No trip to Southeast Asia is complete without a visit to Thailand and its spectacular capital city, Bangkok. While you will definitely want more than one day in Bangkok to really get to know the city, you can visit the top sites in a day. From palaces and temples to amazing places to eat, Bangkok has a ton of awesome things to do and see.
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History of Bangkok
Bangkok dates back to 1767 when the former capital, Ayutthaya, fell. After that, the capital sat on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River in Thonburi. Then King Rama I, the founder of the Chakri Dynasty, moved the capital to Bangkok in 1782. He chose a strategic site protected by a curve in the river and began the construction of the Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha.
During the 1800s, Bangkok transformed from a collection of floating houses and canals into the cosmopolitan hub it is today. Bangkok was never colonized, like many of the other cities in the area. Thus, it grew and expanded under the vision of the Thai leaders. Today, Bangkok blends this history with modern skyscrapers and a world-class culinary scene.
Currency in Thailand
Thailand uses the Thai Baht. The exchange rate is around 33 Baht to $1.
Language in Thailand
Thai is the primary language spoken in Thailand. However, many of the people at the main sites speak English, and many of the signs around the city are in English. I did not feel like it was a problem to communicate.
When to Spend One Day in Bangkok
The best time to visit Bangkok is from November to February during the cool and dry season. During this time, you will find lower temperatures and less humidity with no rain. March to May is the hot season, and June to October is the rainy season. However, during the rainy season is usually quick afternoon showers, so it can be a great time to visit if you want to save money.
How to Get to Bangkok
Bangkok has two airports: Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) and Don Mueang Airport (DMK).
Skyscanner is my favorite way to search for flights. There are no direct flights to Bangkok from the United States. You will have to connect through various airports throughout Asia.
Both Suvarnabhumi Airport and Don Mueang Airport are about a 30-minute drive from the city center. You can take this airport transfer or get a Grab to get to your hotel.
If you are already in Thailand, Malaysia, or Singapore, you can take the train to Bangkok. You can pre-book tickets on Trainline or Omio or opt to buy them at the station. Alternatively, you can take a bus to Bangkok from several locations in Thailand, like Pattaya.
Transportation in Bangkok
Grab is readily available in Bangkok and is an affordable option to get around. Additionally, Bangkok has a metro system that goes to several parts throughout the city. There are also many tuk-tuks you can hire. Make sure to negotiate the price prior to taking the tuk-tuk ride! The Hop-On, Hop-Off bus is another good option or you can get a Skytrain pass.
Where to Stay in Bangkok
TripAdvisor is a great place to start your hotel search. Check out the best hotels in Bangkok here! You can always try searching Priceline Express Deals for a better price or try to price match a hotel. The following are some of the hotels I recommend:
- The StandardX Bangkok Phra Arthit
- Grand Hyatt Erawan Bangkok
- Bangkok Marriott Hotel The Surawongse
- Millennium Hilton Bangkok
- Conrad Bangkok
What to do During One Day in Bangkok
Day 1
Today will be about exploring the main sites that visitors should see on their first trip to Bangkok. A guided tour or a Tuk Tuk tour are great ways to get around and see all of these sights or you can easily do it on your own. Keep in mind that many of these places are sacred and religious, so visitors should dress modestly. This means that knees and shoulders should be covered.
The Grand Palace
Cost: $14
Hours: 8:30am-3:30pm
Start off your one day in Bangkok with a visit to the Grand Palace. The Grand Palace is one of Bangkok’s most famous landmarks. It once served as the official residence of the King of Siam for over 150 years. Plan to spend a couple of hours exploring the complex.
Present-day, the complex is filled with ornate golden buildings, detailed murals, and stunning architecture. Make sure to visit Wat Phra Kaew, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. This is considered the most sacred Buddhist temple in Thailand. This famous Emerald Buddha is carved from jade.
Wat Pho
Cost: $8
Hours: 8am-6:30pm
Next stop during your one day in Bangkok is a visit to Wat Pho, one of Bangkok’s oldest and largest temples. This temple is known for its massive Reclining Buddha statue that is covered in gold leaf. This complex is also considered the birthplace of the Thai massage. Plan on spending about an hour exploring Wat Pho.
Ferry to Wat Arun
After visiting these two complexes, grab lunch at one of the many restaurants along the river. This allows you to take in the views of Wat Arun.
After taking a break for lunch, head to the Wat Pho Pier. From here, you will be able to catch a quick ferry across the river to Wat Arun. This will cost about 12 Baht. Alternatively, you can get on the hop-on, hop-off boat. This takes you all along the river and allows you to get on and off all day. If you have the time, I would recommend doing this option and taking a cruise along the river after visiting Wat Arun.
Wat Arun
Cost: 8am-6pm
Hours: $6
This afternoon, head to Wat Arun, the Temple of Dawn, considered one of Bangkok’s most iconic temples. This towering temple is decorated with colorful porcelain and offers gorgeous views of the river from its upper terraces. It is very popular during sunrise and sunset. You will want about an hour to explore the complex.
Thipsamai Padthai Pratoopee
Cost: $
Hours: 9am-12am
Tonight, grab dinner at Thipsamai Padthai Pratoopee, one of Bangkok’s most famous restaurants for pad thai. It can get quite busy during dinnertime, so make sure to plan accordingly. I had the vegetarian pad thai, and it was one of the best pad thais I have ever had!
More Than One Day in Bangkok
If you have more than one day in Bangkok, you will want to check out the following places.
- Erawan Museum: This museum is known for its massive three-headed elephant sculpture and is filled with Thai art and religious artifacts. It is a great way to spend a few hours.
- Wat Trai Mit Witthayaram Worawihan: This temple is home to the world’s largest solid gold Buddha that weighs over five tons.
- King Power Mahanakhon: This modern skyscraper offers panoramic views of the city. It is known for its SkyWalk, a glass-floor observation deck.
- Muay Thai boxing: This is a fun way to spend an afternoon watching a boxing match!.
- Ayutthaya Temples: This UNESCO site makes for a fantastic day trip from Bangkok. This ancient monastery and place is a fun place to explore and served as Siam’s second capital.
- Cooking class: For those who love food, a Thai cooking class will introduce you to some of the best Thai food around!
Final Tips for One Day in Bangkok
Bangkok makes for a great entry point to exploring Thailand and Southeast Asia. I recommend pairing one day in Bangkok with a visit to Pattaya and Chiang Mai if you want to explore more of Thailand. Alternatively, use it as an entry point to visit Luang Prabang, Siem Reap, or make stops in Vietnam, like Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi.
