Maximize your 2 days in Bangkok with our curated itinerary designed for first-time visitors. We cut through the fluff to deliver a packed schedule that takes you from the spiritual awe of ancient temples to the sizzling woks of street food stalls and from serene river views to the pulse of Bangkok’s nightlife. Follow along to ensure your limited time in Thailand’s capital is packed with lifetime memories without missing out.
Here are some key takeaways about visiting Bangkok.
- Bangkok offers a golden mix of cultural sites like the Grand Palace, mesmerizing temples including Wat Phra Kaew and Wat Pho, and the vibrant Wat Arun for a rich historical experience.
- The city is a food lover’s dream, from traditional Thai cuisine at Guay Tiew Mu Rung Rueang to modern dishes and dynamic street food tours that showcase local flavours.
- Travellers can navigate Bangkok efficiently using various transportation options like the convenient BTS Skytrain, fun tuk-tuks, meter taxis or the Grab app for secure rides, and can choose from a wide range of accommodations to enjoy their stay.
Planning Your Bangkok Adventure
Bangkok, with its blend of historical landmarks, bustling markets, and tantalizing Thai cuisine, is a must-visit destination for any traveller venturing into Southeast Asia. When visiting Bangkok, the best time to soak up the magic of this amazing city is from December through February. These cooler months allow you to explore the city comfortably, away from the heat and rains of other seasons, making your 2 days in Bangkok truly unforgettable.
When it comes to finding flights to Bangkok, Skyscanner proves to be a reliable tool to secure the best deals. It sifts through countless airlines to present you with the most affordable and convenient options for your journey. With your flight booked, you’ll land at Suvarnabhumi Airport, the city’s main international terminal, a bustling gateway that welcomes you to this mesmerizing and dynamic city.
For a seamless journey from the airport to your accommodation, you might want to book your transfer with Klook or Bolt, a service known for its efficiency, taking you directly from the terminal to your hotel. With these details sorted, you’re ready to embark on your exciting 2 days in Bangkok itinerary.
Exploring Iconic Temples
No visit to Bangkok is complete without exploring its iconic temples, or ‘wats’, which are integral to Thai culture. These sacred sites, each with its unique architectural style and spiritual significance, provide fascinating insights into the country’s religious practices and artistry.
However, remember to keep the appropriate dress code and dress respectfully, with fully covered shoulders and knees, when visiting these spiritual sites.
The Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew
Your temple exploration during your 2 days in Bangkok should start with the grandest of them all – The Grand Palace. This magnificent complex was established under King Rama I when he moved the capital to Bangkok. As you wander through its intricate structures, you’ll uncover a rich tapestry of Thailand’s heritage and royal history.
Within the Grand Palace complex lies the most sacred temple in Thailand, the Royal Temple, also known as Wat Phra Kaew. It is home to the revered Emerald Buddha, the most sacred object in Thailand. This temple plays a significant role in Thai religious practices, as evidenced by the ritual of the King of Thailand changing the Emerald Buddha’s clothes with the changing seasons.
The exploration of this grand complex and its intricate architectural details should certainly find a place in any Bangkok itinerary. It’s not just about sightseeing; it’s about immersing yourself in Thai culture and understanding its rich religious heritage.
Wat Pho: Home of the Reclining Buddha
Just a stone’s throw from the Grand Palace is another iconic temple, Wat Pho. Famed for hosting the biggest reclining Buddha in the world, Wat Pho is a must-visit spot on your Bangkok city tour. Measuring an impressive 46 meters in length, the statue of the Reclining Buddha is a sight to behold.
Wat Pho is more than just its famous statue. Recognized as the birthplace of Thai massage, Wat Pho serves as a centre for learning and healing. The temple grounds are filled with fascinating structures, including:
- Chedis (stupa-like monuments) adorned with colourful tiles
- Vast courtyards lined with hundreds of Buddha statues
- A school that offers courses in traditional Thai massage
With visiting hours from 8 am to 6:30 pm, Wat Pho makes an excellent starting point for your day of temple exploration. The entrance fee is a modest 100 Baht, a small price to pay for the wealth of cultural experience that awaits.
Wat Arun: The Temple of Dawn
On the west bank of Chao Phraya River stands Wat Arun, also known as the Temple of Dawn. This iconic temple, with its distinctive prang (Khmer-style tower) and decorative floral mosaics, is a sight to behold, especially when it’s lit up at dawn or dusk.
Wat Arun represents a unique blend of architectural styles, reflecting a mix of Khmer (Cambodian) and Thai influences. Its central prang represents Mount Meru, the centre of the universe in Hindu cosmology, while the surrounding smaller prangs symbolize the four winds. The entire structure is decorated with seashells and porcelain, which glimmers beautifully in the sunlight.
