Heading to Thailand and wondering what to see in Bangkok? This vibrant city has a huge personality, and it’s a fun spot to explore. Find out exactly how to spend your time in this 2 day itinerary of Bangkok!
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Bangkok is a popular spot to visit for a bit before heading off to another region of Thailand, and it’s so worth it to spend some time here! Whether you’re looking for unique architecture, famous sights or amazing street food, Bangkok is a great destination in the heart of Thailand.
Whether you’re looking for stunning temples, bustling markets, or delicious Thai food, Bangkok has it all. Here’s how you can make the most out this amazing city.
👉Don’t have time to read the whole article? This is the best Bangkok Temples Tour for experiencing the culture and this is the best Bangkok food tour for local flavors!
How many days in Bangkok?
Bangkok is honestly a perfect destination for travelers seeking a quick getaway or a stopover on your way to other parts of Thailand, like the Phi Phi Islands, Phuket, Krabi and more. After visiting Athens multiple times, my recommendations are…
- One day in Bangkok: you’ll just see the highlights. It’s a great option if you’re needing to get onto your next destination quickly.
- Two days in Bangkok is the perfect amount to explore the city, experience the culture, and also see more of Thailand.
- Three days is nice if you have an extended time in the area. You can relax your schedule a bit and explore more of the food, markets and have more leisure time.
But after spending quite a bit of time in the city, I think 2 days is just right!
Best time to visit Bangkok Thailand
Bangkok is a vibrant city year-round, but certain times of the year offer better weather. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect during different seasons so you can plan your trip accordingly.
- Cool Season (November to February): This is the best time to visit Bangkok weather-wise. The temperature is cooler and more comfortable, ranging from 20°C to 31°C (68°F to 88°F). Humidity is lower, and there is minimal rainfall, making it ideal for exploring the city and its outdoor attractions.
- March to June: During these months, Bangkok can be extremely hot, with temperatures often exceeding 34°C (93°F). The heat peaks in April, which is the hottest month of the year. If you don’t mind the heat, you’ll find that this is a less crowded time to visit.
- July to October: The rainy season brings high humidity and daily showers. It’s also a bit cooler than the hot season but still quite warm.
My last trip to Bangkok was in November, which I felt was perfect as it was the start of the busy season but prices weren’t too insane yet.
Map of your 2 days in Bangkok
This is a map of the itinerary in this guide. If you’re wondering what to do in Bangkok in 2 days, check out the icons within the map and the descriptions below.
The yellow icons are what to see on day 1 and the orange icons are your 2nd day activities.
What to pack for your 2 day itinerary Bangkok
Packing appropriately for Bangkok is crucial due to its tropical climate and cultural norms. Here’s a list of top things you should consider bringing along to ensure a comfortable and respectful visit.
- Lightweight and breathable fabrics: opt for light, airy fabrics like cotton and linen to help cope with the heat and humidity.
- Modest clothing for temples: bring clothes that cover your shoulders and knees for visiting temples. A sarong or a light scarf can be useful for quickly covering up when needed. I love this dress for travel, and I’m short enough it covers my knees, too.
- Comfortable walking shoes: you’ll likely do a lot of walking, so comfortable shoes are a must. I loved my Birkenstocks for Thailand, but you could also do stylish and comfortable walking shoes, too.
- Sun protection: pack sunscreen with a high SPF, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the strong sun. This is my favorite mineral sunscreen which I wore in Bangkok and all over Thailand!
- Rain gear: a lightweight rain jacket or a small umbrella is essential, especially if you’re visiting during the rainy season.
- Insect repellent: mosquitoes can be rough in Thailand, so bring insect repellent! I love this insect repellent lotion that works so well!
- Reusable water bottle: Stay hydrated and reduce plastic waste by carrying a reusable water bottle. Many hotels and hostels offer water refilling stations.
- Portable power bank: this is a lifesaver when you’re out exploring all day and using your phone for photos, maps and info!
- Travel insurance: always a good idea to have travel insurance in case of unexpected medical issues or travel disruptions.
- Cash: while credit cards are widely accepted, many places in Bangkok and Thailand, especially street vendors and smaller shops, prefer cash.
Packing these essentials will help ensure you’re well-prepared for a variety of activities in Bangkok, from temple visits and shopping to dining and exploring the bustling city streets. Have a great trip!
