Wat Arun temple Bankokg at nigh and the Chao Praya river

BANGKOK 4 DAYS ITINERARY

Have you been looking for the top Bangkok 4 day itinerary? Look no further, you are in the right place.

Bangkok is a fascinating city that most people avoid on their first trips to Thailand. “It is too polluted and crowded, I got out of there as soon as I could”, I heard from a fellow traveler a couple of days before setting foot on it for the first time. ” It is not safe”, an anxious friend told me before my first trip to Thailand. Of course, after all these comments, I avoided going around the city in my first couple of trips to Thailand and would just stay in Bangkok for one or two days just to book a trip to some of the best islands in Thailand.

However and despite the pollution and crowds, when Bangkok reveals itself in its full splendor, it will cast a spell on you and it will keep you hooked to return. I have put together this Bagkok 4 days itinerary that is a perfect introduction to the city for first time visitors and will bring you to its most iconic landmarks, such as the Wat Pho and Wat Arun temples, the Royal Palace, Chinatown and more. Let’s jump into it and enjoy it!

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Thai guy eating a scorpion at Kao Shan road
Insects seller at Kao Shan road

It was after I got gradually to trust the Thai culture that I got more and more curious about this intriguing metropolis. Bangkok, contrary to some popular beliefs, is quite a safe city and it offers a bunch of activities at all levels. Of course you must be cautious and avoid certain areas at certain times in the night as in all the big cities in the world.

Bangkok is a city of contrasts, that was the first thing that caught my attention when I first set foot in the Thai city and it is also the gateway for most backpackers traveling South East Asia. Check out this guide to the best Indochina destinations in South East Asia.

You just need to sit in a terrace in Kao Shan road or Soi Rambuttri and you will most likely end up in a conversation with a stranger about the coming weeks travel plans.

Interesting fact: Bangkok has the largest Chinatown in the world

Pilar sitting at a terrace with a blonde girls and a guy. The girl is sipping a cocktail while posing on the photo with Pilar. The photo is taken in Soi Rambutrri street and there are a few beers and cigarrettes at the table
Sitting a pub in Soi Rambuttri street with some just made friends

Table of Contents

IS 4 DAYS ENOUGH FOR BANGKOK?

4 days is not enough to get to know Bangkok as it is a large metropolis with so many interesting things to do but 4 days will introduce you to the main landmarks in the city and will give you a taste of the local live.

My recommendation is to dedicate a few days to get to know the different attractions Bangkok has to offer and I think a 4 days Bangkok itinerary can be sufficient to get acquainted with its most iconic places. You can also add some more days and plan day trip from Bangkok.

How many days to spend in Bangkok depends on the total amount time you have in Thailand and which parts of the city you would like to visit. I have visited Bangkok several times and have never stay shorter than 4 days.

Some areas of Bangkok are far apart from each other and traffic can be intense so it takes time to travel from one area of the city to another, so spending at least 4 days in Bangkok will give you the minimum amount of time you need to visit the city in a relaxed manner.

BANGKOK 4 DAYS ITINERARY DAY 1: GRAN PALACE, WAT PHO AND WAT ARUN

These three Thai architectural jewels are quite close too each other and not too far from the Kao Shan road area and the Chao Praya river. Visiting these three attractions and culminating your day watching the sunset over the Wat Arun temple is a perfect combination to get the first taste of Bangkok and the Thai culture.

You can visit these places on your own but sometimes queues can be very long. If you are in a short stay in Bangkok you can book your guided Bangkok tour to these three places.

Pilar in the middle of two beautiful architectonic structures in the interior of the Wat Pho temple
Visiting Wat Pho temple

If you decide to do the visit on your own and you are starting in Kao Shan road, you can either walk along the Chao Praya river, get a ferry boat or get a tuk tuk driver to the Grand Palace, where the itinerary starts.

