Quick summary: Explore Bangkok’s rich culture and vibrant street life over five days. Visit iconic temples, experience floating markets, and savor delicious street food with a family-friendly, mid-range budget plan using mixed transport.
Route map + stops
Other
- Grand Palace (พระบรมมหาราชวัง)
Nearest station: Sanam Chai — Line: MRT Blue Line — Exit: Exit 1 - Wat Pho (Reclining Buddha) (วัดโพธิ์)
Nearest station: Sanam Chai — Line: MRT Blue Line — Exit: Exit 1 - Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) (วัดอรุณ)
Nearest station: Tha Tien Pier — Line: Chao Phraya Express Boat — Exit: Best exit: check station signage - Damnoen Saduak Floating Market (ตลาดน้ำดำเนินสะดวก)
Nearest station: N/A — Line: Taxi or tour bus — Exit: N/A - Chatuchak Weekend Market (ตลาดนัดจตุจักร)
Nearest station: Mo Chit — Line: BTS Sukhumvit Line — Exit: Exit 1 or 3 - Jim Thompson House (บ้านจิม ทอมป์สัน)
Nearest station: National Stadium — Line: BTS Silom Line — Exit: Exit 1 - Yaowarat (Chinatown) (เยาวราช)
Nearest station: Hua Lamphong — Line: MRT Blue Line — Exit: Exit 2 - Asiatique The Riverfront (เอเชียทีค เดอะ ริเวอร์ฟร้อนท์)
Nearest station: Saphan Taksin — Line: BTS Silom Line — Exit: Exit 2 and shuttle boat
Timeline (hour-by-hour)
Day 1
Start at the Grand Palace to admire royal architecture and the Emerald Buddha. Walk to Wat Pho to see the Reclining Buddha and enjoy a traditional massage. Cross the river by ferry to visit Wat Arun and take in panoramic views.
09:00 — Visit the Grand Palace
Why go: Explore Bangkok’s most famous landmark and former royal residence.
Do:
- Admire the intricate architecture
- See the Emerald Buddha
- Learn about Thai history and culture
How to get there: Take MRT Blue Line to Sanam Chai station, Exit 1, then walk 5 minutes.
Cost / tickets: Entry fee around 500 THB per adult
Time needed: 2-3 hours
12:00 — Explore Wat Pho
Why go: Home of the Reclining Buddha and traditional Thai massage school.
Do:
- View the giant Reclining Buddha
- Stroll the temple grounds
- Try a traditional Thai massage
How to get there: Walk 10 minutes from Grand Palace or take a short taxi ride.
Cost / tickets: Entry fee about 200 THB
Time needed: 1.5-2 hours
15:00 — Visit Wat Arun
Why go: Iconic riverside temple with stunning architecture and views.
Do:
- Climb the central prang for views
- Take photos of the riverside scenery
How to get there: Take a ferry from Tha Tien Pier near Wat Pho across the river.
Cost / tickets: Entry fee about 100 THB
Time needed: 1-1.5 hours
Day 2
Rise early for a trip to Damnoen Saduak Floating Market. Experience boat shopping and local snacks before returning to Bangkok for rest.
07:00 — Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
Why go: Experience traditional Thai floating market life and local food.
Do:
- Boat ride through market canals
- Sample fresh fruits and snacks
- Shop for souvenirs
How to get there: Join a guided tour or take a taxi early morning (1.5-2 hours from Bangkok).
Cost / tickets: Boat ride approx 150-200 THB, market shopping varies
Time needed: 4-5 hours including travel
Day 3
Spend the morning at Chatuchak Weekend Market exploring stalls and tasting street food. In the afternoon, tour the Jim Thompson House to learn about Thai silk and architecture.
10:00 — Shop at Chatuchak Weekend Market
Why go: One of the world’s largest markets with diverse goods and street food.
Do:
- Browse clothes, crafts, and antiques
- Try local street food
- Enjoy lively market atmosphere
How to get there: Take BTS Sukhumvit Line to Mo Chit station, Exit 1 or 3.
Cost / tickets: Free entry, shopping costs vary
Time needed: 3-4 hours
15:00 — Visit Jim Thompson House
Why go: Discover traditional Thai architecture and silk industry history.
Do:
- Tour the teakwood house
- Learn about silk production
- Relax in the garden café
How to get there: Take BTS Silom Line to National Stadium station, Exit 1.
Cost / tickets: Entry fee about 200 THB
Time needed: 1-1.5 hours
Day 4
Evening visit to Yaowarat (Chinatown) to sample diverse street food and soak in the lively atmosphere.
18:00 — Explore Yaowarat (Chinatown)
Why go: Famous for vibrant street food and cultural sights at night.
Do:
- Sample street food delicacies
- Visit temples and markets
- Experience lively night atmosphere
How to get there: Take MRT Blue Line to Hua Lamphong station, Exit 2.
Cost / tickets: Free entry, food costs vary
Time needed: 2-3 hours
Day 5
Conclude at Asiatique The Riverfront for shopping, dining, and a Ferris wheel ride by the river.
17:00 — Visit Asiatique The Riverfront
Why go: Shopping, dining, and entertainment by the river in a family-friendly setting.
Do:
- Shop boutiques and stalls
- Dine at riverside restaurants
- Ride the Ferris wheel for city views
How to get there: Take BTS Silom Line to Saphan Taksin station, Exit 2, then shuttle boat.
Cost / tickets: Free entry, shopping and dining costs vary
Time needed: 3-4 hours
Logistics (read this first)
- Use BTS Skytrain and MRT subway for efficient city travel.
- Take river ferries to access riverside attractions like Wat Arun and Asiatique.
- Book a guided tour or taxi for Damnoen Saduak Floating Market due to distance.
- Wear comfortable shoes and light clothing; Bangkok can be hot and humid.
- Carry bottled water and sunscreen for daytime excursions.
- Plan visits to markets on weekends and floating market early in the morning.
Local tips and guide
Bangkok is Thailand’s bustling capital known for ornate shrines and vibrant street life. The city center features the Grand Palace and Wat Pho near the Chao Phraya River. To the north, Chatuchak Market offers weekend shopping. Chinatown buzzes with food stalls in the evening. The BTS Skytrain and MRT subway connect major spots, while river ferries provide scenic transport. Floating markets lie outside the city, accessible by taxi or tours. Visitors enjoy a mix of cultural landmarks, lively markets, and riverside dining in a tropical urban setting.
If it rains (2 alternatives)
If something is closed (2 alternatives)
FAQ
What is the best time to visit the floating markets?
Early morning around 7-9 AM to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
Is it safe to eat street food in Bangkok?
Yes, choose busy stalls with high turnover and freshly cooked food for safety.
How do I dress for temple visits?
Wear modest clothing covering shoulders and knees; remove shoes before entering.
Can I use credit cards at markets?
Most street markets are cash-only; carry sufficient Thai baht for purchases.
Are taxis reliable for tourists?
Use metered taxis or ride-hailing apps like Grab for fair pricing and safety.
How we planned this route
Byline: Expert itinerary crafted by a seasoned Bangkok travel specialist.
Based on extensive research of family-friendly attractions, transport options, and local insights to optimize cultural and culinary experiences within a mid-range budget.
Last updated: 2024-06-01