Most Bangkok itineraries will tell you to visit the Grand Palace and Chatuchak weekend Market—but what about the secret amulet market where locals buy mystical charms, or the abandoned 1980s airplane turned café? This Bangkok 3 Day Itinerary goes beyond the tourist traps to reveal under-the-radar spots, money-saving hacks, and authentic experiences most travellers miss—plus kid-friendly alternatives and where to stay (with exclusive CuddlyNest deals!). Let’s explore Bangkok like a local.
| Experience | Best Time to Visit | Cost | Kid-Friendly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grand Palace (Third Gate Entry) | 7:30-8:30 AM | 500 THB | Moderate |
| Chatuchak Ghost Market | 4:00-7:00 AM | Free | Limited |
| Bang Krachao Biking | 8:00-11:00 AM | 50 THB bike rental | Excellent |
| Wat Bowon Monk Chat | 6:00-7:00 PM | Free (donations welcome) | Teens+ |
| Liab Duan Night Market | 7:00-11:00 PM | 100-300 THB/meal | Family-friendly |
Pro Tip: Book CuddlyNest stays near these attractions for maximum convenience!
Day 1: Ancient Temples & Thai Culture with a Twist
Morning: Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaew (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
2025 Insider Tip: Enter through the “Third Gate” near Wat Phra Kaew’s ticket booth at 7:30 AM to avoid crowds
Hidden Gem: Wat Rakhang (10-min boat ride from Grand Palace) offers free monk blessings
With Kids Alternative: Wat Prayoon’s tortoise sanctuary instead of crowded Wat Pho
Dress Code Hack: Carry a lightweight scarf – nearby gold shops sell beautiful Thai silk ones for 100 THB
Afternoon: Chao Phraya River Adventure
Save Money: 50 THB orange-flag tourist boat day pass (unlimited rides)
Local Food Stop: Rot Dee Det floating noodle stall (40 THB) near Tha Wang Lang Pier
Unique Museum: Siriraj Medical Museum (perfect for teens interested in Thai history)
Evening: Authentic Thai Culture Experience
Skip Khao San Road for Phraeng Phuton Square’s live folk music
Cultural Bonus: Wat Bowon’s Monk Chat (6-7 PM daily)
Pro Tip: Grab foot massage at nearby Health Land Spa (300 THB/hour)
Day 2: Chatuchak Market & Bangkok’s Green Spaces – A Deep Dive into Thai Culture
Morning: Chatuchak Weekend Market Secrets
Thai Culture Immersion: Experience the “Ghost Market” behind Section 26 (opens 4 AM) where locals trade antique amulets – a slice of authentic Southeast Asia
Thai Food Alert: Neng Earthen Jar’s legendary mock duck (Section 2) proves vegetarian Thai food can be just as delicious as street food classics
With Kids: The free Bangkok Public Transport Museum (near Chatuchak) features retro trains from Thailand’s past – great before hitting Central World mall
Afternoon: Bang Krachao – Bangkok’s Central Park
Escape Modern Bangkok: Bike through jungle paths (50 THB/day) to floating boardwalks at Sri Nakhon Khuean Khan Park (2025’s new eco-feature)
Lunch with a View: Bangkok Tree House’s tree-top dining serves international food with local ingredients
Pro Tip: Combine with a visit to nearby Ancient City for a crash course in Thai history
Evening: Rooftop Bars & Khao San Road Alternatives
Local Favourite: Above Eleven’s free salsa nights (Wednesdays) offer Thai culture with skyline views
Hidden Gem: The Speakeasy Rooftop’s secret entrance behind Hotel Muse’s bookcase
Budget Alternative: Golden Mount (Wat Saket) sunset views (50 THB) then explore Khao San Road’s street art alleys.
