What to Do in Bangkok in 3 Days

Start off your 3 days in Bangkok by visiting the city's luminous sights and attractions. The Grand Palace, Temple of the Emerald Buddha and Wat Arun (the Temple of Dawn) are an absolute must. Even though these wats (temples) are situated close to one another, taking an organized tour comes highly recommended, especially for the city's first-timers and those with limited time. For a glimpse of the bygone days of Bangkok, Bangkok khlong or canal tours are a perfect way to experience the former 'Venice of the East'.

Make your first night here one to remember... Go paint the town red by visiting the city's hottest nightlife spots like Silom, Sukhumvit, or RCA.

See Bangkok from a different perspective by taking a cycling tour. Such tours can provide the ultimate intimacy between you and the beautiful surroundings not offered by other modes of transportation. A half-day trip to Bang Ka Jao, the green heart of Bangkok, takes you through a gentle 25-km half-day trip to experience real local flavors and delight in a maze of waterways, small villages, temples and tropical jungle.

You can also consider Bangkok recreational tours and family-friendly activities such as going on a safari at Safari World. You can end your day on a dinner cruise and be amazed at the city's exquisite temples and sights along the 'River of Kings'.

Devote your last day to retail therapy in Bangkok. Sport your most comfy shoes and head to the city's 'shopping street', where world-class shopping malls – from the all-time favorite MBK to the fabulous CentralWorld – all contend for your attention.

Finding the best bargains at Bangkok's many markets can be a fun challenge, too. Visit Chatuchak Weekend Market for last-minute souvenirs and funky knick-knacks. Sore muscles are a common condition after a day of bargain hunting. Go have those knotted muscles untied by having a foot massage or traditional Thai massage at Bangkok’s heavenly spas – a guarantee to make your flight back home a pleasant one.