Palaces, Ruins, and Markets: 3 Days in the Thai Capital 🇹🇭

Bangkok is the bustling capital of Thailand. Life never really slows down here, with its glimmering temples and chaotic markets. Whether you’re on a short city break or transferring to another part of Thailand, you will always discover something new in the city. Here are my recommendations for a 3 day stay in Bangkok:

1️⃣ Palaces and Temples

The city’s most striking landmarks are its temples and palaces. The Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew are at the top of the list, with their golden spires and the sacred Emerald Buddha inside. Just a short walk away, Wat Pho is home to the massive Reclining Buddha and is also known as the birthplace of traditional Thai massage. Across the river, Wat Arun offers one of the best views in the city, especially at sunset when its porcelain-covered spires catch the fading light. Take the short boat ride across the river to enjoy the impressive views of Wat Arun.

2️⃣ Markets and Shopping

Bangkok’s markets are legendary, but on this trip I focused on two very different ones. Chinatown’s Yaowarat Road is an absolute feast for the senses, especially at night when neon signs light up the streets and food vendors serve everything from dumplings to mango sticky rice. In contrast, Indy Market Pinklao has a much more local and relaxed atmosphere. It’s the kind of place where Bangkok residents shop, eat, and hang out, with rows of food stalls, small fashion shops, and live music adding to the vibe.

3️⃣ Ayutthaya

A day trip to Ayutthaya is a great way to step back in time. Once the capital of Siam, the city is now a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with crumbling temples, ancient ruins, and giant Buddha statues. Wat Mahathat is the most famous stop, where a Buddha head is wrapped in the roots of a tree, while Wat Chaiwatthanaram, with its Khmer-style towers, is especially beautiful in the late afternoon. Exploring the ruins by bicycle or tuk-tuk makes the experience even more memorable.

🏨 Where to Stay: The Scene BangkokNoi Hotel is located in a quieter part of the city. It offers clean and spacious rooms and it’s surrounded by local restaurants.

🍜 Where to Eat:
🍗 Indy Market Pinklao
🍚 Localfood Restaurant
🍖 Somtum & Plara
🥗 Convent Road Street Food

#historicallandmarks #localguides #familytrip #deliciousfood #trip #tripmoments #travel #thailand #bangkok #thailandtrip

Post by Darren_in_Barcelona | Aug 20, 2025

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