Itineraries for Your Trip to Bangkok
2 Days in Bangkok for First Timers
As the starting point of my year backpacking around Asia, Bangkok will always hold a special place in my heart. I remember the wall of humidity and scent of incense that greeted me as I stepped out of the airport, bursting with the energy you need to enjoy this brash and bustling metropolis.
But I had no idea how many times I’d end up returning here throughout that year—once so alien, the city began to feel like home. After touching down from some far-flung corner of the continent, I’d run back to my favorite places in Bangkok, which included a streetside vendor selling mango tossed with salt and chili, and secret gardens that offer respite from the roar of traffic. If your love affair with Bangkok is just about to begin, here’s how to spend two days in Thailand’s captivating capital.
If you only have time for one thing, make it a cruise on the Chao Phraya River, as many Bangkok landmarks line the banks.
March–May is the hottest time in Bangkok, when temperatures can top 104° (40°C)—a handheld fan is a lifesaver during the hot season.
On your first morning, dive head-first into Bangkok’s market culture on a half-day trip to Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, where boats are piled high with tropical fruit, vegetables, and flowers. It’s also the perfect place to pick up artisan souvenirs. On the way, stop at the Maeklong Railway Market and watch vendors hurriedly remove their goods from the tracks when a train approaches.
Once you’re back in the “Big Mango,” spend the afternoon ticking off its top temples. Visit the world’s largest Buddha statue at the Temple of the Golden Buddha (Wat Traimit); explore the UNESCO–listed Temple of the Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho); and admire the intricate exterior of the Temple Of Dawn (Wat Arun), with its colorful skyward spires.
Bangkok is hailed as one of the world’s best cities for street food, so make tonight all about feasting. Zip between culinary hot spots in a tuk-tuk, the city’s signature mode of transport, and sample pad Thai, mango sticky rice, and satay chicken, plus lesser-known local favorites such as skewered quail’s eggs and deep-fried lotus root.
Today is all about getting off the beaten path and seeing a side of Bangkok that’s usually just reserved for locals. Start your morning on a tour of the city’s hidden waterways, which you’ll cruise in a traditional longtail boat. Stop at lesser-known temples and the creative Artist House (Baan Silapin), which hosts daily puppet performances.
Get back onto dry land this afternoon and climb aboard a bike for a tour of Bangkok’s backstreets. Explore the bustling district of Bangkok Chinatown (Yaowarat), where neon signs and street food markets straddle a busy road. Then, head to one of Bangkok’s famous malls to relish the air-conditioning and shop a mix of local and luxury brands. Asiatique The Riverfront is the perfect pick for lovers of retail therapy.
On your final evening, admire the landmarks that line the banks of the Chao Phraya River (Mae Nam Chao Phraya) when they’re illuminated by night. Cruise past the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew) and the glittering Grand Palace as you feast on a buffet featuring Thai and international dishes.
