There are cities and then there is Bangkok. Temples like Wat Pho are crowded with devotees all day. Street food sizzles all night. And the nightlife—from ritzy hotel bars to secret speakeasies—is second to none. With so much going on, you’ll need a local to show you around. Stick with me. As someone who’s spent decades getting to know the ins and outs of Thailand’s capital city, I’ve created an itinerary that’ll help you get the most out of your four days here.

Bangkok is an incredible mashup of centuries-old temples and sleek shopping malls that seem to have sprung up overnight. It can be a lot to navigate, especially when neighborhoods—like the ones along the Chao Phraya River—get revamped every few years. Stick with me. As a longtime local, I can show you the Bangkok that I know and love, guiding you to the best spots in this always buzzing city.

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