Top tips for first-time visitors to Bangkok
- Dress appropriately: when visiting temples or religious sites, dress modestly by covering your shoulders and knees. This shows respect for Thai culture and religious practices.
- Carry cash: while credit cards are accepted in many places, smaller shops, market vendors, and some taxis prefer cash.
- Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun: make sure to stay hydrated, especially if you’re not used to the hot and humid climate. Also, it’s best to drink bottled water rather than tap water in Bangkok.
Use sun protection: apply mineral sunscreen regularly, wear a hat, and use sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun. - Plan extra travel time: Bangkok is notorious for its traffic jams, especially during peak hours. Always allow extra time for travel when you have scheduled activities.
- Food safety: while street food is generally safe, opt for stalls where you can see food being cooked and that have a high turnover of customers for freshness.
- Book early for high season: if you choose to visit during the cool season (November – March), be sure to book your accommodations and flights well in advance as this is the peak tourist season.
Day 1 of this Bangkok itinerary
Your first day in Bangkok is a captivating blend of culture and sightseeing. It’s a pretty busy day, so make sure you’ve got a good night’s sleep! Grab breakfast at your hotel before heading out for the day.
Grand Palace
The Grand Palace in Bangkok is a must-see for any visitor to Thailand! Its incredible architecture and intricate detail is truly spectacular to see in real life. Construction first started in 1782, this huge complex has been the ceremonial and administrative heart of Thailand for centuries.
You can take a tour of the Grand Palace or just pay the entrance fee and discover the buildings by yourself. I learned a ton more about the palace from my guide and I’d recommend this tour!
Be sure to visit the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew), which is home to the Buddha statue carved from a single block of jade, considered the protector of Thailand. It’s incredible to see up close!
Each building within the palace grounds tells a story, offering a glimpse into the lavish lifestyles of the Thai royalty and the skilled artisans who built each area of the palace.
Visiting the Grand Palace is an essential part of this Bangkok itinerary, and you can literally spend hours exploring its many corners, getting a taste of Thailand’s rich culture and history.
Wat Pho
Another incredible sight to see on this 2 day Bangkok itinerary is Wat Pho. Also known as the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, or Wat Phra Chetuphon Wimon Mangkhalaram Rajwaramahawihan, is one of Bangkok’s most interesting and culturally significant sites. Not to mention, a fun spot to visit!
Located near the Grand Palace, and often included in Bangkok temples tours, this iconic temple is famed for its enormous reclining Buddha statue! It measures 46 meters in length (over 150 feet long!) and is covered in gold leaf. Laying down, the Buddha is massive!
You can walk around the entire thing – I especially loved seeing the feet, as it was just so interesting. Wat Pho is also known for it’s hundreds of Buddha images, which makes it a culturally significant spot in Bangkok.
Bangkok itinerary, day 1 continued
After walking around temples and learning about Thai culture, it’s time for something much different: food and shopping!
Khao San Road
Take a taxi or a tuk-tuk to the famous Khao San Road for some lunch and shopping.
This street is a bustling hub of activity and one of the most famous nightlife spots in Bangkok, particularly popular with backpackers and tourists from all over the world.
What to expect
- Street food: Khao San Road is a paradise for street food lovers. You can find everything from pad Thai and grilled meats to scorpion-on-a-stick for the adventurous eater. Grab a bite and enjoy the flavors of Thailand.
- Shopping: the street is lined with stalls selling a variety of items including clothes, crafts, souvenirs and unique artwork. It’s a great place to pick up some gifts or souvenirs.
- People Watching: this road offers some of the best people-watching opportunities in the city. You’ll see a fascinating cross-section of people from all around the world, all drawn by the energy of this iconic street.
Tips for visiting Khao San Road on this Bangkok 2 day itinerary
- Watch your stuff: Khao San Road can get very crowded, especially at night, so keep an eye on your belongings.
- Bargain: if you’re shopping, don’t be afraid to bargain. It’s part of the fun and expected, especially at street stalls. Just be respectful in the process!
- Stay flexible: the atmosphere on Khao San Road can vary greatly depending on the time of week and year. Weekends and holidays are particularly busy.
Ending your day at Khao San Road offers a lively contrast to the morning’s more tranquil market experiences and provides a full-circle view of Bangkok’s dynamic range of attractions—from the traditional to the contemporary.
Alternative: you could grab lunch near the temples, relax at your hotel a bit then head back out to Khao San Road for dinner and nightlife!
