Bangkok Thailand Itinerary

Bangkok City Tour 

Bangkok itinerary has gone Mad! That's normal when you're in Bangkok city. Plans don't always go the way you want it but it's important to have at least a guide for your tour. We had a lot of changes and route problems yet those were the times where the fun of traveling begins. Let me walk you through the exciting chaos of our trip. Lucky you this itinerary looks better now. Let's go!

5 days itinerary in Bangkok

1st Day Sunday  

Arrival 1920H at Suvarnabhumi International Airport

A2 House Bangkok for 5 days Promotion Price: 5,200 BAHT

Address: 21/5, 1st Floor, Juladis Tower, Petchburi 19, Phayathai, Rachatevee, Pathumwan, 10400 Bangkok 

Shopping in Pratunam  Night Market 

2nd Day Monday

City Tour- estimate 1500 BAHT for each person - Wake-up time: 5:30 AM

Walking while having breakfast

Grand Palace Wat Pra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha)

Entrance: 350=700 BAHT, inclusive of: Grand Palace and the Temple of Emerald 

Buddha,Entrance ticket to Vimanmek Mansion Museum, Support Museum Abhisek Dusit Throne Hall, Sanam Chandra Palace,The Pavilion of Regalia, Royal Decorations and Coins.

Drive through the Giant Swing in front of Wat Suthat. Further ahead ,Democracy Monument  and pass by Khao San Road.

Check out Terminal 21 Mall

Lunch at Sansab Restaurant. Total of: 500 BAHT

Pratunam Night Market ( 5:00 PM-11:00 PM )

Dinner : Street Food Stalls align near Central World Mall. Food Rates: 50-200 baht

3rd Day Tuesday

Cancel Ayutthaya Tour -2500 BAHT (temples close due to flood)

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market Tour: 700 BAHT

Damnoen Saduak Residence

Lunch Damnoen Floating Market, Food rates: 50 BAHT - 150 BAHT

Wat Pho Reclining Buddha  - Directly adjacent to the Grand Palace 

Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) Opening Hours: 08:00 -17:30 

Located on the west side of Chao Praya River (opposite Tha Thien Pier) 

Take photos of Wat Arun by the river at Sunset

Dinner- Street Market

4th Day Wednesday

Shopping at Pratunam Fashion Mall

Night Food Bazaar in Ramkhamhaeng Soi 65

Food Prices ranges from 10 BAHT -200 BAHT

5th Day Thursday

MBK Mall & Siam Square Mall (Siam Paragon less than 500 metres away while Platinum Fashion Mall is less than 100 metres away) 

Also nearby is Pantip Plaza famous for electronic goods (External Drive Prices-1 terabyte: 1,800 BAHT-2,500 BAHT) and Pratunam Shopping Centre.

Night Departure at Suvarnabhumi International Airport.

What to do in Bangkok

We had a late afternoon departure from Cebu, Philippines to Bangkok around 1650H with an estimated arrival time of 1920H at Suvarnabhumi International Airport. We meet up with my cousin's friend's mum at the waiting lounge along with her funny and talkative friend. It's nice to see these ladies traveling; I'm glad I was able to purchase a ticket for my mum. I believe that we all should be traveling with our parents as often as possible because they're not getting younger and life is too short. It doesn't have to be an overseas trip, I've brought my family for a 3 days trip to Bohol and we had a blast. Despite the fact that I've been to Bohol for several times; it's always a different experience with different people.

I'm reading a book entitled "Time Keeper" by Mitch Albom while I glanced at my window. I've always loved sitting by the window when I'm on board a plane. I want to see how the day fades away or catch the first rays of sunlight. I see the light as it splatters the sky with orange light; too bad my camera can't catch the sunset in all its glory. The clouds were like mountains made with white boulders, or like series of waves on the beach as surfers wait for the big ride.

I was trying to check my itinerary when the stewardess passes by with their goodies. I saw that they're selling sunglasses and in minutes I've brought sunglasses on board the plane. We haven't reached the shopping capital of Thailand yet and here I am already doing my shopping. Its funny how I manage to budget ahead of time for this trip and reminded myself not to buy anything unnecessary. Flight goodies are just too expensive;  I guess I'm like a fly caught in a spider's web.

Mode of Transportation in Bangkok

We landed at Suvarnabhumi International Airport in Bangkok at night time, the terminal was humongous and people from different countries are everywhere. Thailand is one hour late compared to the Philippines so set your time right whichever country you're coming from. 

