Perfect Bangkok Itinerary, with Insider Travel Tips

Bangkok, the bustling capital city of Thailand, is a fascinating and vibrant destination that has something for everyone. It’s also known as the “City of Angels” because of its original name in Thai, “Krung Thep Mahanakhon,” which roughly translates to “The City of Angels, Great City of Immortals.”

The full name is actually much longer, and is said to be one of the longest city names in the world. It goes like this: “Krung Thep Mahanakhon Amon Rattanakosin Mahinthara Ayuthaya Mahadilok Phop Noppharat Ratchathani Burirom Udomratchaniwet Mahasathan Amon Piman Awatan Sathit Sakkathattiya Witsanukam Prasit!”

The name “Krung Thep” refers to the angelic beings that are said to reside in Buddhist cosmology, while “Mahanakhon” means “great city.” Together, the name symbolises the city’s spiritual and cultural significance in Thai history.

From its rich cultural heritage to its amazing street food and lively nightlife, there’s so much to see and do in Bangkok, which makes planning a trip here overwhelming. But fear not, after visiting the capital myself, I’ve put together a guide on how to spend 48 hours in Bangkok to help you make the most of your time in the city.

Things to Know Before Travelling to Bangkok

Official Language

The official language of Thailand is Thai. Thai is the primary language spoken by the majority of the population and is used in government, education, media, and daily interactions. However, we found that local guides and people in the more touristy areas of Bangkok tended to speak English as well.

Official Currency

The currency of Thailand is the Thai Baht (THB). It is denoted by the symbol “฿”. Banknotes are commonly used in denominations of 20, 50, 100, 500, and 1,000 Baht, while coins are available in denominations of 1, 2, 5, and 10 Baht.

When visiting Bangkok, I recommend having Thai Baht for most transactions, although some tourist areas and larger establishments may accept major international currencies or credit cards. Currency exchange services are widely available in airports, banks, exchange booths, and hotels throughout the city.

Thai Culture

Thai culture is rich, vibrant, and deeply rooted in traditions and values. Here are some key aspects that shape Thai culture:

Buddhism: Buddhism plays a significant role in Thai culture, with the majority of Thai people being Theravada Buddhists. Buddhist temples (known as “wats”) are scattered throughout the country, and Buddhist rituals and practices are observed in daily life.

Spirituality and Animism: Alongside Buddhism, Thai culture also incorporates elements of animism and spirit worship. Many Thai people believe in spirits and pay homage to local spirits through rituals, offerings, and ceremonies.

Respect for Monarchy: Thai people hold great respect and reverence for the monarchy. The Thai royal family is highly esteemed, and displays of respect and loyalty are widespread.

Hospitality and Friendliness: Thai people are known for their warm hospitality and friendliness towards visitors. They are often eager to help and make you feel welcome. The concept of “sanuk” (fun/enjoyment) is important, and Thai people generally have a lighthearted and friendly demeanour.

Wai: The traditional Thai greeting, known as the “wai,” involves placing the palms together in a prayer-like gesture accompanied by a slight bow. It’s a sign of respect and is used to greet others, express thanks, or show reverence.

Loyalty to Family: Thai society places a strong emphasis on family and filial piety. Respect for parents and elders is highly valued, and family unity is considered essential.

These are some of the prominent aspects of Thai culture, but it’s important to note that Thailand is a diverse country with regional variations and influences from neighbouring countries. Thai culture is deeply cherished and celebrated, and its traditions and customs contribute to the country’s unique charm and allure.

Best Time to Visit Bangkok

Bangkok experiences a tropical monsoon climate, with three main seasons: hot, cool, and rainy. Here are some factors to consider when decicing the best time for you to visit Thailand:

Peak Season (November to February)

This is generally considered the best time to visit Bangkok, as the weather is cooler and more pleasant. The skies are clear, and there is minimal rainfall. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher hotel prices.

Shoulder Season (March to May, September to October)

The shoulder seasons are the second best time to visit Bangkok as this time of year offers a good balance of manageable crowds and reasonably pleasant weather. However, temperatures can be high, especially in April, which is the hottest month. September and October are wetter, with occasional rain showers. Prices for flights and accommodations are generally more affordable compared to the peak season.

