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Bangkok Itinerary For 2 Days: A Quick Adventure in Thailand

In a diverse and well-connected city like Bangkok, you can do a lot in two days. It doesn’t sound like much, but with a solid Bangkok itinerary for 2 days, one that spans easily accessible attractions and includes plenty of traditional Thai food, you can turn two days into the vacation of a lifetime.

Here’s how to prepare for 2 days in Bangkok, what to do and see, and how to make the most of street food, attractions, landmarks, and public transportation.

Bangkok in Two Days: A Practical Guide for First-Time Visitors

If it’s your first time in the city and you want to see as much as possible, plan your 48 hours in Bangkok itinerary like a military operation:

Overview of a Two-Day Bangkok Itinerary

Looking for things to do in Bangkok in 2 days? Here’s a quick summary to help you plan your visit:

Whatever you choose to see and do, here are some travel tips to help you get the most from your Bangkok two day itinerary:

Logistics & Preparation

Public transportation is excellent here, so use it! A taxi or tuk tuk is good for short journeys, but not when the roads are congested. Familiarize yourself with the BTS Skytrain, MRT subway, and ferries. Check your accommodation for airport transfers, get a bus timetable, and if you’re taking a 2 day trip from Bangkok as opposed to spending a couple of days within the city, check travel and tour options.

If you’re willing to pay a little more, you can rent a vehicle for an average of THB 800 to THB 1,500 per day ($25 to $47) or use rideshare services like Bolt and Grab, which charge a minimum rate (often between THB 40 and 50, or $1.25 to $1.50), and then bill you based on the vehicle and journey length.

The table below will give you an idea of the average price of various expenses*:

Type Budget Options Mid-Range High-End
Food ฿40 to ฿150 ฿200 to ฿500 ฿700+
Transportation ฿10 to ฿20 ฿50 to ฿250 ฿1,000+
Accommodation ฿100 to ฿300 ฿1,000 to ฿3,000 ฿5,000+
Attractions Free ฿100 to ฿300 ฿500+

*Prices vary. Check official sources before you travel.

BTS Skytrain in Bangkok. Credit: Unsplash.
BTS Skytrain in Bangkok. Credit: Unsplash.

Here are some other travel tips to consider when planning a Bangkok itinerary for 2 days:

Packing & Dress-Code Insights

Bangkok temples are a must-visit, but you’ll need to dress accordingly. Knees, shoulders, and pretty much everything else should be covered. Wear loose-fitting pants/skirts and long-sleeve tops.

Take bottles of water with you on long walks and tours, and use plenty of sunscreen. Street food is readily available, but if you’ll be spending a lot of time in temple complexes or on the road, take snacks.

Most major attractions are air-conditioned and provide a welcome relief from the sun. It gets very hot here, reaching highs of 93°F (34°C) in the summer, so plan your 2 days itinerary for Bangkok to include lots of time indoors or in the shade.

Day One: Royal Heritage & Riverside Icons

Wat Phra Kaew. Credit: Unsplash.
Wat Phra Kaew. Credit: Unsplash.

We’re kicking off our Bangkok two day itinerary with some religious sites—so keep the above travel tips in mind and let’s explore!

Morning – Temples and Palaces

Temples are deservedly listed as some of the best places to see in Bangkok. They offer a sense of peace and serenity that’s far removed from the hustle and bustle of the city, even though many are centrally located.

Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha)

The Grand Palace should be near the top of your Bangkok itinerary for 2 days. Visit early to avoid the crowds and head for Wat Phra Kaew, which translates to “Temple of the Emerald Buddha”. Often called the most sacred Buddhist temple in the country, it houses a jade statue, with the name referring to its color and not its material.

Spend some time exploring the temples and enjoying the surrounding architecture, and then head for the next stop on our itinerary, and yet more Buddhist splendor.

Wat Pho (Reclining Buddha)

Wat Pho, or the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, is less than a 15-minute walk from the Golden Palace—an easy box to check on your 2 day itinerary.

