Bangkok in 48 hours? Bangkok is loud, chaotic, and fascinating at the same time – a city that never stands still. Many travelers come here for just a short stopover, whether on their way to the islands or as a layover on a long-distance trip. But even with little time, you can experience Bangkok intensively!
If you only have two days, you need to plan cleverly. Between temples, street food, and rooftop bars, there are countless ways to discover the city without getting stressed. In this article, we’ll show you how to get the most out of 48 hours in Bangkok – with a mix of must-sees, insider tips, and relaxing moments.
- Quick Facts Bangkok
- Arrival and transfer in Bangkok
- Day 1: Temples, street food, and rooftop bars
- Day 2: Parks, Chinatown & Moments of enjoyment
- Bangkok’s districts & overnight stays
- Our travel tips for Bangkok
- Bangkok in 48 hours – our conclusion
- Other travel destinations in Thailand
Quick Facts Bangkok
- Capital of Thailand: Bangkok
- Population: approx. 10.5 million (as of 2020)
- Languages: Thai (official language), English (widely spoken), Chinese, Malay and indigenous languages
- Currency: Thai Baht (THB) | 1 € = 40 Baht
- Time zone: ICT (UTC+7)
- Religions: Buddhism (main religion), Islam, Christianity, Hinduism, indigenous beliefs
By loading the map, you accept Google’s privacy policy.
Learn more
Load map
Arrival and Transfer in Bangkok
Bangkok has two international airports: Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK), the largest and most important airport in Thailand, and Don Mueang Airport (DMK), which is primarily used by low-cost airlines. Both are located outside the city center, but there are several options for getting to the city center quickly and conveniently.
Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK)
From Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK), the Airport Rail Link (ARL) is the fastest and cheapest option. Trains run every few minutes and take you to the Phaya Thai terminal in just 30 minutes, where you can transfer to the BTS Skytrain. The price is around 45 baht, making it the best choice if you don’t have much luggage and aren’t arriving during rush hour.
Alternatively, taxis and Grab are available that will take you directly to the hotel. The journey to the center takes between 30 and 60 minutes, depending on traffic, and costs around 300 to 500 baht, with tolls being charged separately. Those looking for extra comfort can book a private transfer or limousine service, which, at prices starting at 800 baht, is more expensive but takes you directly to your accommodation without any stress.
Our tip: We booked a private transfer for four people in advance. After reaching the arrivals hall, we were picked up and taken to our car. The journey to Thonglor only took about 40 minutes, and we highly recommend this transfer. We also saved a lot of time.
- Bangkok: BKK Airport to/from Hotel Private Transfer*
Don Mueang Airport (DMK)
If you land at Don Mueang Airport (DMK), there is no direct express train, but there is a convenient airport bus (lines A1 & A2) that takes you to the BTS Skytrain in Mo Chit for 30 to 50 baht. The bus ride takes about 30 minutes.
Alternatively, you can take a taxi or Grab, which costs about 250 to 400 baht and takes 30 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic. There is also a train connection, but the route to Hua Lamphong is slow and not really practical for most travelers.
- Bangkok: DMK Airport to/from Hotel Private Transfer*
Day 1: Temples, Street Food and Rooftop Bars
8 a.m. – Breakfast at the hotel or café
Start your first day in Bangkok with a lavish breakfast at the hotel or look for a cool café nearby. We simply type “café” into Google Maps for the respective region and look at the results. This way we always find a great spot to start the day comfortably. Here are a few tips that we have saved:
- ROAST coffee & eatery
- Luka Cafe
- REN – Cafe & Goods
- White Flower Cafe
- The Coffee Academics
- Mohu Mohu Cat Café
9 a.m. – Grand Palace and Wat Pho
After a relaxing breakfast, we head straight to the city’s most famous sights: the Grand Palace and the impressive Wat Pho. The Grand Palace is one of Bangkok’s most important sights and was the official residence of the Thai kings for over 150 years. Today it is only used for ceremonial occasions, but remains an impressive landmark of the city.