Rainy Season (June to August)

The rainy season in Bangkok is characterised by frequent rain showers, often in the form of brief but heavy downpours. While the rain can disrupt outdoor activities, it usually doesn’t last all day. The advantages of visiting during this time is that it tends to be the cheapest time to fly to Bangkok and as there’s less crowds the prices for accommodation tends to be lower too.

When it comes to the cheapest time to fly to Bangkok, this would be during rainy season! However, this won’t appeal to everyone, so the golden rule to remember is to book flights well in advance (2-3 months or more), which can seriously help secure the best prices.

Safety in Thailand

After travelling quite extensively through Thailand over the years, including as a solo female traveller, I often get asked is it safe to travel to Thailand alone.

In my experience, Thailand is generally a safe destination for solo travellers. It attracts millions of visitors each year and this includes solo travellers from around the world.

However, as with any travel destination, it’s important to exercise caution and take certain safety precautions. Here are some tips to ensure a safe trip to Thailand:

Before your trip to Thailand, gather information about the places you plan to visit, local customs, and cultural norms. Familiarise yourself with local laws and customs to avoid any unintentional offences.

Respect the local culture, customs, and traditions of Thailand. Dress modestly in temples and religious sites, and be mindful of local etiquette and sensitivities. This will help you avoid unnecessary misunderstandings or conflicts.

Choose reputable accommodations with good reviews, particularly in terms of safety and security. Consider staying in well-known tourist areas where there are plenty of other travellers.

Keep your valuables, such as passports, money, and electronics, secure at all times. Use hotel safes or secure lockers to store your belongings when not in use. Be mindful of your surroundings and avoid displaying expensive items that may attract attention.

Like in any tourist destination, be cautious of scams and touts. Exercise common sense and avoid engaging in activities that seem too good to be true. Be wary of strangers offering unsolicited help or overly friendly gestures.

Use reputable transportation options such as licensed taxis, ride-sharing services, or public transportation. Ensure that vehicles are properly licensed and consider using reputable apps for booking rides like Grab. Exercise caution when using motorcycles or renting vehicles, and always wear a helmet if riding a motorcycle.

Stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places and at night. Avoid walking alone in unfamiliar or poorly lit areas. Trust your instincts and if something feels unsafe, remove yourself from the situation.

Inform someone you trust about your travel plans and Bangkok itinerary. Keep them updated on your whereabouts and check in with them regularly. Having someone back home aware of your plans can provide an added layer of security.

While Bangkok, Thailand is generally safe, it’s always a good idea to stay informed and stay updated on travel advisories or warnings issued by your government or relevant authorities. Take the necessary precautions, be aware of your surroundings, and trust your instincts to ensure a safe and enjoyable solo travel experience in Thailand.

Perfect 2-Day Bangkok Itinerary

Day 1:

Morning: Visit the Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew

Start your day early and head to the Grand Palace, which is a must-visit attraction in Bangkok. Built in 1782, the Grand Palace is a complex of buildings that served as the official residence of the Kings of Siam.

The palace complex is also home to the famous Wat Phra Kaew, which houses the iconic Emerald Buddha. Don’t forget your camera – the intricate details of the buildings and sculptures are a photographer’s dream, and a true testament to the rich culture and history of Thailand.

Check out the most Insta-worthy café in Bangkok

Next up, why not head to one of the coolest places in Thailand – the Unicorn Cafe!

After seeing pictures of this fairytale café on Instagram I just had to check it out for myself. You won’t find anything healthy here, but the food was surprisingly delicious. I highly recommend the rainbow waffles and reggae soda!

Afternoon: Take a Boat Ride along the Chao Phraya River

After consuming your annual intake of sugar at the Unicorn Cafe, take a boat ride along the Chao Phraya River. This river is the lifeblood of Bangkok and provides a unique perspective of the city. You can hop on a ferry or hire a private long-tail boat to explore the river and visit some popular attractions along the way. Some of the most famous buildings in Thailand that are well worth checking out include Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) and the Royal Barges Museum.

