Classic old-school Thai breakfast near Yaowarat; try the soft eggs and toast. The café opens early (around 6:00am) and is great to fuel up before temple touring.
Bangkok’s most famous landmark and former royal residence — ornate architecture and the Emerald Buddha make it essential; note the strict dress code (no shorts/sleeveless). Open about 8:30am–3:30pm, arrive early to avoid crowds.
Home of the giant Reclining Buddha and a traditional Thai massage school — combine sightseeing with a short foot massage. Wat Pho is usually open from around 8:00am–6:30pm.
Contemporary Thai regional dishes with reliable quality near the river; good place to relax and try Eastern Thai flavours. Lunch service typically runs midday (check exact branch times).
Cross the Chao Phraya by ferry to see Wat Arun’s distinctive porcelain-encrusted prang; best viewed in late afternoon light. Open around 8:30am–5:30pm.
Return to your hotel to freshen up and store purchases; staying in Silom or Sukhumvit keeps you central for dinner and nightlife. Use this time to recharge before the evening.
Yaowarat is buzzing after dark with seafood stalls, dim sum and creative snacks — walk, sample and share plates for the best experience. Most stalls operate from about 6:00pm to after midnight.
Iconic high-rise bar with spectacular city views — book or arrive early; observe the smart-casual dress code. Sky Bar generally opens from early evening until around 1:00am (cocktail prices are premium).
A short guided tour of the traditional teak home of Jim Thompson offers insight into Thai silk history and nice photo opportunities; open roughly 9:00am–6:00pm with guided tours on the hour.
Central Bangkok’s major malls and boutiques — mix high-end shopping at Siam Paragon with bargain hunting at MBK; most malls open from about 10:00am–10:00pm.
Bangkok’s clubbing district — lively DJ sets and a good scene for meeting fellow travellers; clubs usually open from 9:00pm and stay open late (cover charge applies some nights).
Leave early to maximise temple time; private transfer is faster (~1–1.5h) while the train is cheaper (~1.5–2h). Book or buy tickets in advance where possible.
Historic ruins with iconic Buddha-head-in-tree at Wat Mahathat and the impressive prang at Ratchaburana — sites are generally open from early morning until late afternoon (around 8:00–18:00).
Riverside dining with views over the ruins; good local and international options to recharge for the afternoon. Most cafes are open from morning through late afternoon.
Explore multiple temple ruins by bicycle or take a short boat tour around the island for different views; both options are available daily and are an easy way to cover ground.
Riverside night market with shops, bars and restaurants; Calypso Cabaret shows run in the evening (check showtimes and book ahead). Asiatique is open roughly 4:00pm–midnight.