Bangkok is a city that people either love or hate. I’ve personally seen travel guides that do not recommend the city at all to tourists, and that’s a shame. It’s known for its temples, tuk-tuks, and, uh, other things. But let’s sidestep the usual tourist trails and temple hopping, which has already been covered elsewhere. In this post, we’ll take a look at some off-the-beaten-path options for how to spend 5 days in Bangkok. This is a guide for those who want to avoid the hotspots but still have a full trip.
Day 1: Bicycling and Evening in Chinatown
Biking at Bang Krachao
Bang Krachao is known as the city’s green lung because it’s a refreshing escape from the chaos of the city. It’s also shaped like a green lung.
When you get there, you can rent a bike upon arrival; they’re everywhere.
Pedaling through green lung gives you a great mixture of local life and nature. It can be especially relaxing after a long plane ride.
Thai Massage
After some bike riding, it’s time to relax with a massage.
Choose one of the local spas rather than a hotel. (Hotels are overpriced.)
A Thai massage only costs around 250 baht (~$7 USD).
Evening in Chinatown
Finish off the day in Chinatown with some street food and neon scenery.
There are all kinds of foods to choose from, so walk around and take your pick.
Day 2: Silk and Spirits
Jim Thompson House
Ditch the crowds at the temples and visit the Jim Thompson House.
It’s the compound of an American spy turned silk magnate, who mysteriously vanished in Malaysia, leaving behind a rich collection of art.
Chatuchak Weekend Market
Next, get lost at Chatuchak Market. It is not only the biggest market in Bangkok but also the largest in Thailand. There’s a lot of stuff. I think you can still find exotic animals there, too.
You’re going to need to haggle for what you want, so be prepared.
Khao San Road Nightlife
Khao San Road is iconic.
It’s full of backpackers from all of the world, as well as locals. It’s mostly a young crowd.
The drinks are cheap, and it’s great for people-watching.
If you don’t like loud music, I would stay away from it, though.
Day 3: Art and Shopping
Art Museums
Start with MOCA Bangkok, which showcases contemporary Thai art, then hit the Bangkok Art and Culture Center (BACC), which is located near other shopping areas.
Don’t expect the Louvre, but it’s a nice try.
Siam Paragon
After the art, enjoy some consumerism at Siam Paragon.
It’s like any high-end shopping mall but with better food courts.
If you haven’t tried mango sticky rice yet, this is a good spot for it.
Day 4: Sukhumvit Road
Terminal 21
Terminal 21 is right at the heart of Sukhumvit.
The mall is themed after a different city on every floor, and it’s great fun just to walk around.
Lumphini Park
For a slower pace, head to Lumphini Park.
Watch the locals jog, lift weights, practice tai chi, or doze off under a tree.
You may run into a monitor lizard.
Evening at Soi 11
“Soi 11” (soi means street), as it’s referred to by locals and expats, is a strange mix of worlds.
You can find dumpy street bars as well as fancier, “hi-so” (high society) options.
Some of my favorite places are Havana Social, which has a Cuban theme, and La Paca Ya-dong, which is just outside of it and sells local drinks, such as ya-dong.
Day 5: Leisure, Shopping, and Scenic Views
King Power Mahanakhon
Spend your last day at leisure.
Swing by King Power on Rangnam street for some duty-free shopping.
If you skipped the earlier malls, now’s your chance.
Baiyoke Tower at Night
Finish your trip with a visit to Baiyoke Tower at night for dinner above the city lights.
The view is spectacular, and it’s a fitting finale to a trip well spent away from the usual tourist traps.
The Bottom Line
There you have it—a guide on how to spend 5 days in Bangkok, packed with activities.
If you’re looking for more ideas, check out our 24 hour guide to Bangkok.
