How To Spend 3 Days In Bangkok: The PERFECT Itinerary For First-Timers
Bangkok is a city that never sleeps. It’s a place where ancient temples stand alongside futuristic skyscrapers, where you can experience world-class street food on every corner. With so much to offer, it can be overwhelming to figure out what to see in just 3 days in Bangkok.
Whether you’re drawn to the majestic temples, the buzzing markets, or the tranquil parks, Bangkok has something for everyone. After spending a week discovering everything Bangkok has to offer, we’ll show you all the things you cannot miss. This guide will highlight, step by step, everything you need to know to spend 3 days in Bangkok.
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3 Days In Bangkok Overview
Day 1: Famous Temples
Your first day in Bangkok should be spent exploring the highlights. These are the places that you’ve probably seen all over TikTok and Instagram. The sort of places that you kind of have to see if you’re going to Bangkok. At least once.
As these places are pretty famous, we would highly recommend getting up early to try to beat some of the crowds. Where possible, book your tickets in advance!
For days 1 and 2 of this itinerary, you will need to make sure your knees and shoulders are covered – yes men and women!
The Grand Palace
The first place you should visit in Bangkok is the Grand Palace. Get there for 8.30am when it opens, and make sure to book a skip-the-line ticket in advance.
Entry Fee – 500 Baht
The Grand Palace is a huge and very beautiful complex. When you first enter, you will be met with the most beautiful temple: Wat Phra Kaew. This is the temple of the Emerald Buddha and is a very important religious site.
Make sure you take some time to properly explore the temple complex as it is very beautiful. Everywhere you turn there’s another building covered in gold and jewels, or shelters with incredible hand-painted murals. This is the most spectacular part.
After spending some time at Wat Phra Kaew, go through the gate to the Grand Palace. The Royal Family no longer live here, with the palace only being used for ceremonial purposes nowadays. However, it is still incredibly impressive. The gardens are perfectly manicured, and the palace looks like something out of a Disney movie.
Recommended Time – 3 hours
Wat Pho
Next stop on your Bangkok itinerary is Wat Pho, more commonly known as the Temple of the Reclining Buddha. Yep, Wat Pho is home to that giant golden Buddha Bangkok is so famous for.
Entry Fee – 300 Baht
We thought Wat Pho was going to be overhyped and underwhelming but we couldn’t have been more wrong. It was incredible. The Buddha measures 46m long and 15m high. It’s hard to get your head around just how big that is without seeing it.
Wat Pho is actually quite a large temple complex too. Make sure you don’t just see the reclining Buddha, but actually take some time to explore the rest of the complex too. Because a lot of people visit, see the reclining Buddha, and then leave, the rest of the complex is actually really peaceful.
Recommended Time – 1 hour
Wat Arun
The third temple you’ll see on your first day in Bangkok is Wat Arun. Located on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, this temple is an iconic landmark in the Bangkok cityscape.
Entry Fee – 200 Baht
To get to Wat Arun, you’re going to want to take the 30s ferry from Tha Tien Pier. It costs just 5 Baht per person.
Wat Arun is another huge temple complex, famous for its spires, the largest measuring an insane 82m. You can climb part-way up the spire to see incredible views of the Chao Phraya River and the temple complex.
A very popular thing to do is to hire a photographer and a traditional Thai costume for a photoshoot around the temple. We’ve seen some of the results and they look stunning!
Recommended Time – 1 hour
Dinner Spot – The Family – Our favourite restaurant in Bangkok! Good vibes and great Thai food.
Sunset At Wat Saket
Wat Saket is one of the best places to watch sunset over Bangkok. This temple is built on a 60m hill so you can see for miles around. The view is insane. You can see all the low buildings of the old town, leading up to the skyscrapers in the distance, and temples scattered throughout.
Entry Fee – 100 Baht
Whilst the view is great, Wat Saket is also one of our favourite temples in Bangkok. There are so many beautiful shrines leading up the hill, and so much greenery. It is such a tranquil place.
Do note, Wat Saket closes at 7pm so make sure to check the sunset times beforehand! It is also worth checking the weather forecast if you’re visiting during rainy season as you would not want to get stuck up there in a downpour.
Day 2: Nature, Culture & Hidden Gems
Day 2 is a busy one. However, we followed this exact itinerary and it was easily our favourite day in Bangkok. Just make sure you’ve got some comfortable shoes on!
