One Day In Bangkok Itinerary For First Timers: Realistic Guide (2025)

Bangkok is one of the most misunderstood and misrepresented cities I have visited. I was told Bangkok was dangerous, boring, and seedy: basically, skip it entirely. Thankfully, I did not listen, and now consider it a home away from home. This realistic one day in Bangkok itinerary for first-timers ensures you will have an unforgettable whirlwind 24 hours.

Spending a day in Bangkok can be intimidating for a first-timer, there’s so much to do here, it’s hard to know where to start. I’m focusing on the old part of the city with optional night activities. Kicking the morning off with temple hopping, eating lunch in a riverside gem, exploring the largest Chinatown in the world, and then choosing between a cruise, rooftop bar, or Khao San Road to see out the night. The only problem with this Bangkok first time visitor guide is that you are not going to want to leave!

Some links in this post are affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Is It Worth Going To Bangkok For One Day?

Absolutely. Bangkok is one of Southeast Asia’s best cities. Ideally, you’d spend more than 5 days here, but you can still have a blast in 24 hours. My advice is to explore districts that are close to each other rather than spending the day hopping on the BTS or MRT.

Whether you’re on a Bangkok layover tour or visiting as a solo female traveler, this guide covers the best things to see with just 1 day in Bangkok so you don’t waste any time.

Best Area To Stay With 24 Hours In Bangkok

This one day Bangkok for first-timers is perfect for staying in Phra Nakhon or Chinatown. Both of these Bangkok neighbourhoods are historic, you won’t find many skyscrapers, instead it’s dotted with cute alleys, peaceful temples, trendy cafes, and authentic restaurants.

I would stay in Phra Nakhon if you want to end the night in Khao San Road, otherwise I think Chinatown is a good call. It’s better connected to the rest of the city due to the MRT.

Recommended Hotels

$: Lamphuhouse Bangkok – boutique rooms just minutes from the fun of Khao San Road

$$: Shanghai Mansion – 1930’s boutique hotel in Chinatown just a few metres from MRT + boats. Luxurious Chinese-style rooms. Hotel features the Burasari SPA, a live band every night and have a delicious breakfast buffeton offer.

$$$: Baan 2459 Heritage House – quaint hotel in the heart of Chinatown with large, bright rooms that feel like home.There is also a cosy cafe in the courtyard.

$$$: Sala Rattanakosin – located in the Old City, beside Wat Pho, this 4-star hotel has modern rooms with a beautiful riverside view. The roof top bar has stunning views of Wat Arun at sunset. Great for getting around with the Tah Tian pier a few minutes walk away.

Getting To Bangkok

Bangkok has two major airports: the main one where most long-haul flights land is Suvarnabhumi Airport, while Don Mueang Airport has many domestic and low cost carriers. Both airports are well connected to the city by rail.

From Suvarnabhumi Airport To City Center

Located 31.5 km from the city, the easiest way to get to the city is by taking the SVT train 7 stops (23 minutes) to Phaya Thai and then transferring to the BTS line to get to your hotel.

The first and last train is 05:30 and 00:00.

Don Mueang International Airport To City Center

Don Mueang is located slightly closer to Bangkok city at 23 km away. You can take the dark red line 7 stops (17 minutes) to its final destination Bang Sue Station – also called Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal or 6 stops to Mo Chit Station to transfer to the BTS.

The first and last train is 05:30 and 00:00.

If you arrive to either airport when the rail is not operating then I suggest pre-booking an airport transfer. It’s hassle free, your driver will be ready and waiting for you when you land.

How To Get Around Bangkok In One Day?

The Best Way …

Boat

Blue Flag Tourist Boat is a very convenient, not to mention relaxing way to get around Bangkok. The boat will take you to Khaosan Road, Chinatown, IconSiam, Wat Arun, The Grand Palace, among many other interesting areas in the city. You can purchase tickets on the boat, or online. It costs 30 baht for a single ticket and departs every 30 minutes.

Alternatively, Chao Phraya Express is a local boat, it’s a large longtail-style boat, and is much cheaper. It will take you to all the popular attractions that the Blue Flag Tourist Boat does.