- Opening Hours: Daily from 8:30 am to 3:30 pm
- Admission: 500 Baht (includes entrance to Wat Phra Kaew)
- Dress Code: Strict dress code – shoulders and knees must be covered, no tight or see-through clothing. If necessary, you can rent long clothing on site.
- Tip: Get there early to avoid the biggest crowds and the midday heat.
- Guided Tour: Bangkok: Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun Guided Tour*
Directly south of the Grand Palace lies Wat Pho, one of Bangkok’s oldest and most impressive temples. It is particularly famous for the enormous, 46 meter long and 15 meter high statue of the reclining Buddha, which is covered in gold. Wat Pho is not only known for the reclining Buddha, but also for its renowned massage school. Here, the degree is considered the highest recognition for a masseur in Thailand.
- Opening Hours: Daily from 8:00 AM to 6:30 PM
- Admission: 300 Baht (including a bottle of water)
- Dress Code: Shoulders and knees must also be covered, but this is not quite as strict as in the Grand Palace.
- Guided Tour: Bangkok: Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun Guided Tour*
Alternative: If you have already explored these sights on a previous visit, you can instead visit the remarkable Wat Saket or the unique Dragon Temple.
11 a.m. – Ferry to Wat Arun
From Tah Tian Pier, you can take the ferry directly to Wat Arun, which is located on the other side of the river. The ferry ride costs only 5 baht and takes just a few minutes. Particularly impressive is the central prang (tower), which is decorated with colorful ceramic and porcelain tiles. You can climb the temple tower and enjoy a magnificent view of the river and the city.
- Opening Hours: Daily from 7:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
- Entrance Fee: 100 Baht (including a bottle of water)
- Dress Code: Shoulders and knees should be covered.
- Guided Tour: Bangkok: Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun Guided Tour*
12:30 p.m. – Lunch break on the Chao Phraya River
After your first highlights in Bangkok, you deserve a break. How about a delicious lunch on the Chao Phraya River? Take the ferry back to the other side, to Tah Tian Pier, and stroll a few meters further to the restaurant “The Deck by Arun Residence”. There you can enjoy delicious Thai dishes with a beautiful view of Wat Arun. For coffee and cake, we recommend “ViVi The Coffee Place”.
Tip: In front of Tah Tian Pier, there’s a small food market where you can get simple meals and snacks at relatively low prices. There are a few restaurants nearby that also serve Thai dishes, such as Thai Wang or Pad Thai La cuisine.
2 p.m. – Shopping
Bangkok is a true paradise for shoppers! Whether you’re looking for designer clothes, local designers, tech gadgets, accessories, or unique souvenirs, the city offers countless opportunities to browse to your heart’s content. Depending on your preferences, you can choose between luxury shopping malls, stylish concept stores, or lively markets.
1. Bangkok’s modern shopping malls
Bangkok is known for its huge, air-conditioned shopping malls, which not only offer a huge selection of fashion, cosmetics and technology, but also cinemas, restaurants and cafes. Perfect if you want to escape the heat or the rain!
- Siam Paragon – Designer brands, electronics, gourmet supermarket
- CentralWorld – One of the largest shopping malls in Asia
- ICONSIAM – Luxurious mall on the Chao Phraya with a huge indoor street food market
- EmQuartier & Emporium – Stylish malls with high-end fashion and concept stores
- MBK Center – The classic shopping center for bargains, technology and souvenirs
- Terminal 21 Bangkok Mall: Modern mall in cool airport style
2. Markets – Authentic shopping experience
- Chatuchak Weekend Market – One of the largest markets in the world with over 15,000 stalls
- Rod Fai Night Market – Hip night market with vintage fashion & Street food
- Sooksiam Market – Over 3,000 local vendors in a floating market atmosphere
- Patpong Night Market – Popular market in Silom, often with fake designer goods
5:30 p.m. – Rooftop Bar and Sunset
Experiencing Bangkok from above is an absolute must – especially when the sun slowly sets and the skyline is bathed in golden light. 5:30 p.m. is the perfect time to secure a good spot at one of the spectacular rooftop bars. While you enjoy a cocktail, you can watch the city transform into a sparkling sea of lights.
