Ultimate 4 Day Itinerary for Bangkok, Thailand
Visiting a large city like Bangkok can feel stressful. There’s so much to do and see, with plenty of food to try, and then there’s figuring out how to get around!
Stress no more, this guide covers everything you need to know for spending 4 days in Bangkok, Thailand!
I remember the first time I visited Bangkok. After arriving, I took a Grab taxi into the city. I couldn’t believe the size of the city as I stared out my window for the 30-minute drive.
Having been to Bangkok twice now and with plans to visit again later this year, I can confidently say Bangkok is one of my favorite cities. It’s modern but still has a rich culture!
This guide covers must know tips for your visit, areas to stay in, and a full four exciting days in the city. And of course, everything about food, I’m a big foodie and Bangkok is one of the top three cities in the world for food, easily!
Why Spend 4 Days in Bangkok?
Being the capital of Thailand and one of the most visited cities in the world yearly, Bangkok serves as a cultural, finance and international traveler hub.
There’s so much to do in Bangkok, from canal boat rides, night markets, rooftop bars, plenty of shopping, temples to visit, the list can go on and on. Bangkok also has many areas, each with its own atmosphere and things to do!
Visiting such a significant city like Bangkok, you’ll want to experience it to the fullest, especially if it’s your first time in Thailand and two to three days just isn’t enough.
Four days is a great amount of time to do plenty of exploring, and fit in a day trip or two!
Quick Tips for Visiting Bangkok
KLOOK: This app is helpful for attraction discounts, private transfers, and more.
Grab & Bolt: Ride-sharing apps similar to Uber for Southeast Asia are handy for rides!
XE & Elk: These are the two currency converter apps I use when traveling.
Cash: Bangkok is very much a cash society, some places take cards but always hold cash.
AIS: If you plan to get a SIM card instead of an ESIM, get AIS, they have the best network.
Day 1 in Bangkok
Morning: The Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaew
It’s best to start your first day in any new place by visiting the most famous attraction, and in Bangkok, that’s the Grand Palace, an ancient castle that showcases Thai history and architecture. It opens at 8:30 AM, I recommend you come early to avoid large crowds in the afternoon!
Make sure you have some breakfast first though, you’ll need the energy, I recommend trying an oyster or crab omelette, a popular Thai breakfast option.
Afternoon: Wat Arun Temple
Moving along, it’s time to visit another of Bangkok’s most iconic attractions, the Wat Arun Temple.
It’s located just across the Chao Phraya River, so you’ll have to take the Tah Tian ferry across the water to get there, show up, and buy a ticket to get over!
As you return for some lunch, I recommend visiting Thipsamai, one of the oldest Pad Thai shops in Bangkok. Follow your lunch up with some dessert, I recommend K. Panich Sticky Rice, a Michelin Star dessert shop!
Evening: Explore Khao San Road
For your first evening in Bangkok, plan to visit the infamous Khao San Road. This notable street is famous for its backpacker atmosphere, several bars, street food, and more!
Khao San Road is an excellent area for those looking to party on their first night in the city!
The street is quite touristy and crowded in all honesty, however it’s one of those attractions you want to cross off the list.
TIP: Watch out for pickpockets on this street, unfortunately, its common here.
Day 2 in Bangkok
Morning & Afternoon: Maeklong Railway Market & Floating Market Tour
Get ready for a second exciting day in Bangkok as you attend a must-do tour when visiting! Today you will venture outside the city to explore Damnoen Saduak Floating Market.
Visiting this famous floating market, you’ll witness several vendors pass by in their boats as they sell various goods and foods to try. It’s quite the experience and offers a glimpse into the traditional Thai trading culture that’s been around for many years!
Shortly after the floating market, you’ll head to the Maeklong Railway Market. This vibrant market is quite a unique experience, as it’s located on a train track—literally!
As the train approaches to come through, vendors quickly retract their goods back into their shops as they make way for the train to pass by. Seeing it all unfold makes for an uncommon experience!
The train passes eight times throughout the day, which shocked me because I’d imagine being a vendor here sounds like a lot of work.
At the market, you’ll find everything from fresh produce, seafood, clothing, and other goods.
It’s a neat experience, and visiting the market is free, so if you want to come on your own instead of a tour, you can arrange your own transportation here and visit!
Evening: Fight Night at Rajadamnern Muay Thai Stadium
Muay Thai is Thailand’s national sport, and the sport is deeply ingrained into the culture. No matter where you visit in Thailand, you’ll likely hear about fights going on during the week to attend.
The best part about the fights in Bangkok is the most elite fighters fight here, being the big city, it naturally attracts top fights from all over Thailand and the world.