I would recommend to do the visits in the following order:

Grand Palace, Wat Arun and then Wat Pho. This order might seem contradictory at first as the Wat Pho temple is walking distance from the Grand Palace and Wat Arun is on the other side of the Chao Praya river. But the reason of visiting in this order is that the sunset over the Wat Arun temple is really spectacular and one of the best spots to watch the sunset in Bangkok. Amorosa bar has a very nice terrace overlooking the Chao Praya river and the Wat Arun temple. They serve excellent food and cocktails.

GRAND PALACE (PHRA BOROM MAHA RATCHA WANG) 

The Bangkok Grand Palace is a complex of buildings that has been home to the Royal Thai family for the XVIII century until mid XX century, when the royal residence was translated to the Chitralada castle.

A night view of the golden towers of the Bangkok Night palace
Bangkok Grand Palace at night

The Bangkok royal palace is currently only used for ceremonial purposes.

WAT ARUN

The Wat Arun temple or “Temple of the Dawn” is located on the Western bank of the Chao Praya river opposite to the Grand Palace and the Wat Pho temple. Its name derives from the name of the Hindu God Arjuna.

Wat Arun temple Bankokg at nigh and the Chao Praya river
Wat Arun temple at night

The temple was built in the era of the Ayutthaya Kingdom and it is one of the most iconic Thailand landmarks.

Pilar at the Wat Arun temple at a wall with white and pastel color ornates
Pilar at the Wat Arun temple

There is a meditation school on the back of Wat Arun temple and if you check the schedule you can get a free meditation session from a monk.

Pilar on top of one of the Wat Arun temple towers. You can see one of the temple domes at the back of the picture
On top of one of the Wat Arun temple towers

WAT PHO

The Wat Pho temple is also known as the “Temple of the reclining Buddha. It is the oldest and most important temple in Thailand and it contains the bigger number of pagodas in a Thai temple.

The reclining Buddha is 46 meters long and 15 meters high.

Pilar in prayer and the reclining Buddha in Wat Pho on the back

Dress code for your visit to the Bangkok Grand palace and temples: In Thailand in order to visit all the royal and religious places you must cover your knees, elbows and shoulders. If you are wearing shorts and a sleeveless shirt, you can always rent or buy a big scarf at these attractions’ entrances.

BANGKOK 4 DAYS ITINERAY DAY 1 MAP

BANGKOK 4 DAYS ITINERARY DAY 2: LUMPINI PARK, AMULET MARKET AND A BOAT RIDE ALONG THE CHAO PRAYA RIVER

Visiting a place is not only about visiting the most touristic attractions but also about getting in touch with the local culture, so I invite you to take a bit more of an “off the beaten path” itinerary on your second day.

I suggest starting your day while having a coffee or tea sitting at one of the walking Kao Shan road streets looking up the messy electricity cable network in the city. I am almost 100% per cent sure you will not get disappointed and will spot some squirrel running on top of the thick electricity cables.

But this is only a small surprise compared to the surprise you will encounter when visiting Lumpini park later on the day.

LUMPINI PARK

This park is a very popular among morning and evening runners in the big Thai metropolis. If you go for a walk at dawn or dusk you will see several people running in the park.

Pilar sitting on a bench in the Lumpini park in Bangkok. There are some trees and a body of water on the abck. Pilar is wearing round sunglasses, a skirt with flowers and a brown top

But what it makes this park very special is the big monitor lizards roaming free around the park.

Yes, you read it well, there are quite big monitor lizards in this park. And , no, according to the local people I asked, they do not attack peasants.

Pilar standing in front of a tree and a monitor lizar on the back of the tree in the Lumpini park in Bangkok

Strolling around Lumpini park is quite relaxing and you will have for sure one or more encounters with these enchanting monitors lizards.

People usually bring food and drinks and picnic in the park. There are also some water attractions in the park.

A statue in the Lumpini park Bangkok with some trees and buildings on the back

It is the first public park in Bangkok. There are several buses that can bring you there. If you decide to go by tuk tuk, please do bargain the price as they can ask exagerated prices for the trip.

The park is 8.5 Km from Kao Shan road.