A 46-meter-long Buddha statue is the star of the show and makes for a breathtaking sight.

Cross‑River Hop to Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)

Take a short walk to Tah Tian pier, where you can cross the river to Wat Arun for a few baht. Situated on the left bank of the Chao Phraya River, the “Temple of Dawn” is known for its iconic spire, built during the 19th century.

Climb the steps of this spectacular temple for some of the best views of Bangkok, namely the teeming river and temple complexes—which you have already visited!—on the other side.

Afternoon – Thai History Unpacked

We think that some of the best things to do in Bangkok in 2 days revolve around the city’s incredible history. If you agree, add these to your list:

Bangkok National Museum

Back over the river, in a journey that takes about 10 minutes by car, the Bangkok National Museum is a worthy afternoon destination.

There are fine art galleries, galleries exploring Thai history, and excellent exhibitions showcasing Wang Na historical sites, including royal halls and artefacts from centuries past.

Wat Saket (Golden Mount)

Another short journey, and another must-visit attraction. This temple was built during the reign of the Ayutthaya Kingdom and sits atop a hill that offers panoramic views of Rattanakosin Island, known as the historic section of Bangkok.

It’s a long walk to the top, but it’s not as arduous as you might think. You can enjoy views of an artificial garden and temple bells as you ascend, and once you’re at the top, you’ll be able to say you climbed the only hill in Bangkok!

Also, despite its popularity and majestic views, it’s usually cheaper and less crowded than other Bangkok temples.

Lunch Break

From the delicious morsels dished out by street food vendors to local noodle shops and Michelin-starred restaurants (of which there are over 30), Bangkok is a culinary paradise.

If you’re a foodie planning a Bangkok itinerary for 2 days, check out our list of the best places to eat in Bangkok. Alternatively, pick up some grub from an eatery around Wat Saket—Raan Jay Fai is on the pricier side, but has some amazing Thai dishes; JEDI Café & Bar sells coffees and desserts; Khao Man Kai Jae Yi is perfect for affordable bites.

Evening – Sky‑High & Riverfront Nightlife

Some of the best places to visit in Bangkok in 2 days only come alive at night. Once the sun goes down, the nightlife takes over.

King Power Mahanakhon SkyWalk

Last admission here is at 6:30pm, so arrive with an hour to spare and kick-start your night in style. The SkyWalk is the city’s highest observation deck. You’ll be 1,030 feet (314 meters) high and surrounded by 360-degree views.

The adventurous among you should try the glass trays for an unsettling but memorable experience.

Asiatique the Riverfront

Straddling 984 feet (300 meters) of the river, this upmarket riverfront destination has something for everyone. Relax and enjoy the views in an open-air setting, take in a cabaret show or Muay Thai event, or hit the bazaar for some late-night shopping. If the SkyWalk didn’t give you vertigo, hop on the Sky Ferris wheel for some more breathtaking views.

There’s always something happening here, with pop-up events and shows throughout the year. So, if you’re adding it to a Bangkok itinerary for 2 days, check the events calendar and see what’s happening when you’re in town.

Day Two: Green Escape, Contemporary Culture & Creative Quarters

We crammed a lot into the first day, but this is a Bangkok itinerary for 2 days, so let’s continue. It’s time to get creative—literally.

Morning – “Green Lung” Adventure

Known as the “green lung” of Bangkok, Bang Krachao is an unspoiled space reachable by boat (via Klong Toei and Bang Na, among others) or public transport. We recommend hiring a bicycle when you arrive. These are available from rental companies at the pier and cost less than 100 baht ($3) for the day.

You can then cycle along the mangrove boardwalks and across the narrow bridges as you lose yourself in this hidden gem.

This green space is a little out of the way, but it offers something completely different to the city, and is worthy of inclusion on your Bangkok itinerary for 2 days.

