Bangkok rewards starting on the water. This itinerary opens with the temples and river that define the old city, moves to markets and neighborhoods on day two, and leaves day three open for a day trip to the ruins at Ayutthaya.
Bangkok rewards starting on the water. This itinerary opens with the temples and river that define the old city, moves to markets and neighborhoods on day two, and leaves day three open for a day trip to the ruins at Ayutthaya.
Visit the Grand Palace and Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) in the Old City (Rattanakosin) district first, before the midday heat — dress modestly, shoulders and knees covered. Take a Chao Phraya River Cruise in the afternoon to see the city from the water, then explore Chinatown (Yaowarat) for dinner at its street food stalls.
If it's a weekend, spend the morning at Chatuchak Weekend Market — one of the largest markets in the world. Otherwise, explore the Floating Markets or browse Siam Paragon Shopping Mall for air-conditioned relief. In the evening, take a Thai Cooking Class or book a Muay Thai Training session for something more hands-on than sightseeing.
Ayutthaya Historical Park, the ruined former capital of Siam, is an easy day trip north of Bangkok by train or organized tour — its tree-wrapped Buddha head and temple ruins are unlike anything in the city itself. Travelers with more time can substitute Kanchanaburi Province or the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market instead.