BTS

The BTS is a monorail that travels through the city on an elevated platform, avoiding all the traffic!

Single tickets on the BTS start at 16 baht (€0.41) and one day unlimited travels costs 140 baht (€3.63).

MRT

The MRT is the underground. There are two lines: the blue and purple, you will most likely be using the blue line while in Bangkok as this is the busiest line. Like the BTS, the MRT also avoids Bangkok traffic. Ticket prices start at 16 baht (€0.41) for a single trip.

Tuk-tuk

Tuk-tuks are great for short distances, these three-wheeled motorbikes are a fun alternative way to get around Bangkok. However, they are one of the most expensive options, so prepare to haggle with your driver. Once you have agreed on the price, hold on tight and enjoy the ride.

One Day In Bangkok Tips

One Day In Bangkok Itinerary + Map

One Day In Bangkok Itinerary: Morning Temple Hopping

08:00 Breakfast

Breakfast in Thailand is very different to a Western breakfast, it can really be anything that you would have for lunch or dinner.

Thai breakfasts can include savoury dishes like fried chicken, rice, or noodle soups which is very different from typical Western breakfasts.

Does that mean you can’t get a Western breakfast? Of course you can, there are so many Western cafes in Bangkok serving anything from an English fry-up to avocado on toast.

• On Lok Yun – very popular place! toast with their kaya (sweet coconut jam) is delicious.Chinese sausage is also good!
• Jok Sam Yan – popular congee (porridge)restaurant, try it with pork meatball.
• Kope Hya Tai Kee Na Saranrom – Thai and Western fusion menu. Lots of curry, eggs, and sausages.
• โจ๊กตงนำ Tongnam Congee – try the youtiao (Chinese donuts) and stir fried liver congee.
• Bright Side Brunch Bar ไบร์ท ไซด์ บรันช์ บาร์ – Western style breakfast including fry up, shakshuka, and acai bowl.
• Breakfast Story – pancakes, french toast, eggs, and smoothie bowls.

09:00 Wat Arun (1 hour)

Wat Arun, known as the “Temple of the Dawn” due to how beautifully it glows when the sunlight hits it, this Thai Buddhist temple is one of the best temples in Bangkok. Located along the scenic Chao Phraya River, it’s often the number 1 thing to do for first time visitors to Bangkok.

This was actually the first thing I did in Bangkok and was left in awe by how the temples design captures the essence of Southeast Asian culture – care, beauty and respect.

Arriving by boat you can view its unique 70-metre Khmer-style spire (called prang) from the river, but once you get closer it’s adorned with tiny pieces of colourful glass , seashells and Chinese porcelain which glitter in the sunshine. You can climb the steps of the tower for views across the river, however, these steps are steep so wear comfy shoes.

The temple grounds are also equally impressive with lush gardens, smaller shrines and hundreds of Buddha statues. As you walk around you can hear bells and sometimes the monks chanting. You can even get blessed by a monk for good luck.

Wat Arun isn’t just interesting on a visual level, it’s soaked in history. Built in the 17^th century (though that iconic spire came later in the 19^th), it contains King Rama’s ashes and once was home to the Emerald Buddha before it moved to the Grand Palace.

The coolest element of Wat Arun is you know those shimmering ceramic pieces covering the spire? They’re actually old ballast from Chinese trading ships, showing Bangkok’s role as this massive trading hub. The temple represents Mount Meru which is the center of the universe in Buddhist beliefs, and those 33 levels on the main tower match the 33 Buddhist heavens. Pretty incredible when you think about it.

A special thing to do at Wat Arun is to rent traditional Thai clothing, make up and take pictures around the grounds with a photographer. You can book this in advance or when you enter.

If you need to cover your legs or shoulders there’s a place near the entrance where you can borrow a scarf-like cloth to cover your body.

Entrance costs THB200 and includes a complimentary water bottle, which, trust me, you’ll need as it does get very hot. You should spend about one hour here but please add more time if you decide to rent traditional dress and a photographer.

