2 Day Bangkok Itinerary: How to Spend 48 Hours in Thailand’s Capital
Bangkok in 48 hours - everything to see, eat and explore in Thailand's capital
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Bangkok is a city that has to be experienced once in your life. With its ancient history, colourful markets, mouth-watering street food and international shopping scene, you could spend a lifetime exploring everything the city has to offer. But if you have just 48 hours in Bangkok, this itinerary will guide you through the must-see sights, making the most of your time in this unforgettable city.
Table of Contents
Day 1: Uncover Old Bangkok
Grand Palace, Bangkok
Morning
The Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaew
Start your day early with a visit to the Grand Palace, one of Bangkok’s most iconic landmarks. This huge complex was the royal residence for generations and remains an important cultural site. The highlight is Wat Phra Kaew, known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, home to a sacred emerald statue of Buddha made from a solid block of jade. The intricate architecture and stunning details are a feast for the eyes.
Wat Pho and the Reclining Buddha
Just a short walk from the Grand Palace is Wat Pho, known for its massive reclining Buddha statue, which measures 46m in length. The figure is beautifully detailed, covered in gold leaf and featuring mother-of-pearl inlays on its feet, and is one of the largest in Thailand. Wat Pho is also a great place to experience traditional Thai massage, as it houses one of the oldest massage schools in Thailand.
Lunch
Thip Samai, Bangkok
The best Pad Thai in Bangkok
Pad Thai might be the classic dish on every traveller’s radar, but if you’re going to do it, do it right. Thip Samai, often heralded as the best place for Pad Thai in Bangkok, has been serving this dish since 1966. Located on Maha Chai Road, this legendary eatery garners long queues every night. The swift and fiery wok-frying is on display as you await your pad thai. Make sure to order the signature version, wrapped in a delicate egg omelette.
Afternoon
Chinatown, Bangkok
Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)
After lunch, cross the Chao Phraya River to visit Wat Arun, one of Bangkok’s most beautiful temples. Known for its towering spires decorated with colourful porcelain, Wat Arun offers stunning views, especially in the afternoon light. Climb the steep steps for a panoramic view of the river and the city.
Explore Chinatown (Yaowarat)
Next, head to Chinatown, one of Bangkok’s most exciting neighbourhoods. Stroll along Yaowarat Road, where you’ll find a mix of gold shops, traditional Chinese medicine stores and bustling street food stalls. If you have time, visit Wat Traimit, which houses a 5.5-ton solid gold Buddha statue with a fascinating tale to tell.
Evening
Asiatique Riverfront, Bangkok
Dinner at Asiatique The Riverfront
End your day at Asiatique The Riverfront, a colonial-style open-air mall with a mix of shops, restaurants and cabaret entertainment. Enjoy dinner at one of the many riverside restaurants, all of them offering a variety of Thai and international cuisines. We loved Rosewood Restaurant. Share a whole or half grilled chicken, succulent, juicy and fresh off the grill. Other options include wagyu steak, fried squid in chilli & garlic or their signature papaya salad. After dinner, explore the market stalls and take a ride on the iconic Ferris wheel for a beautiful night view of the city.
Day 2: Discover New Bangkok
Jim Thompson House, Bangkok
Morning
Lumphini Park
Start your second day with a peaceful stroll in Lumphini Park, Bangkok’s green sanctuary amidst the bustling cityscape. Spanning over 140 acres, this huge park features shaded pathways, a large artificial lake and open green spaces perfect for jogging, cycling, or simply a quiet stroll away from the traffic. Rent boats to explore the lake and watch out for tropical birds and monitor lizards.
Jim Thompson House
After the park, head to the Jim Thompson House, a museum dedicated to the American businessman who revitalised the Thai silk industry. Nestled in central Bangkok, this complex of traditional Thai-style buildings, surrounded by lush gardens, houses an extensive collection of Southeast Asian art that Thompson amassed during his time in Thailand. Explore the beautifully preserved residence, which feels like a film-set, and learn about Thompson’s mysterious disappearance in 1967, in which he was never to be seen again.
Lunch
Metro Square, Bangkok
Siam Square & Siam Paragon
For lunch, make your way to Siam Square, a busy shopping district and your introduction to the best of modern Bangkok. Pop into Siam Paragon, one of the city’s most luxurious malls, featuring an array of high-end brands, gourmet eateries and a multiplex cinema. Explore the Food Hall here; it offers a vast selection of local and international food, from authentic Thai dishes to gourmet burgers and artisan desserts. Metro Square is a neon-clad restaurant with spacious seating and impeccable food and service. Serving up traditional Thai food, this spot is loved by locals. Try their signature fish ball with minced pork noodle soup, or the mouth-watering spicy grilled beef salad with eggplant.
Afternoon
Shopping in Bangkok’s Malls
Walk off lunch by exploring the shopping malls around Siam Square. Siam Paragon has luxury brands, while MBK Center is known for its affordable fashion and electronics. CentralWorld is another excellent option, featuring a mix of local and international brands. Bangkok’s malls are not just shopping centres. With their glass facades, expansive atriums, events and art installations, they’re fascinating places to wander and explore, especially as a reprieve from those searing hot Bangkok days.
Wat Saket, Bangkok
Wat Saket (Golden Mount)
In the late afternoon, head back outside and visit Wat Saket, also known as the Golden Mount. This historic temple is situated on a man-made hill with panoramic views of Bangkok. Climb the spiralling staircase of over 300 steps that winds around the mount, adorned with lush greenery and bells that can be rung for good luck. Each year during Loy Krathong in November, Wat Saket is host to a huge fair, featuring religious ceremonies, live performances and a bustling night market that transforms the quiet temple grounds, attracting thousands of visitors.
Evening
Vertigo & Moon Bar, Bangkok
Experience Bangkok’s Rooftop Bars
For your last evening in Bangkok, head to one of Bangkok’s renowned rooftop bars for dinner and drinks with a view. Sky Bar at Lebua State Tower and Vertigo at Banyan Tree are our favourites, with Vertigo also offering a rooftop grill serving steak, butter poached lobster & lemongrass chicken, all with the twinkling lights of Bangkok stretching away beneath you.
Soi Cowboy, Bangkok
Nightcap at Soi Cowboy or Nana Plaza
If you’re not quite ready for your time in Bangkok to be over, head to Soi Cowboy or Nana Plaza to round off your night. These areas are known for their neon lights, busy bars spilling out onto the streets and an atmosphere unlike anywhere else. Nana Plaza is dubbed the ‘World’s Largest Adult Playground’, and is a glimpse into Bangkok’s more infamous, risque nightlife. Not ready for the night to be over? Discover where the party never ends with our guide to the 7 Best Nightlife Areas in Bangkok.
Optional Activities
Bangkok Klongs, Bangkok
If you have extra time or want to explore beyond the main attractions, these are some great additional options to add to your itinerary:
Muay Thai Match: Experience Thailand’s ancient, national sport at Rajadamnern or Lumpinee Stadium.
Chatuchak Weekend Market: If your visit falls on a weekend, this massive market of over 15,000 stalls is the place to experience Bangkok’s market scene.
Boat Tour of the Canals: Explore Bangkok’s klongs (canals) for a glimpse into local life that not many tourists get a chance to see.
hand picked tours we love:
Things to Do
