How To Spend 3 Days In Bangkok On A Budget: Affordable Options

Bangkok, Thailand, is one of our favorite Asian cities, and its popularity is unmatched – it’s consistently ranked as one of the most-visited cities in the world. And for good reason, there’s so much beauty in this bustling megacity (if you know where to find it). Like relaxing in Lumphini Park, checking out the lush grounds of Jim Thompson’s House, and wandering around the many temples dotted around the city.

But, there are also lots of cool things to see, a short drive from the city – places like the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market and Ayutthaya, the former capital of the Kingdom of Siam. And luckily, with 3 days in Bangkok, you’ll get to tick off both these places.

In fact, I’d go so far as to say that three days is an ideal amount of time to spend in Bangkok. You see, you need at least a day to warm up to Bangkok. If you’re not used to busy/ slightly chaotic cities, you might be a little overwhelmed at first here. Luckily, my day one in Bangkok eases you in with temples and lush city parks.

So, let’s get going, shall we? If, like me, you love fascinating cultural sights, great food and coffee, taking lots of photos, and you’re on a budget, then this is the perfect itinerary for you. Because it includes Bangkok’s best temples, and iconic, photogenic sights like Khao San Road and Maeklong Railway Market. Plus, everything on this list is wallet-friendly (each activity I’ve listed is either free or under $30!)

Day One – Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Jim Thompson House

Morning – Grand Palace & Wat Pho

Kickstart your 3 days in Bangkok at the Grand Palace, which is easily the city’s most iconic landmark. It isn’t actually just one building here – there are several impressive structures spread across this large complex.

Some of the most important buildings here include the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew), which houses a Buddha statue carved from a single block of jade, and the Phra Thinang Chakri Maha Prasat buildings.

The Grand Palace complex has served as the official residence of the Kings of Siam (and later Thailand) since 1782. It is open from 8:30 am to 3:30 pm, and we recommend getting here as soon as it opens to beat the crowds and to ensure you squeeze as many activities in as you can later today.

🌟Please note there’s a very strict dress code at The Grand Palace and all the other temples I recommend visiting today (Wat Pho & Wat Raimit). All adults must cover their shoulders and legs – and don’t wear leggings. It’s more relaxed for children, but I would still cover them up to be on the safe side.

Wat Pho:

To get from The Grand Palace to our next suggested stop (Wat Pho), you can easily walk as they are located around a 15-minute walk from one another. Alternatively, you can hop on a short ferry ride across the Chao Phraya River.

Also known as the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, Wat Pho is home to one of Thailand’s largest and most stunning Buddha statues, which stretches an impressive 46 meters long.

We loved wandering around Wat Pho (we spent around 1.5 hours here), it really is a feast for the eyes, with intricate murals, beautifully adorned stupas, and serene gardens.

Afternoon: Jim Thompson House & Wat Traimit

Jim Thompson House:

This afternoon, aim to visit the Jim Thompson House for a fascinating insight into Thai silk history.

As the name suggests, this unique museum is the former home of Jim Thompson, an American entrepreneur who is credited with reviving the Thai silk industry in the mid-20th century.

His home is a perfect example of traditional Thai architecture. It’s constructed from six antique teakwood houses that Thompson meticulously collected from various parts of Thailand. On a visit here, you can admire the beautifully preserved houses, which are filled with Thompson’s impressive collection of Southeast Asian art and antiques.

On our visit here, we also learned about Jim Thompson’s mysterious disappearance – he went for a walk in the Cameron Highlands of Malaysia and was never seen again. This was all the way back in 1967.

Before heading to your next stop, may we suggest grabbing a coffee at The Coffee House by DoiTung nearby at OneBangkok.

Wat Traimit:

Wat Traimit, or the Temple of the Golden Buddha, is home to the biggest solid gold statue in the world. It stands tall at nearly five meters and weighs a whopping 5.5 tons. And it dates all the way back to the Sukhothai period (around the year 1300).

Fun fact: Not long after it was made, it was plastered over so that it wouldn’t be stolen. However, rulers at the time made no note of the fact that the gold was plastered over, and so, the gold wasn’t discovered again until the 1950s. It was by pure luck that some of the plaster fell off while the statue was being moved!

