NoorThis travel guide will provide you with everything that you will need to have 3 perfect days in Bangkok, plus additional day trips if you should choose.
For the solo traveller, there will be plenty of options to experience on your own, as well as tour suggestions to choose from. And for the Muslim traveller, there will be lots of Halal restaurant recommendations along the way. Despite having a large Muslim population, it can sometimes be hard to find Halal eateries, so I’ve done the leg work for you.
How Many Days Should I Spend In Bangkok?
If you are wondering how many days you should spend in Bangkok, you are in the right place. First, of all, it’s easy to see the main sights in a day, especially if you are only in Bangkok for a layover or for a quick business trip.
If you’re looking for a 1-day itinerary in Bangkok, you can find it here.
However to get a real feel of Bangkok’s culture, various shopping scenes, and surrender to the Thai way of relaxation I would say 3 days in Bangkok would be perfect.
If you are looking to work in some additional day trips, and possibly an overnight stay, 5 days in Bangkok will suit you perfectly.
And in that spirit, this itinerary below will be perfect for anyone looking to spend 3-5 days in Bangkok.
Why Is Bangkok Perfect For A Solo Muslim Traveller?
Bangkok is where I personally made my first stop on my very first ever Solo Female Travel. I chose it because it has been very well travelled by other solo travellers from all around the world, and Thailand, in general, is accustomed to tourists.
Not to mention that there is a large Muslim population in Thailand. So I knew I would be comfortable travelling in my hijab, without the fear of facing any prejudice. And yes, halal food is readily available… if you’re willing to hunt them down that is.
Be sure to check out my Ultimate Solo Female Travel Guide, if you are considering making your own Solo Female Travel. It’s useful for both the first timer and the well travelled solo traveller.
So now that we have the why, let’s dive into how to spend 3 – 5 perfect days in Bangkok.
Day 1 of 3 Days In Bangkok – Culture
Day 1 of 3 in Bangkok. Today we are going to jump right into the heart of Bangkok, and we will be exploring its cultural side.
Breakfast
Wake up nice and early to head out for a day of sightseeing. Bangkok is a very hot, humid, and busy city, so you will want to get out before the heat and crowd increases.
Start your day by having breakfast at your hotel, or opt for a café near the first attraction on the list. For the solo traveller, this could be a perfect way to meet the locals and people watch.
Halal Breakfast Eateries Near The Grand Palace
- Hava: 163 Arun Amarin Rd, Wat Arun, Bangkok Yai, Bangkok 10600, Thailand – Opens at 7 am
- Ayeeshah Roddee: 103 105 Thanon Tani, Talat Yot, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand – Opens at 8 am
- Salam: Trok Wang Lang Alley, Siri Rat, Bangkok Noi, Bangkok 10700, Thailand – Opens at 10:30 am
The Grand Palace
The first stop of the day, will be at the Grand Palace Complex in Bangkok.
The Palace complex was established in 1782 and consists of royal and throne halls, government offices, and the famous Temple of The Emerald Buddha. Be sure to check out the official site for a full list of attractions.
Tickets: 500 Baht for Foreigners, i.e. around £12.36. You can purchase your ticket online up to 24 hours prior to the date of your visit.
Opening Time: 8:30 AM – 3:30 PM
Dress Code: Strictly enforced for entry and visitation of the site. Further information can be found here. But the general rule is to ensure that your knees and shoulders are covered, regardless of male or female.
The Temple of The Emerald Buddha
The Temple of The Emerald Buddha will be the first of the many temples that you will visit during your 3 days in Bangkok. As mentioned above, it resides within the grounds of the Grand Palace complex, and your previously purchased ticket will grant you access to the temple.
The Temple of The Emerald Buddha is locally known as Wat Phra Sri Rattana. This temple is famous for housing the three costumes of the buddha. Each costume symbolises the Thai seasons, summer, winter, and the rainy season.
The Emerald Buddha without surprise has been carved from a block of Jasper, and the clothing is all made from gold and jewellery.
TIP: If you time your visit with the start of a new season, you will be able to witness the changing of the costume by the king himself.
