Bangkok in a Day: Temple Wonders and Vibrant Streets

Author's Profile Picture

by Avery

March 29, 2024 · 1 min read

Bangkok 1 Day Itinerary

Embark on a whirlwind tour of Bangkok's most iconic sights with our carefully curated one-day itinerary. Begin your journey at the majestic Wat Arun Ratchawararam Ratchawaramahawihan, a temple that stands as a testament to Thailand's religious artistry. Spend an hour marveling at its intricate designs and serene ambiance. Next, delve into the spiritual heart of Bangkok with a two-hour visit to Wat Phra Chetuphon (Wat Pho), where the reclining Buddha awaits to bestow peace upon your travels. Continue your cultural exploration at The Grand Palace, a two-hour immersion into the grandeur of Thailand's regal history and architecture. Conclude your day with the vibrant energy of Khaosan Road, a two-hour stroll through the characteristic neighborhood known for its lively street life and eclectic market stalls. This compact itinerary is designed to give you a taste of Bangkok's rich heritage and dynamic present, all in the span of a single day.

ColumbusBangkok
From US$552
Cheap Flights
Top 6 Hotels in Bangkok
TOP 1
Siam Mandarina Hotel - Free BKK Airport Shuttle
Siam Mandarina Hotel - Free BKK Airport Shuttle
hotelStar
5/5
376 reviews
View Hotel Info
TOP 2
JW Marriott Hotel Bangkok
JW Marriott Hotel Bangkok
hotelStar
5/5
343 reviews
View Hotel Info
TOP 3
Dusitd2 Samyan Bangkok
Dusitd2 Samyan Bangkok
hotelStar
4/5
323 reviews
View Hotel Info
Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Bangkok
Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Bangkok
hotelStar
5/5
517 reviews
View Hotel Info
Courtyard by Marriott Bangkok
Courtyard by Marriott Bangkok
hotelStar
4/5
616 reviews
View Hotel Info
Marriott Executive Apartments Sukhumvit Park, Bangkok
Marriott Executive Apartments Sukhumvit Park, Bangkok
hotelStar
5/5
227 reviews
View Hotel Info

Day 1: Unveiling the Spiritual and Cultural Gems of Bangkok

1

Wat Arun Ratchawararam Ratchawaramahawihan

arrow-image

Begin your Bangkok adventure with a serene morning at Wat Arun Ratchawararam Ratchawaramahawihan, commonly known as Wat Arun, the Temple of Dawn. This iconic temple is a majestic sight with its towering spire decorated with colorful porcelain. Located on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River, it's a perfect spot to soak in the spiritual ambiance and marvel at the intricate architecture for an hour before the city fully awakes.

Attraction Info

  • PFVQ+FH9, 158 Thanon Wang Doem, Khwaeng Wat Arun, Khet Bangkok Yai, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10600, Thailand
  • Suggested tour duration: 1-3 hour
  • Open from 8:00am-6:00pm

Recommended Nearby Restaurants

Le Normandie by Alain Roux
Le Normandie by Alain Roux
4.6/5 · 48 reviews
3.6 km from attraction
Sirocco Sky Bar
Sirocco Sky Bar
4.5/5 · 120 reviews
4.0 km from attraction
sala rattanakosin eatery and bar
sala rattanakosin eatery and bar
4.4/5 · 47 reviews
0.3 km from attraction
Thipsamai
Thipsamai
4.4/5 · 80 reviews
2.0 km from attraction
Make Me Mango Tha Tian
Make Me Mango Tha Tian
4.6/5 · 12 reviews
0.3 km from attraction
Raan Jay Fai
Raan Jay Fai
4.1/5 · 46 reviews
2.0 km from attraction
10 min,0.75 km
2

Wat Phra Chetuphon (Wat Pho)

arrow-image

Next, immerse yourself in the tranquility of Wat Phra Chetuphon, or Wat Pho, known as the Temple of the Reclining Buddha. Just a short journey from Wat Arun, spend a couple of hours exploring the largest collection of Buddha images in Thailand, including the 46-meter long reclining Buddha. The temple is also famed for its traditional Thai massage and the birthplace of Thai medicine.

