I love Bangkok. This city knows how to enjoy good food very well. The city's gastronomy is unique and the dishes are quite affordable. The local people here are extremely kind and hospitable. Additionally, this city is a place where the old and new blend together, from the impressive temples of Wat Pho and Wat Arun to the grandeur of large shopping malls, and the nostalgic atmosphere of the century-old neighborhoods of Talat Noi and Chinatown. One day in this city is never enough to discover all its beauties, but if your time is limited, here is my perfect 1-day Bangkok itinerary created with the help of HipTraveler.
Note: If you are going to Phuket, check out my Phuket Old Town Guide and what you can do in Phuket on a rainy day.
1. Visit Wat Pho
One of the best entrances to Bangkok is to visit one of the 400 temples in the city, and Wat Pho is one of the most iconic. The most remarkable feature of Wat Pho is the famous Reclining Buddha, which is 15 meters high and 46 meters long, covered in gold leaf. This is truly a breathtaking experience and one of those moments when you feel that you have arrived in Bangkok and Asia. Here, the ritual of throwing coins into one of the 108 bronze bowls representing each virtue of the Buddha is quite interesting. It is said that this act brings you good luck!
Tip: Go around 8 AM, the weather will be cool and you will avoid the crowds. The temple is free for Thai citizens and costs 300 baht for foreign visitors. It is mandatory to dress appropriately when visiting any temple in Thailand: shoulders and knees must be covered, and shoes must be removed to enter the main temple hall.
2. Cross the River and Visit Wat Arun
If you have time, visit the magnificent Wat Arun temple located across the Chao Phraya River. The temple dates back to the 17th century, during the Ayutthaya Kingdom, and was called Wat Makok at that time. It is believed that the name of Bangkok probably originated from here.
3. A Photographer's Dream: Pak Khlong Talat Flower Market
Address: สน พระราชวัง ปาก คลองตลาด – วัดกัลยาณมิตร, Khwaeng Wang Burapha Phirom, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200
After visiting Wat Arun, head to Pak Khlong Talat, Thailand's largest wholesale flower market. This market is open 24 hours and will intoxicate your senses with thousands of stalls selling all kinds of flowers. If you are interested in street photography, this place is like a dream for taking photos.
4. Take the Blue Flag Tourist Boat to Chinatown
After visiting Wat Pho and the Flower Market, hop on the hop-on-hop-off Blue Flag Tourist Boat. One of my favorite ways to get around Bangkok and beat the traffic is to glide along the wide Chao Phraya River by boat. This is one of the best ways to see the city. The Blue Flag Tourist Boat passes by most major tourist attractions (Wat Arun, Grand Palace Complex, etc.) and you can get an unlimited travel ticket for the whole day for 150 baht.
5. Explore Bangkok's Coolest Neighborhood: Talat Noi
Get off at Ratchawongse Pier to explore Chinatown and Talat Noi. One of my favorite walks in Bangkok is exploring the narrow streets of the Talat Noi heritage area next to Chinatown.
With its amazing street art, small cafes, traditional buildings, and nostalgic temples of the past, Talat Noi is one of Bangkok's oldest and most interesting neighborhoods. Located on the east bank of the Chao Phraya River, Talat Noi (“small market”) is Bangkok's original Chinatown, where you can find many historic temples and traditional houses.
6. So Heng Tai Mansion
Address: 282 Soi Wanit 2, Talat Noi, Samphanthawong, Bangkok 10100
One of my favorite buildings here is the So Heng Tai Mansion - a 19th-century Chinese courtyard house. This structure has hosted one of Thailand's oldest Chinese noble families and is one of the few remaining Hokkien-style buildings in Bangkok. It was built by Phra Aphaiwanit (1813–1849).
The faded beauty of this place, well-preserved and featuring a modern swimming pool in the middle, makes it even more dreamy and stylish. The mansion, which reopened its doors after Covid-19, welcomes visitors to make a small donation of 100 baht.
Among the other iconic symbols of Talat Noi is the Antique Turtle Car, a classic rusty Mini car leaning against one of the old walls. Map link
Visit the rustic Mother Roaster Cafe, a beautiful cafe converted from a two-story warehouse. It is run by 70-year-old Pim, who is also a barista. People call her “Pa Pim,” meaning “Aunt Pim.”
7. Go to Warehouse 30
Visiting Warehouse 30 is a must, a beautifully renovated historic building filled with art galleries, shops, and cafes. The original wooden floors and many interior features have remained in place, preserving its character.