AMULET MARKET

The amulet market is without a doubt one of my favorite places to visit in Bangkok and I have visited it a few times.

Thai people belief in the protection of amulets. Some of them will attribute their live saving events during an accident, for example, to the amulets that they were carrying with them.

Skulls and other figures that are amulets in a stall in the amulet market in Bangkok

Amulets can range from fertility amulets for woman to get pregnant, to amulets to create abundance or attract love. There is a huge choice of amulets in the market. You can buy amulets in the market but it is forbidden to take Buddha statues out of the country.

Two preganina women in a bottle, and two black and golden statues that are amulets in the amulet market in Bangkok

Find here a video of my visit to the amulet market in Bangkok:

BOAT RIDE ALONG THE CHAO PRAYA RIVER

In the Chao Praya river stop closer to Kao Shan road there are usually independent boat drivers offering you a tour along the river.

I did one of these tours and I did not get disappointed as it is another experience watching Bangkok from the river side of the slow boat than taking the Express line.

It can be a great conclusion for your second day of your 4 day Bangkok itinerary.

BANGKOK 4 DAYS ITINERARY DAY 3: CHINA TOWN AND KAO SHAN ROAD

Get ready for your third day sipping a relaxed morning coffee and getting ready for the crowds.

CHINATOWN (YAOWARAT ROAD )

Chinatown can be reached by boat from the Chao Praya river stop near Kao Shan road and it is the best way to reach this area in my opinion.

Red Streets light signs in Chinatown Bangkok
Chinatown Bangkok

Someone told me long time ago, you need to visit Bangkok at least a couple of times to be prepared for China town. This statement could be right as it is hard to walk in between the super packed busy streets of China town. Still it is worth a visit on your 4 days itinerary to Bangkok. Chinatown is one of Bangkok’s coolest neighborhoods. You will be able to buy some cheap electronics , that will probably not work for a very long time and get to know a very iconic part of this city.

Food is also very good and tasty in the area. Specially seafood.

KAO SHAN ROAD

You will probably be exhausted after a visit to China town as it can be pretty overwhelming for someone not used to the Asian crowds and heat, so I recommend you to end up the day with a Thai or foot massage in one of the spas in Kao Shan road and then stroll the stalls or Kao Shan road and Rambuttri street.

A view of Kao Shan road in Bangkok. Lots of stalls selling juice, food and clothes.

BANGKOK 4 DAY ITINERARY DAY 3 MAP

BANGKOK 4 DAY ITINERARY DAY 4

On your last day I recommend you to get a combined tour that will bring you to the most popular Bangkok Amphawa floating market, where you can buy all kind of trinkets and even Thai musical instruments.

A canal Crowded with boats at the Bangkok floating markets. They are selling mainly fruits.
Floating Market Bangkok

The floating market is close to the river Kwai and you can visit both in one day, or you might want to consider taking one of the best day trips from Bangkok in your last day in the city.

You can book the tour by walking to any of the many travel agencies in Kao Shan road.

Or you can either book and online tour if you want to guarantee your spot.

Another option is to spend the day in the ancient capital of Thailand and take one the best Ayutthaya tours.

Do you have some questions about Bangkok? Please post it in the comments

BANGKOK 4 DAY ITINERARY DAY 4 MAP

WHEN TO VISIT BANGKOK

The decision to visit Bangkok is very much dependent on your preferences for the weather, festivals and other parts in Thailand you might want to visit after your stay in Bangkok. The ideal time to visit Bangkok is during the cool and dry season, from November to February. During this time of the year the temperatures are milder, 32°  to 22°and it is the ideal time to have long walks around the city without suffocating under the scorching Sun. There is also less rainfall during this period, which is better for clear blue skies and outdoor activites.

However, if you like to visit places without crowds and pay lower accommodation rates, the best time to visit Bangkok is during the March to May period and September to October. You will have a more relaxed experience with less tourists. I have visited Bangkok in April and May and I really enjoy it.

