Sawasdee krub/ka! That’s how you’ll be greeted, hands pressed together in a polite wai, by everyone from tuk-tuk drivers to temple monks. It’s not just a word—it’s the beginning of a journey into the heart of Thailand’s capital, where golden rooftops rise beside glass towers, and every corner buzzes with flavor, faith, and fun.

In just four unforgettable days, you’ll explore ancient palaces, cruise historic canals, haggle at massive markets, and indulge in some of Asia’s finest street food—all while uncovering the rhythms of real Thai life.

🌟 Why Visit Bangkok?

Bangkok is where old-world charm meets modern mayhem. Temples shimmer in sunlight as high-speed trains glide above packed markets. Michelin-starred noodles sit beside ancient ruins, and no matter the hour, there’s something to explore. For first-timers and frequent fliers alike, Bangkok is a feast for the senses.

What makes it special?

1. Iconic landmarks like the Grand Palace and Wat Arun
2. Floating markets and tuk-tuk rides
3. Rooftop bars and secret cafés
4. Day trips to ancient capitals
5. Thai massages, Muay Thai matches, and more

📆 Is 4 Days Enough in Bangkok?

Yes—four days is the sweet spot. You’ll see the top sights, enjoy local experiences, and still have time to relax or wander off-track. This itinerary blends temples, food, markets, and nature, with smart timing to avoid crowds.

📅 Best Time to Visit Bangkok

Tip: Always carry an umbrella or poncho if visiting during rainy season.

✈️ Getting In & Around

From Suvarnabhumi Airport:

1. Airport Rail Link to BTS Phaya Thai: fastest + budget-friendly
2. Taxi (Metered): ~300–400 THB, follow official stand
3. Grab (App): Reliable alternative to taxis

Around the City:

1. BTS Skytrain / MRT Subway – Fastest way around town
2. Chao Phraya River Boat – Great for riverside attractions
3. Grab / Metered Taxis / Tuk-tuks – Use for short trips
4. Buy a Rabbit Card (like an Oyster card) for BTS convenience

🛡 Safety & Practical Tips

1. Bangkok is generally safe, even at night
2. Use hotel safes, beware of pickpockets in crowded areas
3. Avoid unofficial tour guides or too-good-to-be-true offers
4. Stay hydrated—heat and humidity sneak up on you!

✈️ Visa Requirements for Filipinos Visiting Bangkok

Good news for Philippine passport holders—no visa is required to enter Thailand for stays up to 30 days when arriving by air, or up to 15 days if crossing by land.

Requirements to enter Bangkok as a Filipino traveler:

1. A valid Philippine passport (must be valid for at least 6 months)
2. Confirmed return or onward ticket (to prove exit within 30 days)
3. Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or host details)
4. Sufficient funds (usually around THB 10,000 per person / THB 20,000 per family, though rarely checked)

👉 For longer stays, Filipinos must apply for a Tourist Visa at the Royal Thai Embassy in Manila or through an eVisa application before departure.

💡 Travel Tips

1. Temple Attire: Shoulders and knees must be covered
2. Cash vs Card: Markets = cash; malls = cards
3. Language: English is fine, but Thai greetings go a long way
4. SIM Cards: Buy at the airport or use eSIM like Airalo
5. Luggage Storage: At BTS stations, malls, or your hotel

🎒 What to Pack

1. Breathable, lightweight clothes
2. Long pants/skirt and shawl for temples
3. Comfy walking shoes
4. Sunscreen, insect repellent, reusable bottle
5. Universal power adapter (Type A/B/C, 220V)

📶 Best Options for Internet in Bangkok (2025)

📱 1. Airalo eSIM – Fast, Easy, and Instant Setup

👉 Get your Japan eSIM via Airalo

👉 Get your Japan eSIM via Airalo

Forget queues, language barriers, and SIM-swapping—Airalo makes it easy to connect the moment you land at Suvarnabhumi or Don Mueang Airport.

Why Airalo is Great for Bangkok:

• 🔹 Buy online before your flight via the Airalo app
• 🔹 Activate your Thailand eSIM in minutes—no physical SIM needed
• 🔹 Choose flexible data packages for 7, 15, or 30 days
• 🔹 Perfect for short trips, digital nomads, or business travelers
• 🔹 Connect to top Thai networks like AIS or DTAC

Pro Tip: Your phone must be unlocked and eSIM-compatible. Check this in your device settings or with your carrier.

📱 2. Local SIM Card – Traditional, Reliable & Cheap

Buying a local SIM card in Bangkok is one of the most affordable ways to get mobile data, especially for longer stays or heavy usage.

• 📍 Where to Buy a SIM Card in Bangkok:

  • 🛬 Bangkok Airports (Suvarnabhumi & Don Mueang):
    1. SIM kiosks and counters available right after immigration.
    2. Open 24/7 and staff often speak English.

  • 🏪 Convenience Stores:

    7-Eleven, FamilyMart, and Tesco Lotus offer SIM cards, but some may not activate it for you.

  • 📡 Mobile Carrier Shops & Malls:

    Visit carrier stores inside MBK Center, Siam Paragon, or CentralWorld for support and activation.

