3 Days in Bangkok and Ayutthaya Itinerary: Exploring the Best of the Land of Smiles

Welcome to the Land of Smiles! Thailand, with its stunning temples, bustling markets, and breathtaking landscapes, offers a travel experience like no other. If you’re short on time but want to capture the essence of Thailand, this 3-day itinerary will guide you through the highlights, ensuring you experience the best this beautiful country has to offer.

Day 1: Exploring the Best of Bangkok

Morning: The Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew

Start your Thai adventure in the heart of Bangkok with a visit to the Grand Palace, a historical and architectural marvel. This sprawling complex, once home to the Thai King and the Royal court, is a must-see for first-time visitors.

Adjacent to the Grand Palace is the revered Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha). Be prepared to feel awestruck by the ornate golden structures and the sacred Emerald Buddha statue.

Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 3:30 PM

Address: Na Phra Lan Road, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok

Lunch: Local Thai Cuisine

After a morning of exploration, treat yourself to some authentic Thai cuisine. Head to the nearby Tha Maharaj, a riverside community mall where you can sample a variety of local dishes overlooking the Chao Phraya River. Don’t miss out on the iconic Pad Thai or a spicy Som Tum (Papaya salad).

Afternoon: Wat Pho and Wat Arun

In the afternoon, visit the Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha), known for its massive reclining Buddha statue and traditional Thai massage school. This temple is one of the oldest in Bangkok and offers a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.

Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 7:30 PM

Address: 2 Sanamchai Road, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok

After Wat Pho, take a short ferry ride across the river to visit Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn). Climb the central prang (tower) for breathtaking views of the river and city skyline. This temple is particularly stunning at sunset when its spires glow beautifully in the light.

Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Address: 158 Thanon Wang Doem, Wat Arun, Bangkok

Evening: Asiatique The Riverfront

End your day by visiting Asiatique The Riverfront, a large open-air mall and night bazaar located along the river. Here you can shop for souvenirs, enjoy a variety of dining options, and even catch a traditional Thai puppet show. The vibrant atmosphere and scenic riverside location make it the perfect place to unwind after a busy day.

Opening Hours: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM

Address: 2194 Charoenkrung Road, Wat Prayakrai, Bangkok

Day 2: Discovering Ancient Ayutthaya

Morning: Journey to Ayutthaya

Start your second day with a trip to Ayutthaya, the ancient capital of Thailand. You can take a train from Bangkok’s Hua Lamphong Railway Station, which will get you there in about 1.5 hours. Alternatively, consider booking a guided tour to make your journey seamless.

Mid-Morning: Historical Park

Once you arrive, head straight to the Ayutthaya Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The park is home to numerous temples, palaces, and statues. Key highlights include Wat Mahathat, famous for the Buddha’s head entwined in tree roots, and Wat Chaiwatthanaram, known for its beautiful Khmer-style architecture.

Lunch: Riverside Dining

For lunch, enjoy riverside dining at one of the local restaurants near the Chao Phraya River. You can savor traditional Thai dishes and fresh seafood while taking in the serene river views.

Afternoon: Ayutthaya Boat Tour

In the afternoon, explore Ayutthaya from a different perspective by taking a boat tour around the island. These tours offer a unique view of the temples and ruins from the water, providing a peaceful and scenic experience.

Another must-visit is Wat Phanan Choeng, where you can see a beautifully preserved, massive seated Buddha statue, revered by local Thai people and Chinese tourists alike.

Tour Duration: Approximately 2 hours

Evening: Return to Bangkok

After a full day of exploration, make your way back to Bangkok. Once you arrive, consider dining at a rooftop restaurant to enjoy panoramic views of the city’s skyline. Vertigo and Moon Bar at the Banyan Tree Hotel is a great option for an unforgettable dining experience.

Opening Hours: 5:00 PM – 1:00 AM

Address: 21/100 South Sathon Road Sathon, Bangkok

Day 3: Relaxing and Shopping in Bangkok

Morning: Chatuchak Market

Start your final day in Bangkok by visiting the Chatuchak Market, one of the largest markets in the world. The market has over 8,000 stalls selling everything from clothing to antiques, and its vibrant atmosphere makes for an exciting shopping experience.

Opening Days: Wednesday to Sunday

Address: Kamphaeng Phet 2 Road, Chatuchak, Bangkok

Lunch: Street Food Delights

No trip to Thailand is complete without indulging in its famous street food. Grab lunch at the market and try some local favorites like Skewered Meats, Thai Iced Tea, or Mango Sticky Rice.

Afternoon: Jim Thompson House

Spend your afternoon at the Jim Thompson House, a museum dedicated to the American businessman and his significant contributions to the Thai silk industry. The house itself is a beautiful traditional Thai-style home, set amid lush gardens.

Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Address: 6 Kasem San 2 Alley, Wang Mai, Bangkok