10:30 Wat Pho (1 hour)

Just a few minutes’ boat ride from Wat Arun to the opposite side of the river is Wat Pho, the Temple of the Reclining Buddha. This is one of the most famous temples in Thailand due to its unique 46-metre long golden Buddha. The Buddha is restfully lying down, my kindred spirit.

As one of the largest reclining Buddhas in the world, it’s no surprise that many people want their photo alongside it. This can create long queues, but to take a photo just of the Buddha you don’t need to queue. Make sure you check out his feet which have an intricate design that is inscribed with mother-of-pearl.

Although the reclining Buddha is what draws people here, there are many other beautiful things to see on the grounds as well which offer a more reflective experience. The temple grounds are scattered with vibrant chedis, many big trees to shade you especially the large Bo tree in the front. Don’t miss the large gong, locals say giving it a hit, brings good luck.

You can also find other Buddha statues on the premises that are in the standing and lotus position along with murals of Thai history and mythology.

Entrance is THB400, cash only. You can also borrow a cover-up skirt and shawl.

If you’re planning to spend more than a day in Bangkok, check out my full 4-day Bangkok itinerary

11:30 Grand Palace (90 minutes)

From Wat Pho it’s a 12 minute walk to the Grand Palace. Entrance is through Manee Nopparat Gate. The Grand Palace is only open from 08:30 to 15:30. It is sometimes closed throughout the year so please check the online schedule for accurate up-to-date info. The entrance is also THB500.

This is an absolute must-visit for first-timers with one day in Bangkok, as it served as the residence of Thai royalty for over 150 years until 1925. The Royal Family is of the utmost importance to Thais, insulting them can even land you in prison.

The palace architecture is truly striking, a unique mix of traditional Thai and Western influences, particularly from British colonial architecture. It’s a large complex that is divided into several distinct areas, including the royal palace buildings and the sacred temple grounds of Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha). Audio guides are available for rent if you’d like to learn about the historical background as you explore.

The highlight though is the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, engulfed in unbelievable detail with golden spires and stupas, colourful mirror mosaics and glass tiles. The buddha itself is 26 inches tall and carved from a single piece of green jade. The only people allowed to touch it are the king or his representative. The Buddha’s clothing is changed three times throughout the year to reflect the season. You are not allowed to take photos of the Emerald Buddha.

Unfortunately, most of the palace buildings are sealed off to preserve them, so you can only admire the intricate exterior details, but trust me, they’re absolutely worth the visit for the craftsmanship and historical significance alone. Places to visit include the Royal Pantheon, golden chedis containing relics, and a scale model of Cambodia’s Angkor Wat. Mythical creatures like guards (half-man, half-bird) and fierce-looking yaksha demons guard the temple, creating an almost otherworldly atmosphere.

Practical Tips

• Summer tip: It’s worth mentioning that during the summer it’s especially hard to visit the Grand Palace. Although the grounds are open, it’s so hot, to the point it becomes difficult to appreciate the beauty of palace.
• Be careful when you are in this part of Bangkok. You’ll be approached by scammers who claim the palace is closed and they will take you to another, “better” temple. If you go with them, they will charge you a huge premium. It’s a common scam.
• Just like Wat Arun and Wat Pho, there is a strict dress code here. Shoulders and legs need to be covered, men cannot wear shorts. You cannot rent anything here so you will need to purchase a coverup in one of the shops nearby.

13:00 Lunch (1 hour)

After 3.5 hours exploring some of Bangkok’s top attractions, I think it’s time for a break. I am recommending one of my favourite authentic restaurants in Bangkok, Khrua Khun Kung. Located behind the Navy Wives Association Shop, it feels like a bit of a secret in such a touristy area.

Overlooking the Chao Phraya and Wat Arun, with AC, it’s the perfect place to reflect on your one day in Bangkok so far.

The menu is full of classic Thai meals and lots of fish. We’ve visited here three times over the years and I highly recommend the green curry with roti, chicken cashew and mango smoothie. The prices are good too, most meals are THB180 and large portions.

