3 Days in Bangkok: Buddha Statues by Day, Rooftop Bars by Night

Bangkok is one of Asia’s most electrifying cities, a place where gilded temples sit alongside neon-lit night markets and sky-high rooftop bars. For many travelers, three days is the perfect amount of time to capture the essence of Thailand’s capital — enough to explore the city’s rich cultural heritage, sample its vibrant food scene, and dive into its legendary nightlife.

In this guide, we’ll give you a detailed 3-day itinerary to maximize your time in Bangkok. From ancient temples to bustling markets and nightlife districts, plus practical tips on getting around, staying connected with Voye Global eSIM, budgeting, and staying safe, this blog covers everything you need for a seamless adventure.

Day-by-Day Bangkok Itinerary

Day 1: Temples and the Chao Phraya River

Morning (8:00 AM – 12:00 PM)

• Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaew: Start your trip at Bangkok’s most iconic landmark. The Grand Palace complex houses Wat Phra Kaew, home to the revered Emerald Buddha. Plan at least 2 hours here.
• Tips: Dress modestly (no shorts, sleeveless tops, or short skirts). If needed, sarongs are available for rent at the entrance. Arrive early to avoid tour bus crowds.
• Cost: Entry is 500 THB (~$14).

Lunch (12:30 PM – 1:30 PM)

• Grab a traditional Thai lunch nearby — dishes like Pad Kra Pao (stir-fried basil chicken with rice) or Tom Yum soup at local restaurants. Expect to spend 150–250 THB.

Afternoon (2:00 PM – 5:00 PM)

• Wat Pho: Famous for the 46-meter-long Reclining Buddha and traditional Thai massage school.
• Wat Arun: Cross the Chao Phraya River via a ferry (4 THB ticket). The temple is stunning at sunset with its porcelain-decorated spires.

Evening (6:00 PM – 9:00 PM)

• Dinner Cruise on the Chao Phraya River: Float past lit-up temples and skyscrapers while enjoying Thai cuisine and live entertainment. Cruises depart around 7:00 PM from Asiatique Pier or River City.
• Alternative: Enjoy riverside dining at Supanniga Eating Room or The Deck by Arun Residence.

Optional Night Activity (9:30 PM – late)

• Stroll through Asiatique The Riverfront — a large open-air mall with boutique shops, a Ferris wheel, and bars.

Day 2: Markets and Street Food

Morning (8:30 AM – 12:30 PM)

• Chatuchak Weekend Market (JJ Market): If your trip includes a Saturday or Sunday, this is a must. With over 15,000 stalls, you can shop for souvenirs, fashion, art, and home goods.
• Weekday alternative: Explore Pratunam Market (great for clothing) or MBK Center (indoor mall with electronics, souvenirs, and budget shopping).
• Tip: Wear comfortable shoes and bring cash. Markets can get very hot, so go early.

Lunch (1:00 PM – 2:00 PM)

• Try street food at the market: coconut ice cream served in a husk, grilled satay skewers, and fresh papaya salad. Meals cost as little as 50–100 THB ($2–3).

Afternoon (2:30 PM – 5:30 PM)

• Jim Thompson House: A museum in a traditional Thai-style house that tells the story of the American silk entrepreneur. Entry is 200 THB.
• If you’re more into shopping, head to Siam Square, Siam Paragon, and CentralWorld for high-end and international brands.

Evening (6:30 PM – 9:00 PM)

• Head to Yaowarat Road (Chinatown) — one of the best food streets in the world.
• Dishes to try: oyster omelets, roasted duck noodles, bird’s nest soup, and mango sticky rice.
• Michelin-recommended spots: Raan Jay Fai (fiery wok dishes, reservations needed) and Nai Ek Roll Noodles.

Night Activity (9:30 PM – midnight)

• Walk through Chinatown’s neon streets for photos, or grab a drink at Tep Bar, which serves cocktails with Thai herbal infusions and live traditional music.

Day 3: Modern Bangkok & Legendary Nightlife

Morning (9:00 AM – 12:00 PM)

• Thai Massage or Spa: Begin your day with a rejuvenating Thai massage (Wat Pho’s massage school or Health Land Spa are popular). Prices range from 250–600 THB.
• Alternatively, join a Thai cooking class to learn how to make Pad Thai, Som Tum, and Green Curry.

