Bangkok is an international destination worth all the hype. If you’re a first-timer looking at travelling to Thailand, then chances are you’ll be making a pitstop in Bangkok along the way. From delicious cuisine to lavish hotels, this 5-day itinerary in Bangkok will take you around cultural hotspots, world famous marketplaces and sightseeing gems! If you’re pressed for time, then 5 days is the perfect amount of time to help you see and experience the city, whilst also getting a feel for the unique culture and vibrancy of Thailand.
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Quick Tips to Remember
- Thailand uses the Thai Baht (THB) and it’s recommended that you carry cash for markets and street food as not everywhere will have EFTPOS availability.
- The BTS Skytrain is one of your best means for getting around in the city centre, however you can also utilise the ferries for some sightseeing and to take in the various river views.
- Etiquette is essential in temples. Remember to keep your voice low, wear modest attire and to remove your shoes before entering.
When to visit
If you have flexibility around when you’re wanting to book, then you’ll be able to really tailor when to actually do this itinerary. Generally speaking, and especially for first-timers, November to February is the best time to visit Bangkok. The cooler seasons offer a much welcomed reprieve from the heat of summer whilst also offering lower humidity and minimal rainfall. This makes it ideal for exploring the city’s attractions. Don’t be fooled though - cold still means over 20°C so it’ll still be warm, just without the exhaustive humidity.
Where you’ll stay for this itinerary
The Sofitel Bangkok Sukhumvit in Bangkok’s Sukhumvit district will be your home base for this 5-day itinerary. With a rooftop pool, luxury spa and situated in a prime location surrounded by shopping, nightlife and great food, it’s the perfect hub for you to start and end your day at! Book to stay in either a Luxury or Magnifique room and you’ll find you have plenty of room to relax and unwind at the end of each day, along with a plush king size bed to fall asleep in.
Day 1
It’s your first day, and so depending on your arrival time, you’ll have to flex and adjust what you want to include. However, today will see you immersed into the rich culture of Thailand, with a visit to two of the most famous temples followed by a delightful river cruise. We recommend wearing a comfortable pair of shoes, and modest clothing, to help you navigate the temples easily.
Morning
Start your morning out with an immersive cultural experience. The Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha) is the most revered temple in all Bangkok and is situated at the Grand Palace complex. Once the official residence of Thai kings, it is a breathtaking array of majestically complex courtyards that exudes luxury and extravagance. Board the Chao Phraya Express Boat to Tha Chang Pier for direct access.
Afternoon
Journey to Wat Pho, the Temple of the Reclining Buddha. This historic site has the world renowned golden reclining Buddha statue. While you’re there, arrange to have a relaxing, traditional Thai massage from the onsite massage school.
Evening
Departing from the River City Pier at 6:30pm, you’ll set sail along the Chao Phraya River for a memorable dinner cruise. Floating down the river, you’ll dine excellently as you observe city life humming along the riverbanks and illuminated temples shining through the evening.
Day 2
Start the day lazily, with a dip in the pool and a light breakfast, and then get ready for a day of artistic exploration, street markets and food experiences. Today is about getting into the feel of things and exploring like a local.
Morning
Starting at about 10:00am, head over to the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre at the BTS National Stadium. This contemporary arts centre in the Siam area, Bangkok, is a hub of art, music, theatre, film and design and regularly hosts extravagant exhibitions and performances. Immerse yourself in new-age cultural expressions, in this glorious public arts space.
The Centre also boasts plenty of retail and dining options, so you’ll easily be able to spend hours exploring this location. Sample delicious local snacks or pick up some souvenirs to take back home with you.
Afternoon
If you wrap up in time from the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre, then it’s time to visit the MBK Centre or Siam Paragon for some retail therapy! MBK is a large shopping mall in Bangkok full of bargains and deals for the more frugal retail enthusiast, whilst Siam Paragon offers more high-end brands and luxury experiences. Shop to your heart’s content and then, regardless of where you go, both destinations offer amazing good courts and delicious Thai treats to try!
Evening
If your feet are sore by now from all the exploration (which wouldn’t be surprising!), then once you arrive at Khao San Road you’re in for a treat! This iconic stretch of road is one of the most vibrant, bustling hubs of Bangkok and is especially popular with backpackers and tourists. As the sun sets, the street comes to life and you’ll find the immersion and experience of simply being there is as special as all the goodies on offer.
Before you grab dinner, you’ll want to quickly stop at one of the massage shops and let them alleviate some of the stress of the day! Then it’s onwards to a sprawling road of street food, bars and live music performances. Take a stroll past multiple places before you choose where to dine, and then grab a few selections from a couple of places - you’ll find that trying one dish will never be enough!
