Need some inspiration for a day trip in Bangkok? Look no further! In this post, I am sharing the best places I’ve visited in Bangkok. To make planning your day trip even easier, I’ve also added a map to see the distances between locations. And while you’re at it, why not book your personal local tour guide telling you all about Bangkok through Hi, hi Guide (affiliate link).
PS: Are you planning a romantic getaway to Bangkok with your loved one? Check out these unforgettable things to do in Bangkok, especially for couples.
Grand Palace
We had to visit the Grand Palace on a different day because a tuk-tuk driver had scammed us. However, it is very much possible to see the Grand Palace in one morning, which makes it a good start of your day trip. Just don’t believe anyone trying to tell you that “the Grand Palace is closed today”.
The Grand Palace is a big complex and home to the Emerald Buddha temple (Wat Phrae Kaew). Wat Phrae Kaew is the most sacred temple in Thailand, so a strict dress code applies when visiting the Grand Palace. Make sure your shoulders and knees are covered, no see-through clothes and no bare feet.
Once inside the Grand Palace, there is an abundance of gold. The golden buildings and statues create beautiful photo opportunities.
Standing Buddha (Wat Intharawihan)
Just a 10-minute drive away from the Grand Palace is the Standing Buddha. I was definitely surprised and impressed with the height of this Buddha. It is inside a temple complex, so make sure to dress appropriately. The enormous Buddha is definitely the highlight of its temple complex, so we didn’t spend much time here.
Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho)
As if the Standing Buddha wasn’t tall enough with its 32 meters, the Reclining Buddha is 46 meters long. Apart from the Reclining Buddha, Wat Pho is full of beautiful architecture and gardens. Take in all the beauty while strolling around this temple complex.
Temple of Dawn (Wat Arun)
Wat Arun is just on the other side of the Chao Praya River from Wat Pho. To cross the river, we walked about 200 meters from Wat Pho to the Tha Tien Pier (also known as Pier 8). From the pier, we got on a small and cheap shuttle boat.
The temple complex itself has no lack of beautiful architecture and gardens. It is also full of wishing bells creating wonderful views. However, the most spectacular view is back on the other side of the river while watching the sunset.
Despite its name of being the temple of “dawn”, we actually had amazing views while watching Wat Arun during sunset. We weren’t the only ones trying to find space at one of the many riverside restaurants overlooking Wat Arun during sunset. In the end, we got lucky to find a space, so make sure you start looking well before sunset.
Khao San Road
If you are a bit of a party animal, you would love to end your Bangkok day trip in lively Khao San Road. After sunset, this street turns into a massive outdoor disco filled with alcohol buckets and music everywhere. It is a fantastic place to dance the night away with locals and fellow travellers.
Map
Add to your bucket list:
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If you prefer to book your Bangkok day tour in advance, check out:
- Viator – for organised group and private tours (price per person), or
- Hi, hi Guide – put together your own itinerary with a private tour guide (price per guide).
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