Lunch (12:30 PM – 1:30 PM)

• Dine at Terminal 21 Mall, where each floor is themed after a different city (Paris, Tokyo, London). The food court is budget-friendly and has excellent Thai and international options.

Afternoon (2:00 PM – 5:00 PM)

• Explore Bangkok’s modern side:
  • Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC) for contemporary art.
  • ICONSIAM Mall for luxury shopping and an indoor floating market.
  • Neighborhoods like Ari or Ekkamai for trendy cafes and boutique shops.

Evening (6:30 PM – 9:00 PM)

• Rooftop Bars: Watch the sunset at Sky Bar (Lebua State Tower), made famous by The Hangover II, or Octave Rooftop Lounge at Marriott Sukhumvit. Cocktails cost around 400–600 THB.
• For dinner, go for Thai fine dining at Bo.lan or fusion at Err Urban Rustic Thai.

Night (9:30 PM – late)

• Experience Bangkok’s famous nightlife:
  • RCA (Royal City Avenue): Popular with locals, with clubs like Route 66 and Onyx.
  • Thonglor & Ekkamai: Trendy bars and live music venues.
  • Khao San Road: Backpacker paradise with cheap drinks, buckets, and street parties.
• Tip: Always use Grab for safe rides home.

How to Travel Around Bangkok?

• BTS Skytrain & MRT Subway: Fast, cheap, and best for avoiding traffic.
• Tuk-Tuks: Fun but agree on price before boarding.
• Grab App: Safer than hailing random taxis.
• River Ferries: Affordable and scenic, especially for temple-hopping.

Food to Try in Bangkok

• Pad Thai (Thip Samai for the classic version).
• Tom Yum Goong (spicy shrimp soup).
• Som Tum (papaya salad).
• Thai iced tea.
• Mango sticky rice.

Street food is safe when you stick to busy vendors with high turnover.

Staying Connected with Voye Global

Bangkok is a city where you’ll constantly need mobile data — for navigating BTS routes, ordering Grab taxis, translating menus, or finding hidden bars. Traditional roaming charges can be expensive, which is why more travelers now choose Thailand eSIMs by Voye Global.

Why Voye Global?

• Instant Activation: Buy online, scan the QR code, and you’re connected before you even land in Bangkok.
• Seamless Coverage: Works across Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, and over 130 countries.
• Cost-Effective: Save up to 75% compared to international roaming.
• No SIM Swaps: Keep your WhatsApp number while using high-speed data.
• Eco-Friendly: 100% digital — no plastic SIMs.

How to Use Voye in Thailand

1. Purchase your Thailand or regional Asia eSIM
2. Scan the QR code to install before departure.
3. Land in Bangkok and connect instantly to 4G/5G.
4. Use your phone for Google Maps, Grab rides, Instagram uploads, and currency conversion without hunting for WiFi.

With Voye, you’re free to enjoy Bangkok without worrying about losing connection or paying hidden roaming charges.

Health & Safety Tips

• Hydration: Bangkok’s heat is intense. Always carry bottled water.
• Food Safety: Stick to busy vendors; avoid undercooked seafood.
• Scams: Avoid tuk-tuk drivers offering “cheap tours” and gem shop tricks.
• Nightlife Safety: Watch your drink, and avoid unlicensed taxis late at night.
• Travel Insurance: Always advisable.

Budget Breakdown (Per Day for 3 Days)

• Street food meals: 40–80 THB ($1–2)
• Sit-down meals: 200–400 THB ($6–12)
• Skytrain/MRT: 20–50 THB per ride
• Grab rides: 150–250 THB within city center
• Mid-range hotel: $40–70 per night
• Rooftop cocktails: 300–600 THB ($9–18)

FAQs

How many days are enough in Bangkok?

Three days lets you explore temples, markets, and nightlife without feeling rushed.

Is Bangkok expensive?

It’s budget-friendly compared to Western cities. Street food and transport are cheap; nightlife and luxury hotels can raise costs.

Is Bangkok safe for solo travelers?

Yes, but stick to well-lit areas at night, and use Grab over unlicensed taxis.

Can I use credit cards everywhere?

Cards are accepted in malls, hotels, and restaurants, but markets and street stalls are cash-only.

When is the best time to visit Bangkok?

Cool season (November–February). March–May is very hot; June–October is monsoon season.

Do I need an eSIM in Bangkok?

Yes, especially for navigation and taxis. Voye Global makes staying connected simple and cost-effective.