Wat Phra Kaew, also called the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, is the most sacred temple in Thailand. It's home to a statue of the Buddha made of emerald, and its intricate gold-plated structures are a sight to behold. Right next door is the Grand Palace, a stunningly ornate complex of buildings built in 1782 that has served as the official residence of the king of Thailand for over 200 years.
Chatuchak Weekend Market, the world's largest outdoor market, has over 15,000 stalls selling everything from clothing to home decor to street food. Next, visit the Jim Thompson House, a traditional Thai-style house that was owned by an American silk merchant. It's now a museum showcasing Southeast Asian art and design.
Wat Arun, also known as the Temple of Dawn, is a stunning riverside temple known for its intricate design and towering spires. Afterwards, explore the vibrant neighborhood of Chinatown, filled with lively markets, street food, and architecture that feels worlds away from the rest of Bangkok.
Siam Paragon is one of the largest and most luxurious shopping malls in Southeast Asia, with high-end boutiques and a range of dining options. Afterwards, visit SEA LIFE Bangkok, a massive aquarium with over 30,000 sea creatures and interactive exhibits that allow visitors to get up close and personal with marine life.
Lumpini Park provides a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, with lush greenery, lakes, and plenty of space to relax. Afterwards, head to Khao San Road, a lively street that's a hub for backpackers, street food vendors, and nightlife. Enjoy the lively atmosphere with a drink and some people-watching.
Getting around Bangkok is easiest on the city's Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) or Skytrain (BTS) system, which connect all major tourist sites in Bangkok. Both are clean, safe, and air-conditioned. Taxis and tuk-tuks are also readily available, but traffic can be heavy and drivers may not know the best routes to take.
The cost of using the MRT or BTS is between ฿15-฿60 per trip, depending on distance, but it's also possible to purchase day passes or multi-day passes to save money. Taxis and tuk-tuks are metered, but it's always a good idea to have small bills on hand and confirm the fare before starting your trip.
Estimated Transportation Costs: ฿500 (~$15 USD)
If you have extra time, consider taking a day trip to the ancient city of Ayutthaya, less than two hours from Bangkok. Alternatively, you could spend an evening at the stylish rooftop bars that dot the city, such as Vertigo or Sky Bar.
If you have less time, consider cutting out Chinatown or Khao San Road to make the itinerary more manageable while still hitting the main cultural and shopping experiences.
Bangkok's main airport is Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK), located about 25 km east of the city center. It's a large airport with two terminals and many international connections. The airport is connected to the city by the Airport Rail Link, with a journey time to the city center of about 30 minutes. Alternatively, taxis or ride-sharing services are readily available, with a cost of around ฿500 (~$15 USD).