3 Week Bangkok Only Itinerary

Day 1 - 3: Arrival

Arrive in Bangkok and settle into your accommodation.

Spend the first day exploring the neighborhood and getting to know the local area. Eat all of the Thai street food you desire.

On the second day, visit a local coffee factory to learn about coffee production and enjoy a fresh cup of coffee. Some great options include Akha Ama Coffee, Pacamara Coffee Roasters, or Roots Coffee Roasters. I am most excited to try Factory Coffee.

Visit the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre. This is a contemporary arts center that features a wide range of exhibitions and events, including visual art, music, film, and theater. You can also enjoy a cup of coffee at their cafe or browse their gift shop for souvenirs.

Do a tour to the Jim Thompson House. This is a beautiful traditional Thai house that was owned by Jim Thompson, an American businessman who played a key role in reviving Thailand's silk industry. The house is now a museum that showcases Thompson's collection of Southeast Asian art and antiques, and you can take a guided tour of the house and gardens to learn more about Thompson's life and legacy.

Day 4 - 6: Dream World and Wat Arun

Spend the day at Dream World, a popular amusement park located about 30 kilometers outside of Bangkok. There are over 40 attractions to enjoy, including roller coasters, water rides, and themed areas such as Adventure Land, Fantasy Land, and Dream Gardens. The park also offers live shows and parades, as well as a variety of food and drink options.

The next day, visit Wat Arun, one of Bangkok's most famous temples. This temple is located on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River and is known for its stunning architecture and intricate details. The central prang (tower) is decorated with colorful glass and Chinese porcelain, and you can climb to the top for some stunning views of the river and city skyline. The temple is also illuminated at night, making it a beautiful spot for evening visits.

While in the area, take a boat ride along the Chao Phraya River and explore the nearby attractions such as the Grand Palace and Wat Pho. The Grand Palace is a complex of buildings that served as the official residence of the Kings of Siam (and later Thailand) since 1782. The palace is home to several impressive structures, including the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Wat Pho, also known as the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, is one of the largest and oldest temples in Bangkok, and is known for its giant gold-plated statue of a reclining Buddha. It's also a great place to experience traditional Thai massage and wellness treatments.

Eat all of the Thai street food again and check out local shops, stimulating the economy.

Day 7 - 10: GMMTV Building and Japanese Food

Visit the GMMTV building, a popular TV station in Bangkok. You can take a tour of the main floor, buy merchandise, and learn about the production process of some of Thailand's most popular TV shows. Maybe even bump into Tay Tawan (crosses fingers!).

Go to the Bangkok Farmer's Market on Sukhumvit.

For lunch, head to Kuroda, a Japanese restaurant located in the Sukhumvit area. They serve up a variety of Japanese dishes, including ramen, donburi, and sushi.

Start your next day with breakfast at Tsu Japanese Restaurant in the JW Marriott Hotel Bangkok. Try their Japanese-style breakfast set that includes grilled salmon, miso soup, rice, and pickled vegetables.

Head to Emporium Shopping Complex for lunch at Hana Dining Sake Bar. This modern Japanese restaurant serves up delicious sushi, sashimi, and tempura, as well as a wide selection of sake.

In the evening, make your way to Kabocha Sushi for dinner. This small, cozy restaurant is known for its creative and delicious sushi rolls, including their signature Kabocha Roll that features pumpkin tempura, avocado, and cream cheese.

Day 11-14: Zoo and Chatuchak Market

Depart from Bangkok early in the morning and head to Khao Kheow Open Zoo, which is located approximately 80 kilometers away.

Arrive at the zoo and begin your adventure by taking a tram tour to see various animals such as elephants, tigers, leopards, bears, and more. After the tram tour, explore the rest of the zoo by walking along the jungle trails and observing the animals up close. Visit the animal shows, which include bird shows, elephant shows, and more.

Have lunch at one of the zoo's restaurants before continuing to explore the zoo in the afternoon. Don't miss the chance to do some ziplining or try out the Sky Walk if you're feeling adventurous.

Depart from the zoo in the late afternoon and return to Bangkok.

Find a restaurant you've been wanting to try or eat even more delicious street food.

Head to Chatuchak Market early in the morning to avoid crowds and find the best deals. Begin by exploring the sections of the market that interest you most, whether it's clothing, accessories, antiques, or souvenirs. Take a break from shopping and visit the food section, which offers a wide variety of Thai dishes and snacks.

In the afternoon, head to the nearby Chatuchak Park for a relaxing stroll or a picnic. Return to the market in the late afternoon to continue shopping or take a break at one of the market's cafes or bars.

Before leaving, don't forget to visit the art section of the market, where you'll find unique paintings, sculptures, and other artworks.

Day 15-18: Chinatown and Thai Food

Go to Wat Mangkon Kamalawat, a famous Chinese temple located in the heart of Chinatown. This temple is known for its intricate decorations and ornate architecture.

After exploring the temple, walk along Yaowarat Road, the main street in Chinatown, and take in the sights and sounds of the bustling neighborhood. Stop at one of the street food vendors and try some of the local delicacies, such as dim sum, seafood, and noodle dishes.

Visit the Odeon Circle, a historic landmark in the area, and take some photos of the iconic gate and dragon sculptures. Walk along Charoen Krung Road and visit the shops selling traditional Chinese herbal medicine, tea, and other goods.

One evening, visit the night market on Yaowarat Road and browse through the various stalls selling clothing, accessories, and souvenirs. End that day with dinner at one of the many Chinese restaurants in the area, where you can try dishes such as Peking duck, hot pot, and roasted pork.

Spend the next few days indulging in some delicious Thai food. You can try some of the city's best local dishes like pad thai, tom yum soup, and green curry at places like Jay Fai, Err, or Thip Samai.

Visit Lumphini Park to take a walk and get some fresh air. Spot the water monitors (lizards) along the waterline.

Day 19-21: Last days in Bangkok

Spend your last days in Bangkok exploring any attractions you may have missed or want to revisit. I am huge on fanmeetings and concerts so I am hoping there are a few scheduled during my time here.

You can also indulge in some relaxing activities like a spa day or a traditional Thai massage.

End your trip with a farewell dinner at one of Bangkok's famous rooftop bars like Vertigo Grill and Moon Bar or the Sky Bar at Lebua State Tower.

This itinerary offers a mix of activities, attractions, and relaxation time to make the most of your three weeks in Bangkok, Thailand.