‼️ Note: Get to the bars early. Popular bars fill up quickly, but 5:30 p.m. is ideal for getting a good spot. Shorts, flip-flops, and tank tops are also not allowed in many rooftop bars. If rooftop bars are too crowded for you, Bangkok also has many cool hidden bars that also offer a great atmosphere. More on that later.
Sky Bar @ Lebua State Tower – Famous from The Hangover 2, luxurious atmosphere, and breathtaking views over the Chao Phraya River. Dress code: smart casual. ☞ Reserve online here
Vertigo @ Banyan Tree – One of the highest bars in Bangkok, with panoramic views and fine drinks. Dress code: Elegant. ☞ Reserve online here.
Tichuca Rooftop Bar – Tropical jungle flair with colorful neon LEDs and a relaxed vibe. No dress code! ☞ No reservations possible. First come, first serve!
Octave Rooftop Bar – Three floors with 360° views, a relaxed atmosphere and happy hour offers. Dress code: Smart Casual. ☞ Reserve online here.
The Speakeasy Rooftop Bar: Great bar in the 20s/30s style! It also offers breathtaking views over the city’s rooftops. Dress code: smart casual.
☞ Reservations at +66 -2 630 4000 4215
Powered by GetYourGuide
7:30 PM – Dinner
Bangkok has countless restaurants, food stalls, and markets. You’ll always find something to eat and definitely won’t go hungry. We recently stayed in the hip Thonglor district and can recommend the Krua Jiang Mai restaurant. Here you can get super delicious Thai dishes. We recommend the Khao Sai soup, spring rolls, and Pad Thai. From there, you can then move on to a really cool bar (see next section).
9 p.m. – Nightlife in Thonglor
Thonglor (also spelled Thong Lo) is one of the trendiest districts in Bangkok and is known for: trendy cafés and restaurants, cool nightclubs and bars, and an international atmosphere. The place has a rather upscale, cosmopolitan flair and is perfect if you’re looking for something special—especially if you prefer something a little more chic and stylish than, for example, around Khao San Road or Sukhumvit.
- #FindTheLockerRoom: Hidden behind a wall of lockers. Prices are upscale.
- Gaze Bar: Small bar with cool details. Menu only readable under black light!
- Dirty Rabbit hidden rooftop bar: Cool bar on a roof with good music.
- Sakura Karaoke bar: Just sing along and have fun!
- Hiddengem Thonglor: Cool bar with live music and DJs.
Day 2: Parks, Chinatown & Moments of enjoyment
8 a.m. – Breakfast at the hotel or café
Ready for day two of your Bangkok trip? If you don’t have breakfast at the hotel, just find a cozy café around the corner. Here are a few tips we’ve remembered:
- Mohu Mohu Cat Café
- ROAST coffee & eatery
- Luka Cafe
- REN – Cafe & Goods
- White Flower Cafe
- The Coffee Academics
9:30 a.m. – Stroll through the parks
Bangkok can be loud and hectic – which makes it all the more wonderful that there are two truly beautiful green oases in the middle of the city: Benjakitti Park and Lumphini Park. In Benjakitti Park you can walk around a large lake with great views of the skyline. It is particularly quiet here in the morning, and there are even wooden walkways through small wetlands – perfect for strolling and relaxing.
Right next door is Lumphini Park. Things are a bit bigger here – wide paths, plenty of shade, and small lakes with pedal boats. A particularly cool feature: the giant monitor lizards, which you can almost always spot somewhere. The park is perfect for a leisurely stroll, to observe local life, or simply to escape the hustle and bustle of the big city.
11:30 a.m. – Off to Chinatown
Next, we head to Chinatown – one of the most exciting districts in Bangkok. It’s loud, colorful, and chaotic here, but that’s precisely what makes it so charming. Stroll through the small alleys, discover street food stalls on every corner, and just let yourself go.