You might also want to visit Thailand during Songkran ( Thai New Year ) in April or Loy Krathong in November and you will enjoy a true cultural experience with colorful celebrations, parades and cultural performances, but if you decide to visit this city and Thailand during these periods be prepared to spend more in accommodation.

HOW LONG TO SPEND IN BANGKOK

This is a very personal decision that depends on your time in Thailand, interest, budget and itinerary. To get to know the most important city landmarks plan to stay at least 4 days as it is a very big city with many interesting things to do, architectural wonders, nightlife and shopping areas.

There are also some very interesting day trips you can do from Bangkok, such as visiting Ayutthaya, the ancient capital of Thailand.

While my recommendation for a first time visit to Bangkok is to stay 4 days you can stay as long as you want as the city is so big and has so many places to discover and a really interesting local life.

I have visited Thailand 7 times and some of them for several months and once I spent almost a month a Bangkok and I did not get bored.

But I guess fi you are reading this article you are planning to stay 4 days in Bangkok, so I have put here together what I consider are the best attractions to visit on a 4 days visit to Bangkok and I am sure you will enjoy it.

HOW TO GET AROUND IN BANGKOK

Bangkok is a huge metropolis where almost 11 million people and it has a lot of different transportaion options.

I am listing here the best one for travelers visiting Bangkok:

  • The BTS Sky Train offeres the best rates and it can bring you to most areas in the city. You can have a day pass that will cover the most important areas and you can buy at everty station.
  • Chao Praya express boat: This is a very cool mode of transport as it will bring you a trip along the river and you will have a different view of the city. You can use it to visit several locations across the river. You can check the routes and schedules here.
  • Tuk Tuk: I rode my first Tuk Tuk in Bangkok and I love the experience of going through the chaotic traffic of this Asian metropolis on this open vehicle. You can always stop a Tuk Tuk on the street, or book a Tuk Tuk here. The Grab app also offers Tuk Tuk service and you can download it here.
  • Taxi: I used taxi in Bangkok if I am moving through the city in the night and it has worked pretty OK. You can either negotiated the price with a taxi driver on the streets. There are many and they will be offering you taxis for sure or you can also use the Grab app to call one.
  • Bus: This can be a cheap alternative to taxi and a true local experience but be aware to avoid peak hours, otherwise you will get stuck in traffic.
  • You feet: Yes, do not understimate the power of your feet as transport. The first time that I visited Bangkok I used Tuk Tuk to go everywhere as I though everything was too far away and not safe and once I got to know the city I started walking distances and getting to know much more of the city.

WHERE TO STAY IN BANGKOK

The best place to stay during you stay in Bagkok for a 4 days itinerary is the area around Khao San road and Rambuttri street.  I have stayed many times in different hotels in this area and you can find here my top picks. I really recommend you to book your hotel in advance as Kao Shan road is very popular and you might risk not to stay in the place of your choice.

Villa Cha Cha: This hotel in the kao Shan road area is my favorite. I stayed here the first time in Bangkok as per other traveler recommendation and I have stayed many times here. The rooms are nice and big and they get cleaned everyday. There is a lovely swimming pool area on the groundfloor with nice spiritual statues and lounge chairs to refresh afyour day visiting the city. Lovely breakfast comes usually included with the stay and it is served close to the swimming pool area.

Rambuttri village plaza: This lovely hotel is located in the quiet area of Rambuttri street and has a great roof swimming pool on the top. This is really a popular hotel among backpackers so you really need to book in advance. The breakfast gets served on the a terrace on the square on the street below and it is a really lovely spot. You can chose between air conditioned or fan only room.

Chillax Heritage Hotel Kao Shan: This is a big more of mid range hotel in price but the hotel offers some really impressive rooms and really nice swimming pool with roof top area. I really recommend this hotel if you would like to stay in a bit more quiet area and it is only 5 minutes walking from Kao Shan road.

Villa Bangkok: This is another great place with a lovely pool and beautiful rooms located conveniently to all the main attractions. This located is a bit further away from the Kao Shan area but quite close to the Grand Palace which is also a great choice.