Try to explore the temple up close to get a deeper appreciation of this magnificent tourist attraction’s beauty and symbolism. Climb the steep steps of the central prang for a breathtaking view of the river and the city beyond. This personal exploration along the Chao Phraya River will undoubtedly be one of the highlights of your Bangkok city tour.
Savoring Thai Cuisine
Bangkok is a gastronomic paradise, offering an array of culinary experiences that range from humble street-side vendors to prestigious fine dining establishments. For a taste of traditional Thai cuisine, make sure to try the pork noodles with fish balls at Guay Tiew Mu Rung Rueang, the aromatic stewed beef noodles at Wattanapanit, or the classic pad thai. These dishes, favoured by locals, offer a true taste of Thai food. So, if you are planning to visit Bangkok, don’t miss out on these culinary delights.
For those looking for comfort food, here are some must-try dishes:
- Sae Phun’s classic chicken stew on rice
- Jok Khlong San’s rice porridge with minced pork balls
- Guay Jub Mr. Joe’s peppery broth noodles
- Charoen Saeng Silom’s succulent stewed pork legs
These dishes offer unique local flavours that you shouldn’t miss out on.
Embarking on a midnight food tour by tuk-tuk is a great way to dive deep into Bangkok’s culinary heritage. This nocturnal adventure takes you to some of Bangkok’s renowned local food spots, where you can indulge in everything from peppery broth noodles to aromatic stewed beef noodles. This culinary journey is a must on your 2 days in Bangkok itinerary.
Navigating Bangkok’s Transportation
Exploring Bangkok’s transportation system can add an exciting dimension to your adventure. Tuk-tuks offer a popular, albeit slightly pricier, tourist experience. These three-wheeled motorized vehicles are an iconic part of Bangkok’s cityscape and provide a fun way to get around.
Motorbike taxis offer a swift means to navigate Bangkok’s congested roads, especially convenient for individual travellers. For a more economical option, consider the city’s buses, which offer fares from 7 to 24 baht. If you want to escape the traffic, opt for Khlong boats that utilize Bangkok’s network of canals for transport.
For secure and set-price transport, the Grab ride-hailing app is a recommended choice. It’s popular among locals and tourists alike and offers various services, including taxis, private cars, and even motorbike taxis. Also, the BTS Skytrain is an efficient and extremely affordable way to traverse the city, with one-day unlimited passes available for frequent travellers.
Experiencing Local Culture
Engaging with local culture enriches any travel experience, and visiting Thailand, especially Bangkok, provides abundant opportunities for such interaction. One such immersive experience is training in Muay Thai, the national martial art of Thailand. Training programs certified by the Sports Authority of Thailand and Ministry of Education Thailand offer tourists an authentic cultural experience.
Khongsittha Muay Thai provides a 3-day package with comprehensive training and accommodation, recognized with TripAdvisor’s Certificate of Excellence. The package includes:
- Comprehensive Muay Thai training
- Accommodation
- Cultural lessons that punctuate the Muay Thai learning experience, blending physical training with cultural understanding.
Aside from physical pursuits, Bangkok offers an abundance of cultural hubs and artisan communities. Asiatique The Riverfront serves as a cultural hub with its night bazaar, numerous boutiques, restaurants, and cultural shows like the Calypso Cabaret and Muay Thai Live.
The Baan Baht community offers a glimpse into Bangkok’s artisan heritage, preserving the traditional craft of handmaking brass bowls for Buddhist monks.
Shopping in Bangkok
Shopping in Bangkok offers a distinctive experience, combining traditional markets with modern malls. One of the biggest open-air markets in Bangkok is Chatuchak Weekend Market, offering a vast array of products ranging from street food to souvenirs.
For those who prefer a mall environment, Terminal 21 and MBK Center offer a diverse shopping experience, with each floor featuring a different city theme. MBK, in particular, is a paradise for bargain hunters, housing eight floors and 2,000 shops selling everything from clothing to electronics.
For a more high-end shopping experience, visit IconSiam. This riverside shopping mall not only offers luxury brands but also houses an excellent food court and a replica floating market, providing a unique shopping experience.
Siam Square, another popular shopping destination, is known for its exciting night-time shopping and entertainment experience.
Unwinding at Rooftop Bar and Nightlife Spots
After spending the day exploring, you might find relaxation at one of Bangkok’s rooftop bars. These spots, such as CRU Champagne Bar, Lennon’s, and Sky Bar at Lebua State Tower, offer breathtaking panoramic city views, allowing for a memorable experience while sipping on a cocktail.