I was surprised when we purchased our MRT ticket in the form of a token. It reminded me of my childhood days we used to have this kind of candy with the same color, size and it tasted sour. 

1 token: 40 BAHT

MRT minimum fare: 20 BAHT 

Airport to Pratunam: 40 BAHT

Introducing the famous "Tuk Tuks" ride in Bangkok. It got its style from an old fashioned rickshaw during World War 2. Be vigilant when dealing with the drivers as sometimes they overpriced everything for the tourist. If you want a comfortable ride takes the colorful taxi's, bargain if you need to, sometimes those metered ones just want more.

Where to stay in Bangkok

A2 House Bangkok was more like a condominium than a hotel and the advantage of staying here is that when you head down you're just a few minutes away from the market. My cousin was our official tour guide for our stay in Bangkok. Firstly, we checked out Baiyoken Hotel which is just around the corner, it's the tallest hotel in Bangkok around 85-story high. 

Then there's McDonald's a few minutes away from our place with Ronald doing the famous hand gesture of Thailand.

Don't forget to buy your Water at 7 Eleven: 13 BAHT (1.5 ml bottled water)

The next day...Bangkok City Tour Begins.

We woke up early to get ready for our city tour and knowing I'm in a different country again totally lifted up my spirit of being a traveler. It immediately spiced up my morning smile. We decided not to waste our time sleeping and besides, it's better to avoid the traffic, with fewer people in the streets it will be easy to maneuver your way to find the best street food in town.

If you're a fan of dragon ball z then definitely you'll notice right away the monks in orange robes that walks barefoot along the streets of Bangkok. These Monks roamed around the market for a free shopping spree. They're highly respected and given goods when they passed by vendors, in return, they are given a small prayer which the people of Thailand believed as a blessing.

We wanted some french fries so we headed to McDonald's for some snacks, I've noticed people with their head bowed down and holding an incense, they were praying to their God. Bangkok has a majority of Buddhist worshipers, an altar is placed in the streets or beside any infrastructure is considered normal. Pay your respect as if it is your own religion.

We took a metered taxi from Pratunam Market to Grand Palace. When you're a tourist in another country it's better to be alert and keep your head in the zone. While waiting for our ride one taxi said he will take us there for 150 BAHT, we avoided taxi's who provide prices, eventually, we found out it actually just cost around 50 BAHT for a metered taxi. People will take advantage of your ignorance, it happens all the time so avoid walking too much in the clouds because you're on vacation. 

Grand Palace to Terminal 21 Mall with Metered Taxi: 95 BAHT

The next stop is Terminal 21, one of the famous attractions here in Bangkok. It was just constructed two years ago and now it's gaining a massive appraisal from people around the globe with its unique theme which can be seen in every level of the mall. I've managed to go to six countries in minutes! It only happens at Terminal 21 in Bangkok, Thailand. 

The last step is to feed our tummies as we got hungry walking along Pratunam area. We were lucky to have a cheap Tuk Tuk ride from Pratunam Market to Central World for only 50 baht. Usually, they charge around 100 baht or more for tourists. I guess it's better to ride this vehicle at night when they're tired and much easy to please. The Food Bazaar near Pratunam's High-end shopping center, the Central World Mall was mouth-watering. The food stalls along the streets were packed with people craving for a delicious dinner. More about that here: Food Tour in Bangkok

Third Day high...

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is located in the province of Ratchaburi. It is considered to be the most famous tourist destination among the floating markets in Thailand.

Promo Package: 700 BAHT (inclusive pick-up transfer-back from hotel)
Travel time: 2 hours away from Bangkok

After we had our visit to the floating market, we headed to Wat Pho Temple or Wat Phra Chetuphon, famously known as the temple of the reclining Buddha. It is located at Chetuphone road, behind Grand Palace. It is considered as the oldest and largest temple in Bangkok. The temple is really not that strict with the dress code they provide covers for people who want to see the reclining Buddha inside the temple.