After lunch we are going to one of Bangkok’s mega malls – IconSiam. To get there you need to walk 7 minutes to Tha Chang pier, take the green city line in the direction of Phra Pinklao Bridge three stops to IconSiam. Alternatively you can take the Blue Flag tourist boat from Tha Chang four stops to IconSiam.

One Day In Bangkok Itinerary Afternoon: Modern Mall + Chinatown

14:00 IconSiam (2 hours)

After a few hours of battling Bangkok’s heat, the next location will feel like heaven. Bangkok has amazing shopping malls; they are often the only place to go during a heatwave or heavy rainfall, so they tend to have everything you need under one roof. No day in Bangkok would be complete without a visit to a shopping mall.

IconSiam is one of Asia’s largest malls, with over 7,000 shops, and 100 restaurants with a total retail space of 525,000 sq m. It’s a fun place to walk around and the AC certainly helps. Here are some things to do at IconSiam:

• SookSiam: Thailand’s first indoor floating market featuring cuisine from all 77 provinces
• Longest fountain in Southeast Asia – stretches over 400 meters along the river with 3D and 4D water shows
• Largest Starbucks in Thailand – you do not want to miss their huge courtyard overlooking the Chao Phraya River. Even if you are not a fan of Starbucks coffee, visit level 7 for a walk around!
• Frequent exhibitions – previous have included DINOLAB Jurassic Domination, DaVinci Alive, . Check here for the current listing.
• Largest Adidas Originals store in Southeast Asia and the Pacific Region
• Rooftop Bar – Grab a cocktail or coffee in Hobs. The views are some of the best you can get in Bangkok.
• Gee’s Cookies – warm, gooey cookies on the 6^th floor, so, so good!
• Pang Cha – Michelin Guide shaved ice tea cafe. The portions are huge, there is usually a queue but it is fast moving. I really enjoyed the mulberry flavour. The reviews online are not great, but I liked it so much I went twice!

From IconSiam take the green line Chao Phraya Express boat or Blue Flag tourist boat to Ratchawong Pier. Welcome to the world’s largest Chinatown.

16:00 Chinatown (3 – 4 hours)

Chinatown is a must visit on any Bangkok day trip. It’s one of the best things to do and is the city’s coolest neighbourhood.

Honestly, I don’t mean to be dramatic but if you visit Bangkok and do not go to Chinatown you should be arrested! Sentenced to 5 years of Bangkok traffic. It’s the world’s largest Chinatown and dates back to 1782, when the first Chinese immigrants arrived to Bangkok.

Bangkok Chinatown is somewhere you could spend all day in, but with limited time in Bangkok, I suggest three to four hours. There are three main areas to explore, each with its own unique charm.

Check out my in-depth guide on Chinatown Bangkok here. I share where to go, what to eat, and so much more.

Talat Noi

Consisting of narrow alleyways with street art hiding around each corner, Talat Noi is such an underrated area in Bangkok. There is an edgy and peaceful atmosphere as you walk around. Although you could easily spend a morning here in teahouses, for this itinerary, I recommend just walking through and checking out the art.

Songwat

Songwat’s popularity has soared in recent years thanks to a 2022 initiative to rejuvenate the area. It’s now one of Bangkok’s trendiest neighbourhoods with viral food spots, aesthetic cafes and cool boutiques.

As you walk around, you’ll spot many people taking photos against the area’s aesthetic backdrop. Everything is oh, so Instagrammable. There are also ROA upside down elephant murals and a colourful image of a Thai lady.

Regarding food, I recommend pulled pork from Bad Poutine, an iced chocolate drink from Choch, and a coffee from Local Boys.

Yaowarat Road

Bangkok’s best night market is located on Yaowarat Road, the heart of Chinatown. From 5 PM each night, street vendors line the roads and nearby alleys and cook the most delicious street food Asia has to offer.

The is nothing like sitting on a small stool under a kaleidoscope of neon lights watching the chaos around you is an unbeatable feeling, a memory that will stay with you long after your 24 hours in Bangkok are done.