Lumphini Park
Start day 2 early with a bit of fresh air and a stroll in Lumphini Park. Also known as the ‘green lung’ of Bangkok, Lumphini Park is a great place to spend a couple of hours.
To get to Lumphini Park from the old town, we would recommend taking a Grab.
Whilst locals use it for running, yoga, and Tai Chi, there is one thing in particular you should be on the lookout for: monitor lizards. These dinosaur-like creatures are pretty common in Lumphini Park and you shouldn’t have to search for too long to find them.
Head to the lakes and keep an eye out around the edge of the water and the banks as this is where you will normally see them. They’re incredible, but of course do make sure to keep your distance!
After spotting monitor lizards, go for a stroll around the park. It’s so picturesque, with palm trees, open green spaces, and skyscrapers towering over the edges of the park. Make sure to head to the far side of the lake where you can hire a pedalo, or ‘spinning boat’ for free.
You can take it out on the lake for 20 minutes, free of charge, and it is such a fun experience.
Recommended Time – 2 hours
Benchakitti Forest Park
After visiting Lumphini Park, its time to head to one of Bangkok’s newest and most off-the-beaten-path park. We had never heard of Benchakitti Forest Park before and yet it became one of our favourite places.
To get to Benchakitti Forest Park, take the MRT (underground) from Silom to Khlong Toei, then go through this entrance.
Benchakitti is a very unique park for Bangkok. One half is predominantly wetlands, with green islands floating in amongst the expansive lilypads. Lumhini Park is beautifully manicured, whereas Benchakitti is far more wild and natural which we love.
Follow the flower-lined paths to the amphitheatre, where you can find the start of the longest skywalk in the world. This bridge stretches over the park, a few metres in the air, and is 2km long. You don’t have to walk the entire length (though we would recommend it), as there are several places to get off along the way.
This park is gaining popularity amongst locals, however it is yet to hit the tourist trail, making it a really peaceful place.
Recommended Time – 1 hour
Wat Traimit
After spending a few hours in the fresh air, it’s time to head back to the city and visit a beautiful temple that features on very few itineraries: Wat Traimit.
Entry Fee – 100 Baht
To get to Wat Traimit from Benchakitti Park, take the MRT from Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre to Hua Lamphong. It is an 8-minute walk from Hua Lamphong.
Located in Chinatown, Wat Traimit is home to the largest solid gold Buddha in the world. Whilst the outside of the temple isn’t anything spectacular, the Buddha is incredible to see and the views are beautiful.
The Buddha is 3 metres tall and weighs 5.5 tons. It was covered in plaster to protect it from invading enemies and wasn’t discovered until 1955, when it was dropped whilst being moved. The plaster cracked to reveal the solid gold Buddha beneath.
Recommended Time – 30 minutes
Sampeng Lane Market
Next stop on this three day Bangkok itinerary is the Sampeng Lane Market. To get to it, you’ll have to wander through Chinatown, one of the most vibrant neighbourhoods in Bangkok. Stop to grab some delicious street food from the market along the way.
Sampeng Lane is a super cute market, selling so many different things, for really good prices. If you need anything, you can get it here. The market is very narrow and 1km long. It is so much fun to explore.
At the end, it opens up to a bridge over the river, with colourful buildings, street art, cafés, and food stalls.
Recommended Time – 1 hour
Wat Ratchabophit
After visiting Sampeng Lane Market, head to our favourite temple in Bangkok: Wat Ratchabophit. This little temple is hardly visited by tourists but is so unique and beautiful. In fact, I think its partly because we were the only people there that made it our favourite. It was so peaceful.
Wat Ratchabophit has curved walls, a huge golden chedi, and ornate tiles, gold and jewels. There is a quaint little garden to sit in, and the inside is just as beautiful as the outside. You don’t need long here, it’s just a lovely little place to stop at along the way.
Recommended Time – 30 minutes
H3: Wat Ratchanatdaram
There’s one more stop for your second day in Bangkok: Wat Ratchanatdaram. This temple is another very unique and very quiet place. Unlike the other temples in Bangkok, this one is built in a Sri Lankan style, with 37 gold pagodas representing the 37 virtues needed to reach enlightenment.
From Wat Ratchanatdaram, you also have spectacular views of the nearby Wat Saket.
Recommended Time – 30 minutes
Dinner Spot – Taste of India for insanely good Indian food
Day 3: Best Malls
Bangkok is famous for its shopping, so you can’t really visit without spending some time in its malls. We’ve picked out our personal favourite, but there are plenty to choose from.