Midday – Classic Meets Modern Thai Culture

Midday is the best time to visit Bangkok Chinatown if you’re looking for cheap deals and traditional Chinese food. For something a little different, head to the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, where you can buy clothing, accessories, souvenirs, and food from scores of vendors floating on the canals.

The journey from Bangkok to Damnoen Saduak Floating Market and back could take up to three hours off your schedule, though, so if you’re going, make a full day out of it.

For this Bangkok itinerary for 2 days, we’re sticking with culture spots within the city’s borders:

Jim Thompson House Museum

The Jim Thompson House Museum is just the vibe if you’re in the mood for some local history and culture. The museum is located inside the home of the late James Thompson, known as the “Thai silk king.”

Open daily until 5pm, it charges a small entrance fee, but is free for kids under 10. A guide will show you around the house (remove your shoes and stow large bags), and an impressive art collection from across Southeast Asia.

The Jim Thompson House. Credit: Unsplash.
The Jim Thompson House. Credit: Unsplash.

As you’d expect from the “silk king,” much of the museum is devoted to the history of silk, as well as the life of its founder.

Bangkok Art & Culture Centre

Located in the Siam area, the Bangkok Art & Culture Centre is a mixed-used space devoted to the arts. Open daily (except Monday), it hosts various arts and music exhibitions throughout the year. Admission is free, so pay a visit, see what’s on, and spend an hour or two enjoying the exhibits.

To maximize your Bangkok itinerary for 2 days, though, we recommend checking out the official website, seeing what’s on, and then planning your visit accordingly.

Afternoon – Urban Oasis

It’s time to unwind at Lumpini Park, the city’s first public park and still one of its best. It accords you a glimpse of Thai life, with the locals jogging along the pathways, performing yoga or Tai Chi in its open spaces, and enjoying a picnic on the grass.

If you’re planning a Bangkok 3 days 2 nights itinerary and need some time to kill before a flight, this is also a great place to visit.

Lumpini Park. Credit: Pexels.
Lumpini Park. Credit: Pexels.

Evening – Hip Heritage & Night‑Market Vibes

We’re reaching the end of our Bangkok itinerary for 2 days, but the highlight of your trip could be waiting around the corner.

Talat Noi & Charoen Krung Creative District

Historic charm meets artistic flair in the creative district of Talat Noi. The locals are given free rein to express themselves in this artsy neighborhood, so expect lots of street art and quirky indie cafes.

Talat Noi runs adjacent to Charoen Krung, which plays host to some of the city’s trendiest restaurants, shops, bars, and art galleries. The blend of culture, history, art, and modernity makes this district a must-see on your final night in the city.

Jodd Fairs Night Market

Now located on Ratchadapisek Road (formerly at Rama 9), Jodd Fairs is a massive night market spanning 1,500 stalls. There is live music to keep you entertained as you browse through crafts, clothing, accessories, and souvenirs while tucking into noodle dishes, rice dishes, snacks, and sweet treats from the many street food stalls.

It's a shopping and foodie paradise in one!

A night market in Bangkok. Credit: Unsplash.
A night market in Bangkok. Credit: Unsplash.

Optional Extensions

You have 2 days in Bangkok, what to do? Well, if our Bangkok itinerary for 2 days doesn’t interest you, switch out some of the attractions for the following options:

Conclusion: Bangkok Itinerary for 2 Days

Every minute counts on this vacation. We have outlined a rough Bangkok itinerary for 2 days above, but this supposes that you start your vacation early on day one and then finish late on day two. In reality, that’s probably not the case.

You may have 3 days and 2 nights in Bangkok if your flight leaves late on the third day. If so, you can squeeze in a few more attractions and activities—a coffee at a popular café in the morning, mango sticky rice for brunch, pad thai for lunch, and a visit to Yaowarat Road in Chinatown during the afternoon.

As you can see, whether you visit Bangkok for a day, week, or month, there’s always something new to explore.