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For anyone planning a trip to Thailand, passing through Bangkok is inevitable. While many visitors are tempted to bypass the city in favor of other Thai destinations, we think visiting Bangkok is well worth it. Travelers wondering what to do in Bangkok can use our detailed, day-by-day 4 Day Bangkok Itinerary to plan the perfect trip.
Bangkok Itinerary 4 Days
On our first visit to Thailand, we too only skipped through the airport while traveling from Siem Reap to Chiang Mai. We had heard Bangkok was a love-it-or-hate-it city and we weren’t looking for a challenge.
However, we felt like we missed out and on a return trip to Southeast Asia, Bangkok easily made its way onto our Thailand Itinerary. Planning our Bangkok itinerary, however, proved to be a bit more difficult.
Although it doesn’t boast a particularly long list of sights, Bangkok is a sprawling metropolis filled with numerous distinct districts. Each neighborhood has its own character – offering an array of unique things to do in Bangkok. We wanted to explore Bangkok…and not just the typical tourist spots.
There was no way we could enjoy all that we wanted to see with just one day in Bangkok. Instead, we spent 7 days in Bangkok, slowly discovering (and eating our way through) the City of Angels.
That said, spending 4 days in Bangkok is plenty of time to see the highlights and get a good feel for the city – so we designed the perfect Bangkok Itinerary for 4 Days.
About our Bangkok 4 Day Itinerary
We created our Bangkok 4-Day Itinerary to help travelers easily navigate around the massive city to the top sights, attractions and districts. Plus, throughout our Bangkok 4 Days Itinerary we offer recommendations for places to eat and drink.
What are the Best Days for a Bangkok 4 Days Itinerary
It’s important to note that not all Bangkok attractions are open every day of the week – which makes planning a 4-Day Bangkok Itinerary a little challenging. Therefore, we designed our 4-Day BKK Itinerary with specific days of the week in mind – Saturday, Sunday, Monday and Tuesday.
Key sights in our Bangkok 4 Days Trip Plan that are day-specific are the Chatuchak Weekend Market (Saturday and Sunday only), the Night Train Market (Thursday through Sunday), Free Muay Thai Fight (Sunday) and Chinatown Food Vendors (many close Monday).
If your itinerary to Bangkok does not coincide with our suggested days of the week, don’t fret! We share alternate Bangkok sightseeing tips throughout our trip plan so that you can make adjustments as necessary.
Just remember to keep days of week – and opening hours – in mind when planning your Bangkok 4-day trip.
How Many Days in Bangkok
Deciding how many days to spend in Bangkok depends on several varying factors – including interests, budget and allotted time for your total Thailand trip.
We think four days in Bangkok is ideal – as it allows visitors enough time to see the sights, experience the culture and taste the food.
That said, travelers who are still unsure how many days for Bangkok to build into their Thailand trip itinerary can use our recommendations at the end of the article.
We share travel tips and suggested Bangkok itineraries for travelers who are looking for a longer or shorter stay in the city.
How Much Money Do I Need for 4 Days in Bangkok
Like with any trip, we highly recommend planning a budget when you visit Bangkok, Thailand in 4 Days. You can get a free Budget Planner – plus our top tips for planning a budget trip – here.
We mapped out our Bangkok trip itinerary with budget-conscious travelers in mind. It is an ideal plan for travelers who want to experience Bangkok on a budget, but still get a really good feel for the city. It can be used by backpackers, but appeals to anyone who simply wants to keep their Bangkok travel budget in check.
Although the city is well-known as a budget destination, costs can add up quickly. We share more on our Bangkok trip expenses – including exactly how much we spent during our Bangkok 4 Days Trip – later in the post.
How To Stay Organized when Trip Planning Bangkok
Throughout our itinerary, we share heaps of tips and advice for how to plan a trip to Bangkok. However, as you research and start to make reservations, staying organized is key!
You can get (and stay) organized for your vacation to Bangkok, Thailand with our Travel Planning Printables!
More Southeast Asia and Thailand Travel Advice
In addition to our tips for how to plan a trip to Bangkok, Thailand, we offer itineraries and guides on other top Thailand and Southeast Asia Destinations. Use our articles to help plan your complete Southeast Asia trip!
- How To Plan the Perfect 2 Weeks in Thailand
- The Best Chiang Mai Itinerary
- Things To Do in Chiang Rai
- Find more advice on our Thailand Travel Guides page
- Vietnam Travel Guides
- Cambodia Travel Guides
4-DAY BANGKOK ITINERARY
Our tips of what to do in Bangkok for 4 days includes the top highlights, neighborhoods and local cuisine. Additionally, we have included links to more information and a helpful Bangkok map for travelers. This 4-Day Bangkok City Tour includes everything you need to know to plan your trip.
Save, Pin or Bookmark our Bangkok Travel Guide so that you can access it while you plan your vacation to Thailand!
Day 1: Essential Bangkok
On Day 1 of our itinerary for Bangkok, you will visit some of Bangkok’s most iconic places – from the Chao Phraya River to the best temples to a classic meal of Pad Thai. Then end the night on the famous Bangkok party street, Khao San Road.