This is a mixed-use space that hosts regular events and pop-ups. Highlights here include the hipster cafe Coffee Roaster by li-bra-ry, which is a great place to relax with a cool coffee and escape the heat. Also located here is the extraordinary Aurum Gallery, organized and owned by a British DJ and artist named Goldie.
8. Song Wat Street
Among the other highlights of Talat Noi is the century-old Song Wat area, now filled with Chinese-style shops converted into galleries, cafes, and some of Bangkok's best bars. Although it is very photogenic, it has become quite touristy in recent years, so keep that in mind while visiting.
Among the highlights here is the black and white elephant art featuring two elephants by Belgian artist ROA. Mischa Cheap is a colorful music bar that offers a nostalgic charm filled with great alternative music. This place takes you to a different time and era in Bangkok.
9. Late Lunch at Lim Lao Sa or…
Are you hungry? A visit to Song Wat cannot be completed without tasting the noodles and fish balls at Lim Lao Sa. It has been feeding both locals and tourists for over 80 years. One of the best dishes to try here is the noodles prepared without sauce. This dish consists of homemade flat egg noodles cooked al dente, seasoned with vinegar soy sauce, and served topped with deep-fried garlic and homemade fish balls - a wonderful flavor.
10. Khao Gaeng Jek Pui
Another favorite place of mine is Khao Gaeng Jek Pui (Je Chie), where you can taste delicious and flavorful green curry chicken rice (pork with yellow curry and Pork Penang is also great). Enjoy the experience of eating these dishes while sitting on one of their iconic red stools - this is the best of Bangkok street food.
11. River View Residence for Pre-Sunset Beer
After a late lunch, if you are looking for a rooftop bar with one of the best views in Bangkok as sunset approaches, I definitely recommend River View Residence. This place has a great riverside location offering affordable food and drinks along with stunning views of the Chao Phraya River.
12. Drinks in Chinatown After Sunset
Later, I suggest spending some time in Chinatown. Stop by Shanghai Mansion Bangkok located on Yaowarat Road and take an iconic photo illuminated by the vintage neon lights and signs of Bangkok's Chinatown. Some of Bangkok's best entertainment venues are located in Chinatown and on Charoen Krung Road - don't forget to explore places like The Tep Bar, Teens of Thailand, Asia Today, Wallflowers, and FooJohn Jazz Club.
13. End the Night with JODD Fairs Night Market
Visiting one of Bangkok's Night Markets is a must. JODD Fairs, rebranded from the very popular Night Train Market Ratchada near Central Plaza Grand Rama 9, is one of my favorite night markets in Bangkok. Although Bangkok hosts flea markets all over the city almost every weekend, this market stands out for its great food (at reasonable prices), showcasing the works of many local creators, and having live music bars.
Tip: A night in Bangkok cannot be completed without experiencing the thrills of Khao San Road. With the loud bass music of ultra-modern dance clubs and stalls offering all sorts of interesting insect snacks, this street definitely ensures you have a good time. Bars and clubs play all kinds of music from hip-hop to house, from acid jazz to rock ballads. This is backpacking in Asia 101 and definitely a place you will remember.
An Excellent Day Trip from Bangkok
I highly recommend Bangkrachao, a lesser-known forest area located in the middle of Bangkok. Here, you can relax in nature, escape from pollution, and feel like you are no longer in a big metropolis. By renting a bike, you can explore forest paths between neighborhoods, floating markets, ornate local temples, and beautiful parks.
Where to Stay in Bangkok: The Yard Hostel, Ari
The place I prefer to stay every time I go to Bangkok is The Yard Hostel in Ari. The reason I love staying in Ari is that it has a calmer and slower pace compared to other more touristy areas. Additionally, this area has a growing reputation for gastronomy and a good café scene. The name of this place, run by a friendly couple named Som and Som, refers to both the garden where the built containers are located and the Thai translation of the word “Garden.” How can I best describe its vibes? A true oasis of peace in Bangkok - a rare thing. Lush trees provide natural shade to the central courtyard where guests gather at various times of the day. Here, you can relax in a hammock with a book or journal with a cup of coffee from the hostel's bar. This is a hostel where you can easily start a conversation in the lounge or garden area. If you want to be alone, you can always find a peaceful corner. The rooms are very comfortable, offering cozy beds that allow you to fall asleep immediately. The rooms are insulated with recycled paper and use LED bulbs to save energy. This hostel reminds me of my love for travel and backpacking.
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