For anyone planning a trip to Thailand, passing through Bangkok is inevitable. While many are tempted to bypass the city in favor of other Thai destinations, we believe visiting Bangkok is well worth it.
Those wondering what to do in Bangkok can use our detailed, day-by-day 4 Day Bangkok Itinerary to plan the perfect trip.
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Bangkok Itinerary 4 Days
On our first visit to Thailand, we only connected through 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 not boasting a particularly long list of sights, it’s a sprawling metropolis filled with numerous distinct districts.
Each neighborhood has its own character – offering an array of unique things to do. 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. Instead, we spent 7 days in Bangkok, slowly discovering the City of Angels.
That said, spending 4 days in Bangkok is plenty of time for the highlights and get a good feel for the city.
You can get (and stay) organized for your vacation to Bangkok, Thailand with our Travel Planning Printables!
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 a helpful Bangkok map for travelers.
Save, Pin or Bookmark our Bangkok Travel Guide to plan your vacation to Thailand!
Day 1: Essential Bangkok
On Day 1 of our itinerary for Bangkok, you will visit some of the most iconic places. Then end the night on the famous Bangkok party street, Khao San Road.
Ferry Ride on the Bangkok River
The Chao Phraya River has long played an important role in Bangkok, with the first settlements here dating to the 15th century.
Cheap commuter ferries – called the Chao Phraya Express Boat – take passengers up and down the river for as little as 15 baht (.45c) per ride.
A ticket on the Bangkok Tourist Boat costs more than 10 times as much – 150 baht ($4.50), 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.
These are must see sights for a 4 Day Bangkok Itinerary – but the entry fees might be a little steep for budget travelers.
The Grand Palace entry fee for foreigners is 500 baht ($15) and appropriate, respectful dress is absolutely required.
Wat Pho
Wat Pho is Bangkok’s oldest and largest temple – and home to the famous 151-foot-long reclining Buddha.
The expansive grounds 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), which includes a bottle of water and information pamphlet.
Wat Arun
From Wat Pho, cross the river to Wat Arun (Tempe of Dawn), 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.
More Sights on the West Bank of the River
Want to get off the beaten path? Consider staying on the west bank of the river and taking a stroll south to a few lesser-visited sights.
Wat Kalayanamitr is a colorful temple that dates to 1825 and features a large sitting Buddha. Kuan an Keng Shrine is dedicated to the Goddess of Mercy and has been standing for over 200 years.
Santa Cruz Catholic Church built in the 1770s after the arrival of Portuguese friars. Wat Prayoon features Turtle Mountain, which has small spirit houses and is surrounded by a lake full of turtles!
Use this map to track down the above sights on the west bank. Although it 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
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!
Thip Samai for Dinner
For your first dinner, 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!
Khao San Road
End your ‘one night in Bangkok’ with a few drinks on the famous Khao San Road. Known as a backpacker haven, it’s 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 vendors peddle an incredible array of goods.
Top Tip: Make no mistake, this is a party street and the atmosphere is not for everyone. For a less full-on (dare we say, more mature) version, hop over to Rambutri Road. There is still plenty of fun to be had, but it’s a lot less raucous.
Day 2: Bangkok Culture
Today 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 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.
The market is divided into 27 sections where shoppers can find everything from clothing and kitchenware to artwork and statues. And, best of all, delicious Thai food!
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 the Pratunam Market instead.
Muay Thai Fight at Channel 7
Boxing is the national sport of Thailand. This 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 itinerary.
Visitors have the opportunity to watch Free Muay Thai Fights at Channel 7 – which only happen on Sundays after 2pm.
Top Tip: If your trip to Bangkok doesn’t include a Sunday you can still join this tour and be escorted by a guide.
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. These earned Bangkok the nickname of The Venice of the East.
Although only a few remain, it is still possible to navigate the city via Khlongs. Unlike on the river, the canal boat ride offers a glimpse into the local life of those who live on these waterways.