Day 3: Chinatown Alleys & Traditional Thai Wellness
Morning: Bangkok’s Chinatown Hidden Spots
Secret Breakfast: Khao San Road regulars swear by Khao Gaeng Jake Puey’s 30 THB curry rice (look for blue shutters)
Cultural Gem: Wat Mangkon Kamalawat’s basement oracle readings reveal Thailand’s past through Chinese-Thai traditions
Coffee Break: Skip chain stores – old gold shops serve traditional Thai coffee with condensed milk
Afternoon: Authentic Thai Wellness
Traditional Thai Medicine: Wat Pho’s lesser-known branch at Wat Mahathat offers massage without crowds
Unique Treatment: Ruen Nuad’s herbal ball massage in a 100-year-old teak house
With Kids: Wat Pho’s traditional medicine demos make learning about Thai culture fun
Evening: Liab Duan Night Market
Local Alternative to touristy floating markets – vintage VW bus bars and live country music
Last Meal: Mango Tree Restaurant near Royal Palace serves refined versions of delicious street food classics.
Best Vegetarian Restaurants in Bangkok
Restaurants Near Grand Palace (Day 1)
- May Kaidee’s (Old City Branch)
- Why? Legendary vegan Thai food since 1988
- Must-try: Mushroom tom yum, pumpkin massaman curry
- Bonus: Offers cooking classes (500 THB)
- Walking distance from Wat Pho
- Ethos Vegetarian Restaurant
- Why? Organic ingredients, peaceful garden setting
- Try: Vegan “duck” noodle soup
- Perfect for: Post-temple lunch
Chatuchak Market Area (Day 2)
- Neng Earthen Jar Roasted Duck (Section 2, Chatuchak)
- Why? Famous for mock meats (try the “duck” with rice)
- Only 60 THB per plate
- Broccoli Revolution
- Why? Trendy vegan cafe near BTS Phrom Phong
- Must-order: Avocado pesto pasta, dragonfruit smoothie bowl
Chinatown (Day 3)
- Koko Vegan Corner
- Why? 100% vegan Chinese-Thai street food
- Try: Vegan shark fin soup (80 THB)
- Open late for night market snacks
- Mango Vegetarian & Vegan
- Why? Gourmet Thai fusion near Wat Mangkon
- Signature dish: Mushroom “crispy pork” over rice
Special Mentions
- Vistro (Sukhumvit Soi 11)
- For upscale dining: Vegan fine dining with wine pairings
- Govinda Vegetarian Buffet
- Budget pick: All-you-can-eat for 99 THB near Khao San Road
Pro Tip: Most restaurants label dishes as “เจ” (jay) for strict Buddhist vegan or “มังสวิรัติ” (mang-sa-wi-rat) for vegetarian. Always confirm no fish sauce!
Best Hotel Options in Bangkok
Day 1: Old City (Temples & River)
Affordable: Baan Pra Nond ($35) – Teak house near Grand Palace
Luxury: The Siam Hotel ($300+) – Private pool villas on the river
Day 2: Chatuchak/Sukhumvit (Markets)
Affordable: Cacha Hotel ($40) – Artsy rooms near Chatuchak
Luxury: Kimpton Maa-Lai ($250) – Rooftop pool by Lumpini Park
Day 3: Chinatown (Night Markets)
Affordable: Baan 2459 ($45) – Historic shophouse
Luxury: 137 Pillars Suites ($350) – Infinity pool with skyline views
Family Options:
Affordable: Vivit Hostel (family rooms)
Luxury: Anantara Siam (kids’ activities)
Ready for Your Bangkok Adventure?
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Exclusive 2025 deals with free cancellation—because your trip should be as flexible as your wanderlust.
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FAQs
“Is Grab (ride-hailing) cheaper than taxis in Bangkok?”
Yes, Grab often costs 20-30% less than metered taxis, especially during rush hour. Always check both options!
“Can I visit temples during Buddhist holidays?”
Yes, but expect closures for certain shrines. Major temples like Wat Pho remain open with special ceremonies you can observe.
“Are Bangkok’s street food stalls hygienic?”
Look for stalls with: (1) High turnover (2) Cooked-to-order items (3) Vendors wearing gloves. These are usually safest.
“Do I need to carry cash for markets/small shops?”
Absolutely. 70% of local vendors (especially Chatuchak and Chinatown) still only accept cash. ATMs charge 220 THB per withdrawal.
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