If you’re visiting on a weekend, spend today visiting Chatuchak Weekend Market. You could easily spend the entire day exploring there!
ICONSIAM
ICONSIAM is one of the most impressive shopping malls in Bangkok. For one, you have to get the ferry there. It has its own pier right out front. To take the public ferry costs 21 Baht from Phra Arthit, or the tourist boat costs 40 Baht.
As soon as you step into the mall, you’re met with luxury. Indoor water fountains, flowers trailing from the ceiling, polished wood and sparkling mirrors.
The first section is for food, but if you take the escalator up, you will reach luxury shops. Keep going and you’ll find highstreet brands such as H&M and Lush.
On the 7th floor of ICONSIAM is an outdoor viewing platform. This has to be one of the best free views over Bangkok. There is also a Starbucks there if you want a drink with a view.
The 7th floor is also the base of a huge 35m indoor waterfall. The water falls in different patterns and colours. You can get the escalator up one more flight to see the waterfall from the top.
Sook Siam
On the ground floor of ICONSIAM, straight ahead of the entrance is Sook Siam. This indoor market is insane and you could easily spend hours exploring. There is a giant fresh fruit and veg section. There is a huge food market, split into different areas relating to cuisines from different parts of the country.
There’s also an indoor floating market, with bridges spanning the water.
We loved the boutique shops in Sook Siam. You can get so many unique items here, from clothes to bags, and shoes to jewellery. There are even stalls where you can design your own keychain, magnet, passport cover etc.
This is a great spot to grab some lunch and a coffee.
Asiatique
After spending most of the day at ICONSIAM, catch the boat a little further down the river to Asiatique.
Asiatique is a lively open-air market right on the Chao Phraya River, and the atmosphere is amazing, especially in the evenings. It was originally a working river port for the East Asiatic Company (hence it’s name Asiatique).
The market itself is a mix of boutique shops, local brands, and lots of food options. There are 10 different warehouses, each dedicated to different things. It’s a bit of a maze, but that’s the beauty of it.
There are so many different amazing food options here, including insanely good Michelin guide ice cream, sweet mango smoothies, and plenty of dinner options for both vegetarians and meat eaters.
Chao Phraya River Cruise
After spending a few hours exploring Asiatique, it’s time to finish your three days in Bangkok with the most special evening. It’s time for a sunset cruise on the Chao Phraya River.
This is the best way to see the city lit up in beautiful shades of orange. You’ll see iconic landmarks such as the Grand Palace and Wat Arun.
Now, there are many different ways you can do this cruise depending on your budget.
The best way is to book onto a sunset dinner cruise. There are many options available, from real luxury boats, to slightly more budget-friendly options. You can expect to pay between £15 and £65 per person.
These dinner cruises generally include a 3-course meal or buffet, free drinks (on luxury cruises), music (sometimes with a live band), and incredible views. The boats cruise slowly along the river and the whole experience lasts around 2 hours.
This is such an amazing experience and a great way to end your trip to Bangkok.
If, however, you’re on a tight budget, simply catch the last ferry from Asiatique to Phra Arthit. This will cost 40 Baht per person. If you sit on the top deck, you’ll get insane views over the Chao Phraya River. The trip takes around 25 minutes.
If You Have More Time
If you have an extra day or two in Bangkok, we highly recommend taking a day trip. There are so many fantastic places you can explore around the city, but they generally require a full day. Here are the best day trips from Bangkok:
- Ayutthaya – Explore the crumbling temples and towering Buddha statues of this ancient former capital.
- The Ancient City – Wander through a beautifully crafted open-air museum that recreates Thailand’s most iconic landmarks in miniature.
- Erawan Museum – Step inside a giant three-headed elephant and discover stunning art, symbolism, and one of the most unique interiors in Bangkok.
- Wat Sam Phran – Visit the striking pink dragon temple where a massive snake coils around a 17-storey cylindrical tower.
Where To Stay In Bangkok
For this 3-day itinerary, we would recommend staying in the old town, near the Phra Arthit ferry pier. This area is very well connected, maximising the time you’ve got to explore. We would NOT recommend staying on Khao San Road unless you don’t want to sleep!
✅ Best Budget Option – Alley & Pier
We stayed here when visiting Bangkok and it was amazing. Spacious, comfortable rooms, a big bathroom, and the perfect location. It’s just a minute’s walk from Phra Arthit pier, and 20 minutes walk from the Grand Palace. Plus, there’s free filtered water, coffee, and a washing machine.