A popular Khlong in the Bangkok city center, Saen Saep Canal, runs east-west and offers both commuter ferries (costing less than $1) and a tourist boat ($6 for an all-day ticket).
We believe it is a fabulous way to experience the city and a top activity for your Bangkok trip plan!
Top Tip: From the Chatuchak Market or Muay Thai Fight, ride the MRT Blue Line to Phetchaburi. From the station, walk to the canal pier, Asok. Ride west to Hua Chang (Siam Square) Pier, and walk to…
Jim Thompson House
This structure was built in 1959 in the traditional Thai style by Jim Thompson – an American who owned a Thai silk company, but mysteriously disappeared in Malaysia in 1967.
The featured art is part of his personal collection of paintings and statues. Tickets cost 200 baht ($6.50) and includes a guided tour.
Bangkok Malls
We are rarely proponents of spending time in malls, but 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!
That said, serious shoppers will delight. Each venue is dedicated to a certain type of product – whether it be cheap clothes (MBK), upscale designers (Paragon) or electronics (Pantip Plaza).
Some 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!
Getting To Malls in Bangkok – OneSiam Skywalk
To get between several different malls, visitors can use the OneSiam Skywalk. This raised walkway runs below the BTS Skytrain in the central shopping district.
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 requires a ticket.
Sukhumvit Road
Sukhumvit Road is one of the longest boulevards in the world, running from Siam Square to nearly the border with Cambodia.
In central Bangkok, the road is home to luxury high-rises, malls, eateries, bars and some of the city’s most (in)famous nightlife spots: sex clubs.
The two best known red light districts on Sukhumvit are Nana Plaza (located at Soi 4) and Soi Cowboy (located at Soi 21).
Both of these notorious streets are filled with go-go bars, prostitutes and ladyboys all working under the glow of neon lights.
Talad Rod Fai Train Night Market
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. It is located east of Bangkok On Nut and best reached by Grab Taxi from the BTS Station.
Day 3: Exploring More of Bangkok
Start off with locals a popular city park and then peruse the booths of an authentic market. In the afternoon, get pampered at a spa and a rooftop bar before navigating to a lesser-known neighborhood for dinner.
Lumphini Park
In the center of Bangkok’s soaring skyscrapers and sprawling concrete is Lumphini Park – and it can feel like a tranquil respite.
The 142-acre green space was the first city park in Bangkok. The urban retreat includes lush trees, pleasant lakes, jogging paths and a giant statue of King Rama VI.
Khlong Toei Market
The Khlong Toei is considered the last authentic market. Rather than catering to tourists, it appeals to chefs and street food vendors. 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 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.
Thai Spa Treatment
As a budget-minded traveler, pampering myself at a spa is a rare occurrence, but totally affordable in Bangkok!
There are hundreds of spas around Bangkok offering ridiculously inexpensive massages. A quick foot massage can cost about $5, while a two-hour traditional Thai massage can run less than $15.
Just beware, Thai massages are all about applying pressure and stretching the body – and often feel more like a trip to the chiropractor.
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 the chaotic streets are uber-posh rooftop bars. The open-air venues provide stunning views and are a fantastic place to watch the 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
This wonderful neighborhood that has a fantastic mix of expats and locals plus a fabulous culinary scene. There are also chic cocktail bars, like Smalls and Junker and Bar.
In the evening, food vendors can be found along the main road and down Soi 8 – and are great options for a low-cost 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) if you’re looking for a break from Thai food.
Day 4: Unique Bangkok
Today, see a completely different side of the city. Go for a bike ride in a secluded retreat, seek out street art in one of the oldest Bangkok districts and end your day with a feast in Chinatown.
Bang Kachao Island
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.
Talad Noi 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 and amazing street art.
In 2016, Bangkok hosted the BUKRUK festival that invited artists to spruce up the neighborhood with paintings.
Interesting murals now decorate ancient structures along Trok San Chao Rong Kueak and throughout the district.