Ferry Ride on the Bangkok River
Kick off your 4-Day Bangkok trip with a ferry ride on the Chao Phraya River. The river has long played an important role in Bangkok, with the first settlements along the riverbank dating to the 15th century. The river was – and still is – a major transportation route.
Cheap commuter ferries – called the Chao Phraya Express Boat – take passengers up and down the river for as little as 15 baht (.45c USD) per ride.
A ticket on the Bangkok Tourist Boat costs more than 10 times as much – 150 baht ($4.50 USD), but the ticket is good for unlimited rides throughout the day…and is still fairly inexpensive in terms of transportation costs.
Top Tip: Ride the inexpensive Chao Phraya Express Ferry to Tha Chang Pier and begin your Bangkok Temple Tour.
Temple Tour Bangkok
There are hundreds of temples in Bangkok…and thousands throughout Thailand. During your 4 Days Itinerary in Bangkok, it is essential to visit at least a few of the most famous Thai temples.
Four of the top temples in Bangkok are Wat Phra Kaew (within the Grand Palace), Wat Pho, Wat Arun and Golden Mount.
Keep in mind that most temples charge a small fee to enter and appropriate attire is always required.
Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew
The Grand Palace was built in 1782 when King Rama I designated Bangkok as the new capital city of Siam. It served as the royal residence until 1925 and is still used for royal functions. The complex is made up of several buildings, including Wat Phra Kaew – The Temple of the Emerald Buddha.
The Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew are must see sights for a 4 Day Bangkok Itinerary – but the entry fee might be a little steep for budget travelers.
The Grand Palace Bangkok entry fee for foreigners is 500 baht ($15 USD) and appropriate, respectful dress is absolutely required. Plan to spend at least a couple of hours at the Grand Palace and Emerald Buddha Temple.
Top Tip: The Bangkok Grand Palace hours are 8:30am to 3:30pm. The palace can be closed for ceremonies, however, ignore the tour operators outside (who are trying to get you to hire them) who say the palace in closed. Instead, inquire with the ticket office. Check the official Wat Phra Kaew website and read other traveler reviews of Grand Palace Bangkok on Trip Advisor.
Wat Pho
Wat Pho is Bangkok’s oldest and largest temple – and home to the famous 151-foot-long reclining Buddha. It is not to be missed on your 4 Days Bangkok Trip.
The expansive grounds of Wat Pho include a multitude of chedis, statues and the School of Thai Medicine (where you can stop and get a massage).
Entrance into the complex costs 100 baht ($3 USD), which includes a bottle of water and information pamphlet. Official website and traveler reviews of Wat Pho on Trip Advisor.
Wat Arun
Next up for what to see in Bangkok in 4 Days is the stunning Wat Arun (The Temple of Dawn).
From Wat Pho, visitors need to hop across the river to Wat Arun, which is easily accessible via a cheap Chao Phraya ferry crossing.
The most striking feature is the central prang (tower) that is decorated in colorful ceramic tiles. There is a small fee to enter. Read traveler reviews of Wat Arun on Trip Advisor.
More Sights on the West Bank of the River
Want to get off the beaten path and escape the tourist crowds during your 4 Days Bangkok Tour? If it is still early enough in the day (and the heat hasn’t gotten to you yet), consider staying on the west bank of the river and taking a stroll south to a few lesser-visited sights.
Wat Kalayanamitr – The colorful temple dates to 1825 and features a large sitting Buddha.
Kuan an Keng Shrine – Dedicated to the Goddess of Mercy, this Chinese temple has been standing for more than 200 years.
Santa Cruz Catholic Church – The church was first built in the 1770s after the arrival of Portuguese friars.
Wat Prayoon (Also called Wat Prayurawongsawat Worawihan) – The prominent feature at Wat Prayoon is Turtle Mountain, which has small spirit houses and is surrounded by a lake full of turtles.
Use this link to Google Maps for a map of Bangkok sights on the west bank. Although the map routes you through the streets, there is a shoreline walkway that we suggest you take instead. At the end of your West Bank walk, cross Memorial Bridge and continue to the next temple (either on foot or by tuk tuk).
Wat Saket: Temple of the Golden Mountain
Sitting atop a man-made hill is an important Bangkok landmark: Temple of the Golden Mount. It’s the final temple to visit on Day 1 of your 4 Days Bangkok Itinerary – and we saved the best for last!
The gleaming Golden Mount Temple is encircled by 300-plus steps, which visitors can climb to the top. The path is lined with bells and at the summit, guests are treated to incredible 360-degree Bangkok views. Find additional info and read reviews on TripAdvisor.
Thip Samai for Dinner
For the first dinner of your 4 nights in Bangkok, indulge in one of the most classic and satisfying meals in the city: Pad Thai.
Thip Samai has a reputation of churning out the best Pad Thai in all of Bangkok. A line will surely wind down the sidewalk, past the busy cooks at the outdoor kitchen. Don’t worry: it’s worth the wait!
The signature dish is Pad Thai wrapped in egg and served with fresh orange juice. It may sound like an odd combination, but it is amazing! Read reviews on TripAdvisor.
Khao San Road
End your ‘one night in Bangkok’ with a few drinks on the famous Khao San Road. Known as a backpacker haven, Khao San Rd is chock-a-block with cheap accommodations, rowdy bars and trinket shops.