The next stop was the Temple of the Dawn or Wat Arun located on the west side of Chao Phraya River. Wear proper dress code when you visit this temple, the same goes for Grand Palace to avoid renting clothes that are unnecessary for your budget list. We took the river ferry at Tha Tien Pier which is just a walking distance from Wat Pho Temple. I've actually planned to see the sunset at the temple but we were not able to get inside. On the other hand, as we depart going back to the city proper, the sunset by the Chao Praya River was explicitly beautiful. More about that here: Temple Run in Bangkok

The temple run in Bangkok was energy draining; we needed fuel to jam start our system. A good old Bangkok style food feast was all we need. We had our dinner in a standing style position while eating Barbecue with the popular sticky rice. It cost at a very affordable price. 


4th Day Yummy Tales

Best Day Ever! More about that here:Food Tour in Bangkok

Booking.com

Bangkok Shopping Malls

5th Day Shopping Time

What you need for this day is a pair of comfortable flats, summer dress, loads of bats in your pocket, I mean BAHT, sunglasses, sunscreen, bottled water (must-have!) and of course some strong muscles to carry all the loads of shopping bags, well if you're a princess. 

The sun was up and the streets were buzzing with people as we make our way to the market. No matter how other women deny they love shopping, we always have it within us. We might have different preferences and time allotted for shopping but women just love shopping. I can attest to that! In spite of my continuous bragging about how long my mom can decide for a certain dress or the color of a polo shirt, I was actually enjoying my bragging about it. It sounded so ridiculous but at the end of the day when we arrived at our place; I saw my new clothes and t-shirts for my brothers laid down in the bed and I had this huge smile on my face. However, It was really exhausting and just don't want to do it again. It's not really my idea of a vacation I would prefer to be trekking for hours in the mountains or have the sunburn my back at the beach.

Terminal 21 Mall is the most creative and unique mall I've ever seen. It is located at Watthana district between Sukhumvit and Asok intersection. A must-see for everyone and if you're passing by Bangkok you surely shouldn't miss this spot. Every level of the mall has a specific country theme and what makes it more amazing is the designs they have incorporated in the comfort rooms- which is one of my bizarre hobbies collecting different kinds of comfort room signs and artistic designs. More about that here: Peepoosigns for more unique restroom, powder room, bathroom, latrine, powder room, toilet room, washroom, water closet, W.C., public lavatory, etc. 

Lower Ground Floor - Caribbean

A relaxing and cool beach theme with a lighthouse and benches you can hang around. It is a wonderland for beach lovers and laid back people who want a new environment that feels like you're away from the city, despite you're actually in the city.

Outlets: supermarkets, restaurants, banks, bookshops and convenient shops.

Ground Floor - Rome
The sculptures and paintings will bring you to the rich artistic side of Rome.

Outlets: luxury brands and boutiques

Main / Upper Ground Floor - Paris ( Champs-Élysées Boulevard and Parisian Boutiques Streets)

See the mesmerizing mini Eiffel Tower and the romantic ambiance of Paris.

Outlets: Thai designer's boutiques and beauty shops.

1st Floor - Tokyo ( Nakamise-Dōri Market and Harajuku Town )
Meet the famous Sumo wrestlers as they battle for strength as they flaunt their sexy back's, as you walk along you'll find Torii and Maneki Neko in the corner.

Outlets: ladies' boutiques.

2nd Floor - London's Oxford Street

Walk in the hallway with red telephone booths and passed by double-decker buses.

Outlets: men's wear, jeans, and sporting goods.

3rd Floor - Market Town of Istanbul

The hanging lights were hypnotizing and beautiful, the color-filled my eyes with splash of vibrant details.

Outlets: mini-shops of shoes, bags, jewelry, gifts and decoration products.

4th Floor - San Francisco City

The Golden Gate Bridge was eye-catching and everybody can't seem to grasp the idea of an enormous replicate of the San Francisco bridge in the center of the mall. Picture taking was on all sides of the bridge. 

Outlet: Thailand's famous restaurants.

5th Floor - San Francisco's Fisherman Village

Giant marine creatures are everywhere and if you're starving, the sight will surely keep you salivating.

Outlets: International restaurants and food court of Pier21.

6th Floor - Hollywood

Outlets: Cinema City, Fitness First, spa and IT products zone. 

More shopping eh?

Pratunam's Market is located at the intersection of Ratchaprarop and Phetburi Road, opposite of Platinum Fashion Mall and nearby is the famous Baiyoke tower II. Pratunam Night Market starts at 5:00 PM until 11:00 PM. You'll get more discounts if you buy clothes at wholesale prices. For a minimum of 3 items, you can save up to 30-50 baht each and for 6 items almost 50% discount. 