Ending the day: dinner and relax
For dinner, I’d recommend heading back to your hotel to relax then grab a bite or catching some food along the way. You’re probably tired after the long day of sightseeing around Bangkok!
Oh, and be sure to get some rest – day 2 is just as amazing as the first day on this 2 day Bangkok itinerary.
Day 2 in Bangkok, Thailand
Grab an early morning breakfast at your hotel, or wait to grab breakfast and local coffee on the first activity of the day! Today we’re exploring a region just outside of the city – and well worth the adventure!
Pro tip: book this tour to enjoy the day ahead!
Damneon Saduak Market
Make your way to the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market. It’s about a 30-minute drive from downtown Bangkok, and you can book a private car or book a tour to see this unique spot in Thailand.
This is Thailand’s most famous floating market and a must-visit for a glimpse into the vibrant local culture. You’ll see boats piled high with tropical fruits, vegetables and local foods. The beautiful colors, local selling artisan goods, and lively atmosphere make for an unforgettable experience.
As part of your Damneon Saduak Floating Market tour, you’ll get a guide to paddle and drive a boat for you to experience the market.
You’ll find vendors selling foods such as traditional Thai snacks, fresh fruit, and strong local coffee — a perfect energizing start for more exploring.
The tour will navigate the narrow canals where you can shop directly from boat vendors selling everything from fresh produce to hot, cooked meals and souvenirs. This is also an excellent opportunity to snap some photos!
To be honest, this is definitely a ‘must-see’ in Thailand, but it does feel a bit like a tourist trap. Definitely stay firm in your ‘no’ if the locals are pressuring you to buy more stuff. 😆
Lunch: eat like a local
For lunch, don’t miss the chance to try some fresh seafood or a bowl of boat noodles from one of the floating vendors. These dishes are cooked and served right on the boats, offering you the freshest tastes possible!
Alternatively, you can stop by a food cart or restaurant on your way to the next activity.
Maeklong Railway Market
As part of your day tour, head to the famous Maeklong Railway Market, also known as the “umbrella pulldown market.” Here, you’ll find plenty of local fruit, vegetables, seafood, meats, grains, spices and more. I bought some delicious rambutan and enjoyed it on the beach after heading out of the city!
This market is famous for its unique setting right on the railway tracks. When the train approaches, watch as vendors quickly pull back their awnings and display tables, allowing the train to pass by, then set everything back in place as soon as it’s gone.
It’s a fascinating sight and offers some great photo opportunities. The train is REALLY close to the market, and loads of spectators are there to grab photos, too.
Tip: Check the train schedule in advance (your hotel or a local guide can help) to make sure you can witness this incredible moment!
Bangkok 2 day itinerary, continued
After making your way back to Bangkok, it’s time to slow it down for a bit…
Time to relax a bit
I recommend taking a load off those feet of yours, and cool down for a bit in your hotel room. And, if you book a hotel with a rooftop pool, go and enjoy it for a bit!
This is a time to refresh and take a break from the noise and overstimulation of the city.
Dinner in Sukhumvit
For dinner, explore Sukhumvit’s street food scene. This area is known for its diverse food offerings. Try some grilled satay, som tam (spicy green papaya salad), or a hearty serving of pad kra pao (stir-fried basil with meat).
Alternatively, you can find a spot close to your hotel – or even at an on-site restaurant!
Getting around Bangkok: your best transport options
For the ultimate convenience, taxis and tuk tuks are available throughout Bangkok. They’re affordable and readily available. Just be sure to negotiate a price beforehand so you’re not overcharged
Alternatively, you can download and use the Grab app, which is Southeast Asia’s equivalent to Uber. The prices are set in advance so you know it’s a reliable price, too.
We’ve used all sorts of transportation, and it really depends on your mood and what’s easiest for your location!
Where to stay in Bangkok
Okay, so if you were wondering about that rooftop pool earlier in this travel guide, it’s at the Amara Bangkok.
I personally loved staying here, and the food and location worked out really well for our 2 day Bangkok itinerary!
2 days in Bangkok itinerary
Gah! Are you so ready to plan your time in this fabulous city?! There’s so much to see and do in Bangkok, it’s impossible to see it all in just two days, but also you’ll get to experience the highlights, for sure.
Whether you find a deeper understanding of Thai Buddhism, a glimpse into the country’s rich history, or simply soak in the sights, one thing is for sure: there are tons of memories to be made in Bangkok!
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