At night, the music is turned up, the neon lights are turned on and Khaosan Road vendors peddle an incredible array of goods.
Top Tip: Make no mistake, Khao San Road in Bangkok is a party street and the atmosphere is not for everyone. For a less full-on (dare I say, more mature) version of Khao San Road, hop over to nearby Rambutri Road. There is still plenty of Bangkok fun to be had, but it’s a lot less raucous.
Day 2: Bangkok Culture
On Day 2 of our 4 Day Bangkok trip planner, you will immerse yourself in Thai culture – including a visit to the city’s largest market, a ride on a canal, a peek inside Bangkok’s malls and a Muay Thai fight. Note: Day 2 is best completed on a Sunday, when all of the mentioned attractions are open.
Chatuchak Weekend Market
Touted as the largest weekend market in the world, the Chatuchak Market has more than 15,000 booths covering 27 acres – and it’s a top attraction for your 4 Days in Bangkok Itinerary.
Located north of the center of Bangkok, the market is divided into 27 sections where shoppers can find everything from clothing and kitchenware to artwork and statues.
The market has an entire section of live animals – puppies, fish and squirrels being among the most popular. And, of course, delicious Thai food is offered throughout the Chatuchak Market. (We recommend grazing as you shop!)
It seems anything and everything is available at this fascinating Bangkok market. In fact, we even stumbled onto a stall that was turned into a bar with live music and cold drinks!
Top Tip: The Chatuchak Market is only open on weekends; if your 4 Day Itinerary Bangkok Trip doesn’t coincide with a Saturday or Sunday, consider a market experience at Pratunam Market instead.
Muay Thai Fight at Channel 7
Thai Boxing – or Muay Thai – is the national sport of Thailand. The fierce competition takes place in a typical ring but opponents are allowed to use fists, feet, shins and elbows to fight their way to victory.
The rowdy crowds of locals surrounding the ring cheer with each strike and frantically place bets with their bookies standing nearby.
It’s enthralling to watch and definitely one of the more interesting attractions to include on your Bangkok, Thailand Itinerary 4 Days trip.
Visitors have the opportunity to watch Free Muay Thai Fights at Channel 7 – which only happen on Sundays after 2pm. Note: Temporarily closed.
Top Tip: If your trip to Bangkok doesn’t include a Sunday – and a Muay Thai Fight is high on your list of things to see in Bangkok – you can still join a tour and be escorted by a guide to a Muay Thai Fight.
Ride a Longtail Ferry Boat along a Khlong
Long before Bangkok was a city of scooters, tuk tuks and cars, it was navigated by boat along the many narrow channels that served as streets. The network of canals (khlongs) earned Bangkok the nickname of The Venice of the East.
Although most canals have been filled in for vehicular traffic and only a few remain, it is still possible for travelers to navigate Bangkok via Khlongs. Unlike the ride on the river, the canal boat ride offers a glimpse into local life of those who live on the Bangkok canals.
A popular Khlong in the Bangkok city center, Saen Saep Canal, runs east-west and offers both commuter ferries (costing between 10 to 20 baht, depending on distance traveled) and a tourist boat (200 baht – $6 USD – for an all-day ticket).
We think it is a fabulous way to experience the city and a top activity for your 4 Days Itinerary Bangkok trip plan!
Top Tip: From the Chatuchak Market or Muay Thai Fight, ride the MRT Line to Phetchaburi. From the station, walk to the canal pier, Asok. Ride the ferry west to the Hua Chang (Siam Square) Pier, and walk to the next stop on our itinerary, the Jim Thompson House.
Jim Thompson House
The Jim Thompson House is an art museum located in central Bangkok – and a top destination for Bangkok visitors.
The structure was built in 1959 in the traditional Thai style by Jim Thompson – an American who owned a well-to-do Thai silk company, but mysteriously disappeared in Malaysia in 1967.
The featured art at the museum is part of his personal collection of paintings and statues. Tickets cost 200 baht ($6.50 USD); the museum can only be visited on a tour and the last tour is at 5:00pm.
Bangkok Malls
We are rarely proponents of spending time in malls while traveling, with the exception of Bangkok…and it’s not for the shopping! A trip to the mall in Bangkok comes down to one incredible thing: Cool, crisp, delightful air conditioning.
Okay, to be honest, it’s really two things; many malls also have stellar food courts that dish up cheap, local Thai eats!
We often found ourselves lingering over meals while cooling down and being easily entertained by the busy Bangkok mall atmosphere.
That said, serious shoppers will delight in visiting the Bangkok shopping malls. Each mall is dedicated to a certain type of product – whether it be cheap clothes (MBK), upscale designers (Paragon) or electronics (Pantip Plaza).
Some malls are designed with a theme in mind, like Terminal 21. The airport and destination themed mall is complete with a ‘pilot’ that salutes you on your way in! More information on Bangkok Malls here.
Getting to Malls in Bangkok – OneSiam Skywalk
To get between several different malls, visitors can use the OneSiam Skywalk – a raised walkway the runs below the BTS Skytrain in Bangkok’s central shopping district.
The Bangkok Skywalk keeps walkers off the hot streets and offers an elevated viewpoint of the city. Toward the eastern end of the Skywalk is the Erawan Shrine, which was built in 1956 to honor the Hindu god, Lord Brahma, and is worth checking out.