Wat Phra Chetuphon – Wat Pho Temple of The Reclining Buddha
The next stop of the day is at the Temple of The Reclining Buddha, also known as Wat Phra Chetuphon in Thai.
If it’s not obvious, this is home to the famous 15 meters tall by 46 meters long reclining Buddha. And luckily, it’s next door to the Grand Palace complex so you won’t have to travel much. In fact, it’s only a 10 minutes walk away.
Ticket: 200 Baht, available for purchase at the entrance of the temple on the day of your visit.
Opening Hours: 8 AM – 6:30 PM
As you step in, you would notice there are bowls lined up along the length of the walls. 108 to be precise, symbolising the 108 positive actions that lead Buddha to find perfection.
Before you enter, you will be able to buy a bowl of coins to drop into these bowls as you walk around the temple. This is meant to bring you good luck. All the coins donated will be used to maintain the temple.
And as you look up, you will notice the Buddha reclining gloriously, and completely laced in gold leaf. The feet alone are 3 meters tall and 4.5 meters long and inlaid with mother of pearls.
TIP: Although Wat Pho is a major point of attraction for anyone visiting Bangkok, it is crucial to remember that this a sacred temple. Therefore, the utmost respect must be observed at all times.
Thai Massage School
After all the walking, why don’t you sit or lay down for an authentic massage at the Thai Massage school located on-site? This massage school is renowned for its massages, and it’s a perfectly safe location for any solo traveller.
Lunch
After all of that walking and a relaxing massage, if you opted for one, it’s now time to sit down for a meal. Head to any restaurant near Wat Pho (in the direction of the river).
There aren’t any halal restaurants within the vicinity, so opt for a vegetarian or seafood meal. Or if you’re like me, skip the main course and go directly for a mango sticky rice dessert. Trust me you won’t regret it!
Bangkok Flower Market
To carry on with the second half of the first of 3 days in Bangkok, take a visit to the Bangkok flower market. If you’re visiting during a festival such as Loy Krathong, this market is a must-see. For the photography enthusiast, this is a must-visit.
Temple of Dawn – Wat Arun Ratchawararam
Now that you’ve had some lunch and much needed rest off your feet, you’ll be refreshed enough for one final temple visit across the river. Wat Arun is located on the west side of the Chao Phraya River, and it will be the next stop on your 3 days in Bangkok.
Ticket: 100 baht, the ticket can be pre-purchased online via their website
Opening Hours: 8 AM – 5:30 PM
This is an ancient temple that was built in the Ayutthaya period. It is one of the most unique temples that you will visit during your 3 days In Bangkok. the best part, you can reach this temple by boat or land.
TIP: Opt for a boat transfer across the river. Climb aboard from the Tha Tian Express Boat Pier to the Wat Arun Ferry Pier
For the photography lover, the best time to visit is at sunrise or sunset. So feel free to come back for a second visit after hours.
Boat Ride Along The Chao Phraya River
Next on the itinerary of 3 days in Bangkok, take a boat ride along the Chao Phraya River, en route to Khao San Road. This will allow you to view the city from the riverside.
Start: Wat Arun Ferry Pier
End: Phra Athit Ferry Terminal
Khaosan Road
For the last activity on the first day of 3 days in Bangkok, we are heading to Khao San road, aka backpacker central. This is a perfect spot for a solo traveller, Muslim females included, to connect with other travellers and make friends.
By day, Khaosan Road is very quiet with massage parlours open and roadside street food available. Not to mention there are some shopping options. But at night, this is when the road really comes alive. It’s filled to the brim with revellers and foodies all out to have a good time.
Whilst the street is generally safe, it’s a tourist hotspot which could attract pick pocketers. Ensure you remain mindful and aware of your surroundings whilst you’re having fun. Especially as a Solo Female Traveller.
Be sure you’ve read my Ultimate Top 10 Travel Safety Guide before heading off on your trip to ensure you are prepared.