OTHER THINGS TO DO IN BANGKOK

CHATUCHAK WEEKEND MARKET

 This is the largest market in Bangkok and in Thailand as a whole. The market is open every Saturday and Sunday from 9 AM to 6 PM, and it has more15,000 stalls offering all sort of things for sales. You buy clothes, antiques, handicrafts, and local delicacies.  Walking through the intrincate alleys of the market is a true cultural experience. The market is a big attraction for local people who go shopping there and tourists that want to observe the local life.

JIM THOMPSON HOUSE

This house an enthralling example of Thai architecture blending in perfect balance with Western influence. A visit to the house will offer you a window into the past and will give you an idea how Jim Thompson’s life was during the time he lived there and his life, busy revitalizing Thailand’s silk industry. The house is located in the middle of some lush green gardens and there is a remarkable collection of Asian art and antiques inside th house. You can walk inside the rooms or take a guided tour for your visit. The house is  open daily from 9 AM to 6 PM.

ASIATIQUE RIVER FRONT

The Asiatique River Front is a shopping complex open daily from 5 P.M to midnights and it has around 1500 boutiques and stalls offering everyting from fashion to handicrafts to souvenirs and local delicacies. People visiting the place can try a variety of flavors and cuisines at the numerous restaurants, enjoy some live performances and take a walk along the riverside. You can also ride the iconic Ferris Wheel that offers breathtaking views of the city skyline.

WAT SAKET (GOLDEN MOUNT)

 Wat Saket or the Golden Mount is the only hill in Bangkok. You will have to climb 300 steps to get to a Golden chedi for some panoramic views of the Bangkok skyline.

This is a buddhist temple that attracts pilgrims as well as tourists and oozes serenity and peace out of every corner. A visit to the temple is a cultural, spiritual and architectural visit. The temples is open daily from dawn to dusk.

SIAM PARAGON

  Siam Paragon,  is a shopping mall in the heart of Bangkok famous for its luxury brands, fine dining and entertaiment. The mall is 500 K square meters sizes and it displays a big selection of designer boutiques, high-end retailers, and stores. The mall has a wide variety of international dining options and also features a cinema, art gallery and exhibition. It is open daily and it is a hub for fashion enthusiasts, foodies and people seeking entertainment.

MUAY THAI BOXING MATCH

You can experience at some of the most iconic places in the country such as the Lumpinee Boxing Stadium.  Admire the agility, strength and precision of these skiller fighters and be a witness to the cultural significance of this ancient martial art. Feel the afmosphere charged with excitement and anticipation from the Thai people watching this game. This is one of the coolest things you can do during your visit to Bangkok..

WAT BENCHAMABOPHIT (MARBLE TEMPLE)

Wat Benchamabophit, also known as the Marble Temple, is a stunning architectural gem nestled in the heart of Bangkok, Thailand. Constructed in the late 19th century during the reign of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V), this magnificent temple exemplifies the elegance of Thai craftsmanship. Its intricate facade adorned with meticulously carved white Carrara marble exudes timeless beauty and grandeur. Inside, visitors are greeted by a serene ambiance and a magnificent Buddha statue cast in bronze. Surrounded by tranquil gardens and reflecting pools, Wat Benchamabophit offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city, inviting contemplation and reverence amidst its serene surroundings.

BANGKOK ART AND CULTURE CENTRE

The Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC) is a hub for artisis in Bangkok located in the heart of the city, in the Pathum Wan district. This modern art space is home to a diverse range of visual and performing arts, exhibitions, workshops and events. This place is a place where beginners and well established artists perform. This is the perfect place in Bangkok to watch thought provoking installations, cutting edge performances and displays.

SIAM NIRAMIT SHOW

The Siam Niramit Show is a captivating show in Bangkok that showcases the rich heritage and traditions of the Thai civilization. The show is played in a big theater and it has a wonderful production that takes place in ellaborate stage sets, with splendid customs and great performances. You will be transported back in time to some of the most significant moments in Thai history and will see representations of the Thai mythology and folklore. If you have some extra time in Bangkok you should really not miss this show

You can book your ticket to your Siam Niramit Show here.

