Bangkok, the vibrant metropolis of Thailand, is a fascinating city like no other. Both modern and traditional, Bangkok is a place that bursts with cultural richness and history. With so much to do and see, the ideal thing would be to spend at least a couple of days wondering around. But no worries, if you happen to be pressed for time, we will show you how you can experience the best of Bangkok in just 24 hours.
Bangkok in a day
08.30 h.until 09.30 h. : Transfer to city center
To avoid heavy traffic, hop on the Suyamabhumir Airport Express; this is the most convenient way to get to the city center from the airport. Once you reach Makkasan station, grab the metro and head over to the Mandarin Oriental hotel (48 Oriental Avenue) which is the starting point of our tour.
09.30h.until 10.00 h. : Boat trip on the Chao Phraya
Start your boat tour at the Oriental Pier located near the Mandarin Oriental hotel. You can either rent a private boat or use a public boat line to take you down the Chao Phraya River from where you can calmly admire Bangkok’s old town.
10.00h. until 13.30 h. : The Royal Palace and Buddhist temples
Get off the boat at Maharaj Pier and go visit the city’s main attraction, the “Grand Palace”. Up until the mid-20th Century, this grand structure was the residence of the Kings of Thailand, formally known as Siam. Nearby, you will also come across the remarkable Buddhist temple Wat Phra Kaeo (note: make sure you are dressed appropriately or you might not be allowed in). Further down the river you can spot two more temples, Wat Arun and Wat Pho. If you have time, climb the steep stairs of Wat Arun; from here you’ll be able to see Bangkok’s incredible skyline and the Chao Phraya River.
13.30h.until 15.00 h. : Lunch at the Tha Prachan market
Near the Tha Prachan pier, just a short walk away from the Royal Palace, you can find one of the best markets in Bangkok. Aside from food, here you can also purchase local specialties and souvenirs. Some dished worth trying include Som Tam (green papaya salad), Khao Neow Moo Ping (grilled pork with rice), Pad Thai (rice noodles with fresh spices) or Pad Kra Pao (meat or seafood with rice and egg). Let yourself be seduced by the extensive diversity of dishes and flavors!
15.00h.until 16.00 h. : Khao San Road & massage
After lunch, walk to Sanam Luang Park and explore the famous Khao San Road. The extensive number of restaurants, cafes and Thai massage centers has made this area incredibly popular with tourists. Stop at one of the shops and indulge yourself with a massage.
16.00 h. – 19.00 h. : Tuk tuk ride and shopping in Siam
To experience Bangkok to the maximum, jump inside a Tuk Tuk (three-wheeled motorcycle) and let yourself be taken to Siam, the best place in town for shopping. Stop at the Central World shopping mall for a drink – relax and enjoy the view!
19.00 h. – 21.00 h. : China Town
As evening sets in, you will find that Bangkok becomes a lively place of pleasure and entertainment. Stroll through the district of Yarowat, also known as Chinatown, and marvel at all the sights, colours and smells that this vibrant market has to offer. If things get too hectic for you, head over to the Sala Chalermkrung Royal Theatre where you can watch a traditional Khon mask dance.
21.00 h. – 23.00 h. : Dinner
For an unforgettable dinner experience, dine at the Khin Lom Chom Saphan restaurant. From here you have a wonderful view of the Rama VIII Bridge and the Chao Phraya River. We recommend you try some seafood dishes such as Tom Yam Kung (spicy shrimp soup) or the grilled sea bass.
23.00 h. – Open end :Nightlife
When it comes to nightlife, Bangkok has a lot of possibilities. If you’re not sure where to get started, we suggest the Khao San nightlife district or the luxurious Sky Bar (1055/42 Silom Soi).
Right in the heart of Bangkok, near the Sukhumvit Road, you can also find Q Bar, a place renowned for its excellent cocktails; Cowboy Soi Street is likewise notorious for its bars and pubs. And finally, if you are looking for a more extraordinary experience, visit one of the many boxing arenas found in different locations across town and watch a Muay Thai (Thai boxing) contest.
After this tour you will surely understand why Bangkok is such an exotic and fascinating city!
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