If nothing here suits your fancy, there are a couple of Halal restaurants available nearby:
- Halal Food Court: 172 Tani, Talat Yot, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand
- Ayeeshah roddee: 103 105 Thanon Tani, Talat Yot, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand
After you’ve had your fill of Bangkok on your first day of 3 days in London, head back to your hotel for a restful sleep. There’s lots more to explore on the second day.
Day 2 of 3 Days In Bangkok – Shopping
The theme for the 2nd day of our 3 days in Bangkok, is shopping.
Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
The first stop of the 2nd day of our 3 days in Bangkok is at Damnoen Saduak Floating Market for some old-world charm.
If you haven’t heard of it before, this is the famous market where the merchants are floating in wooden boats filled with all sorts of foods, fruits, goods, and souvenirs for sale.
Opening Times: 7 AM – 5 PM
TIP: This will require an early start, so aim to leave Bangkok as early as possible. Ideally by 7.30 AM.
Whilst this trip can be done by taxi, I would recommend going with a tour company for the morning that includes your transfers. This would take a lot of hassle out of the trip, especially for a Solo Female Traveller, and it would give you a chance to make friends.
Tour Options
- Tripadvisor: Half-Day Railway Market and Floating Market Tour in Thailand – From £25.33
- Klook: Damnoen Saduak Floating Market Half Day Tour by Oriental Holiday – From £28.49
- Get Your Guide: Damnoen Saduak Floating Market 6-Hour Tour – From £17.95
I know joining a tour as a solo traveller can sometimes be intimidating, but I always enjoy meeting other travellers and exchanging travel stories during the commute.
Bangkok Shopping Malls
Back in the modern world, there are plenty of shopping malls to choose from for a spot of shopping. Below I’ve listed the top 5 malls to hit today.
In order of largest to the smallest shopping malls in Bangkok:
Be sure to check out the food court at whichever mall you choose, for a spot of lunch or dessert. Most of these if not all, will have a food court tailored to all dietary requirements. Including Halal.
Dinner With A View
After spending the 2nd day of your 3 days in Bangkok floating on the water and shopping the best malls, let’s end the day with dinner and a view.
Whether you choose to have your dinner at one of these venues or have your dinner elsewhere, these are fantastic options to wind down with a view at the end of the day.
Sky Bar at Lebua
For the highest view of Bangkok’s skyline, head to the Sky Bar at Lebua, after a hearty dinner for a view that you won’t soon forget. If you visit at sunset or night, you will have a fantastic view of the city all lit up. And yes, this is the famous location from The Hangover 2.
Opening Hours: 4PM – 1AM
Location: 63rd Floor
TIP: They have a complete menu of Non-alcoholic cocktails for the non-drinker to sip on whilst enjoying the view.
Local Halal Restaurant
- Kareemah Halal Restaurant: next to Bangrak Clinic, Charoen Krung 42/1 Alley, Khwaeng Bang Rak, Bang Rak, Bangkok 10500, Thailand
Vertigo and Moon Bar, Banyan Tree Hotel
For a Vertigo inducing view, head to the Vertigo and Moon Bar at the Banyan Tree hotel. For the non-alcoholic drinkers, you can opt for a mocktail as you take in the views of the city. Obviously, if heights aren’t your thing, then opt for another venue.
Opening Hours: 6PM – 10:30PM
Location: 61st Floor
TIP: Vegetarian Friendly
Local Halal Restaurants
- Yellow Rice: 36/4 Convent Rd, Silom, Bang Rak, Bangkok 10500, Thailand
- Mrs Balbir’s: 191 Si Lom, Silom, Khet Bang Rak, Bangkok 10500, Thailand
- Mama’s Shabu and Grill: 103 ถนน นางลิ้นจี่ Thung Maha Mek, Sathon, Bangkok 10120, Thailand
For my fellow Unicorn lovers, make a pit stop at the Unicorn Cafe for a colourful experience, before heading to the Vertigo.
- Unicorn Cafe: 44/1 Soi Sathon 8, Silom, Bang Rak, Bangkok 10500, Thailand
Sky View 360, Grand China Hotel
For a dinner with a revolving view, head to Sky View 360 at the Grand China Hotel. The best part, you won’t have to run around trying to see everything as the restaurant will slowly rotate as you enjoy your meal.