This stadium hosts fights on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday, and the typical entry fee is 1600 Thai Baht.
Overall, it’s a fun time, you can buy a few drinks, food is sometimes being sold, and it’s exciting to experience!
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Day 3 in Bangkok
Morning: Shopping Time
Bangkok is one of the best cities in the world for shopping. No matter what you’re looking for, you’ll find it here!
Whether you enjoy shopping or not, visiting a few malls in Bangkok is a must for every traveler!
The food courts in these malls are exceptional, featuring spacious areas filled with a variety of restaurants to try, all in a comfortable, air-conditioned environment. You can’t miss indulging in delicious meals while escaping the heat or a sudden rain shower.
If you’re visiting Bangkok on a Saturday or Sunday morning, consider skipping the malls and going to the Chatuchak Weekend Market! This iconic traditional market features over 15,000 stalls where you can purchase various goods.
Afternoon: Relax at Lumphini Park
After a morning of shopping, it’s time to take things a bit slower and relax at Bangkok’s best park, Lumphini Park.
This extensive park features trails, ponds, pavilions, and a few remarkable ponds, making it the perfect place to sit down and relax or have a picnic.
Depending on when you visit, sometimes there are cultural events happening at the park.
The coolest part about the park is the large monitor lizards that live here, they look like Komodo dragons, and it’s shocking to see such a large animal live in the center of Bangkok!
Once you’ve relaxed, not far from the park are two Michelin restaurants that I recommend, Polo Fried Chicken and Thai Niyom Cuisine, choose one and enjoy some lunch!
Evening: Explore Bangkok’s famous Chinatown & Rooftop Bar
Bangkok’s Chinatown is a must experience, venturing around the area is one of my favorite things to do in Bangkok.
After 5:00 PM, several street food stalls pop up around the area, serving various foods to try. Some stalls operate as small restaurants with outdoor seating, so you won’t have to walk around with your food!
From charcoal grilled lobsters, Michelin star dumplings, mango sticky rice, fresh oysters on ice, and so much more, trust me when I say Chinatown is a foodie heaven, you must check it out! For those who’d prefer to attend a Chinatown street food tour, you can do that too!
I recommend Fikeaw Yaowarat, an excellent seafood restaurant known for its lobsters, we ate there and loved it!
Around the area, you’ll find alleyways where vendors sell produce, traditional herbs, and spices. On the main road, you’ll find gold and clothing shops.
Now that you’ve explored and eaten some delicious street food, it’s time to visit a rooftop bar so you can gaze out at the exceptional Bangkok skyline with a few drinks!
- Tichuca Rooftop Bar: A lively jungle-themed rooftop bar on the 46th floor.
- Sky Bar Lebua: Famous for where “The Hangover” movie was filmed.
- Mahanakhon Bangkok SkyBar: Highest rooftop bar in Bangkok, fancy spot.
- Vertigo & Moon Bar: Known for its cocktails, on top of the Banyan Tree Hotel.
- Red Sky: A fancy restaurant and rooftop on the 56th floor of CentralWorld Mall.
- Octave Rooftop: Lively rooftop located on the top of the Marriott Hotel Sukhumvit.
Day 4 in Bangkok
Morning: Take a canal tour through Bangkok’s Khlongs (canals)
One of the best ways to see Bangkok is through canals around the city and on your fourth day you’ll do just that!
Start your last day in Bangkok by attending this canal tour for two hours as you explore many sites around the city, grasp a feel for those who live by the canals, spot the many Buddhist temples along the way, and make a few stops for a few photo opportunities!
Make sure you bring some cash with you, sometimes vendors on boats pass by selling goods and drinks on the canals!
Afternoon: Visit the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA Bangkok)
Spend your last afternoon exploring the best contemporary art museum in the city.
This vast and aesthetically charming museum features many Thai and international artists, and you’ll see art displays with representations of Hinduism, Buddhism, and modern inspiration. Tickets are $11 US, and they can be bought at the door.
Evening: Explore Ratchada Train Night Market for Street Food & Shopping
It’s already your last day in Bangkok, and the only proper way to spend your last night is to visit one of the city’s many night markets. I can’t stress this enough, Bangkok has the best night markets in Asia, nowhere else compares!
Head over to Ratachada Train Night Market, which is centrally located and one of the most famous in the city.
For those who would prefer to explore a night market that’s less touristy and has more of a local atmosphere, go to Srinagarindra Night Market, though it’s not centrally located. This is my favorite night market in Bangkok, and I’ve visited all the popular ones!