Note: The elevated and free OneSiam Skywalk is not to be confused with the King Power Mahanakhon Glass Observation Deck, which is also called Skywalk, that offers unsurpassed views and requires a ticket.
Sukhumvit Road Bangkok
Sukhumvit Road is one of the longest boulevards in the world, running from Siam Square in the west almost to the border with Cambodia in the east. In central Bangkok, the road is home to luxury high-rises, malls, eateries, bars and some of Bangkok’s most (in)famous nightlife: sex clubs.
The two best known red light districts on Bangkok Sukhumvit are Nana Plaza (located on Sukhumvit Soi 4) and Soi Cowboy (located at Soi 21). Both of these notorious Bangkok streets are filled with go-go bars, prostitutes and ladyboys all working under the glow of neon lights.
It can be an interesting and intriguing (and sometimes shady) destination for your 4 Days Itinerary in Bangkok, Thailand.
Top Tip: Want more details on Bangkok’s sex industry? Sorry, no first-hand experience here! However, if you’re curious, you can download this Self-Guided Audio Tour of Nana that helps to better explain and explore the area.
Bangkok Craft Beer
For those not interested in Bangkok’s sex-trade streets, but looking for some fun places to drink good beer, there is some of that on Sukhumvit, too!
Producing craft beer in Thailand is actually not permitted – but there are loopholes, as well as plenty of dedicated Bangkok craft beer bars serving imported brews from around the world.
Mid-Sukhumvit Craft Beer Bars
Mid-Sukhumvit is home to numerous Bangkok craft beer bars, like rooftop bar Brewski in the Radisson Blu (with more than 10 taps and a huge selection of bottled beer).
Several other Bangkok bars dedicated to craft beer like Hair of the Dog, Ekamai Beer House, Uppercut Beer Room and HOPPY HOURS have opened in the area as well.
Upper Sukhumvit: On Nut Craft Beer Bars
The On Nut district of Bangkok has a few craft beer bars and a lot more than that going for it! Find out more about Bangkok On Nut in our Guide of Things To Do in On Nut!
Top Tip: A word of caution for budget travelers: neither rooftop bars nor craft beer is cheap in Bangkok – expect to pay premium prices for both.
Talad Rod Fai Train Night Market
The next stop on our Itinerary in Bangkok for 4 Days is the fantastic Talad Rod Fai Night Market.
Although it appears to be a typical market from afar, Talad Rod Fai Night Bazaar is almost posh, with only a touch of the grittiness that is the standard of most Southeast Asia markets.
The Bangkok Train Night Market has an eclectic mix of vendors selling everything from retro gear to home goods to classic cars. In addition to the stylish wares, there are food trucks, pop up bars, trendy tattoo parlors and old-school barbershops – and several of the Talad Rod market’s permanent bars feature live bands.
Top Tip: The Bangkok Night Train Market is open Thursday through Sunday from 5:00pm until 1:00am. Talad Rod Fai is located east of the Bangkok On Nut district (and best reached by Grab Taxi for about 100 baht from the BTS Station).
Day 3: Exploring More of Bangkok
On Day 3 of our BKK itinerary, you will spend the morning with locals a popular city park and then peruse the booths of an authentic market. In the afternoon, get pampered at a spa and take in the views over Bangkok from a rooftop bar before navigating to a lesser-known neighborhood for dinner.
Lumphini Park Bangkok
In the center of Bangkok’s soaring skyscrapers and sprawling concrete is Lumphini Park – and it can feel like a tranquil respite on your vacation to Bangkok, Thailand.
The 142-acre green space was the first city park in Bangkok (designated post-World War I). The urban retreat includes lush trees, pleasant lakes, jogging paths and a giant statue of King Rama VI, who had the park built in 1920 on the Thai Royal grounds.
Khlong Toei Market
The Khlong Toei Market is considered one of Bangkok’s last authentic markets – and it might be a highlight of your 4 Day Bangkok, Thailand Itinerary if you are seeking out truly local spots!
Rather than catering to tourists, the fresh market appeals to chefs and Bangkok street food vendors from around the city who need to stock up on fresh meat, seafood and produce.
The sights and scents are not for the faint of heart. It is real and intense.
Instead of kitsch stands selling gold cats waving a paw, shoppers at Khlong Toei Market will find entire stalls dedicated to one fruit or vegetable. We saw crates of eggs stacked 30 high, fish on ice that were still wriggling and tables packed with an obscene amount of raw chicken.
Get details and read Bangkok market reviews on TripAdvisor.
Thai Spa Treatment
As a budget-minded traveler, pampering myself at a spa is a rare occurrence, but totally affordable in Bangkok! Regardless of your budget, we recommend making room in your Bangkok Tour Itinerary for a spa treatment or massage.
There are hundreds of spas around Bangkok offering ridiculously inexpensive massages. A quick foot massage can cost about $5 USD, while a two-hour traditional Thai massage can cost less than $15 USD.
Just beware: Thai massages are all about applying pressure and stretching the body – and often feel more like a trip to the chiropractor than a relaxing massage. I think they are spectacular, but not everyone (like Kris) agrees with me. Read about our first Thai Massage in Chiang Mai.