Whether fresh dumplings, crispy duck, or sweet snacks – you can try a variety of things here. You’ll also find small temples, gold shops, and plenty of great photo opportunities. You have to experience Chinatown!
1 p.m. – Lunch at Ong Ang Canal
Time for a break! At the Ong Ang Canal at the end of Chinatown, you’ll find plenty of small restaurants and street food stalls right on the water. The area has been transformed in recent years—colorful, relaxed, and perfect for putting your feet up with a delicious noodle soup or curry. Be sure to take a detour into the small alleys and be surprised by what awaits you there.
2:30 p.m. – Street Art in Talat Noi
After dinner, we continue towards Talat Noi – one of the coolest neighborhoods for street art and small, hidden alleys. It’s best to take a boat and head to the Marine Dept. station. We last started from the Grand Palace and paid only 12 baht per person.
From there, you’ll be in the heart of the action in just a few minutes. In Talat Noi, you’ll find colorful murals, old houses, small workshops, and plenty of exciting photo spots. Here, Bangkok suddenly feels completely different – quieter, more creative, and somehow totally authentic.
Alternatives
If you don’t feel like Chinatown and street art, or are traveling on the weekend, there are some really cool alternatives:
⛵️ Longtail Boat Canal Tour – Jump into a traditional longtail boat and discover Bangkok from the water. On this approximately two-hour canal tour, you’ll get a great insight into local life away from the main streets. ☞ Book the tour here*.
Ayutthaya & Ayothaya Floating Market – A trip to Ayutthaya is worthwhile to explore the impressive temple ruins of the ancient royal city – and afterwards, at the Ayothaya Floating Market, you can relax and discover local snacks and souvenirs by the water. ☞ Book the tour here*.
Damnoen Saduak & Amphawa – if you’re up for an excursion: These floating markets are a bit outside of Bangkok, but are absolutely worth seeing. It’s worth starting early! ☞ Book a tour here*.
Mahanakhon Skywalk – if you’d rather stay in the city: The Mahanakhon Tower offers the best view of Bangkok. It’s especially beautiful in the late afternoon at sunset – and the glass floor provides a little adrenaline rush! ☞ Book a ticket here*.
4 p.m. Massage and Wellness
After all that walking around, you definitely deserve a massage. Find a spa or massage parlor nearby – luckily, there are some on every corner in Bangkok. Whether it’s a traditional Thai massage, a foot massage, or something gentler: now it’s time to simply relax, unwind, and gather new energy for the long journey home.
- Yunomori Sukhumvit Onsen Hot Springs Spa Pass*
- Bangkok: Thai Massage Course*
- Spa Botanica at the Sukhothai Hotel Bangkok*
- Perfume Workshop in Bangkok by Oo La Lab*
6 p.m. – Dinner Cruise with Sunset
To round off the day, head out on the water! Climb aboard a dinner cruise and enjoy delicious food as you cruise along the Chao Phraya River. As the sun slowly sets, temples, colorful lights, and the skyline pass by – a truly wonderful moment to experience Bangkok from a different perspective. You can easily reserve these tours online in advance:
Powered by GetYourGuide
10 p.m. – Transfer to the airport
Your approximately 48 hours in Bangkok are slowly coming to an end. After dinner or your dinner cruise, grab a taxi, quickly drive to the hotel to collect your luggage, and then continue to the airport. The ride costs around 400 baht – it’s best to book via Bolt, Grab, or Uber.
- Bangkok: BKK Airport to/from Hotel Private Transfer*
- Bangkok: DMK Airport to/from Hotel Private Transfer*
Bangkok’s Districts & Accommodation
Bangkok is huge and has many different districts, each with its own character. Since public transport in Bangkok is very well developed, you can stay in practically any district. Here is an overview of the most important areas:
1. Old Town (Rattanakosin & Banglamphu)
The old town around Rattanakosin and Banglamphu is Bangkok’s historic heart. Here you’ll find the major highlights such as the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun. The backpacker scene converges around Khao San Road, and in between you’ll discover small alleys, street food stalls, and markets that are incredibly authentic.
