2 Days In Bangkok Itinerary: The ULTIMATE Guide 2025

Find out the perfect 2 days in Bangkok itinerary for the ultimate time in Thailand’s capital city. Let’s get into the best things to do, top restaurants, where to stay, and more!

No doubt you will pass through Bangkok on your Thailand adventures. This capital is home to so many things, whether that’s checking out the markets, the temples, or simply getting lost in the bustling streets.

However, exploring a new city can be daunting for sure, and with lots of traffic and interesting smells, I hate to say it, but parts of the city aren’t the most charming.

I have actually spent quite a bit of amount of time in Bangkok over individual trips to Thailand. Honestly, I have probably spent about a month in this city, so I definitely know how to kill a couple of days here.

That is why I have written this best 2 days in Bangkok itinerary so you can make the most out of your 48 hours, where you can visit The Grand Palace, Wat Arun, The Floating Market, and The Train Market.

Day One Of Your 2 Days In Bangkok

There is no better way to start your 48 hours than with some of the best sights in the city, the Grand Palace and Wat Arun.

Explore The Grand Palace & Wat Po

Start the day by heading to the Grand Palace, which opens at 8:30 a.m. Just make sure you visit before late morning to beat the crowds and tour buses.

Make sure you are dressed appropriately with your shoulders and knees covered up.

The entrance fee is $16.70 / 500 THB, which is quite pricey compared to some other spots in Thailand. Just remember this is such an important place for Thai culture and history, so it’s worth the money.

You will want to spend 2 to 3 hours wandering around and exploring the grounds.

Important info about The Grand Palace:

• Location: Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok
• Ticket Price: $16.70 / 500 THB
• Opening Hours: 8:30 am to 3:30 pm

After the Grand Palace, head across the street to Wat Phra Chetuphon. The entry fee here is $2.60 / 100 THB, which is a lot more reasonable.

Wat Po is actually one of the most popular temples to visit while backpacking Bangkok. This is because here you will find the famous reclining Buddha. Reaching 45 meters in length and 15 meters high, it sure is a sight.

Important info about Wat Phra Chetuphon:

• Location: 2 Sanam Chai Rd, Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok
• Ticket Price: $2.60 / 100 THB
• Opening Hours: 8:00 am to 7:30 pm

Lunch With A View

We will stop for lunch nearby at one of the eateries, which has an incredible view over the river to our next stop, Wat Arun.

Top choices include The Deck Restaurant, Bitter Deck Restaurant, or Sala Rattanakosin Eatery and Bar.

You’ll find they are more pricey than many other restaurants in Bangkok. Though, this is simply because they are in a touristy area around the Grand Palace and have an incredible view.

You will want to budget between $15.00 and $20.00 per person for the meal. Don’t worry, this is the most expensive spot we will be eating at!

Appreciate The Architecture At Wat Arun

With a full belly, make your way to the Tha Tien Pier, which is only a couple of minutes’ walk away.

Once here, purchase a ferry ticket, which costs around $0.10 / 3 THB. The journey only takes a couple of minutes to get you across to the other side of the river, where you will hop off right next to Wat Arun.

Wat Arun costs $1.34 / 40 THB to enter, and again you will need to have your shoulders and knees covered.

No doubt, this is one of the most popular temples to visit here in Bangkok. With beautiful colored tiles it’s a favorite photo spot for tourists.

From here, the afternoon is yours. You can either head back to your hotel and hide from the midday heat or take a boat tour down the Chao Phraya River.

Important info about Wat Arun

• Location: 158 Thanon Wang Doem, Wat Arun, Bangkok Yai, Bangkok
• Ticket Price: $1.34 / 40 THB
• Opening Hours: 8:00 am to 6:00 pm

Spend The Evening At A Bangkok Skybar

One of the best things to do in Bangkok is to check out some incredible SkyBars. Visit just before sunset to see the sky change color and watch it reflect from the impressive glass buildings.

These Skybars offer incredible views over the city and should definitely be added to your Bangkok itinerary.

If you are a big Hangover 2 fan, then you will definitely need to visit the Sky Bar at Lebua Bangkok. This is where some parts of the movie were filmed and is one of the best in the city.

Another great option is CHAR Bangkok. I was staying in this hotel during a recent visit and couldn’t miss checking out their impressive Skybar. There are insane views across the Bangkok skyline and over the nearby parks.

Be aware that these views are not usually seen by travelers on a budget. So, I recommend those backpacking Bangkok put on their best clothes. That means no jandals and elephant pants.

It is not the cheapest way to spend an evening. Even a basic soda will set you back $6.00+, so perhaps you may not want to stay too long.

Day 2 Of Your Bangkok Itinerary

Today, we will visit some more iconic things to do, but a little further out of the city, to the Floating Market and Train Market.

I recommend booking a guided tour to visit these rather than trying to do it yourself. It is a bit of a drive, but your tour guide will keep you entertained.

Get Out Of The City On A Train Market & Floating Market Tour

There are so many tours of the Damnoen Saduak and the Maeklong Railway Market available that you honestly will be overwhelmed with options!

The Damnoen Saduak Market and Maeklong Railway Market from Bangkok is one of the most popular tours and one which I have actually taken myself.

For $34.00, you get a full day of activities, including visiting both these markets and exploring a different side of the city.

On the day, head to the meeting spot. If you booked with Big Country Experience on Get Your Guide, this will be River City Bangkok.