Bangkok Sunset on a Rooftop Bar
Far from the scents, sounds, hustle and bustle of Bangkok’s chaotic streets are the uber-posh rooftop bars. The open-air venues provide stunning views over the city and are a fantastic place to watch the sunset in Bangkok.
To be honest, this wouldn’t be the Best Bangkok Itinerary if we didn’t include an epic rooftop perch for sunset!
The most popular rooftop bars – Sky Bar (featured in The Hangover 2) and Vertigo – come with an uncomfortable dress code, very steep prices…and phenomenal views.
For budget travelers, we recommend heading to Zoom where they have a daily happy hour from 5:30pm to 7:30pm. (Try the Bangkokpolitan!)
Suan Plu District Bangkok
After sunset drinks, head to Suan Plu – a wonderful Bangkok neighborhood that has a fantastic mix of expats and locals plus a fabulous culinary scene.
There are chic cocktail bars, like Smalls and Junker and Bar (Junker even has a happy hour with $3 USD cocktails…Cosmo on the Rock is highly recommended!) and cheap beer bars.
In the evening, food vendors can be found along the main road and down Soi 8 – and are great options for a cheap dinner. Also on Soi 8 are permanent restaurants serving international food at reasonable prices – like Uncle John (French) and Nando Kitchen (Italian – NOT the chain!) – which are both good options if you’re looking for a break from Thai food.
Day 4: Unique Bangkok
On the last day of your Bangkok, Thailand Itinerary for 4 days, see a completely different side of the city. Go for a bike ride in a secluded jungle retreat, seek out street art murals in one of the oldest Bangkok districts and end your day with a feast in Chinatown.
Bang Kachao Island Bangkok
On the last day of your 4 Day Itinerary of Bangkok, hop on two wheels and go for a bike ride.
Right in the heart of the city is a little-known (but not so little) oasis – Bang Kachao Island – and it’s a super city escape.
The rural landscape is often called the Green Lung of Bangkok – and is encircled by the Chao Phraya River. A network of narrow, elevated paths weave around fields and through forests…and are ideal for a bike ride.
Top Tip: Find out more about what to do in Bang Kachao in our Guide to On Nut Bangkok.
Refreshing Mid-Day Swim
There is nothing more refreshing that cooling off in a pool after days of Bangkok sightseeing. When you’re finished ticking off the top places to visit in Bangkok in 4 days, it’s time for some poolside R&R!
Hopefully you booked accommodations with a pool (more about where to stay in Bangkok in a minute). We once made the mistake of getting a place sans-pool – and (every. single. afternoon.) we regretted the money-saving decision.
Top Tip: If you make the no-pool mistake like we did, there are a few places in Bangkok that offer day passes for pool use. The nicest – and most expensive – is Sofitel. The family-friendly Blue Parrot has a small pool (but requires a food and drink purchase to use it) and The Ambassador Hotel offers pool/gym/sauna day passes.
Talad Noi District and Bangkok Street Art
Nestled along the river just south of Chinatown’s main thoroughfare is the historic Talad Noi District. Offering very few ‘sights’ and almost completely void of tourists, the neighborhood offers a glimpse into typical life in Bangkok – and, more specifically, amazing street art.
In 2016, Bangkok hosted the BUKRUK festival that invited street artists to spruce up the neighborhood with paintings. Interesting Street Art murals now decorate the ancient structures along Trok San Chao Rong Kueak and throughout the district.
Visitors interested in street art should definitely plan to include Talad Noi in their Bangkok travel plan.
Bangkok Chinatown Food Walk
Feasting in Chinatown is a must for your Bangkok, Thailand 4 Day Trip! Under the glow of neon lights, Yaowarat, Bangkok Chinatown’s main thoroughfare, comes to life at night – and the food is the highlight.
Ethnic Chinese people settled the district that is now called Chinatown in 1782. Most of them started selling goods shipped in from China. Today, Chinatown still is very much rooted in trade.
At dusk, vendors begin setting up carts along Yaowarat. Food vendors line the main street and stretch down alleys.
Some of the top places to eat in Chinatown are Jek Pui Curry (on a picturesque corner off the main street), Fikeaw for seafood, Krua Porn Lamai for sizzling dishes and Odean (a permanent restaurant) for crab wantons.
There are also a few must-see Bangkok sights in Chinatown that should not be missed. Make sure to stop by Wat Traimit (Golden Buddha Temple) and Wat Mangkon.
It can be helpful to explore the district with a local guide who knows where to find the best food vendors. For the best Chinatown exploration, join one of the many Bangkok Chinatown Tours.
Top Tip: Visitors should expect fewer stalls on Mondays (so it’s best to go on a different day of the week).
Bangkok Map of Attractions
Use this link to Google Maps for an online, interactive version of our Map of Bangkok Things To Do.
Day Trips From Bangkok
Our outline of 4 Days in Bangkok What To Do features the top city sights and attractions. And, there is no doubt that Bangkok is filled with vibrant markets, historic temples and interesting neighborhoods – but there are a few sights that can be reason to leave the center of Bangkok on a day tour.
The most popular Bangkok day tours include a floating market, Ayutthaya, and the Bridge on the River Kwai. If you can make room in your Thailand Itinerary, we suggest checking out one of these tours.