Popular Hotels in the Old Town
- The StandardX, Bangkok Phra Arthit*
- Riva Surya Bangkok*
- Ayathorn Bangkok*
- Chakrabongse Villas*
2. Riverside (Chao Phraya Riverbank)
At the Riverside, directly on the Chao Phraya, life is much more relaxed than in the city center. Luxury hotels with river views, leisurely boat rides, and exciting temples await here. Perfect for taking a breather and discovering Bangkok’s quieter side.
Popular Hotels on the Riverside
- Mandarin Oriental*
- Shangri-La Bangkok*
- The Peninsula Bangkok*
- Millennium Hilton Bangkok*
3. Sukhumvit
Sukhumvit is modern Bangkok – full of shopping malls, stylish rooftop bars, and a nightlife that never sleeps. Plus, plenty of international restaurants, cool cafés, and spots where expats and digital nomads feel at home. There’s always something going on here, but it’s still somehow relaxed.
Popular Hotels in Sukhumvit
- Ariyasom Villa*
- Grande Centre Point Sukhumvit 55 Thong Lo*
- Madi Paidi Bangkok, Autograph Collection*
- Carlton Hotel Bangkok Sukhumvit*
4. Siam & Pratunam
Siam and Pratunam are the shopping meccas in Bangkok. Here you’ll find everything – from huge malls like MBK, Siam Paragon, and CentralWorld to small street stalls. In Pratunam, things get really bustling, with street food and night markets on every corner. Convenient: The BTS Skytrain takes you anywhere easily.
Popular Hotels in Siam
- Maison Hotel Bangkok*
- Anajak Bangkok Hotel – SHA Plus*
- Oriental Residence Bangkok*
- Sindhorn Midtown Hotel Bangkok*
5. Silom & Sathorn
Silom and Sathorn are Bangkok’s business districts – here, skyscrapers tower into the sky, and things really come alive in the evenings. Around the Patpong Night Market, you’ll find streets full of street food stalls, colorful markets, LGBTQ+ bars, and cool rooftop spots. From simple food stalls to chic restaurants, there’s something for everyone.
Popular Hotels in Silom
- ibis Styles Bangkok Silom*
- Evergreen Laurel Hotel Bangkok*
- Chatrium Residence Sathon Bangkok*
- Amara Bangkok Hotel*
6. Chinatown (Yaowarat)
Chinatown (Yaowarat) is a true street food paradise. It’s lined with small shops, the scent of spices fills the air, and the colorful, bustling chaos is simply part of the experience. You’ll also find affordable accommodations, bustling markets, and an atmosphere that couldn’t be more authentic.
Popular Hotels in Chinatown
- Hotel Royal Bangkok*
- Lub d Bangkok Chinatown*
- W22 by Burasari*
- Shanghai Mansion Bangkok*
7. Ari & Phaya Thai
Ari and Phaya Thai are perfect if you want to escape the hustle and bustle for a while. In Ari, you’ll find cool cafes, small boutiques, and a relaxed atmosphere. Phaya Thai is more modern, with chic residential buildings and shopping malls – ideal for a leisurely stroll away from the chaos of the big city.
Popular Hotels in Ari
- Craftsman Bangkok*
- The Quarter Ari by UHG*
- fyn park hotel*
- Boutique Poo-Yai Lee*
Our Travel Tips for Bangkok
English Language in Bangkok
In Bangkok, you can get by pretty well with English – especially In hotels, restaurants, shopping malls, and tourist attractions, most people speak at least basic English. Communication is also easy in many cafes, airports, and train stations.
In small street restaurants, markets, or with taxi drivers, little or no English may be spoken. Hands, feet, a smile—or a translation app on your phone—often help. Important: always remain friendly; Thais are super helpful!