Enjoy delicious street food and purchase a few last-minute souvenirs for yourself or your family. I recommend Tiger Balm ointment, nose inhalers, shirts, and decorations, which can all be found.
Where to Stay in Bangkok
It’s essential you decide which area would be best for you to stay in. Bangkok is a massive city with many areas to stay in and an overflow of hotels to consider for your visit.
All the neighborhoods mentioned below are centrally located, with easy access to the city’s many transportation options. That said, consider which area would be most ideal for your visit to make things easier!
My favorite area to stay in is Sukhumvit. It’s well-located and has the best access to the BTS train. I’ve also stayed in Thonburi and enjoyed the more laid-back cultural atmosphere there. Refer to my full Bangkok area guide for hotel recommendations!
| Areas in Bangkok | Which Area is Best for You? |
| Sukhumvit | Sukhumvit is Bangkok’s hub, blending luxury, international dining, lively nightlife, and shopping with excellent BTS Skytrain access. |
| Bangkok Riverside | Scenic area along the Chao Phraya River featuring luxury hotels, historic temples, and cultural attractions. |
| Silom | Known as Bangkok’s business and entertainment district, it is famous for its bustling streets, shopping, and vibrant rooftop bars. |
| Khao San Road | Famous hub for backpackers known for its lively street scene, budget accommodations, and eclectic nightlife. |
| Siam | Bangkok’s central shopping district with luxury malls, stylish boutiques, and various entertainment options. |
| Thonburi | A laidback area across the Chao Phraya River, known for its cultural sites and local charm. |
| Chinatown | A vibrant neighborhood in Bangkok is known for its bustling markets, delicious street food, and Chinese culture. |
How to Get Around Bangkok
MRT & BTS: The easiest way to get around Bangkok is to use the MRT and BTS lines. These public transport options connect most of the city and are affordable. If you plan to use a day pass, purchase it at the kiosks.
Grab & Bolt: Both apps operate like Uber, with the choice of a car or motorbike
Taxi: You’ll spot taxis all over the city; however, taxi drivers here tend to overcharge, so do be careful.
Boats: Another excellent way to get around in Bangkok is by boat, you can use the Saen Saep Express and Chao Phraya Express.
TukTuk: Until you’ve experienced a tuktuk in Bangkok, you haven’t experienced Bangkok!
Airport Rail Link: This train allows travelers to get from Suvarnabhumi Airport into the city center. The line operates every 15 minutes from 5:30 AM till 12:00 AM.
- TRAVEL TIP: Watch out for Taxi and tuk-tuk scams in Bangkok. Drivers often propose ridiculously high prices to get around or take you places you don’t want to go.
I recommend checking your Grab app and negotiating off of this quoted price. If you pay slightly higher for TukTuks than the price on Grab, this is expected. TukTuks are an experience!
Where to Go Shopping in Bangkok
One of the best things to do in Bangkok is go on a shopping spree. No matter the type of person you’re, you’ll love shopping in Bangkok, that’s because you can find everything here!
From clothing to electronic gadgets and places to repair things that cost a lot back home, the shopping here is endless. The malls in Bangkok are impressive, and you should take advantage of them when visiting!
I fixed a second phone here and a gold chain, I recommend visiting the MBK center!
- Icon Siam Shopping Mall: An eight-floor entertainment complex with a museum, make sure you visit the observation deck here!
- Siam Paragon: A massive mall, one of the largest in Asia, I recommend the food hall here!
- Central World: Known for being the largest mall in Thailand.
- Central Embassy: Luxury mall full of high-end designer retailers.
- MBK Center: 8-floor mall known for its plenty of shops and a wide variety of goods.
- Terminal 21: Unique mall with each floor representing a city known for its excellent food court.
Where to Eat in Bangkok
Bangkok is easily one of the best cities for foodies to visit! Everywhere you look in this city there’s food being sold, alleyways, malls, street side, seriously, there’s food everywhere in Bangkok!
Another critical thing that makes Bangkok stand out regarding food is its food diversity; the city also has countless luxury dining restaurants and is home to plenty of Michelin-rated restaurants.
- ThipSamui: The oldest Pad Thai restaurant in the city serving a simple menu of various Pad Thai dishes.
- Jeh O Chula: Authentic Thai restaurant serving various dishes and Michelin Star rated.
- Pe Aor Tom Yum Kung Noodle: Serving the best spicy Tom Yum seafood soup in the city, they sell a variety of Tom Yum soups; it’s their specialty.
- Prachak (Roasted Duck): Legendary duck must-try restaurant located in Chinatown.
- Toy Kuay Teow Ruea: Famous restaurant known for its authentic flavourful boat noodles.