Floating Market Day Tour
When Bangkok was a maze of canals, goods and produce were sold from boats rather than booths – thus, the name: Floating Market.
Although very few traditional and authentic floating markets still exist, there are a handful of markets where vendors paddle their goods down canals. Search for a Floating Market Tour to add to your Bangkok itinerary.
Ayutthaya Tour
Ayutthaya, the former capital of Thailand, was first settled in the year 1350. By 1700, it was the world’s largest city with 1 million residents – until it was almost entirely burnt to the ground in 1767.
However, a few ruins remain – including temples and palaces – and the city is now registered on the list of UNESCO Heritage Sites. Look for a UNESCO World Heritage Ayutthaya Tour to add to your trip to Bangkok!
Bridge on the River Kwai Day Trip
The Burma Railway was built in 1943 by the Japanese during World War II to connect Burma to the sea. The task was completed by forced laborers (prisoners of war) and many died during the construction.
The war story is told in a 1952 book, The Bridge on the River Kwai. A tour to the Bridge on the River Kwai from Bangkok includes history about the war and it’s impact on Thailand.
Note: With some extra effort, you can organize this trip on your own for less money. Read about how to get to the Bridge on the River Kwai without a guide.
More Tours in Bangkok
There are many tours in Bangkok that don’t leave the city at all!
If you want a more in-depth introduction to the city or if having a Bangkok tour guide is a more appealing way to see the sights, consider finding a guide on Viator.
Some of the most popular guided Bangkok tours are the 3-hour Temple Tour, a fun and interactive Thai cooking class that includes a market visit or a Night Tuk Tuk Tour that features city lights and street food.
Bangkok On A Budget
As we mentioned before, BKK is an affordable city and our Bangkok, Thailand itinerary is designed for you to experience it without breaking the bank. There are many cheap things to do in Bangkok – with several sights being free or cheap to enter (with the exception of the Grand Palace).
However, Bangkok expenses can quickly add up – so it’s important to set your Bangkok trip budget before going. Whether you are backpacking Thailand on a bare-bones budget or seeking a bit of luxury in the affordable destination, we have advice to create a Bangkok budget trip.
Thai Currency
First, let’s talk money – as in, the actual money you will use on your 4-Day Bangkok Trip. The Bangkok currency is the Baht, which is used throughout Thailand. You can check current conversion rates here.
Typically, we prefer to take out cash from local bank ATMs. However, in Thailand, an astronomical fee of 220 baht ($6.50 USD) is applied to every transaction – in addition to fees your bank may charge for foreign ATM and conversion. Money exchange offices actually offer good rates, but that means you have to carry a lot of cash on your trip to Thailand.
We’ve used a combination of both the exchange office and ATMs on our trips to Thailand.
On arrival, we like to have a large amount of US dollars or Euros to exchange at the airport (which costs about 100 baht – or $3 USD). Then, if we need cash from an ATM, we calculate how much and make one withdrawal.
Bangkok Trip Cost
The biggest cost of a Bangkok trip is accommodations. Our second biggest expense was food, followed by drinks and then transportation.
We barely spent any money on entertainment, as Bangkok prices for entry into most sights is low and much of our time was spent exploring markets and walking in neighborhoods.
Budget Trip to Bangkok Breakdown of Costs
To help fellow travelers budget their Bangkok vacation cost, we are sharing our personal tips and expenses.
Budget Accommodations in Bangkok
Finding a place to stay in Bangkok was a major task – which we detail more in a bit – and is a big factor for your trip to Bangkok cost.
After choosing where to stay in Bangkok (as in, which district), we searched for places that offer private rooms with air con, a kitchenette or included breakfast and a pool. It is also essential to be close to a public transportation line.
Apartments and hotels that fit this bill can range in price from about $40 USD to more than $100 per night.
Eating and Drinking in Bangkok on a Budget
Eating in Bangkok can be downright cheap, with most Thai food meals only costing a couple of dollars.
Street food and family restaurants are the best Bangkok budget options for cheap food.
Beers in Bangkok cost about $2 per bottle at a bar. Happy hours are a great opportunity to drink inexpensive cocktails – and beer is often discounted as well.
Craft beer and all drinks consumed on rooftops are going to cost more…a lot more.
Budget Bangkok Transportation
Getting around Bangkok is a little complicated, but doesn’t have to be expensive.
We like to navigate most cities by walking, but for our Bangkok travel itinerary that would be impossible. The city is just too big…and too hot!
Tuk tuks can be cheap, but negotiating a fair price is sometimes a struggle – especially since there are no posted rates. Short Bangkok tuk tuk rides often cost about 100 Baht ($3 USD).
However, we often used the Grab Taxi app, which was convenient for the set pricing and the detailed route map (so that we didn’t end up getting driven around in circles). Most of our Grab rides cost less than $4 USD, even when traveling longer distances, and provided another break from the heat.
The one caveat is that the traffic in Bangkok is deplorable – and minutes spent sitting in traffic cost money and precious vacation time.
Therefore, we mostly relied on public transportation that got us off of the roads – either the BTS Skytrain, the MTR subway or the Bangkok ferries.
All three systems use different payment methods: BTS requires a paper ticket, MTR uses tokens and ferries accept cash on board (or in advance from a ticket seller at the pier) – but, it’s a cheap and efficient method of traveling through Bangkok.