The Temple of the Golden Buddha is located in Bangkok’s bustling Chinatown, which is around a 20-minute bus ride from Jim Thompson’s House. There’s also an on-site museum that offers fascinating insights into the history of the Golden Buddha, including its rediscovery.

Late Afternoon: Take a stroll through Lumphini Park

To escape this afternoon’s heat, I suggest heading for Lumphini Park. Situated right in the heart of the city, this popular park offers a peaceful break from all of Bangkok’s chaos. You can take it easy here with a stroll along the shaded paths and look for lizards and other reptiles in the large lake at its center.

Afterward, grab a coffee from nearby Little Prince Cafe on Thanon Suan Phlu. I don’t know about you, but I’m usually itching for a coffee at this time in the afternoon.

Watch the sunset at one of Bangkok’s rooftop bars

I try to catch the sunset every evening of my vacation, and that didn’t change while I was in Bangkok. Sure, a city sunset is a tad different from a beach sunset. But, honestly, one of my favorite parts of my 24 hours in Bangkok was catching the sunset at a rooftop bar with an ice-cold drink in my hand.

These are my picks for the best rooftop bar in Bangkok –

• Sirocco at Lebua State Tower – made famous in The Hangover Part II, this spot offers 360-degree views of Bangkok’s skyline. It is pricey, however.
• Octave Rooftop Bar – Located on the 45th floor of the Marriott Hotel – this spot does great cocktails backdropped by Bangkok’s skyline.
• Moon Sky Bar – Located on floor 61 at Banyan Tree Hotel, this is another fancy spot (no flip-flops or t-shirts).

Evening – Asiatique

Located along the Chao Phraya River, this huge night market boasts over 1,500 shops and 40 places to eat. There’s something for everyone here! This is where we recommend eating this evening, as there are so many options. From what I remember, I had an awesome Pad Thai from one of the stalls here, and my husband had a spicy Thai curry.

The standout, though, is the massive Ferris wheel, where you can catch killer views of the city. Plus, you’ll likely get the chance to catch awesome shows like the Calypso Cabaret if you’re into that sort of thing.

You can catch a free ferry here from Sathorn Pier every day between 4 pm and 11:30 pm.

Day Two – Floating Markets & Khao San Road

Morning – Damnoen Saduak Floating Market & Maeklong Railway Market

Bangkok’s nickname as the Venice of the East is apt, as there are several waterways in and around the city. Traditionally, the city’s markets were held on the water.

So, today, we suggest checking out one of the most famous floating markets in Thailand! It was also featured in the James Bond movie ‘The Man with the Golden Gun’.

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market:

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is one of Bangkok’s most famous and vibrant tourist attractions, located around 100 kilometers from the city. This bustling market offers a unique glimpse into traditional Thai culture, where vendors sell a wide variety of goods from boats that navigate through a network of canals.

Here, you can shop (from a longtail boat) for fresh produce, local handicrafts, and delicious Thai street food, such as pad thai and mango sticky rice. Prices are a little higher here than at other Bangkok markets, so keep that in mind and be prepared to haggle.

And as you can see from the photos, this market is a photographer’s paradise, with its colorful boats and charismatic local sellers.

Now, I will say that these markets are super-popular with tourists, so if you can aim to visit early (between 7 – 9 am), luckily, the guided tour I suggest below leaves Bangkok at 6 am, so you’d get to the markets at around 7:30 am. I don’t recommend getting here in the afternoon (even though it will be quieter) as many of the stalls close early.

⭐ My guided tour suggestion:

You can visit the floating market by public transport (a mini bus from the Southern Bus Terminal), and although it’s cheap, it can take over two hours to get here, due to the number of stops it makes. This is why we highly recommend booking a guided tour to get to the markets – like this one which costs from $25 USD per person and also visits the famed Railway Market.

Maeklong Railway Market:

Another fascinating market we recommend visiting today is the Maeklong Railway Market. Known as “Talad Rom Hoop” in Thai, which translates to “Umbrella Pulldown Market,” this bustling marketplace is set up directly on the railway tracks. Vendors sell everything from fresh produce and seafood to clothing and souvenirs.

