away and the driver asking what we wanted, it ultimately worked.

Why We’d Go Back To Bangkok In A Heartbeat

Three days in Bangkok may feel short, but it’s enough to experience the city’s incredible energy, rich culture, and unforgettable food scene. From temple hopping and traditional performances to world-class street food, cafés, and vibrant markets, Bangkok offers a perfect mix of history and modern life at every turn.

Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, this 3-day Bangkok itinerary proves that the city has a way of pulling you in and leaving you already planning your next visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 3 days enough time in Bangkok?

Yes, 3 days in Bangkok is enough to see major temples, experience the food scene, explore markets, and enjoy nightlife. While you won’t see everything, a well-planned itinerary lets you experience the city’s highlights without feeling rushed.

What is the best time of year to visit Bangkok?

The best time to visit Bangkok is from November to February, when the weather is cooler and less humid. This is also peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and larger crowds.

How do you get around Bangkok efficiently?

Bangkok has several convenient transportation options, including the BTS Skytrain, MRT subway, taxis, Grab, river ferries, and tuk-tuks. Grab is by far the most convenient, especially if you’re used to Uber back home. That said, for longer distances and rush hour, it does not make sense because of price and time. That’s why you’ll also want to be familiar with BTS and MRT.

What should I wear when visiting temples in Bangkok?

When visiting temples, wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. Lightweight, breathable fabrics are best, and comfortable shoes are essential since you’ll be walking and removing footwear often.

Is Bangkok expensive for travelers?

Bangkok can be very affordable, especially for food and transportation. Street food, local restaurants, and public transit are budget-friendly, while hotels and rooftop bars offer options at every price point.

Read More About Thailand

If you’re in the process of planning your trip and putting together your itinerary, these are genuinely the best resources that the Going Awesome Places team stands by 100%.

Credit Cards

Don’t get burned by hidden fees on top of terrible exchange rates. When we travel now, we use the Wise Card. Simply load it with the currency you need before you go and use it as a regular VISA or their digital wallet card. Use their free app to track how much you have and top up when you need to.

Flights

In our opinion, of all the booking search engines, Skyscanner is the most helpful and easy to use thanks to their Everywhere feature. Kayak is also another that’s we will often check.

Rideshare

You probably already have accounts but if you don’t, for new Lyft users, use code WILLIAM4825 to get 50% off your first 2 rides (max $10 per ride). Offer valid for 14 days after you take your first ride. For new Uber users, use code cbh4j6plxt8p for the same offer except it’s valid for 30 days.

Wifi Hotspot

We’ve been a huge fan of wifi hotspot devices such as PokeFi (use code GAP24300) because their rates are are hard to beat and it works globally. Solis is another that we recommend. Pros are that you can share the wifi with your whole group but cons are that you have to invest in a device and you have to charge it every night.

Hotels

Our go-to is Booking.com because they have the best inventory of properties including hotels and B&Bs plus they have their Genius tier discounts. Expedia is also worth using especially with their One Key rewards program which is basically like cash. The exception is Asia where Agoda always has the best prices. Always do a quick check on TripAdvisor as well.

Vacation Rentals

Your first instinct will be to go to Airbnb but we always recommend checking VRBO as well if you’re looking for a vacation rental (now eligible for One Key).

Tours and Activities

When planning our trips, we always check Viator to see what’s out there in the destination that we’re going to.

Travel Insurance

Learn how to buy the best travel insurance for you. This isn’t something you want to travel without.

  • HeyMondo – Popular insurance provider for frequent travelers and comes with great coverage and special perks. By booking through our link to get a 5% discount!
  • RATESDOTCA – Search engine Canadians looking for the cheapest insurance including multi-trip annual policies.
  • SafetyWing – A perfect fit for long-term nomads.
  • Medjet – Global air medical transportation.
  • InsureMyTrip – Best for seniors, families, and those with pre-existing conditions.

Check Out Our Toolbox

If you need more help planning your trip, make sure to check out our Travel Toolbox where we highlight all of the gear, resources, and tools we use when traveling.

This article was sponsored by Viator but our thoughts and opinions are our own.