There is so much to try, but here are some I recommend:

• a steaming bowl of pork noodles from Nai Ek Roll Noodle (Michelin Guide)
• Crispy, succulent pork belly from HAGOW
• aromatic roasted duck noodles from Hua Seng Hong
• spicy and juicy gyoza from Mali Gyoza, located in front of Deksomboon
• flavourful fish ball soup from Lim Lao Ngow Fishball Noodle (Michelin Guide)
• Traditional Chinese dessert from Sweettime, I highly recommend pandan noodles in palm sugar and coconut milk, a sweet way to end your evening of eating.

One Day In Bangkok Itinerary Night

I am giving you 3 options are there are just so many things you can do with 1 night in Bangkok. What you want to do depends on you and your interests.

Option 1: Khaosan Road Or Rambutteri

Keep the high energy of Yaowarat Road going by taking yourself to the famous Khaosan Road. Also known as “backpacker street”. it’s the place where first-time travellers to Bangkok tend to converge.

The music is so loud you can feel it pulsating through your chest, the cocktail buckets are flowing, cockroaches and scorpions are being offered to you on a stick, and everyone is just out to have fun and experience the crazy side to Bangkok. It tends to draw a young crowd but the nearby Rambutteri alley is more subdued. Madame Musur is an excellent bar/restaurant (try the khao soi !)

Option 2: Dinner Cruise

Another way to experience Bangkok’s skyline is by sailing down the river with dinner and drinks. This is a relaxing way to wind down your 24 hours in Bangkok. You’ll be passing by landmarks like Wat Arun, Grand Palace, Asiatique, and King Taksin Bridge. Most of Bangkok’s dinner cruises have live music and live performances.

Food is usually an all-you-can-eat buffet, with a mix of Thai and Western food. It lasts approximately two hours and is one of the most relaxing ways to end your one day in Bangkok.

Option 3: Rooftop Bar

Bangkok has an incredible skyline, a mix of skyscrapers and temples, it never fails to amaze me. The best way to experience it is with a good cocktail in hand. There are so many cool rooftop bars in Bangkok, it can be hard to choose which one to go to. Most tend to have a strict dress code; however, I wore battered Birkenstocks and was never turned away.

It’s important to book your table in advance to guarantee entrance. Here are a few suggestions:

• Tichuca (46^th floor): Sukhumvit, live DJ, one of the most famous rooftop bars in Bangkok
• Axis & Spin Rooftop (38^th floor): Sukhumvit, creative cocktails & chill atmosphere.
• Sky Bar (63^rd floor): Silom, view is spectacular, you can get beautiful photos here.
• Gen-Z (16^th floor): Chinatown, one of the cheapest rooftop bars in Bangkok. Very relaxed with beanbags, good cocktails and although only 16 floors, the view is great.
• Sky Beach Bangkok (78^th floor): Silom, third highest rooftop in the world. The top of the Mahanakhon building.

Hope you enjoyed this itinerary. Check out my other Thailand posts or leave a comment below.

One Day In Bangkok Checklist

Take this checklist with you for your day in Bangkok for the full experience.

One Day In Bangkok FAQs

Comments

Related Posts

4 Day Bangkok Itinerary For First Timers
15+ Things To Do In Chinatown Bangkok: Backstreets, Street Food + Temples
22 Best Bangkok Cafes (Great Coffee Guaranteed)
Asiatique Bangkok Review
Bangkok To Koh Samui: Seahorse Ferry review
Phi Phi To Maya Bay: Straightforward Guide
14 Memorable Things To Do In Aonang
9 Best Areas To Stay In Bangkok
17 Best Pubs in Bangkok: Where To Find A Perfect Pint and Proper Pub Grub

Leaving Thailand? Check out these other guides for travel inspiration

1 Day In Ipoh Itinerary | 9 Fun Things To Do
Vietnam At A Glance
The Ultimate 10 Day Seoul Itinerary
4 Day Taiwan Itinerary
Jiufen Old Street Travel Guide
28 Best Things To Do In Haeundae