The market’s most thrilling aspect occurs several times a day when a train passes through, and vendors swiftly retract their goods and awnings to make way. As soon as the train passes, the market is reassembled in a matter of seconds, and business resumes as usual.

⭐ As I said, this floating market and railway market tour combines both markets into a fun half-day tour (pick up is at 6 am and drop off back to Bangkok’s MBK center is at 1:30 pm). It costs from $25 USD ( 792 baht) per person.

Late Afternoon – MBK Center

After your market tour, you can get dropped off at the MBK Center – aka one of the most iconic shopping malls in Bangkok.

It opened in 1985, and today, the MBK Center offers more than 2,000 shops selling a variety of goods, including clothing, accessories, electronics, and souvenirs. Additionally, the center houses numerous restaurants and food courts serving both local and international cuisine. For me, it’s one of the best shopping experiences in Bangkok, and I’ve bought heaps of clothes and souvenirs here over the years.

Dinner – Cabbages & Condoms

Don’t let the quirky name Cabbages & Condoms deter you from entering this beautiful non-profit Thai restaurant on Sukhumvit Soi 12 in the city. The profits from this eatery go back to support better understanding and acceptance of family planning in the local community.

The food is excellent (I recommend the Kao Ka Moo or the Green Curry), the surroundings are lovely (it’s set in a courtyard garden), and the service is great.

Funnily, the bill comes with a basket of free condoms to take home with you.

Late Evening – Khao San Road

Huh? I know that’s what frequent travelers to Bangkok will be saying. But hear me out! For those that don’t know, Khao San Road has a bit of a bad rep – it’s a little seedy, it’s noisy, and it’s jampacked. But, if you have just one day in Bangkok and want to see all sides of the city, then a visit to Khao San Road after dark is a must.

When the night falls, this spot comes alive – it’s definitely one of the best spots to party in Bangkok. There are heaps of bars and nightclubs here – and most offer live music. You can let loose here, as pretty much anything goes.

The street is nicknamed ‘backpacker street’, so it’s likely to be other tourists as opposed to locals you’ll be seeing here.

Day Three – Day Trip to Ayutthaya

Morning & Afternoon – Ayutthaya

Around 1.5 hours from Bangkok lies the former capital of the Kingdom of Siam, Ayutthaya. It is today a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning ruins and ancient temples.

The city was founded all the way back in 1350 and reigned as one of the largest global commerce and diplomatic hubs from then until the 18th Century.

And today, the site is so big that you will need to either rent a vehicle, bike, or hire a tuk-tuk to get around it. On your way around the site, stop off to see majestic, centuries-old structures like Wat Phra Mahathat and Wat Phra Si Sanphet, which provide a glimpse into the grandeur of the 14th to 18th centuries. In fact, there are five wats within the park that are a must-see (the remaining three wats are – Wat Ratburana, Wat Thammikarat, and Wat Phra Ram)

You can get the train here (from Hua Lamphong station), which will take around 1.5 hours and costs between 20 to 45 baht for a third-class ticket.

⭐However, we highly recommend booking a guided tour from Bangkok to Ayutthaya, as that includes transport there and back in an air-conditioned vehicle, a guide, and all entrance fees. Please note you may need to pay extra for the ‘English Tour Only’ option. This tour is 7 hours long and costs from just $28 USD (888 baht) per person.

Evening – Chinatown

I reckon the best street food in Bangkok is served up in Chinatown (also known as Yaowarat) – because the bad or mediocre stalls are weeded out pretty quickly and only the best survive.

This is where the locals come to eat street food, and honestly, the food here is incredible. I recommend wandering around all the stalls and small restaurants, letting your sense of smell lead the way, and eating from as many as your belly will allow.

FYI, we really love Khao Gaeng Jek Pui (best curry) and Krua Phon Lamai (amazing noodles).

Best Areas to Stay in Bangkok:

Sukhumvit:

Known for its bustling nightlife, shopping malls, and diverse dining options, Sukhumvit is perfect for those who enjoy a lively atmosphere. It’s well-connected via the BTS Skytrain, making it easy to explore the city. And it’s one of the most popular areas to stay in Bangkok. If you’re watching your money, then Episode 11 Hostel is a great place to stay. A bed costs only $8 USD per night.

