Bangkok Unwrapped: 7 Days of Culture, Cuisine & Adventure

Welcome to Bangkok

a vibrant, buzzing metropolis where gilded temples meet bustling markets and sizzling street food collides with rooftop glamor. Known as the “City of Angels,” Bangkok delivers rich cultural heritage, dynamic street life, and some of the best food on the planet. Whether you’re a couple seeking romance, a family looking for adventure, or a solo traveler chasing unforgettable moments, this itinerary will help you soak up the best of Bangkok.

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Day 1: Temples, River Views & Street Food Magic

Start your day with coffee at Gallery Drip Coffee, a favorite among local creatives near Bangkok Art & Culture Centre. Head to The Grand Palace—Thailand’s most iconic attraction. Wander the dazzling halls of the Emerald Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Kaew) nearby. A short walk takes you to Wat Pho, home of the massive Reclining Buddha (Fun Fact: It’s 46m long and covered in gold!). For lunch, take a short walk to The Sixth, a small but beloved local Thai joint. Next, take a scenic Chao Phraya River Express boat (orange flag) to Wat Arun—climb up for a sunset view over the city. In the evening, enjoy a food tour with Bangkok Food Tours, exploring hidden gems around Chinatown. Wrap the night with drinks at Teens of Thailand, a funky gin bar hidden behind a wooden door in Soi Nana.

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Day 2: Floating Markets, Cultural Wonders & Rooftop Views

Grab a Thai iced coffee and a hearty breakfast at On Lok Yun, a nostalgic café loved by locals for over 80 years. Head out early via private car or tour van (Grab or hotel concierge can help) to the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market—ride a boat through a maze of vendors. On the way back, stop at Maeklong Railway Market, where a train literally passes through the stalls (timings are critical!). Back in Bangkok, lunch at Jay Fai, the Michelin-starred street food legend known for her crab omelet (go early or book a tour). Spend your afternoon at Jim Thompson House, a beautiful Thai teak home and museum. Then, head to King Power Mahanakhon Skywalk for jaw-dropping panoramic views. Dinner awaits at Bo.lan, a sustainable fine dining restaurant rooted in traditional Thai flavors. End your day with cocktails at Vertigo & Moon Bar, perched high on Banyan Tree’s rooftop.

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Day 3: Markets, Museums & Massage Bliss

Start at Kafe 428, a local coffee gem in Ari. Then dive into history at the Bangkok National Museum or the Museum Siam, which offers interactive displays ideal for families. Grab lunch at Polo Fried Chicken—a local legend known for its crispy garlic chicken. In the afternoon, get lost in Chatuchak Weekend Market (only open Fri–Sun)—over 15,000 stalls with everything from vintage fashion to exotic snacks. Cool off with mango sticky rice and coconut ice cream there. Head to Health Land Spa for a traditional Thai massage. Dine at Cabbages & Condoms, a unique restaurant that promotes safe sex education—yes, really! Nightcap at Iron Balls Distillery, an artsy spot known for its gin crafted on-site.

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Day 4: Local Life, Cooking Class & Night Vibes

Fuel up with a pour-over at Roots at The Commons, a stylish coffee hub in Thonglor. Then take the BTS to Bang Kachao, Bangkok’s “green lung,” for a morning bike ride through mangroves and peaceful gardens (rentals available on-site). Head back for lunch at Sanguan Sri, a no-frills favorite for creamy green curry. In the afternoon, join a cooking class at Baipai Thai Cooking School—learn to whip up pad thai, tom yum, and curry from scratch in a lush garden setting. Return to your hotel to freshen up. For dinner, try Err Urban Rustic Thai, a fun spot serving authentic, funky Thai dishes. End the night at Tep Bar, where live traditional music meets creative cocktails in a hidden alley.

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Day 5: Art, Cafés & Riverfront Leisure

Enjoy breakfast at Rocket Coffeebar S.12, a Nordic-style café loved by Bangkokians. Explore modern Thai art at the Bangkok Art & Culture Centre (BACC), then stroll through Lumphini Park—perfect for couples or solo travelers seeking a peaceful break from city buzz. Lunch at Som Tam Nua near Siam Square for the best papaya salad in town. Hop on a river ferry to Asiatique The Riverfront in the evening—a mix of open-air shopping, river views, and performances like Muay Thai shows or cabaret. Dine at Baan Khanitha for an upscale Thai feast in a lush garden setting, then ride the Asiatique Sky Ferris wheel to cap off the evening.

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Day 6: Family Fun or Adventure Escape

Start with breakfast at Baker Gonna Bake, then choose your adventure. For families, head to SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World and Madame Tussauds (connected by BTS Siam). For couples or solo travelers seeking thrills, take a day trip to Ayutthaya (1.5 hrs by train or guided van)—a UNESCO-listed ancient capital filled with temple ruins. Lunch at Raan Tha Luang in Ayutthaya. Return to Bangkok in the late afternoon. End the evening with a dinner cruise along the Chao Phraya River aboard the Loy Nava Dinner Cruise—romantic, cultural, and delicious.

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Day 7: Last-Minute Shopping & Departure Feels

Ease into your final day with a buttery croissant and espresso at Kenn’s Coffee & Croissant, then shop for souvenirs at ICONSIAM—a luxurious riverside mall with traditional Thai floating market vibes inside. Grab lunch at Baan Ice, known for spicy southern Thai food. If time allows, treat yourself to a final massage or high tea at the elegant Erawan Tea Room. Catch your ride to the airport via hotel shuttle or Grab.

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Useful Tips for First-Time Visitors to Bangkok

Currency: Thai Baht (THB); cash is king in markets and smaller eateries.
 

Language: Thai is official; English is widely understood in tourist zones.
 

Transport: Use the BTS Skytrain, MRT, tuk-tuks, or Grab (local Uber).
 

Footwear: Easy slip-ons are best—shoes must be removed when entering temples.
 

Water Safety: Drink bottled water only. Avoid ice from street vendors.
 

Etiquette: Dress modestly in temples. Don’t touch anyone’s head or point feet at Buddha images.
 

Time Zone: GMT+7
 

Visa: Most tourists get a free 30-day visa on arrival (check your country’s rules).
 

Emergency Numbers: 1155 (Tourist Police), 191 (Police), 1669 (Medical).
 

Health: Carry mosquito repellent and stay hydrated.
 

Apps to Download: Grab (transport), Google Translate, XE (currency), Wongnai (food), LINE.
 

Best Time to Visit: November to February for cooler, dry weather.