Pro Tip: Keep an eye out for the busiest stalls - you’ll usually find those are the best to go with from both a familiarity and a flavour standpoint! Oh, and definitely try authentic mango sticky rice and pad Thai whilst you’re there!
Day 3
Today you’ll be experiencing land, sea and sky as you start your day beyond Bangkok. First you’re off to experience markets that are so remarkable you won’t believe your eyes! You’ve no doubt seen them online, but to witness them in person is a next level experience. Then you’ll be having a romantic dinner for two in Sukhumvit.
Morning
Get up nice and early, and board your private transport (Chat to your Flight Centre Travel Expert to arrange this ahead of time) so that you can get to the Maeklong Railway Market. At 8.30am or 11.10am you’ll get to experience the vendors pulling down their umbrellas and moving things out of the way as the Maeklong train rattles through the middle of the market! A remarkable sight you won’t soon forget.
Afternoon
After witnessing the Maeklong train pass through a market, you’ll be well primed for the unusual as you take to the water for the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market. This unusual market is on the water and you paddle your way through a canal full of snack vendors and souvenir sellers all peddling their wares on the water. Pull up alongside any that catch your eye and get ready to barter with the shopkeeper.
Evening
Returning to Bangkok, you’ll now head to the stunning Medinii Restaurant, for mind blowingly delicious food! Nestled on the 35th floor of the Continent Hotel it offers an intimate setting for guests to sample delicious flavours, high above the bustling streets of Bangkok. From unique takes on cult classics like a lobster pad Thai through to more traditional favourites, it’s guaranteed to delight even the fussiest of eaters.
Day 4
After a few days of exploration and sightseeing, it’s time for some much-needed pampering and high dining. Get ready to start your day in total relaxation before heading to explore a museum and experience an exceptional cabaret.
Morning
After a light breakfast at your hotel, treat yourself to a full-body aromatherapy or traditional Thai massage package at Divana Spa. Relying on nourishing oils and ancient techniques, the expert teams will help you forget the world momentarily, as they iron out any aches or pains and help you leave feeling like a whole new person.
Afternoon
After your massage, and stretching from late morning into your afternoon, you’ll want to visit the Erawan Museum. This often overlooked, pink, three-headed elephant museum showcases surreal interiors, exquisite art and the vibrant mythology of Thailand. Whilst the museum itself is exquisite, the most striking feature is undoubtedly the enormous three-headed elephant statue of its rooftop - and you’ll find that this is one destination people will love to hear about back home.
Evening
Dinner awaits you at Blue by Alain Ducasse, a Michelin-starred French-Thai fusion on the Chao Phraya River. Melt into out of this world flavours with the tasting menu, or go a la carte. Alternatively, or time permitting, you’ll want to go experience the Calypso Cabaret Show - Thailand’s iconic gender-bending cabaret with dazzling costumes and outrageous humour. This is guaranteed to be a memorable evening for your final night in Bangkok!
Day 5
How much of your final day in Bangkok is spent exploring will be determined by when you depart, so if you’re able to, book a flight for later in the day so you can squeeze in some more exploration.
Morning
This morning is about learning something to take home with you, specifically, how to make classics like a green curry or a pad Thai from scratch! At the Silom Thai Cooking School you’ll go on a market visit to select the ingredients you need, and then learn how to cook these iconic dishes, which you’ll then enjoy for an early lunch. Plus, this includes a recipe book you can take away with you!
Afternoon
After your cooking class, you’ll head to MOCA - the Museum of Contemporary Art Bangkok. This striking, modern gallery stretches over five floors and exhibits surrealist and contemporary artistic Thai works that are sure to leave you feeling inspired. This purposefully built location showcases the exceptional works of art collected by Boonchai Bencharongkul, a Thai millionaire business executive and art collector, over the past three decades and is an homage to modern, and forward-thinking artistic expression.
Evening
For your final dinner, if time allows, then you’ll want to go to Gaa for a Michelin-starred modern Indian-Thai fusion experience! Afterwards, if time allows then the Siam Niramit Cultural Show is a must-see, featuring a large-scale performance of Thai myths, dances and village life with over 100 amazing performers. It’s an experience you won’t want to miss!
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Ready to dive into exploring the beautiful, vibrant city of Bangkok? With a Flight Centre Travel Expert by your side, it’s easy to get started on planning your excursion to Thailand. Get in touch with us today, to transform your dreams into a reality.
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