What to do in Bangkok in 3 days
The capital of Thailand is a multi-faceted metropolis, a mixture of modernity and traditions that blend between its narrow streets and wide highways invaded by scooters and cars. Bangkok is a city rich in history, a food capital of the world as well as being one of Asia’s hottest destinations for nightlife, shopping and culture. A visit to Bangkok will not be enough to savor the taste of the Thai capital but it can certainly be an invitation to include it in your next trip. If you stay in the city for a few days, like I did, these are my tips on what to see and do in Bangkok in 3 days.
Pratical tips
The method of arrival in Bangkok in most cases is its Bangkok Suvarnabhumi international airport, about 30 km from the city. To reach the center (if we can speak of a center since Bangkok is an extremely large city in surface area that does not recognize a real city centre) there are many possibilities: taxi, train, private driver or bus. Each medium has its advantages and disadvantages. The train will allow you to quickly reach the center, overcoming the city traffic. The disadvantage will be the possible crowding of the vehicle and the possible distance from your hotel if not near one of the stops. Taxi and private transfers, at a higher cost and with longer travel times due to traffic, will guarantee you greater comfort.
To get around Bangkok you can use public transport (metro, Skytrain and bus) if you can find your way. In fact, not all the main attractions are close to public transport stops and you may have to combine multiple means of transport to reach the desired destination. However the standard, cleanliness and efficiency of the metro is extremely high. The means of transport I mainly used was the taxi. I advise you to download the Grab app to book a taxi, thus avoiding negotiations with the taxi driver as the application already establishes a price that will regardless of traffic and travel times (which can be very long!).
Another practical tip for Thailand that I want to give you is to use your credit card for your payments without the need to change your money into the local currency, the Thai Baht. However, a small sum of cash is necessary especially for small purchases in the markets, for street food etc. I changed money at the airport in Italy but there are rumors that the rates are more interesting directly in Bangkok or by withdrawing from an ATM.
Another important question I asked myself when organizing my stay in Bangkok is where to stay. In fact, we must distinguish between the Old City and the New City. The first is the area where the oldest tourist attractions are located, such as the Royal Palace and the temples, the second is the most modern part, made up of skyscrapers, commercial and financial districts and the famous rooftop bars. Bangkok is divided into 50 districts (called khets). The central district is Phra Nakhon, which includes Rattanakosin Island, the heart of the Old City. Choosing where to stay depends a lot on what type of traveler you are. If you love modernity and luxury and perhaps take a nice bath overlooking an infinity pool, the districts to choose are Sukhumvit, Siam and Silom. If you prefer to immerse yourself in a more authentic and traditional atmosphere, choose Khao San Road, Rattanakosin and Chinatown.
What to see/do
The attractions to visit in Bangkok are very numerous and (except for a few) quite spread out in the urban fabric. The essential starting point is a visit to the Grand Royal Palace. This immense complex of residences and temples was the residence of the King for centuries and contains numerous buildings of the most varied styles including Buddha statues, rich gold decorations and gardens. A few steps away, crossing the Chao Phraya river, you reach Wat Arun, one of the symbols of the city. This monumental temple lights up in a very suggestive way at sunset and offers unique views of the river. Another unmissable temple is Wat Pho where you can admire a monumental statue of the Reclining Buddha, among the largest in the world.
In addition to the historical and religious buildings, one of the things Bangkok is famous for are its streets and markets, such as the Chinatown district and the famous Khao San Road where you can come across original food such as fried insects and so on! For market lovers, the Pak Khlong Talat flower market will be right up your alley!
For a bit of relaxation, what better than a walk in the green lung of the city, Lumphini Park. Surrounded by skyscrapers in this park you can even come across monitor lizards! A few steps from the park you can reach one of the largest shopping centers in the world, Central World. Other shopping places not to be missed are MBK, IconSiam, EM quarter and Emporium.
For lovers of modernity and design, climbing the iconic MahaNakhon skyscraper will be unmissable. On the panoramic terrace you can see an unmissable view of the city as well as walking on empty space on a transparent glass walkway 314 meters high!
Trips out of town
Some unmissable sites are easily reachable from Bangkok in a few hours. Among these, the ancient capital of Thailand Ayutthaya is one of the unmissable destinations if you are in Bangkok. In about an hour and a half by car you can reach the historic site which contains the vestiges of a glorious past. This site, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, will take you back in time and immerse you in a more traditional and profound Thailand. A few kilometers away you will also find the magnificent Bang Pain Royal Palace, a complex of buildings of the most diverse styles in a unique naturalistic context.
A visit to the Damnoen Saduak floating market and the Mae Klong train market is also a must.
Very beautiful 🥰🥰🥰