✅ Best Mid-Range Option – Chillax Heritage Hotel Khaosan
This hotel is just a short walk from the vibrant Khao San Road (but far enough away that you can still get a good night’s sleep!). It is decorated beautifully in a traditional style, and has a rooftop pool for you to enjoy.
✅ Best Luxury Option – Chakrabongse Villas
This is by far the best hotel in Bangkok Old Town, if not in the whole of Bangkok. This hotel was previously a royal residence, and the opulence has remained. It has stunning gardens with views of Wat Arun, a swimming pool, and the most comfortable rooms.
Best Time To Visit Bangkok
Bangkok is the most visited city in the world. With two distinct seasons, there are pros and cons to visiting in both.
Visiting Bangkok In Dry Season
Dry season equates to peak season in Bangkok. Running from approximately November to February, dry season attracts huge numbers of visitors every day.
Expect attractions such as the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun to be very busy. This is when you will definitely need to be purchasing skip-the-line tickets where possible, and you should be prepared to queue.
Prices may be slightly higher during dry season, and you will likely have to be more aware of your belongings due to pickpockets targeting large crowds of tourists.
However, the weather in dry season is undoubtedly better than during rainy season. Most days will be completely dry and sunny, without a cloud in the sky. The temperatures and humidity are also a little lower, around the high 20s, making it a great time to explore the city comfortably.
Visiting Bangkok In Rainy Season
Bangkok’s rainy season runs from March to October, drawing far less visitors than during dry season. Rain showers can be incredibly heavy, and the city can be very humid during this time of year. Temperatures are regularly in the mid 30s, which, when combined with the humidity and requirement to dress modestly in most attractions, can be pretty uncomfortable.
However, there are significantly fewer tourists during the rainy season, meaning you won’t really have to queue for attractions, and can get a bit of peace and quiet whilst exploring.
Rain shows generally only last for 1-2 hours, and there are warning signs before the downpours. You’ll feel the humidity increase, the wind picking up, and the sky turning dark at least 30 minutes prior to the rain starting. This gives you a chance to get to shelter.
When we visited in June, the rain showers always occurred between 5-7pm too, normaly around 6pm. They are pretty predictable, and didn’t disrupt our visit at all.
If you can cope with the humidity, and don’t mind a heavy downpour once a day, then we would recommend visiting during rainy season to escape the crowds.
How To Get Around Bangkok
Bangkok is a large, sprawling city. Despite this, it’s also pretty straightforward to get around. There are many different options you can take depending on your location, budget, and comfort preferences.
FAQs
Still have a few questions about spending 3 days in Bangkok? We’ve answered the most common questions below.
Is Bangkok Worth Visiting?
Absolutely, Bangkok is definitely worth visiting! We loved our time in Bangkok, following this exact itinerary. It’s such a unique and vibrant city. There are so many beautiful temples, interesting districts, fantastic shopping opportunities, friendly locals, and insanely good cuisine.
How Long Should I Spend In Bangkok?
If it’s your first time visiting, we would recommend spending 3-5 days in Bangkok. This will give you enough time to explore the main attractions, get off the beaten path, and take a day trip or two to some of the beautiful locations around the city.
Is Bangkok Safe?
We felt perfectly safe during our entire stay in Bangkok. The main thing you have to be aware of, particularly in touristy and busy areas, is pickpockets. Make sure you keep an eye on your belongings at all times.
We would also recommend exercising the same caution you would in any city around the world, such as not going out alone after dark.
Is Bangkok Expensive?
Not at all! Bangkok can be super budget friendly. A meal out can cost as little as 100 baht (£2.25/$3) or less if you eat street food. Accommodation can be very affordable and you can get around the city for literal pence.
The main costs of visiting Bangkok are the attractions which are a little more pricey. The most expensive is the Grand Palace at 500 baht (£11.25/$15.30), though even that is not really that expensive on western standards. Plus, it’s absolutely worth it.
Wrap Up
Bangkok is a vast, sprawling city with so much to do. This itinerary covers all the main attractions and hidden gems, making it the perfect 3 days in Bangkok.
From the most stunning temples, to the most peaceful parks, the vibrant shopping, and delicious restaurants, this itinerary give you the best sample of Bangkok. We’re sure you will love it, and want to keep coming back for more.