Opening Hours: 11AM – 12AM
Location: 25th Floor
Day 3 of 3 Days In Bangkok – Ayutthaya
Day 3 of 3 days in Bangkok, we’ll be heading north of Bangkok to the province of Ayutthaya in central Thailand. This is a historical city that was the old capital of the Kingdom of Siam.
Ayutthaya Historical Park
This historical park is not like any parks that you are accustomed to. It’s an archaeological site holding the remains of the Kingdom of Siam that was founded in circa 1350. It is easy to see why this is the main attraction when visiting Ayutthaya.
Ticket: Free
Opening Hours: 8:30AM – 6PM
TIP: Read up on the history of Ayutthaya and the ruins prior to visiting, otherwise you will just be looking at structures.
Wat Chai Watthanaram
This royal Buddhist Temple is another spectacular ruins to marvel at. Whilst it was restored in the 17th century, it still promises to transport you back in time. With the temple being set along the riverside, this will be a haven for any photography enthusiast, especially come sunset.
Halal Restaurants
You will be glad to know that there are many Halal restaurants in Ayutthaya. Some best rated ones in the area are:
- Khrua Muslim Ayutthaya: 33/5 ตำบล บ้านป้อม Ban Pom, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 13000, Thailand
- HALAL FOOD: Pratu Chai Sub-district, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 13000, Thailand
- Yee Loh (Bang Rig) Original Muslim Restaurant: 61 หมู่3 Si Sanphet Rd, Pratu Chai Sub-district, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 13000, Thailand
- Mariam Halal Food Restaurant: ภูเขาทอง 10/3 หมู่ 1 ตำบล หัวรอ Tambon Phu Khao Thong, Amphoe Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 13000, Thailand
How To Get To Ayutthaya From Bangkok
Bangkok To Ayutthaya By Train
Depending on the day or time you choose to leave or arrive in Ayutthaya, it will depend on what route you will take and the length of the journey.
If you choose to leave Bangkok at 8AM, you can depart on one of the quickest journeys of the days promising you will arrive in Ayutthaya by 10:23AM.
Bangkok To Ayutthaya With a Tour
Whilst it is possible to get there on your own, I would highly recommend opting for a day tour if you are a solo traveller. And the best part, each of the tours will offer something different.
Some of the most popular tours are:
- Ayutthaya City Day Tour from Bangkok with Thai Costume Rental, £29.72
- Ayutthaya Historical Park Small Group Tour, £30.50
- Ayutthaya Temples Tour by Road from Bangkok (Multi Languages), £30.37
- Colors of Ayutthaya Full-Day Bike Tour, £47.12
Day 4 of 5 Days In Bangkok – Lazy Stroll
If you choose to stay beyond 3 days in Bangkok, well you’re probably in dire need of a break right about now. So today, we’ll spend the day relaxing and taking a lighter stroll through Bangkok.
Morning
Spend the morning relaxing at your hotel after a lie in and a hearty breakfast. Whether that means relaxing poolside or opting for a massage, make it your own because you have so deserved this break.
If your hotel or hostel doesn’t have any relaxation facilities, you can always opt for a traditional Thai massage in Bangkok.
TIP: Khao San Road will be perfect for a budget massage.
Lunch
Start your afternoon with a light lunch at one of your favourite cafés. Why not be whimsical and tap into your inner child and head to a themed café?
- Detective Conan Cafe in Bangkok: Pathum Wan, Pathum Wan District, Bangkok 10330, Thailand – Located in Siam Center
- House of Eden at Groove Central World: Groove ชั้น 2, G218 Rama I Rd, Pathum Wan, Pathum Wan District, Bangkok 10330, Thailand – Located in Central World
- Mermaid Castle Cafe: 236 Siam Square Soi 2, Khwaeng Pathum Wan, Khet Pathum Wan, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10330, Thailand
- Café Amazon: ชั้น 7 ห้อง A10 เลขที่ 444 อาคาร MBK, Phayathai Rd, Pathum Wan, Pathum Wan District, Bangkok 10330, Thailand – Located in MBK Center
Jim Thompson House Museum
Now you’re probably wondering why on Earth am I suggesting you visit a house? Well, this house isn’t like other houses. It was the former home of the American businessman and architect Jim Thompson. And now, it houses his Southeast Asian art collection.