Attraction Info

  • 2 Thanon Sanam Chai, Khwaeng Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Khet Phra Nakhon, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10200, Thailand
  • Suggested tour duration: 2 hour
  • Open from 8:30am-7:30pm
13 min,0.98 km
3

The Grand Palace

arrow-image

Continue your cultural exploration with a visit to the awe-inspiring Grand Palace, the epitome of Thai regality. A mere stone's throw from Wat Pho, this historic complex boasts spectacular buildings that have served as the official residence of the Kings of Siam since 1782. Allocate two hours to wander through the grandiose halls and royal residences, all while being enveloped by the palace's rich history and opulence.

Attraction Info

  • Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200
  • Suggested tour duration: 2-3 hour
  • Open from 8:30am-3:30pm
10 min,3.23 km
4

Khaosan Road

arrow-image

Conclude your day with an evening stroll down the vibrant Khaosan Road, a characteristic neighborhood that captures the essence of Bangkok's lively spirit. After a day of historical enlightenment, Khaosan Road offers a stark contrast with its bustling market stalls, eclectic street food, and pulsating nightlife. Spend a couple of hours mingling with fellow travelers, sampling local delicacies, and perhaps picking up some unique souvenirs.

Attraction Info

  • Talat Yot, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand
  • Suggested tour duration: 2-3 hour

Recommended Nearby Restaurants

sala rattanakosin eatery and bar
sala rattanakosin eatery and bar
4.4/5 · 47 reviews
1.7 km from attraction
Raan Jay Fai
Raan Jay Fai
4.1/5 · 46 reviews
1.1 km from attraction
Make Me Mango Tha Tian
Make Me Mango Tha Tian
4.6/5 · 12 reviews
1.7 km from attraction
Krua Apsorn @Dinso
Krua Apsorn @Dinso
4.4/5 · 41 reviews
0.6 km from attraction
Jeh O Chula
Jeh O Chula
4.4/5 · 45 reviews
3.3 km from attraction
Nai Ek Roll Noodle
Nai Ek Roll Noodle
4.5/5 · 16 reviews
2.5 km from attraction
3.5/591 Reviews
3.5/591 Reviews
Khaosan Road
Bangkok
|0.02km from Khaosan Road
4.1/5416 Reviews
4.1/5Very Good416 Reviews
Khaosan Road
Bangkok
|0.03km from Khaosan Road
2.8/50 Reviews
2.8/50 Reviews
Khaosan Road
Bangkok
|0.07km from Khaosan Road
2.2/50 Reviews
2.2/50 Reviews
Khaosan Road
Bangkok
|0.07km from Khaosan Road

Top Things to Do in Bangkok-2024

TOP 1
The Grand Palace
The Grand Palace
4.5/5 · 8,970 review
Highlights:

• The symbol of Bangkok's dynasty and a favorite destination for tourists.

• The Siamese-style palace complex brings together the best of Thai painting, sculpture and decorative arts.

• Don’t miss taking a photo with the Royal Guards in their white uniforms.


△ Popular for gorgeous architecture


△ Magnificent and glittering gold

Continue in the Trip.com App
TOP 2
Wat Arun Ratchawararam Ratchawaramahawihan
Wat Arun Ratchawararam Ratchawaramahawihan
4.8/5 · 4,859 review
Highlights:
Wat Arun is a prominent Buddhist temple located along the banks of the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok Yai District. It is one of the few temples that remain from Thailand’s Chakri dynasty. The temple’s most distinctive feature is the central Khmer-style tower. Glazed porcelain tiles and seashells cover the exterior, giving the entire complex a brilliant shine, particularly in the early morning light. For many years Wat Arun housed the famous Emerald Buddha, before it was moved to Wat Phra Kaew in 1785. As one of Bangkok’s beloved temples, this is certainly an attraction visitors won’t want to miss.
Continue in the Trip.com App
TOP 3
SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World
SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World
4.6/5 · 5,809 review
taCommentInfo-imageBased on 3,382 review
Highlights:
  • A comprehensive ocean-themed scenic spot that integrates exploring the mysterious ocean, visiting marine life exhibitions, and popularizing ocean science knowledge.
  • Here you can enjoy 30,000 marine creatures, spanning more than 400 marine species.
  • There are 6 In the theme exhibition area, not only can you enjoy all kinds of rare marine animals, but you can also interact closely and appreciate the marine ecology up close.