If you want to splurge a little, then we love Arte Hotel, a 4-star, art-filled hotel with a rooftop pool. Rooms here cost from around $50 USD (1,588 Baht).

Silom:

Often called Bangkok’s financial district, Silom transforms at night with a range of entertainment options, including markets and rooftop bars. It’s a great area for business travelers and those who like to mix business and leisure. Our favorite hotel in this area is Pullman Bangkok Hotel G – a luxurious 5-star hotel where rooms cost around $70 USD (2,224 Baht) per night.

If you’re on a budget, then Siamaze Hostel in this area is a good shout. It has a really friendly vibe and is excellently rated.

Siam:

Siam is home to major shopping centers like Siam Paragon and MBK Center. So, it’s ideal for shopaholics or families looking for a central location with plenty of activities. We recommend staying at Siam Design Hotel – an ultra-modern, 5-star hotel, where rooms cost around $90 USD (2,859 Baht).

Alternatively, a great hostel in this area is Lub d Bangkok, which has recently been refurbished and has a prime location, opposite the MBK Center.

Riverside:

Boasting scenic views of the Chao Phraya River, this area is best for those who want a more relaxed atmosphere. It’s home to plenty of luxury hotels and cultural sites, such as the Grand Palace, which is nearby. Tropical Summer is a great, budget-friendly hostel in this area.

You could splurge on a few nights at Royal Orchid Sheraton, a 5-star, super-fancy resort hotel on the banks of the river. Rooms here cost around $125 USD per night (or 3,971 Baht).

Ari:

Known for its laid-back, trendy vibe, Ari is filled with chic cafes, boutique shops, and vibrant street art. It’s a great choice for those looking to experience a more local and authentic side of Bangkok. We really like The Quarter Ari, a hip hotel with a fab rooftop pool. Rooms cost around $50 USD (1,588 Baht) per night.

Getting around Bangkok:

The BTS Skytrain and MRT Subway are your best bet for dodging the notorious traffic, plus they’re air-conditioned and get you around quickly.

For a classic Bangkok experience, jump into a tuk-tuk, but make sure to haggle over the price first. And if you’re in the mood for some scenic views, the Chao Phraya River Express boats are a great way to get around, and you can check out the historical spots along the river. And taxis and ride-sharing apps like Grab are everywhere in Bangkok – but, as I said, traffic can be a pain.

Just remember, in this bustling city, it’s smart to keep your plans flexible since traffic can be a bit unpredictable. Enjoy the ride, and you’ll see that getting around Bangkok is all part of the fun!

How much money do I need for 3 days in Bangkok?

On average, if you’re on a budget, expect to spend around $30 to $50 per day, which includes staying in hostels, street food, local transportation, and entrance to one paid attraction per day.

Mid-range travelers typically spend around $70 to $150 per day, that amount allows for a comfortable hotel stay, dining at nicer restaurants, and a couple of guided tours.

Luxury travelers, on the other hand, will easily spend $200 or more daily, which includes staying in high-end hotels, gourmet restaurants, and upgrading to private tours.

Best travel insurance for Bangkok:

Travel insurance provides coverage for a range of situations, including flight delays, canceled flights, injuries, illnesses, etc. Depending on your policy, you could be reimbursed for hospital stays, meals, hotel stays, transportation, or even the entire cost of your trip.

This is how we find the best travel insurance for our trip, it helps us find the best travel insurance for our trip. On their site, you can compare the plans side by side so you can get the best insurance for your particular trip! As I always say, no trip is the same so your travel insurance shouldn’t be either!

Thanks for Reading!

And there you have it, our detailed guide to spending 3 days in Bangkok! As I said earlier, the more time you have in Bangkok, the more likely you are to fall in love with it. It can feel a little chaotic at first, but once you get familiar with its quirks and seek out all its hidden gems, then, I’m sure, like me, Bangkok will turn into a city that you’ll just keep wanting to return to.

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Last Updated on October 10, 2025 by snaphappytravel