7 Days in Bangkok: The Perfect Bangkok Itinerary (2026 Guide)

Bangkok is an excellent first-time destination with iconic landmarks, famous museums, and neighborhoods that are easiest to explore by area. This itinerary is designed for classic sightseeing with realistic pacing.

Quick Summary Box 📅

• Ideal for: First-time visitors and classic sightseeing trips
• Pace: Balanced with deeper exploration
• Budget level: Low to medium
• Best area to stay: Sukhumvit, Silom, or Riverside
• Transport tips: Use BTS/MRT and river boats, then walk short blocks within each neighborhood

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1 - Rattanakosin and River Temples 🗺️

Morning ☀️

• Grand Palace (early start).
• Wat Pho.

Lunch 🍽️

• Thip Samai.

Afternoon 🌇

• Wat Arun (river crossing).
• Chao Phraya River ferry ride.

Dinner 🍷

• Savoey.

Evening 🌙

• Riverside night views.

Day 2 - Sukhumvit and Modern Bangkok 🗺️

Morning ☀️

• Terminal 21 or EmQuartier shopping break.
• Erawan Shrine (quick stop).

Lunch 🍽️

• After You area options.

Afternoon 🌇

• Benjakitti Park walk.
• Coffee stop in Sukhumvit.

Dinner 🍷

• Baan Khanitha.

Evening 🌙

• Rooftop drink (optional).

Day 3 - Chinatown and Riverside 🗺️

Morning ☀️

• Chinatown (Yaowarat) streets.
• Sampeng Lane market.

Lunch 🍽️

• Somboon Seafood.

Afternoon 🌇

• ICONSIAM (riverfront mall).
• Asiatique waterfront (evening-style).

Dinner 🍷

• Blue Elephant.

Evening 🌙

• Street-food dinner and night stroll.

Day 4 - Markets and Parks 🗺️

Morning ☀️

• Chatuchak Market (weekend) or MBK Center.
• Jim Thompson House (optional).

Lunch 🍽️

• Nara Thai Cuisine.

Afternoon 🌇

• Lumphini Park.
• Massage break or cafe stop.

Dinner 🍷

• Supanniga Eating Room.

Evening 🌙

• Night market or riverside walk.

Day 5 - Ayutthaya Day Trip 🗺️

Morning ☀️

• Early train/van to Ayutthaya.
• Wat Mahathat (Buddha head in roots).

Lunch 🍽️

• Riverside lunch in Ayutthaya (local boat noodles or Thai classics).

Afternoon 🌇

• Wat Phra Si Sanphet.
• Wat Chaiwatthanaram (sunset option).
• Return to Bangkok by evening.

Dinner 🍷

• Asiatique dining options.

Evening 🌙

• Low-key evening (tomorrow is walking-heavy).

Day 6 - Thonburi and Canal Route 🗺️

Morning ☀️

• Longtail boat canal tour (klongs).
• Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen.

Lunch 🍽️

• Jay Fai area options.

Afternoon 🌇

• Artist's House (Baan Silapin) area.
• Local neighborhoods across the river.

Dinner 🍷

• Yaowarat street-food options.

Evening 🌙

• Relaxed dinner back in the city.

Day 7 - Final Food and Shopping Areas 🗺️

Morning ☀️

• Final shopping (Siam area).
• Cafe stop and souvenirs.

Lunch 🍽️

• Sukhumvit food court options.

Afternoon 🌇

• Golden Mount (Wat Saket) viewpoint (optional).
• Pack and prep for departure.

Dinner 🍷

• Riverside Thai set-menu options.

Evening 🌙

• Farewell dinner.

Where to Stay in Bangkok 🏨

• Sukhumvit: Strong BTS access and many dining options.
• Silom: Practical for business and night market access.
• Riverside: Scenic hotels near temples and boat routes.
• Budget guidance: Choose areas near BTS or MRT stations for easier movement.

Getting Around Bangkok 🚇

• BTS and MRT are the fastest way to avoid road traffic.
• Rabbit Card and contactless options simplify local rides.
• Walking is best early or late due to heat and humidity.
• Airport overview: Suvarnabhumi via Airport Rail Link or taxi, Don Mueang via bus/taxi links.

FAQ 💡

Is 7 days enough in Bangkok?

Yes. 7 days is enough for a strong first-time Bangkok itinerary with iconic highlights.

What is the best month to visit Bangkok?

Spring and early autumn are usually the best balance of weather and crowds.

Is Bangkok expensive?

Bangkok can fit different budgets, especially with area-based planning and advance reservations.

Is Bangkok walkable?

Yes by neighborhood, but public transport is important for longer cross-city routes.

Where should first-time visitors stay in Bangkok?

Sukhumvit, Silom, or Riverside are reliable first-time options.

Explore More Bangkok Travel Guides

3 Days in Bangkok Itinerary

5 Days in Bangkok Itinerary

Ready to Personalize Your Bangkok Trip? ✈️

Let Luna create your custom Bangkok itinerary based on your travel style, budget, and pace.

Plan My Bangkok Trip