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
What usually doesn’t come immediately to mind is the allure of the vibrant city that blends tradition and religion with modernity: Bangkok! Bangkok is 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 Adventure 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!
8:00 PM – Explore a night market
Night markets are bustling and often a little overwhelming (in the best way!). Shop for unique souvenirs, trendy Asian fashion staples, and handcrafted gifts. Night markets are a fun and unique scene in southeast Asia, so you won’t want to leave without engage with local artisans and soaking in the lively atmosphere!
9:00 PM- Rooftop bars
Finish out the perfect 1 day in Bangkok with a visit to one of the city’s riverside rooftop bars. Bangkok has a magical skyline that is best enjoyed twinkling of the reflection of the river at night. Sip on signature cocktails as you reflect on your day of cultural immersion and urban exploration!
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.
Looking for more? Don’t miss out on the best-of-the-best!
-
My Amazon storefront! I’ve tried & tested an embarrassing amount of travel products for comfort, durability, & style and rounded up the best-of-the-best travel must-haves just for you!
Sarah is the passionate solo female travel blogger behind Wait, Where is She? She’s a full time traveler, scuba diver, foodie, and adventure seeker with a deep love for sharing the special places and bucket list destinations that she’s found herself in.
She LIVES for tasty street food market grills, quiet ocean sunrises, pour over coffee, long train rides with a Taylor Swift album, that feeling when you shower after a salty beach day, and living with an insatiable curiosity for the wonders of the natural world and all of its vibrant cultures.
Wait, Where is She? serves people with the information and inspiration to confidently seek out their own adventures and make the joys of travel easier, more accessible, and budget-friendly. Come along for the laughs while she makes all the mistakes (so you don’t have to). Let’s go!
Are you a brand, tourism board, or resort who wants to collaborate? Get in touch here!
Informative, I like the travelling on a budget tips