BANGKOK NATIONAL MUSEUM

The Bangkok National Museum is the perfect place to get to know the Thai history and you will be able to watch a collection of artifacts, relics and artworks dating back centuries. With a collections of multimedia displayes and guided tours, the visitors can get an immersion into the stories and traditions that have shaped the Thai culture.

DINE AT A ROOFTOP BAR

Bangkok is famous for its rooftop bars with skyline views of the city and epic sunsets. My favorite rooftop bar in Bangkok that I have visited several times is Vertigo at Bnayan Tree hotel. This rooftop bars are usally located on the last floor of some of the most luxurious hotels in the ciy and even if you do not stay there you can still visit them for an unforgettable dining experience. You have a delicious fine dining experience and drink some of the best cocktails in the city or some fine wines while enjoying a breathtaking sunset over the city.

You can book your dinner experience at Vertigo here.

BANGKOK RAILWAY MARKET (MAEKLONG MARKET):

The Bangkok Railway Market, also known as Maeklong Market or Talat Rom Hup, is a bustling an unique attraction in Bangkok, very similar to the Hanoi Train street.

 This market is located just outside the city center and the special thing about this market is that is located directly on the railway tracks. The trains passes multiple times a day and as the train approaches the vendors hurry to remote the goods from the tracks. This is unique attraction and a true cultural experience . You can also make some shopping there as there are local delicacies and handicrafts on sale. You can book your tour to the Bangkol Railway market here

You can book your tour to the Bangkok Railway market here.

BANGKOK  MUSEUM  OF  CONTEMPORARY ART (MOCA):

The Bangkok Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) features the largest collection of contemporary art, featuring works by well known Thai artists as well as international well established artists. The museum is situated in the heart of Bangkok. You can find works of painting, sculpture, installation and multimedia. Visitors can explore thought provoking art exhibitions and get a feel of the Thai cultural and art scence.

WAT TRAIMIT (TEMPLE OF THE GOLDEN BUDDHA):  

You can visit the workd largest gold Buddha in this temple, that weight around five tons. It is also known as the temple of the Golden Buddha and it is cultural landmark in the heart of Bangkok’s Chinatown. It is not only Thailand biggest Buddha’s statues but one of the biggest in the world.

Wat Traimit is an oasis of serenity and spirituality in the middle of hectic Bangkok, offering a profound glimpse into Thailand’s religious and artistic traditions.

BANGKOK  BUTTERFLY GARDEN AND INSECTARIUM

Escape the urban jungle and immerse yourself in the tranquility of this tropical garden, home to a diverse array of butterflies and insects from Thailand and beyond.

The Bangkok Butterfly Garden and Insectarium is a green sanctuary where many butterflies and insects live located in the center of the city. The tropical garden is home to many insects and butterflies from Thailand and beyond. This oasis in the center of Bankokg a great educative resources for thoses wanting know more about these tiny and beautiful creatures

BANGKOK’S  ART GALLERIES

Bangkok is home to many interesting art galleries and if you have time enough in Bangkok and you are interested in art you will not get tired. Some of the best are galleries are Bangkok CityCity Gallery, Serindia Gallery, and Subhashok The Arts Centre, showcasing contemporary works by local and international artists.

BANGKOK’S THEMED CAFES

Have some fun visiting some of the most famous Bangkok’s themed cafes such as the Unicorn Cafe, Caturday Cat Cafe, or Little Zoo Cafe, where you can enjoy food and drinks in the company of adorable animals.

BANGKOK’S CULTURAL PERFORMANCE

Immerse yourself in traditional Thai dance, music, and puppetry performances at venues like the Thailand Cultural Centre or the Joe Louis Puppet Theatre, offering captivating insights into Thai culture and heritage.

WHERE TO EAT IN BANGKOK

There are so many food choices in Bangkok that I could write hundreds of pages about but I am recommending here just four of the top high end places to eat in Bangkok. Take into account Thai food is delicious and you can find good food everywhere in the city. I have a weakness for Thai food. I simply love it.

