24 Hours in Bangkok: The Ultimate Bangkok Itinerary

If you only have 24 hours in Bangkok to spare, you need the ultimate list of things to do to see the best parts of the city. So, I went ahead and created the best travel guide for your single-day trip to Bangkok.

Bangkok is a massive city with many unique areas attracting different people. Firstly, you have your backpacker’s area, holiday locations, high-rise city apartments, and Chinatown. So, choosing the best spot to stay is crucial for your short visit to Bangkok!

Get ready for the ultimate 24 hours in Bangkok by following my travel guide so you don’t miss a thing!

The Ultimate 24 Hours in Bangkok

Arriving in Bangkok

Typically, visitors to Bangkok will arrive at one of the airports. There are two main airports, Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) and Don Mueang Airport (DMK).

For the most part, both airports are a similar distance to the main city area that everyone tends to visit. And, the main suburb that people tend to visit is called Phra Nakhon. Moreover, this is a backpackers paradise with loads to do in the area and plenty of budget hostels.

I would typically advise tourists to head to this area once arriving in Bangkok to start the 24-hour tour.

Where to Stay in Bangkok

Khaosan Social Capsule Hostel — $
Capsule dorm beds (Ultra comfy)
Clean bathrooms
Wristbands for easy access

Sleep Withinn Hotel — $$
Close to Khao San Road
Modern and private rooms
Rooftop pool

137 Pillars Suite — $$$
Balcony with city views
Luxurious private rooms
Stunning lounging space

How to Get around Bangkok

Time is of the essence and if you only have 24 hours in Bangkok, you need to know the best ways to get around. Nonetheless, there are quite a few options, so have no fear!

By foot: It’s easy to wander the streets of Bangkok by foot and there is loads you can see in the popular tourist areas.
Motorbike taxi: You will see thousands of motorbike taxis riding around and these are a cheap and easy way to make your way around the city. Use the app ‘Grab Taxi’ to make use of the motorbikes.
Grab taxi: Another popular way to get around is by using the app ‘Grab Taxi’, which is Thailand’s version of uber. It works the same way as Uber and is also how you can order motorbike taxis!
Tuk Tuk: Ah yes, the famous tuk tuks. Be prepared when you wander the streets of Thailand, you will constantly have Thai drivers calling out ‘Tuk Tuk!?’. However, these cheap rides can come in handy when you need to get around the city. But, be sure to agree on a price before heading to your destination. Expect to pay around 200 Thai Baht for a 15-minute ride.

The Best Things to Do in Bangkok with 24 Hours

Visit the Temple of the Emerald Buddha

Let’s say you’ve started your day from Phra Nakhon, the first thing you’ll want to do, is to head south to visit the Temple of the Emerald Buddha.

This temple absolutely glows in the sunlight and the gorgeous gold will leave you absolutely gleaming! Not to mention, this is on the grounds of the Grand Palace, so it’s a fantastic place to begin your explorations of Bangkok.

Wander through Chinatown

Next, take a short drive down to Chinatown to experience an entirely new wave of culture. Chinatown is a fantastic tourist destination packed with loads of street food stalls and restaurants.

Besides, there are a number of places you can shop to pick up a few new goodies! So, fill up your belly on this street with all of the deliciously cheap street food! Yum!

Relax at Lumphini Park

After you’ve filled up on tasty Chinese food, it’s time to take a short walk in the gorgeous Lumphini Park. Use this time to relax and unwind from the busy Bangkok streets and enjoy a breath of fresh air.

Be sure to check out the Chinese Pavillion and monument onsite. Finally, relax by the scenic lakes while taking in the views of the city!

Enjoy a Thai Massage

Have you really been to Bangkok if you haven’t had a Thai massage? I think not! Check out some of the massage parlours near the park, and wander on in for the ultimate Thai experience.

Many people are shocked after they receive their first Thai massage as it’s one of the more ‘intense’ massage experiences. Firstly, the masseuse will use a mix of compression, stretching, and acupressure to relieve your body of pain.

Not to mention, you will keep your clothes on for the entire massage, so be sure to wear clothing that is comfortable and stretchy! It’s a little bit more comfortable than stripping naked, and you will be left feeling absolutely limber!

Head to Sky Bar for Sunset Drinks

Likely, one of the best places for a sunset drink in Bangkok is the incredible Sky Bar. And, what a way to finish the day than with a delicious drink in hand while watching the sun go down!

Besides, it’s fascinating watching the city come to life and light up before your eyes; A truly incredible experience!

However, be prepared to pay a premium on the price with cocktails set at around 1100 Baht! Nonetheless, it’s the ultimate treat while in Bangkok.

Tip: Be sure to dress smart casual, and check the dress code online before visiting to avoid being turned away!

Watch a cabaret show

Cabaret shows are aplenty with loads of incredible ladyboy performers putting on an absolute show! Moreover, these shows are fun, and entertaining and the choreography is incredible!

Besides, they love getting the crowd involved, whose to say you’re not next on stage!?

Indulge in the Street Food

Fill your belly for 50 baht? Sign me up! Especially after a long day of exploring the city of Bangkok. So, you’ll want to head back towards Phra Nakhon and sit yourself down at one of the local restaurants or street food vendors.

Besides, this is the best time to indulge in some incredible Thai food. From curries to laab and spring rolls to salads, there is a huge range of food you can try!

Fill your tummy with delicious Thai food and get yourself ready for the final destination on this 24 hours in Bangkok mission.

Party on Khao San Road

Yep, you know you’ve heard of Khao San Road before. This is the ultimate place to party in Bangkok with ridiculously loud music, insane lights and a pumping atmosphere.

Besides, there is a huge mix of people here from backpackers, solo travellers, grey nomads and Thai locals. So, you never know who you might bump into to cheers a Chang with!

I highly recommend trying some bar hopping and heading into a few different bars to try out some of the local beers, or get around one of the alcohol-filled buckets!

Finally, check out this link for more things to do on Khao San Road.

Wrapping Up

So, that wraps up the ultimate 24 hours in Bangkok. And, I can imagine you’re thinking, wow what a day! Nonetheless, this is an excellent route to take as you will get to explore a little bit of everything from the wonderful city that is Bangkok.

Bangkok truly is a crazy place bursting with culture and it can be a little tricky trying to fit everything you wish to see in 24 hours. However, this travel guide gives you the best opportunity to try a little bit of everything!

So, be sure to save this post for later reading and pin these locations on your Google maps! Safe travels!