If you’re keen to immerse yourself in Bangkok’s music scene, clubs like Route 66, Onyx, and Levels Club & Lounge offer a blend of local and international acts. These spots are well-known for their energetic atmosphere and vibrant music, making them perfect for a night of dancing and fun.
For a different kind of entertainment, head to Nana Plaza in Sukhumvit area for lively bars and captivating ladyboy shows, or experience the neon-lit vibrancy of Khao San Road’s bars, food, and music, one of the most popular tourist areas in Bangkok. These spots offer a unique glimpse into that mesmerizing city’s nightlife, ensuring your nights are as exciting as your days during your 2 days in Bangkok.
Day Trips and Excursions
Beyond the multitude of experiences during your 2 days in Bangkok, stepping outside the city unveils a whole new realm of possibilities. A train ride from Bangkok takes you to the ancient city of Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the former capital of Siam. Here, you can explore historic ruins and learn about Thailand’s illustrious past.
A day trip to Kanchanaburi offers another enriching cultural experience. Known for its World War II history and the infamous Death Railway, this town combines history with natural beauty.
For a unique shopping experience, consider a visit to the Amphawa Evening Floating Market. From May to October, the market offers the magical experience of firefly watching on a classic long-tail boat tour.
For those taking a break from the city’s hustle and bustle, the white sand beaches of Pattaya provide the perfect getaway.
Choosing the Right Accommodation
The selection of suitable accommodation plays a pivotal role in enhancing your Bangkok experience. Whether you’re a budget traveller or prefer luxury, Bangkok has something to suit every type of traveller. Some options include:
- Silom Studios: budget accommodations
- Pullman G Bangkok: affordable luxury
- Chi Art Series Hotel: ideal for art enthusiasts
- Khao San Road: perfect for backpackers
Solo travellers can consider staying at:
- Citadines Sukhumvit 23, which offers comfort and convenience fit for an individual tourist’s needs
- Ba Hao, a unique lodging experience in Chinatown with stylish retro rooms
- 103 Bed And Brews, a café in Chinatown that also offers stylish retro rooms in a good location
For those seeking luxury with a view, the Avani Riverside Bangkok Hotel is a must-stay with its scenic views and infinity pool. Shama Serviced Apartments and Akyra Thonglor offer amenities like daily serviced apartments, pools, and a rooftop pool catering to visitors looking for more facilities.
Staying Safe and Healthy in Bangkok
Although Bangkok is generally deemed safe for tourists, it’s always wise that you stay informed and exercise the necessary precautions. Before travelling to Bangkok, it’s recommended to:
- Get vaccinated for typhoid, hepatitis A, and hepatitis B
- Always use bottled water instead of tap water
- Consider getting a prescription for Ciprofloxacin for stomach issues.
When eating street food, exercise caution with fruits, vegetables, and meats that look dubious. Use indoor ATMs for safer cash withdrawals and be vigilant when crossing streets due to chaotic traffic. Never leave your drinks unattended and avoid walking around intoxicated at night to reduce petty theft risks.
For personal security, consider using the Prey app to secure your devices against theft and secure travel insurance for unexpected incidents. Be aware of strict lèse majesté laws in Thailand, which make it illegal to criticize, defame, or insult the monarchy. Always carry a copy of your passport identification page and current Thai visa to avoid potential detention by Thai immigration police.
Summary
Bangkok offers a kaleidoscope of experiences for every traveller. From exploring the city’s iconic temples and savouring the diverse Thai cuisine to immersing in local culture and shopping at vibrant markets, there’s no shortage of adventures in this bustling metropolis. Whether you are planning 2 days in Bangkok or an extended stay, this guide aims to equip you with the necessary information, recommendations, and tips to make your visit an unforgettable journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to visit Bangkok?
The best time to visit Bangkok is from December through February to avoid the hotter and rainier months. Enjoy your trip!
What are some must-visit temples in Bangkok?
You must visit The Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun in Bangkok for an incredible temple experience!
What are some local dishes to try in Bangkok?
You have to try pork noodles with fish balls at Guay Tiew Mu Rung Rueang, aromatic stewed beef noodles at Wattanapanit, and the classic chicken stew on rice at Sae Phun when in Bangkok! These dishes will give you a taste of the local culinary scene.
What are some day trips from Bangkok?
You should visit Ayutthaya, Kanchanaburi, the Amphawa Evening Floating Market, and Pattaya’s beaches for exciting day trips from Bangkok. Experience the rich history of Ayutthaya, the beautiful scenery of Kanchanaburi, and the lively atmosphere of the floating market and beaches.
What are some safety tips for travelling in Bangkok?
Remember to get the recommended vaccinations, use bottled water, be cautious with street food, use indoor ATMs, and never leave your drink unattended to stay safe while travelling in Bangkok. Stay healthy and enjoy your travels!