Issaya Siamese Club: This restaurant is located on a colonial style house surrounded by lush gardens. Chef Ian kittichai creates some very innogative dishes inspired by Thia flavors and local ingridients. The offer a modern approach with some twists to Thai cuisine and you will be able to enjoy a memorable dinner in a stunning setting.

Jay Fai: Jay Fai is a legendary street food stall in Bangkok famous for its  crab omelets and other seafood dishes. Despite its humble surroundings, Jay Fai has earned a Michelin star for its exceptional food quality and flavors. The charismatic owner, Jay Fai, cooks up each dish herself, ensuring a truly authentic and memorable dining experience. This is a really must try when visiting the city.

Nahm: Nahm, located in the luxurious Como Metropolitan hotel, is renowned for its refined Thai cuisine crafted by Chef Pim Techamuanvivit. This Michelin-starred restaurant offers a sophisticated dining experience, focusing on traditional Thai flavors presented with modern flair. Nahm’s menu features a variety of exquisite dishes made from high-quality ingredients sourced from local markets.

Bo.Lan: Bo.Lan is a critically acclaimed restaurant that offers a contemporary take on traditional Thai cuisine. Situated in a charming wooden house, Bo.Lan is dedicated to preserving Thailand’s culinary heritage while incorporating sustainable practices. The restaurant offers set menus showcasing a range of authentic Thai flavors, and diners can choose their preferred level of spiciness for each dish.

BANGKOK MAIN ATTRACTIONS MAP

FAQs ABOUT PLANNING A VISIT TO BANGKOK

IS BANGKOK CHEAPER THAN THAILAND?

Bangkok is the city of Thailand and if offers a wide range of prices suitable for all budgets almost for everything.  When compared to very popular destinations such as Phuket or Koh Samui, Bangkok usually offers more affordable options.

IS BANGKOK A EXPENSIVE CITY?

Bangkok can be considered both expensive and affordable, depending on your choices and budget.  You can either stay in 5-star luxury hotels or on an affordable backpacker hostel and live on eating delicious Thai street food.  In comparison to most Western cities Bangkok offers a lower cost of living, but it is essential to be careful with your budget.

WHAT IS THE BEST AREA TO STAY IN BANGKOK?

The best area to stay in Bangkok depends on your preferences and interests and you pre planned itinerary. The most popular areas

  1. Sukhumvit: Known for its vibrant nightlife, shopping malls, and diverse dining options.
  2. Silom: A bustling business district with a mix of upscale hotels, budget accommodations, and lively night markets. Silom is also home to Patpong Night Market and Lumpini Park.
  3. Riverside (Chao Phraya) Kao Shan road: Offers stunning views of the river and easy access to major attractions like the Grand Palace, Wat Arun, and Asiatique The Riverfront. Luxury hotels and resorts line the riverbanks.
  4. Siam: Ideal for shoppers, with numerous malls like Siam Paragon, MBK Center, and CentralWorld. It’s centrally located and well-connected to public transportation.
  5. Old City (Rattanakosin): Home to historic sites like the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun. Accommodations here range from boutique hotels to budget guesthouses

WHAT THE BEST DAY TRIPS FROM BANGKOK?

Some of the best day trips from Bangkok include Ayutthaya, renowned for its ancient temples and historical ruins; Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, where you can explore vibrant floating markets; and Kanchanaburi, known for the Bridge over the River Kwai and its scenic landscapes, including Erawan National Park’s waterfalls.

IS BANGKOK FRIENDLY TO TOURISTS?

Yes Bangkok and its people are usually friendly to tourists. The city tourism industry is very well developed and local people are used to interact with visitors. Most people in turist area speak English and there are several amenities and services taking care of travelers, making the city on of the most popular tourists destinations in the world.

HOW SAFE IS BANGKOK THESE DAYS?