Evening: Explore the Street Food Scene

Bangkok is famous for its street food, and there’s no better way to experience the city’s culinary delights than by exploring its bustling food markets. Head to the Chinatown night market or the famous Khao San Road to sample some of the best street food in Bangkok. From spicy papaya salads to grilled meats, the street food scene here is sure to tantalise your taste buds.

Day 2:

Morning: Visit the Chatuchak Weekend Market

On your second day in the city, start by visiting the Chatuchak Weekend Market, which is one of the best places to shop in Bangkok. With over 8,000 stalls spread over 35 acres, it’s one of the largest markets in the world. As the name suggests, this market is only open on weekends, so make sure to plan your trip accordingly.

At Chatuchakou you can find everything from unique clothing, accessories, and antiques, to some popular gifts from Thailand including Thai silk and traditional art.

While you’re here, I highly recommend trying the local delicacies (I still dream about the mango sticky rice we had!)

Afternoon: Explore the Siam Area

After visiting the Chatuchak Weekend Market, head to the Siam area, which is one of the city’s major shopping districts. The area is home to some of Bangkok’s best malls, including Siam Paragon, CentralWorld, and MBK Center. From cheap knock-offs to genuine designer goodies, there’s guaranteed to be something you’ll take home!

On our second day in Bangkok, we had dinner at Gyukatsu Kyoto Katsugyu, the legendary cutlet from Kyoto. It’s located in the Siam Center and WOW the food was incredible! If you’re a meat eater, you absolutely have to try their signature dish, Sirloin & Shoulder Kyukatsu Set, with Egg Kyaw Tama. For me, this is the best restaurant in Bangkok and well worth checking out for yourself.

Next, for the best desserts in Bangkok head to Siam Paragon. We kept coming back here for the endless array of sweet treats on offer. Our personal favourite place was Tokyo Sweets – their mochi is to die for!

Evening: Experience Bangkok’s Nightlife

No trip to Bangkok is complete without experiencing the city’s legendary nightlife. From rooftop bars to nightclubs, Bangkok is one of the best places in the world for a night out!

Why not head to the trendy Sukhumvit area to experience the city’s vibrant nightlife scene for yourself. Or check out the famous Patpong Night Market, which is a popular destination for tourists looking for a fun night out in Bangkok.

But if you’re looking for a more refined experience, then I’d suggest heading to Sky Bar. Located on the 63rd floor of the Lebua State Tower. It offers breathtaking views of the city and the Chao Phraya River, making it one of the most popular rooftop bars in Bangkok.

Sky Bar is famous for its signature cocktail ”the Hangovertini” (created for the cast of the movie The Hangover Part II, which was filmed here!) Note: Book Sky Bar in advance to ensure that you get a table with a view. While prices are higher than other bars in Bangkok, the stunning views and luxurious atmosphere make Sky Bar a must-visit destination in Bangkok for anyone looking for a swanky rooftop bar.

Hangover Movie Scene!

Where to Stay in Bangkok

We stayed at the five-star Siam Kempinski hotel, and it certainly didn’t disappoint. This urban oasis is ideally placed to explore the city and the dining options here are divine. We particularly loved Sra Bua by Kiin Kiin, which offers modern Thai cuisine.

Overall, if you’re looking to have a luxurious vacation, Siam Kempinski is arguably the best place to stay in Bangkok. However, if it doesn’t tick all your boxes, you can easily find the best accommodation deals to suit your budget using Hotellook.

Conclusion

Bangkok is a city that never fails to impress. With its rich cultural heritage, vibrant street food scene, and legendary nightlife, the city offers a unique and unforgettable experience. With this Bangkok travel guide, you can make the most of your time in this awesome city and explore some of its most iconic attractions.

So pack your bags, grab your passport, and get ready to embark on an incredible adventure in the Land of Smiles!

THE GLAMPACKING LAWYER

How to Spend 48 Hours in Bangkok: Discover the City of Angels