How to spend 1 day in Bangkok, Thailand

Do you have 1 day in Bangkok?

When most people think of Thailand, they think of:

• Full moon parties in the Phi Phi islands
• Bathing with elephants in the faux “jungle.”
• Spicy pad thai noodles

But if you’re interested in a vibrant city that blends tradition and religion with modernity, Bangkok is a great place to start! It’s a cool city that boasts world-famous fresh produce, spicy cuisine, floating markets, and insane traffic. 

From lavish temples and delightfully dirty, bustling street markets to winding waterways and green spaces, it would be a mistake to sleep on Bangkok while you’re in Thailand. But what if you only have 24 hours in Bangkok? Or are wondering how to spend your first day in Bangkok? I’ve got you covered with this Bangkok itinerary- my PERFECT 1-day Bangkok travel guide that helps you make the most a short amount of time in a place with so much to offer!

How to spend 1 day in Bangkok

8:00 AM – Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew

Start your day early to beat the crowds at two of the best places to visit in Bangkok for first timers! First, visit Bangkok’s iconic Grand Palace, a dazzling testament to Thai craftsmanship with intricate architecture and shimmering spires. Then, walk over to the adjacent Wat Phra Kaew, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, where a precious and revered Buddha statue resides.

10:00 AM – Wat Pho and the Reclining Buddha

A short walk away you’ll find Wat Pho, the Temple of the Reclining Buddha. Serene grounds surround a colossal, 46-meter-long reclining Buddha statue. As you walk amid ornate stupas and peaceful courtyards, you’ll find a sense of tranquility that contrasts the Bangkok’s chaotic and vibrant energy.

Know before you go: There’s a dress code! Women must cover their knees, and no tube tops or spaghetti strap tops are allowed. I recommend wearing a long, breezy maxi skirt to be respectful while still beating the heat. You’ll also be required to remove your shoes in the temples.

12:00 PM – Street food in Chinatown

Looking for an authentic experience of the local food in Bangkok? Head to Chinatown’s Yaowarat area! Why? Because you’ll stroll through a SYMPHONY of colors, scents, and bustling stalls bursting with street food delights! Whether it’s a plate of piping hot Pad Thai, a tangy Som Tum, succulent skewers of grilled meats, or my favorite mango sticky rice, there’s something unique that even picky eaters will enjoy.

2:00 PM – Explore MBK Center

I’m not really a shopping gal, but it’s worth it in Bangkok to indulge in some retail therapy at the sprawling MBK Center. Why? Two words: bargain hunting.

This shopping mecca is a has everything from fashion to electronics, and bargain hunters will be in their element as they navigate through diverse stalls offering trendy clothing, accessories, and unique finds. This is the place to go if you realize you’ve forgotten to pack anything and need to pick it up before you head to more remote parts of Thailand!

4:00 PM – Chao Phraya river cruise

As the afternoon sun dips toward the horizon and you’re looking for something relaxing to do, embark on a leisurely cruise along the Chao Phraya River. Of all the best things to do in Bangkok, you won’t want to skip seeing the city’s landmarks, like the majestic Wat Arun and towering skyscrapers, from the river view.

6:00 PM – Have dinner at Asiatique the riverfront

As the sun sets, make your way to Asiatique, an open-air mall by the riverside. Enjoy a delectable dinner at one of its many restaurants with gorgeous river views!

Many of the riverside restaurants are open late and don’t require reservations (but be sure to check ahead of time!). You’ll definitely pay more for your meal than at the stalls or street food markets, but it’s a nice way to spend your last night in Bangkok. You could even just grab an appetizer or try a couple of small things before you head to a night market for more!

8:00 PM – Explore a night market

Night markets are bustling and often a little overwhelming (in the best way!). I know a lot of people will tell you not to eat street food, but I recommend trying it! Some of the best, tastiest, and cheapest food you’ll eat in Bangkok (and most of southeast Asia) will be on the street. You can also usually find trendy Asian fashion staples and handmade gifts. Night markets are a fun scene in southeast Asia, so you won’t want to leave without taking in the ambiance!

Bangkok has amazing “stoop culture,” everyone sitting outside on little chairs socializing, eating, and drinking. Just find a local spot, grab a snack and a chair, and see what happens! 

9:00 PM- Rooftop bars

If you’re feeling fancy or stoop culture isn’t your thing, finish out the perfect 1 day in Bangkok at one of the city’s riverside rooftop bars. Bangkok has a magical skyline that twinkles on the reflection of the river at night, and there are a lot of ways to enjoy it for any budget. 

If you were wondering, “Is it worth going to Bangkok in one day?” or “is Bangkok friendly to tourists?” I hope you can see that my answer is a resounding YES! While it’s not a place I would spend more than 3 days of a trip to Southeast Asia in, there are so many things to do in Bangkok and it’s a special place.