Bangkok is the capital and largest city of Thailand, located in the central part of the country. It is known for its vibrant street life, historic temples and palaces, delicious street food, bustling markets, and lively nightlife.
Bangkok is also a popular destination for shopping, with a variety of malls and markets offering everything from high-end luxury goods to inexpensive souvenirs.
Bangkok is a vibrant and exciting capital of Thailand! With just three days in this bustling city, you'll have to be selective about what you choose to do. But fear not, as I, am here to provide you with some top suggestions on how to make the most of your time in Bangkok.
Day 1:
1. Visit the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew
These two attractions are located in the same complex and are must-visit sites in Bangkok. The Grand Palace was the residence of the Thai king for 150 years and Wat Phra Kaew is home to the famous Emerald Buddha.
2. Take a tuk-tuk ride
Its a term commonly used to refer to a type of three-wheeled motorized vehicle used for transportation in many parts of the world, particularly in Southeast Asia. They are typically small, open-air vehicles with a cabin that can accommodate a driver and a few passengers. Tuk-tuks are a popular mode of transportation in Bangkok and taking a ride is a fun and unique experience. You can hire a tuk-tuk driver for a few hours to take you around the city and show you some of the sights.
3. Visit Icon Siam Shopping Mall
Its a popular shopping mall located on the bank of the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok, Thailand. The mall has a variety of dining options, including a food market that offers a wide range of local and international cuisine. The Icon Siam food market is located on the ground floor of the mall and its known for its wide variety of food stalls and vendors. Visitors can find traditional Thai street food such as Pad Thai, Tom Yum, and Som Tam, as well as other international favourites like sushi, pizza, and burgers.
4. Take a boat tour of the Chao Phraya River from Icon SIam -
The Chao Phraya River is a major river in Thailand, flowing through the country's central plain and emptying into the Gulf of Thailand. It is also known as the "River of Kings" because it has played an important role in the history and development of the Thai people and their culture. This is a great way to see the city from a different perspective and you can also visit some of the temples located along the riverbank.
Day 2:
1. Do a food tour whilst exploring Old Bangkok
In Old Bangkok the street food is more than just a meal, it's a way of life. It's a celebration of the city's rich history and an homage to its vibrant culture. Old Bangkok refers to the historic center of Bangkok, Thailand, which dates back to the late 18th century. It encompasses several neighborhoods and landmarks, including the Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew, Wat Arun (The Temple of Dawn), and the Chao Phraya River. The best tour guide for this is Gary Butler I booked him he is a youtuber and he knows the best places for a banging street food meal. On the food tour I ate the iconic Chicken and Rice which is rice cooked in chicken broth topped of with steamed chicken and fried chicken, Crab Curry, Pan Fried Noodles and rounded the trip off with Nuttaporn Ice Cream. To watch Food tour episode click HERE
2. Visit Wat Arun
This temple is also known as the Temple of Dawn and is one of the most beautiful temples in Bangkok. It is located on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River and is best visited at sunset. The temple's central feature is a towering spire, or prang, that is decorated with intricate designs and embellishments. The temple complex also includes several smaller buildings and statues, as well as a large courtyard and a pier that overlooks the Chao Phraya River.
3. Explore the Chinatown
Chinatown in Bangkok is a vibrant and bustling area that offers visitors a taste of Chinese culture and traditions in the heart of the Thai capital. One of the main attractions of Chinatown is its street food. The area is famous for its delicious and affordable food stalls, which offer a wide range of Chinese and Thai dishes. Some of the must-try dishes include fresh seafood, dim sum, roasted duck, and noodles. In addition to the food, Chinatown is also known for its traditional Chinese shops and markets. You can also browse through a wide range of goods, including clothing, jewellery, souvenirs, and traditional Chinese herbs and medicines.
Day 3:
1. Take a day trip to Ayuthayya
Ayuthayya its an hour and a half away from Bangkok. Ayutthaya is a city located in central Thailand, about 80 kilometers north of Bangkok. It was the capital of the Kingdom of Siam from 1350 to 1767, before it was destroyed by the Burmese army. Today, Ayutthaya is a popular tourist destination, known for its ancient ruins and temples that offer a glimpse into the rich history and culture of Thailand. Whether you're interested in history, culture, or just looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of Bangkok, Ayutthaya is a destination that is sure to impress. Ayutthaya is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that encompasses the ruins of the old city; Wat Phra Si Sanphet, a former royal temple that features three impressive chedis; and Wat Mahathat, which is famous for the iconic Buddha head that is entwined in the roots of a banyan tree.
2. Take a cooking class
Thai cuisine is famous around the world and taking a cooking class is a great way to learn about the ingredients and techniques used in Thai cooking. I booked it through a website via WithLocals. Its a great way to get inside knowledge of what goes on in a local residents kitchen. Taking cooking classes in the city will allow you to learn how to prepare authentic Thai dishes using traditional techniques and ingredients. Cooking classes offer a hands-on experience, it allows you to learn by doing rather than just watching. I was be able to work with ingredients and equipment that was new me, and learnt valuable skills that I can use in my own kitchen.
If you want to watch me embarrass myself in the Thai locals kitchen kitchen click HERE
FINAL THOUGHTS
Bangkok. It's a city of contrasts. A place where beauty and darkness, wealth and poverty, sit side by side. And yet, somehow, it all works.
As I left Bangkok, I couldn't help but feel that I'd only scratched the surface. There's so much more to this city than meets the eye. But one thing's for sure - I'll never forget the flavors, the people, and the energy of Bangkok. It's a place that will stay with me forever.
For more amazing content of what I got up to in Bangkok watch my YouTube channel click HERE