Bangkok Chinatown Food Walk
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 in 1782. Most of them started selling goods shipped in from their homeland.
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, 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.
Bangkok Map of Attractions
Use this Google Map for an online, interactive version of our Map of Bangkok Things To Do below.
Bangkok On a Budget
As we mentioned before, BKK is an affordable city and our 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, 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! The Bangkok currency is the Baht, which is used throughout Thailand. Check current rates.
Typically, we prefer to take out cash from local bank ATMs. However, in Thailand, a fee of 220 baht ($6.50) is applied to every transaction. This is in addition to fees your bank may charge.
Money exchange offices actually offer good rates, but that means you have to carry a lot of cash on you. Over the years, we’ve used a combination of both.
On arrival, we like to have a large amount of US dollars or Euros to exchange at the airport. Then, if we need cash from an ATM, we calculate how much and make one withdrawal.
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
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 (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 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
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 tuk tuk rides often cost about 100 Baht ($3).
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, 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 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).
Fares on the BTS and MTR are charged by distance, with most rides costing about $1. Tickets are purchased from machines and it is best to have small change available.
Final Travel Tips for your Trip to BKK
Now that you know what to see and do, we have some advice for planning a trip to Bangkok, Thailand.
When To Go to Bangkok
Bangkok is a year-round destination. That said, winter – 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, it’s one of the Best Places to Spend NYE.
During the summer months – from April until October – it can be steaming hot, but there are far fewer visitors and better prices on flights and hotels.
Where To Stay in Bangkok
The first step is to find the neighborhood you think you will like best. Top factors to consider include distance to transportation, local vs touristy areas and area sights.
Travelers who want to stay among skyscrapers, shopping malls and fashionable clubs – should look in the Sukhumvit, Siam Square, Silom or Sathorn Districts.
Backpackers looking for cheap places should look 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. Just be sure to book near public transportation lines.
Prices for Bangkok Hotels
There are luxury hotels and cheap dorm hostels – and everything in between. Before you start looking, 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, 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 (Sathorn District) at the budget priced Parvena Hotel.
Although the hotel didn’t have a pool, the room was clean with a balcony and small fridge. They offered a free toast and coffee/juice and tuk tuk rides within 2 miles.
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.
The spacious apartment 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. The rule seems seldom enforced as we saw hundreds of listings just in Upper Sukhumvit!
Getting To Bangkok
There are two major airports in Bangkok. Suvarnabhumi International (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.
We recommend searching for the best deals on Skyscanner. First, however, read our tips for Finding Flights for Cheap!
Suvarnabhumi Airport to the City
The Suvarnabhumi Airport to Sukhumvit Train makes getting into central Bangkok cheap and easy. Ride the Airport Rail Link to the end of the line (Phaya Thai) and then transfer to the BTS SkyTrain.
Don Mueang Airport to City Center
The easiest way for getting from the Don Mueang International Airport to central Bangkok is to take a Grab Taxi. You can also book an airport transfer in advance online.
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, but look forward to riding it on our next visit.
What To Pack for Bangkok
We have a few last tips and packing hacks for your adventure to Thailand. So grab our FREE Checklist and let’s get to it!
The Right Shoes
We’ve covered a lot of ground in Bangkok – so we really know it’s important to have good travel shoes!
I (Sarah) always pack these shoes by Columbia and Reef. Kris prefers wearing Merrell and Sanuk.
Travel Camera
We’re certain you’ll be snapping tons of pictures. Rather than relying on your phone to capture the sights, upgrade to an actual camera for quality photos. We travel with a Canon Rebel.
Bangkok Guidebook
It’s easy to get turned around in any foreign city…especially BKK! Make sure to have a good guidebook before arriving in Thailand.
Day Pack
Whether you travel with a backpack or a suitcase, you’ll also want a great day bag to organize all your daily trip essentials!
Travel Insurance
If you haven’t already obtained coverage, consider traveling protected with World Nomads.
Start planning your trip to Thailand! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want additional advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
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