In addition to his art collection, Jim Thompson was famous for his Thai Silk company that he established in 1948 after relocating to Bangkok. However, it is his art collection that everyone now goes to see. And the fact that it sits on a canal, is an added bonus.
Ticket: 200 Baht for adults, 100 Baht for under 22 years old
Opening Times: 11AM – 7PM (last guided tour at 6PM)
Lumphini Park
Lumphini park or Lumpini park is the best rated park and for all the right reasons. It’s a 142 acre sized park right in the heart of Bangkok, perfect to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. After all, it is the theme of the day.
Whether you want to take off on a swan paddle boat, bird watch, sit and people watch, or head to a library even, there is plenty to see and do here.
Evening
The evening is free for you to spend however you like. If you’re looking for inspiration, head to a BBQ then head in for an early night, because tomorrow will be a busy day.
- BBQ Delight: Maha Set Rd, Si Phraya, Bang Rak, Bangkok 10500, Thailand
Day 5 Of 5 Days in Bangkok – Kanchanaburi
Congratulations, you’ve made it to day 5 of 5 days in Bangkok. For the last day on the itinerary, we will be heading West out to Erawan and Kanchanaburi. Whilst this can be done on a 2 day and 1-night trip, it will be difficult as a solo traveller, as most overnight packages are tailored for 2 persons.
For this day I will highly recommend going with a day tour, and like with every other attraction, each tour will cover different things.
Popular and Well Rated Tours
- Private Erawan Waterfall, River Kwai, Death Railway Tour from Bangkok
- Ticket: Can be purchased here, from £176.48 for 1+ persons
- Erawan Waterfall & Kanchanaburi Highlights Tour From Bangkok
- Ticket: Can be purchased here, from £159.84 per person
- Erawan Falls, Hellfire Pass & Historical Sites | from Kanchanaburi
- Ticket: Can be purchased here, from £116.51 per person
Erawan Falls
Erawan waterfall is a must-visit from Bangkok for anyone that can. With its seven tiers, it is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Thailand that is located in the Kanchanaburi province. However, the waterfall isn’t all that it has to offer, there are also limestone cliffs on offer awaiting to be explored.
As you arrive from the car park you will be greeted by the first waterfall tier which contains fishes swimming in the pond. Go ahead and dip your toes in you’ll need the break. As you ascend to the next tier you will find people swimming in the fall, so bring your swimming kit if you fancy taking a dive in.
The further you choose to ascend, the steeper the hike will be. So ensure you bring comfortable shoes with you if you plan to hike to the higher tiers.
Burma Railway
The Burma railway or as you may more commonly know it, the Death Railway, is a popular stop on any trip to Kanchanaburi. The railway was built by the Japanese empire during the Burma campaign of World War II, and it runs from Thanbuzayat Burma to Ban Pong Thailand.
If this is the first time you are hearing about the Death Railway, you are probably wondering why it’s called the Death Railway? During the construction of the Burma railway, there were at least 180,000 Southeastern Asian civil labourers recruited to work in harsh conditions. In fact, many of them were the unfortunate prisoners of war. As a result, at least 90,000 of the labourers died during the construction of the railway.
Today, the Thai side of the railway is still functional, and there are three trains running daily across the railway from Bangkok. Some tours will include a train ride whilst others will simply take you there to observe.
The Veiled Explorer Takeaway
This itinerary is perfect for anyone wanting to spend 3-5 days in Bangkok. It will take you across Bangkok’s main sights, a floating market outside the city and day trips to Ayutthaya and Kanachanburi.
Are you looking for travel planning tips, Start Here!
What’s your favourite thing to do when visiting Bangkok? Is there anything that you would like to add on? Leave a comment down below.