You will make your way to the Maeklong Railway Market. It’s a bit of a drive, about an hour, but you’ll also stop for a bathroom break and snacks along the way.

First off, you will visit a small salt farm off the main road. This is just a short stop here while you wait to catch the train to the Maeklong Railway Market. This means you will get to experience the market on the train itself, as well as on the ground, a short while later, during your shopping.

The train comes through eight times each day. This means if you visit without a tour, you’ll need to make sure you around to catch the train at either:

• 6:20 am
• 8:30 am
• 9:00 am
• 11:10 am
• 11:30 am
• 2:30 pm
• 3:30 pm
• 5:40 pm.

Just note to prepare for the train to arrive a few minutes early or late as it doesn’t run perfectly on time. Nevertheless, you will hear it coming!

There are plenty of cafes and stalls are set up alongside the railway tracks, so make sure to bring some cash! This was my preferred place for shopping on the day as it had a great, lively atmosphere.

Relax On A Floating Market Tour

After visiting the Railway Market, you will jump back into the minivan and drive the short distance over to the Floating Market, also known as Damnoen Saduak Market.

This is definitely your typical Instagram spot when visiting Bangkok. Again, you will have plenty of opportunities to shop here.

If I’m being honest, no one in our boat was interested, and we didn’t feel pressured at all.

From here, you will enjoy a late lunch with recommendations provided by your tour guide before heading back into the city. Hopefully, you will not get stuck in traffic.

If you are relying on public transport, heading back into the center will take you around 3 hours. It is half this time using private transport, which is why I recommend booking a tour.

Enjoy The Nightlife Of Khao San Road

Welcome to Bangkok’s backpacker mecca, Khao San Road. This is the place for all things weird and wonderful.

There are plenty of restaurants to choose from for dinner, though I recommend moving one street over to Rambuttri Alley rather than eating on Khao San Road itself.

If you’re looking for street food, head a few streets over and look for a stall where locals eat. Honestly, the street food on Khao San Road is pretty poor quality compared to the rest of the country.

After you’ve had dinner, grab a cold Chang beer and join the crazy. This is THE party place for travelers in Bangkok!

What Else Should You Do In Bangkok?

If you’re lucky enough to be staying more than 2 days there are plenty other things to do during your visit:

Ayutthaya: It’s well worth taking day trip to Ayutthaya, to explore the UNESCO temples. You can easily travel by train there from Bangkok and it’s easy enough to check out the highlights on a tour or even just hiring a bicycle.

Lumpini Park: If you’re craving a break from the city and some green grass head to Lumpini Park. Once here you’ll find jogging trails, gym equipment, and even boats to hire. There is even a bit of inner-city wildlife here in terms of birds and the infamous monitor lizards.

Food Tour: If you are a bit of a foodie like me, what better way to discover a new city? I recommend checking out Bangkok by Night Tuk Tuk Tour: Markets, Temples & Food.

Chatuchak Weekend Market: This is Thailand’s biggest market, boasting over 15,000 stalls! It is open from Wednesday to Friday, but on weekends, this place truly transforms with stalls selling anything and everything.

Travel Tips For Bangkok

Now that you know what to actually do in Bangkok, here are some tips worth knowing when exploring Thailand’s capital.

Where To Stay In Bangkok?

Khao San Road, Siam, Silom, and Sukhumvit are the main areas tourist book for accommodation in the city.

If this is your first time in Bangkok or you’re looking to party then Khao San Road is perfect.

Just note that I do not recommend for ANYONE to stay on actual the Khao San Road.

There’s constant noise from the street below, and since that’s where travelers typically book, most hostels and hotels aren’t bothered about providing a comfortable and clean space.

If this sounds like you, check out my guide to the best hostels around Khao San Road.

I recently stayed at Sleep Withinn, a very short walk from Khao San Road, and it was a great choice for a private room. I could relax in the pool, the room was clean, the air conditioning worked perfectly, and it was $26.00 per night.

When I’m solo BED STATION Hostel Khaosan is my favorite choice. It’s super easy to meet people and there is a great vibe. Plus, I am a sucker for pod-style dorms.

For a “normal” and non-drug or alcohol-fueled experience in Bangkok, I recommend staying in Silom, Siam, or Sukhumvit. These are more modern parts of the city and a lot more low-key.

Staying Safe In Bangkok

Bangkok is like any other large city in terms of safety, with a bit of common sense, you will be fine.

The only real crime you need to worry about is petty theft. Remember don’t use your phone along a busy street, and carry your valuables in a cross-body bag.

The number one thing is always to ensure the taxi uses a meter. If you’re concerned about getting scammed in a taxi, use Grab instead. This app can be downloaded on your phone.

Where To After Your Time In Bangkok?

North: If you want to head North definitely take the overnight journey from Bangkok to Chiang Mai. Of course, there is the bus, but the overnight sleeper train is much more comfortable. From there, you could continue up to Laos or even pop over to the backpacker hangout of Pai.

South: Travel South down to the East Coast for beautiful beaches and island paradise. It’s easy enough to take a plane or overnight bus, and ferry down to Koh Samui, Koh Tao, and Koh Phangan. Then from here, head further South and continue island hopping.

Wrap Up: The Ultimate Bangkok Itinerary For 2 Days

Hopefully now you know how exactly to spend you 2 days in Bangkok.

Of course, make sure to head a bit further out to experience the famous floating market and train market. These are a must!