• Things to Prepare:

  1. Passport required to purchase and register a SIM
  2. 💰 Prices range from THB 150–600 ($4–$17) depending on data plan and duration
  3. BONUS: Pocket WiFi – Great for Families or Groups
     If you’re traveling with friends or family, renting a Pocket WiFi router might be the best deal.
  4. 🔋 Battery lasts ~8–12 hours, so bring a power bank

• Top Providers:

  1. Klook Pocket WiFi Rental – Affordable with airport pickup

• 🧳 Quick Tips for Internet in Bangkok

  1. Check device compatibility with Thai networks (LTE/5G)
  2. Activate your eSIM or confirm SIM delivery before you fly

📍 4-Day Bangkok Itinerary

🏰 Day 1: Temples, Palaces & the River

Morning:

1. 🏯 Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaew – Go at 8 AM to beat the crowds
   1. Entrance: ~500 THB
   2. Dress code strictly enforced
2. 🛕 Wat Pho (Reclining Buddha) – Also home to Thailand’s top massage school

   1. Massage here is authentic and affordable

      

Lunch: Nearby cafés like The Sixth or Elefin Coffee – Thai fusion & AC break

Afternoon:

1. 🌇 Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) – Cross the river by boat

   1. Stunning views at sunset

      

2. 🏰 Loha Prasat & Wat Ratchanatdaram – Off the radar and peaceful

Evening:

1. 🚢 Dinner Cruise on the Chao Phraya – Book in advance (options range from budget to luxury)

2. 🌃 Khao San Road – Street food, music, bars—great for night owls and budget bites

   

🚤 Day 2: Floating Markets, Railway Drama & Hidden Gems

Early Morning:

1. 🛶 Damnoen Saduak Floating Market – Classic experience

   1. Best with a pre-booked tour (leaves by 6:30 AM)

      

2. 🚂 Maeklong Railway Market – Watch a train pass through the market stalls
   1. Check exact train times; worth timing your visit

Afternoon:

1. 🚤 Khlong (Canal) Tour – See Bangkok’s quieter, traditional side via long-tail boat
2. 💐 Pak Khlong Talat (Flower Market) – Great for photos and a peaceful stroll
3. 🛕 Golden Mount (Wat Saket) – Climb 300 steps for panoramic sunset views

Evening:

1. 🥊 Rajadamnern Stadium (Muay Thai) – Get ringside seats if you can. Book online.

🏛️ Day 3: Day Trip to Ayutthaya & Skyline Views

Morning to Late Afternoon:

1. 🚗 Ayutthaya Day Trip – Former capital full of majestic ruins
   1. Option: guided tour, or DIY via train + tuk-tuk rental
   2. Must-sees: Wat Mahathat, Wat Chaiwatthanaram, Wat Phra Si Sanphet

Evening (Back in Bangkok):

1. 🗼 Mahanakhon SkyWalk – Tallest tower with glass floor views
   1. Book online for sunset slots
2. 🛍️ IconSIAM – Upscale mall with floating food market and riverside views
3. 🎡 Asiatique The Riverfront – Ride the Ferris wheel, dine by the water, shop local

🛍️ Day 4: Markets, Museums & Your Grand Finale

Morning:

1. 🛍️ Chatuchak Weekend Market (if Sat/Sun) – 15,000+ stalls

   1. Wear light clothes, arrive early, bring cash

      

2. 📸 Alternative (Weekday): Talad Rot Fai Ratchada – Local night market with vintage vibes
3. 🍍 Or Tor Kor Market – Across from Chatuchak, known for premium fruit & street eats

Afternoon:

1. 🏠 Jim Thompson House Museum – Tour the silk merchant’s historic teak home
2. 🌳 Lumphini Park – Rent a paddle boat or relax among locals
3. 🏢 Siam Paragon / MBK / CentralWorld – Final shopping and indoor cool-down

Evening:

1. 🍜 Dinner at Chinatown (Yaowarat Road) – Michelin-level street eats, endless variety

   

2. 💆‍♀️ Spa Time: Treat yourself to a final massage at Oasis Spa or Health Land

✨ Optional Add-ons (Swap Anytime)

1. 🌳 Bang Krachao – Rent a bike in Bangkok’s “green lung”
2. 🖼️ MOCA (Museum of Contemporary Art) – For art lovers
3. 🕯️ Erawan Shrine – Quick stop for spiritual blessings
4. 🎪 Talad Rot Fai Srinakarin – Less touristy than Ratchada, more vintage

❓ Bangkok Travel FAQ

Q: Can I drink the tap water?
A: No—stick to bottled or filtered water.

Q: Do I need to tip?
A: Not mandatory, but rounding up is appreciated.

Q: Are taxis safe?
A: Yes, but always ask for the meter—or use Grab.

Q: What’s the best way to avoid crowds?
A: Arrive early at temples and markets, ideally by 8 AM.

Q: Can I use cards?
A: Yes in malls, hotels, restaurants. Carry cash for street food and transport.

🙏 Final Words: Sabai Sabai, Bangkok

Your four days in Bangkok may come to an end—but the memories will follow you long after the temple bells stop ringing. As the Thais say, “Sabai sabai”—take it easy, go with the flow. In Bangkok, every alley has a story, and every smile is an invitation to stay just a little longer.

🗺️ Map