- Sawang Noodle: Delicious noodle restaurant, famous for their BBQ Pork.
- Here Hai Restaurant: Excellent seafood spot, make sure you try the Thai crab omelette, river prawns and fried rice!
- K-strEAT: Vibrant Korean food hall, those who love Korean food, this place is heaven!
- Heng Chun Seng: Noodle shop serving delicious beef soup with a variety of beef cuts.
- Best Beef Sukhumvit (On-Nut): This beef buffet offers a wide variety of beef cuts and seafood for you to try. This is my go-to spot after a long day of exploring in Bangkok.
Foods You Must Try
- Pad Kra Pow: Spicy stir-fried dish made with Thai holy basil, chilies, soy sauce with either beef, pork or chicken and topped off with a fried egg.
- Pad Thai: Thailand’s national dish featuring stir-fried rice noodles, peanuts, tofu, bean sprouts, and egg with a sour, tangy, and char flavoring.
- Tom Yum Soup: A hot and sour Thai soup usually cooked with shrimp (goong), lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, galangal, and chili peppers.
- Khao Soi: Nothern Thai coconut curry soup with egg noodles, meat (usually chicken) topped with shallots, lime, and crispy noodles.
- Green & Red Coconut Curry: Rich coconut curries cooked with veggies, meat or seafood, typically served with rice.
- Massaman Curry: An aromatic curry with influences from Persian cuisine, featuring tender chunks of meat (often beef or chicken) and onions in a flavorful coconut milk-based sauce.
- Som Tam Thai (Green Papaya Salad): A spicy salad made with shredded unripe papaya, garlic, chili, lime, and fish sauce.
- Guay Teow Ruea (Thai Boat Noodles): A hearty noodle soup with a rich, spiced broth, typically containing pork or beef.
- Kai Jeow (Thai Omelette): This delicious Thai-style omelette is usually served with rice and sometimes with a spicy dipping sauce. There are variations like oyster and crab.
- Mango Sticky Rice: Fresh rice soft mangos on sticky rice and topped with sweetened coconut milk, sometimes condensed milk. Thailand’s most famous dessert!
Night Markets in Bangkok
My favorite thing in Bangkok is hitting the night markets in the evening. Nothing beats it for me: an overload of delicious food smells, plenty of street food stalls to try, and a wide array of souvenir shops!
After traveling all over Asia, I can guarantee that: Bangkok has the best night markets and no competition. Visiting and experiencing the night markets here should be at the top of your list when visiting!
Chatuchak Weekend Market: A massive market with 15,000+ stalls selling everything imaginable.
Pratunam Night Market: Centrally-located market known for a wide variety of clothing, accessories, and souvenirs.
Jodd Fairs Night Market: A popular night market with plenty of food stalls to try.
Srinakarin Train Night Market: Bangkok’s original train-themed night market, and my favourite night market in the city!
Sampeng Market: Known as Bangkok’s oldest market, it’s located in bustling Chinatown.
Chang Chui Plane Night Market: This unique market features a decommissioned airplane centerpiece, you’ll find plenty of food and things to shop here.
Khlong Ong Ang Canal Night Market: Fun vibrant market set along a scenic canal, perfect market for a stroll!
When to Visit Bangkok
Bangkok can be visited year-round, and its tropical climate has two seasons. It experiences consistently warm temperatures—it’s never cold in Bangkok!
The dry season is the best time to visit Bangkok, however during the rainy season, there’s still plenty to do in the city, and you can always go inside, and explore the malls or markets if it’s raining.
Dry Season: November to April
Average temperatures range from 26°C (79°F) to 33°C (91°F). November to February offers the most comfortable weather with temperatures and low humidity. March and April are the hottest months, with temperatures often exceeding 35°C (95°F).
Rainy Season: May to October
During the rainy seasons, temperatures range from 25°C (77°F) to 34°C (93°F), with frequent rainfall, especially in the afternoons and evenings.
May is a transitional month with increasing rainfall. On average, September and October are the wettest months. However, rain typically comes in short spurts, usually followed by sunshine.
Final Thoughts
Bangkok is one of those cities that when you visit, you won’t forget. Its energy, blend of modernity, culture, and vast size really leave a lasting memory for most travelers.
This 4-day itinerary for Bangkok covers all the main attractions you must see, things you must do, and foods you must try, ensuring you make the most of your first visit to Bangkok.
Due to Bangkok’s well-connected airport, Bangkok tends to be many travelers’ first-visited destination in Asia, and it was mine. Even after visiting much of Asia, again, I can say that Bangkok is still one of my favorite cities. I love this city.
If you have any questions about Bangkok, please feel free to comment below!
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