△ Here you can see tropical rainforest creatures such as Asian small-clawed otters, fishhook ants, and green-crowned lizards


△ Meet our so cute gentoo penguins


【Rainforest Adventure】Step out of the ocean into the rainforest and experience life beneath the tropical treetops, where rainforest rivers meander between tree roots and trunks and are home to many strange and wonderful creatures.

【Shark Walk】Spotting shark walk is fun and adventurous, giving you the chance to walk with sharks while learning fascinating facts about them.

【Coral Reefs】There are about 450 species of underwater creatures, and you can also take a glass boat and dive into the oversized pool to appreciate the ecological beauty from another angle.

【Ocean Tunnels】Don’t miss visiting our SEA LIFE Bangkok highlight area. Here is our spectacular underwater tunnel. Please immerse yourself in the wonders of the ocean while walking. You will be surrounded by a variety of underwater creatures, such as Sharks, manta rays and schools of fish.

【Penguin Ice Playground】Whether they are swimming or just waddling around, you can't help falling in love with them. In an area covered with ice, snow and cold wind, you will feel like you are traveling on the Antarctic continent.

【See All zones】Made from water left at low tide, there are many different creatures living in it, all of which need to adapt to different temperatures and the impact of waves, and a variety of invertebrates can also be found in rock pools, including starfish, sea urchins, Mudskippers and more!

Continue in the Trip.com App
TOP 4
Chao Phraya River
Chao Phraya River
4.6/5 · 3,205 review
taCommentInfo-imageBased on 8,568 review
Highlights:

• The Chao Phraya River is the Chinese name for the Chao Phraya River. It is known as the "Mother of Rivers" in Thailand and is known as the "Venice of the East".

• With a total length of 1,352 kilometers, it runs through southeastern Thailand, flows through Ayutthaya, and runs through downtown Bangkok. It plays an important role in urban transportation and residents' lives.

• During the day, there is a floating market on the Chao Phraya River, and transport ships come and go; when the sky gets dark, the lights along the coast light up one after another, and the sightseeing cruise ships shuttle on the river set sail one after another, showing another kind of style.


△The sparkling Chao Phraya River


△The charming Chao Phraya River at night

Continue in the Trip.com App
TOP 5
Golden Dome Cabaret Show
Golden Dome Cabaret Show
4.2/5 · 1,547 review
taCommentInfo-imageBased on 62 review
Highlights:
  • Enjoy the performers' gorgeous costumes, elaborate sets and spectacular lighting.
  • The combination of spectacular luxury theaters and prime locations in Bangkok has become the music show of choice for most tourists in Bangkok.
  • The Golden Dome Cabaret Performance won the 2017 Thailand Ten People's Choice Award from the Tourism Authority of Thailand.


△ Unique stage performance


Strong performance lineup


The theater is located in the heart of Bangkok and is easily accessible by car and public transport. The entire theater can seat almost 1,000 people. The performance lasts about 45 minutes. It is equipped with advanced lighting and sound systems, bringing a truly immersive performance experience. On the right hand wall of the entrance, you can see the 2005 Thai Contest. This show won the first place and won the first place. The whole performance is very watchable. After the show, you can pay some tips to take photos with the beauties.

Continue in the Trip.com App

* All user reviews in this article have been translated by machine.

* The information above is subject to change at any time. For the latest information, please check the websites of hotels and attractions.

Disclaimer: This article has been provided by an individual contributor or third party platform. If there is any discrepancy regarding the copyright, please contact us directly and we will delete the content immediately.
>>
Bangkok 1 Day Itinerary