Fares on the BTS and MTR are charged by distance, with most rides costing about $1 USD. Tickets are purchased from machines and it is best to have small change available.
Our Bangkok Trip Budget
So, how much have our trips to Bangkok cost? We set our Bangkok trip budget at $100 USD per day for two people (accommodations, food, drinks, transportation and entertainment) – and we came in slightly under that amount at $98 USD per day.
Bangkok Itinerary Options and Tips
Our Bangkok in 4 Days itinerary can be used as a base for planning your trip to BKK, even if you have more or less time in the city. Simply adjust our itinerary in Bangkok to best suit you!
Below, we offer suggested BKK sightseeing recommendations for shorter or longer stays.
One Day in Bangkok: What To Do
Planning a Bangkok One Day Itinerary is not easy, as there is so much to see and do! Travelers limited to visiting Bangkok in one day will have to pick and choose which sights and activities are of most interest.
On a One Day Trip in Bangkok, we recommend visiting one temple (like Wat Phra Kaew), going to one market (Chatuchak Market if it’s a weekend), experiencing one attraction (such as the a canal ride or the Jim Thompson House) and enjoying a memorable dinner (in Chinatown or Thip Samai).
Bangkok Itinerary 2 Days
With only 2 days in Bangkok, there is a lot more time for seeing the sights and experiencing the city.
We recommend seeing the iconic sights on the first day (Day 1 of our Bangkok itinerary) and then on Day 2, spend the morning at a market, the afternoon at a spa, sunset on a rooftop and the evening in Chinatown (combining – and eliminating – some sights from the remainder of the itinerary).
Bangkok Itinerary 3 Days
For a Bangkok 3 Day Itinerary, we would stick to the first three days as outlined in the above itinerary for Bangkok. However, we would recommend that you, perhaps, skip Suan Plu and head for Chinatown for dinner instead.
Bangkok Itinerary 5 Days
If you are wondering what to do in Bangkok for 5 days, don’t worry – there is still plenty to see!
To create the best 5 Day Itinerary Bangkok, use our above outlined 4 Day Bangkok Itinerary and on your last day take one of the popular day tours from Bangkok.
The Floating Market or a trip to Ayutthaya are our top day trip picks for travelers with 5 days in Bangkok.
Bangkok Itinerary 7 Days
With a one-week Bangkok itinerary, visitors have ample time to see the Best of Bangkok!
To plan your Bangkok Trip, use our Bangkok 5 Day Itinerary, then on Day 6 spend your entire day at the markets. You can start at the popular riverside Flower Market or Amulet Market.
Mid-morning, take a trip to the Maeklong Railway Market and stay long enough to watch as a train chugs through the center of the market, forcing vendors to pull their merchandise off the tracks!
By Day 7 you should have a feel for the interesting things to do in Bangkok – so revisit what you liked best.
Navigate deeper into a specific neighborhood, go back to a favorite restaurant, get a second spa treatment or take in the view from a different Bangkok rooftop bar. Alternatively, take another one of the top rated Bangkok day trips to wrap up your 7 Days Bangkok Itinerary.
Top Travel Tips for your Trip to BKK
Now that you know what to see and do, we have a few final tips for planning a trip to Bangkok, Thailand.
When To Go To Bangkok
Bangkok is a year-round destination. That said, winter in Bangkok – from November to March – is the most popular time to visit. The weather can be pleasant, however, there are also more tourists (which mean thicker crowds and higher prices). Plus, Bangkok is one of the Best Places to Spend NYE.
During the summer months – from April until October – Bangkok can be steaming hot, but there are far fewer visitors and better prices on flights and hotels.
Where To Stay in Bangkok, Thailand
Searching for the best place to stay in Bangkok is no easy task! There are hundreds – thousands – of accommodations across the city that fit a range of budgets.
Best Places to Stay in Bangkok, Thailand
The first step is to find the neighborhood you think you will like best. Top factors to consider before you choose where you want to stay include distance to transportation, local vs touristy areas and area sights.
Travelers who want to stay in the heart of the downtown district – among skyscrapers, shopping malls and fashionable clubs – should look for accommodation in the Sukhumvit, Siam Square, Silom or Sathorn Districts.
Backpackers looking for cheap places to stay in Bangkok should look for places in the Khao San District within the Banglamphu neighborhood. Just be aware that neither the SkyTrain or the BTS service the area, meaning walking, taxis and tuk tuks will be your modes of transport.
Visitors who want to stay outside of the tourist bubbles can find hotels at a great value. When looking for places to stay in Bangkok outside the tourist zone, just be sure to book near public transportation lines.
Prices for Bangkok Hotels
There are luxury hotels in Bangkok and cheap dorm hostels – and everything in between. Before you start looking for a place to stay, it is important to determine how much you want to spend on Bangkok accommodations.
Top things to consider are amenities, such as air conditioning, a swimming pool and included breakfast. The location of the hotel can also heavily impact the cost.
Before you begin your search for accommodations for your trip to Bangkok, be sure to read through our Tips for Finding Cheap Hotels and Advice for Airbnb Guests.
Budget Bangkok Hotel
During our first visit to Bangkok, we stayed in Suan Plu in the Sathorn District at the budget priced Parvena Hotel. Although the hotel didn’t have a pool, it cost less than $30 USD per night.