Best Time to Travel to Bangkok
The best time to visit Bangkok is from November to March. During these months, it’s not quite as hot, the humidity is pleasant, and it rarely rains. Perfect for exploring the city on foot or taking boat tours without sweating it out. More information here: Best time to travel to Thailand.
Public transport in Bangkok
Bangkok is huge, but public transport makes it easy. With the Skytrain (BTS) and the subway (MRT), you can get anywhere quickly and cheaply. For longerFor longer distances, you can also take boats on the Chao Phraya – a nice change! Taxis are also cheap, but traffic jams are almost always an issue. For shorter distances, a tuk-tuk is also an option – but negotiate the price beforehand!
- Hop-on hop-off bus with 24, 48, or 72-hour validity*
- Chao Phraya River hop-on hop-off boat*
- Tuk Tuk Day Pass App & Boat Chao Phraya River*
- Day ticket BTS Skytrain*
Currency Thailand
In Thailand, payment is made in Baht (THB). 1 Euro is roughly equivalent to 38-40 Baht (depending on the exchange rate). You will definitely need cash, especially for street food, small shops, markets or taxis. You can find ATMs everywhere, but there is usually a fee of around 220 Baht per withdrawal. It is therefore best to always withdraw a larger amount.
Health & Vaccinations
Before your trip, you should check your vaccination status (standard vaccinations). No vaccinations are required for entry into Thailand – unless you are traveling from a yellow fever area (in which case you will need proof of yellow fever vaccination). More information here: The best travel insurance.
Dress code for temples
When visiting temples, shoulders and knees must be covered. It’s best to pack light, loose clothing that is comfortable to wear. Alternatively, a scarf or sarong that you can quickly throw on is also helpful. Flip-flops are no problem, as you’ll take them off before entering the temple anyway.
Avoid rip-offs
Unfortunately, there are still tourist traps in Bangkok. Particularly popular: Tuk-tuk drivers who offer city tours for 10 baht. Sounds good, but usually ends in endless stops at jewelers and tailors, where you’re pressured to buy. Better: drive directly to your destination or book a tour in advance.
Internet & SIM Card
We used the Airalo* e-SIM card (30 days of unlimited internet) for our entire time in Thailand and always had a very good and stable connection. We were connected to the internet immediately after landing. With our code “NICOLE2629” you get €3 credit for free (and we’ll give you €3 as a thank you). More on this topic here: eSim for Thailand – providers, prices & our recommendation.
Bangkok in 48 hours – our conclusion
Bangkok in 48 hours – that sounds ambitious at first. And yes, it is. The city is huge, loud, hot, and crowded – but somehow that’s exactly what makes it so exciting. We just went with the flow, visited a few temples, tried street food, and were continually amazed at how many contrasts converge here.
From golden temples to modern rooftop bars, it’s often just a tuk-tuk ride away. Of course, two days aren’t enough to discover everything, but it’s perfect for a first impression. Bangkok definitely made us want more – next time we’ll take more time and look into the corners that not everyone has on their radar.
Other travel destinations in Thailand
- Koh Samui in Thailand – The most beautiful beaches, excursion destinations and travel tips
- Koh Phangan – Sights and Highlights
- Island paradise Koh Yao Yai: The most beautiful beaches, excursion destinations and travel tips
- Ao Nang in Thailand – The most beautiful beaches, Excursion destinations and travel tips
- Koh Lanta Highlights & Beaches: The best tips for your trip
- Phuket Tips – The best sights, beaches and excursions
- Chiang Mai Sights – The best highlights and travel tips
- Sights in Khao Lak – Our top 11 highlights
- Royal Grand Palace by anek.soowannaphoom | shutterstock.com
- Reclining Buddha by tonson | shutterstock.com
- Wat Arun by Daily Travel Photos | shutterstock.com
- Ratchada Market by Martinho Smart | shutterstock.com
- Ayutthaya Buddha Head Statue by iPhoto-Thailand | shutterstock.com