A few meters away is the Platinum Fashion Mall which is the opposite of Pratunam Market. This is where more fashionable with more quality items are sold and at much higher prices compared to the market. 

Surprisingly, I've taken two shots of the streets without even know: the daylight and nighttime view. It's a great comparison of how traffic works in Bangkok.

Pratunam to MBK Shopping Mall by taxi: 50 baht. From MBK Mall you can transfer from one mall to another, they're all closely built along with Siam Malls. MBK mall is located on Phayathai, near Siam Tower and Hard Rock Cafe, also near BTS National Stadium. The MBK mall was next to Siam Square and Siam Center and they're connected by sky bridges. The next mall we headed was the Siam Center/Siam Discovery Center where it features class and sophisticated shops.

An asleep white-colored friend of Snoopy was enormously placed near a post to give people mischievous thought or simply an eye-teaser. Alongside is a tunnel that leads to the Siam Paragon Mall. As we make our way to the hallway we passed by interesting arts. A vein-like tree branch literally hanged on a rectangular frame giving the corner an eerie feeling. While a set of wine glasses were literally pasted to a whiteboard which exceptionally creates beautiful reflection shadows.

The highlight shot of my day. It was looking through a fish-eye lens, which I don't have one and I just ridiculously imagining it when taking this photo. A simple picture that shows lifeways. Two couples cuddle in one chair, while a young lady reading a book perhaps a student sits quietly. A guy waiting for someone and glances at the lovebirds at the corner of his eye and a young woman relaxing after a day's work. One picture can tell a thousand stories. 

The next picture shows life simple joys. Two friends playfully sit on one chair, in spite of having three chairs unoccupied. Outside Siam Paragon is a dancing fountain and a wide area to see the sunlight. 

Siam Paragon has its own version of Gardens by the Bay just like in Singapore, which is more smaller in size and they made it as interior design. Taxi back to Pratunam Market fare 50 baht. Be alert some taxi even offered us 150 baht for just a 10 minutes ride. Always take metered taxi never ride a taxi with a Flat Fare. If they insist then go get yourself another cab, their dishonesty only proves they can't be trusted.

Pantip Market located Petchaburi Road and opposite Pratunam's City Complex, famous for selling cheap electronic goods. We bought a pocket Mp3 player for my brother that turns out to be just junk for my brother, I use it now for my routine running and I only paid 450 baht for it. 

When the sun goes down a different kind of shopping emerges in Bangkok. We definitely did not miss the chance to be there, we head straight to the Night Bazaar at Ramkamheng Soi 65 for cheaper clothes and delicious street foods. I had more street food shopping during the night bazaar. I feel more satisfied trying out a variety of foods than shopping for clothes. More about that here: Food Tour in Bangkok

Have fun and be safe ^__^

Itinerary Reminders:

1. Flight Details

Make sure to write down your booking reference number, be at the airport two hours before your flight and allocate time for your travel to the airport.

2. Accommodation Details

Write down your hotel/motel/resort/BnB booking number. Contact your place to inform them around when you'll be arriving — it really does help.  Also, ask if your accommodation has any discounted activities.  You'd be surprised!

3a. Transportation

List possible times your bus/train/boat arrives and leaves so you don't miss an activity.  Always give yourself an extra 30-45 minutes in case you get lost, get stuck in traffic, or are looking for parking.  Better early than late.  Of utmost importance: check for the last trip and fares!  So you still have time and money to get back.

3b. Car Rentals

Take note of your pick-up address and time allotted.  Our last car rental told us to bring the car back by a certain time with a certain amount of gas.  Allot money for fuel and parking.

4. Budgeting

Set aside a minimum and maximum spending amount for meals, transportation, entrance fees, activities, souvenirs, and emergencies.  3 meals a day + snacks add up quickly, so keep track!  As well as tips for restaurants and activities.

5. Activities

Call to confirm your booking(s) a day or so beforehand.  Set alarms and/or calendar reminders for things you plan to do (i.e- bungee-jumping, river-rafting, or even city/food tours).

Do you want more adventure?

If you still have more days to spare then have an exciting day checking out these places :
1.Temples of Bangkok City, 2.Floating Market Tour, 3.Bangkok Food Tour

Where am I going next?
My next adventure is Backpacking Trip in Cambodia and see the ruins of Angkor Wat.