The room was clean and basic with a balcony and small fridge. The hotel offered a free breakfast of toast and coffee/juice and free tuk tuk transportation within a 3km distance.
We absolutely loved the neighborhood, which was a mix of locals and expats, yet not overrun by tourists.
Cheap Bangkok Apartment
On a return visit to Bangkok, having a pool was a priority, as was finding accommodations near a public transport line.
Our search led us to On Nut in Upper Sukhumvit. Rather than booking a hotel room, we opted for an Airbnb Apartment.
The spacious apartment, which was about $40 USD per night, had a small kitchen and washer and the condo complex had a pool and gym.
The one caveat is that technically short term vacation rentals are not permitted in Thailand (although the rule seems seldom enforced as we saw hundreds of Airbnb listings just in Upper Sukhumvit!).
How To Find the Best Hotels to Stay in Bangkok
For those looking for accommodations in Bangkok, be assured: there are many, many, many Bangkok hotels to choose from. The decision really comes down to what amenities you want and how much you want to spend.
We have rounded up some of the best centrally-located, top-rated hotels (based on guest reviews) priced around $100 USD/night for your upcoming trip.
Hotel Clover Asoke
Located just a short walk from the Asoke SkyTrain station, Hotel Clover has an excellent location – plus fantastic amenities, such as a rooftop pool and included breakfast. Check rates and availability!
Centre Point Chidlom
The Centre Point Hotel gets high marks for offering clean rooms and having helpful staff. There is an indoor pool, a fitness center and breakfast is included. It is a 5-minute walk to the closest BTS Station, but they offer a free tuk tuk shuttle ride, too. Check rates for your stay!
On Nut Hotels
In the On Nut area – which we really enjoyed staying in – there are two highly-rated hotels – Avani Hotel and Cross Vibe – that were very close to the BTS station. Both of these hotels offer top value for price – and both have an outdoor pool!
Hostels in Bangkok Silom District
Budget travelers who want to spend less can search for Bangkok Hostels – like The Cube Hostel or Dreamcatcher Bangkok. Both are located in the fun Silom District, close to a Metro and BTS Station, making it easy to get around.
Getting To Bangkok, Thailand
Bangkok can be reached by flight, train, bus or car.
That said, most international travelers will arrive by plane. We recommend searching for the best deals on flights to Bangkok on Skyscanner. First, however, read our tips for Finding Flights for Cheap!
Airports in Bangkok
There are two major airports that service Bangkok. Suvarnabhumi International Bangkok Airport (BKK) is served by major global carriers. The Don Mueang International Airport (DMK) is a base for low cost carriers and provides primarily domestic and regional flights.
Getting from Suvarnabhumi Airport to the City
There is a Suvarnabhumi Airport to Sukhumvit Train that makes getting into central Bangkok cheap and easy. Passengers need to ride the Airport Rail Link to the end of the line (Phaya Thai) and then transfer to the BTS SkyTrain.
How To Get from Don Mueang Airport to BKK City Center
The easiest way for getting from the Don Mueang International Airport to central Bangkok is to take a Grab Taxi. The much anticipated (and long delayed) Don Mueang to Bangkok train is also finally open. We have yet to utilize the Red Line DMK train to central Bangkok, but look forward to riding it on our next visit. Visitors can also book a private or shared airport transfer in advance online.
What To Pack for Your Trip to Bangkok, Thailand
We have a few last tips and packing hacks for your trip to Thailand! You can find all of our packing advice on our Travel Packing Tips page. Need a packing checklist? Get your FREE Packing Checklist here!
The Right Shoes
We covered a lot of ground during our 4 Days in Bangkok – and it’s important to have good travel shoes!
Don’t forget to pack a pair of lightweight and comfortable walking shoes for your trip. I (Sarah) always pack these shoes by Columbia and Reef. Kris prefers wearing these shoes by Merrell.
Travel Camera
We’re certain you’ll be snapping tons of photos during your trip. Rather than relying on your phone to capture the sights, upgrade to an actual camera for quality photos.
We travel with a Canon Rebel (which takes amazing photos and is great for beginners) and a Canon PowerShot ELPH (which takes beautiful pictures and is a slim and lightweight budget camera).
Bangkok Map
It’s easy to get turned around in any foreign city…especially BKK! Make sure to have a good city map and/or guidebook before arriving in Thailand.
Day Pack
With long days of sightseeing, you will want to make sure you set off for Bangkok exploration with everything you will need for the day.
Whether you pack with a backpack or a suitcase, you’ll also want to travel to Bangkok with a great Day Bag to organize all your daily travel essentials!
Travel Insurance
If you haven’t already obtained travel insurance for your trip to Thailand, consider traveling protected with World Nomads.
Documents, Travel Planner and Organizer
Before you go on your Bangkok trip, make sure you have all of your documents, travel plans (and travel planner) and stow them in a zipped Organizer.
Start planning your trip to Thailand! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want more travel planning tips? Head over to our Travel Planning page for more information and tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides page!
Heading for other Thailand destinations – like Phuket, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Koh Lanta, Koh Chang or other Thai Beaches? Find all of our Thailand tips and advice on our Thailand Travel Guides page!
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