Bangkok is generally considered a safe city but as in any big city this depends on many factors such as location, time of the day, and how you behave. It is essential to stay away specially in crowded areas and touristy spots, as pickpocketing and scams can happen.

IS BANGKOK A WALKABLE CITY?

Yes, Bangkok is good for walking mostly if you are moving withing the same neighborhoods and it can be a very valuable experience. However, some distances can be long, and they will require you to take public transport. I love walking around Bangkok, and I recommend you to walk every time it is possible.

FINAL THOUGHTS: BANGKOK 4 DAY ITINERARY

When planning a trip a to Bangkok be flexible with your itinerary, I have sometimes added several days to my stays in Bangkok, but of course, this was when I was doing long term traveling in Thailand.

While my initial recommendation for a first time visit to Bangkok is a 4 days stay, this city offers a wide variety of options and you will never be bored. The city will keep you under its spell and you will want to visit more and more. I have visited Thailand many times and always I got to know more of Bangkok. I am sure this first 4 days in Bangkok will keep you asking for more and you will enjoy it a lot as I did.

MORE BANGKOK AND THAILAND GUIDES

I have been several in Bangkok and have spent in total months there during several stays in the city arriving from Europe or just on the way to other several destination in Thailand. Check here some more Bangkok guides;

And it is not only about Bangkok but Thailand is one of the most beautiful countries in the world that I have travel extensively and I know quiet well. Check here some of the guides:

Pilar
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11 Comments

  1. Very cool tour, I think i did everything here except for the amulet market and that looks very unique and fun to explore I’m sure. Bangkok is a wonderful city, a little intimidating at the start but then becomes a lot more manageable and your segments are just the right amount to do.

  2. Bangkok is one of my favourite cities. In spite of the pollution and crowds, that city still has a spirit and cheer.I love the architecture, Buddha statues, floating markets and tuk tuks. However, I did not know about the free roaming monitor lizards! I am petrified of big or small lizards. LOL! Of course, you can also get the best of Thai massages there. 🙂

  3. It looks like there are plenty of things to do in Bangkok and the capital of Thailand definitely deserves a visit. I would be very intrigued by the amulet market, some of the things you find in there are really bizarre. I went on a floating market in Vietnam and I know how great they are, I’d love to repeat the experience if I end up in Bangkok as well.

  4. I am planning for my Bangkok trip and this would be the first time I am visiting the city. Thanks for your detailed guide on same. It really very helpful to plan my days accordingly.

  5. I’ve not travelled to any countries in Asia yet. But am fascinated by the market culture. I would very much like to see the lively floating market and the amulet market. So unlike anything I’ve ever experienced during my travels.

  6. I must admit I too was not sure what to expect when we visited Bangkok. But we were not going to miss it on our first trip. It was really hot but we were glad we visited several of the major temples. But we did not get to many of the off the beaten path places we often search for when we travel. We really wanted to visit the Amphawa floating market. Good to know we can visit on a tour on our next trip to Bangkok.

  7. Your reference guide for Bangkok travel itineraries is excellent. I was incredibly excited to visit the floating market because it looked fantastic. Yet, while Lumpini Park has beautiful views, I find encounters with large monitor lizards to be a bit frightening. It’s a relief to know that they won’t attack, so I’m hoping that nobody is going to attempt to harm them. The Wat Pho temple would be where I’d most feel like going, though!

  8. To be honest, I did not think that Thailand is this beautiful. You make Bangkok intriguing. I have a friend who wants to give us a tour of her home country, Thailand, but I have never had the chance to do it. You showed me what I have missed. What caught my attention are the boat ride along the Chao Praya river, a tour around Lumpini park, or spending time at the Wat Arun temple.

  9. It is refreshing to see your point of view about Bangkok. I hoping to visit Bangkok probably next year and your guide is really helpful. I’ve heard a lot about Wat Arun and wouldn’t miss it at all! A a free meditation session from a monk? That’s interesting! Whoa! The Amulet market looks super cool. Interesting to know that it is forbidden to take a Buddha statue out of the country.

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