Experiencing all of Thailand’s bustling capital in just 48 hours might seem ambitious, but with a fleet of bubblegum-pink taxis, the Skytrain, a task force of tuk-tuks at your service and our city guide, you’ll get around with ease. Begin your adventure in the modern heart of Bangkok’s urban sprawl, then head back in time to explore its grand temples and historic monuments — you’ll uncover iconic landmarks and the hidden corners that give this city its vibrant charm. Here’s how to spend the perfect weekend in Bangkok…
FRIDAY: EVENING

Como Metropolitan Bangkok
After touching down, head straight for the Shambhala Spa at Como Metropolitan — its signature 75-minute Thai massage will be the perfect post-journey remedy. Afterwards, check-in at the Standard. Mexican food might not be your first choice when visiting Thailand, but dinner at the hotel’s restaurant, Ojo, is served alongside incredible views of the city’s skyline. It is one of the highest restaurants in the country, situated on the 76th floor of Bangkok’s tallest building, the King Power Mahanakhon, which was designed to look mind-bendingly pixelated. It also boasts the creative eye of Chef Francisco Ruano, who brings his signature experimental flair from Alcalde in Guadalajara, here with a distinctive Thai twist. To cap off the night, slip into the famed Vesper bar for a cocktail or two — its namesake drink is a must-try.
SATURDAY: MORNING
Rise early for chia puddings and truffle omelettes at the Standard, before a 15-minute stroll over to the Sri Maha Mariamman Temple (Wat Khaek). It’s one of the oldest Hindu temples in Bangkok, with a more colourful design aesthetic — more akin to those of South India — than the many Buddhist shrines around the city.
As the day heats up, find some shade at the Jim Thompson House Museum, a 20-minute taxi ride away, where traditional Thai architecture meets Western minimalism in the former home of its namesake American silk entrepreneur. Built in 1959, the residence contains Thompson’s personal art collection, including ancient Buddhist statues, Benjarong porcelain and, of course, delicate silks.
For something more contemporary, head to the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre, which showcases some of the most exciting projects in South-East Asia. You’re then perfectly placed for some mall time: the Siam Discovery, Siam Paragon and Siam Center are all nearby, offering a mixture of regional and international brands. A Thai favourite is Thaniya 1988, which sells ceramics created by native craftsmen.
SATURDAY: AFTERNOON

Capella Bangkok
Having worked up an appetite, take a tuk-tuk ride to Capella Bangkok, crowned first place in this year’s World’s 50 Best Hotels list. Its Phra Nakhon restaurant serves up a refined, seasonal Thai lunch menu with beautiful views of the Chao Phraya riverside, so you can soak in the tranquillity amid the city’s wonderful chaos. Chef Kannika tends to focus on southern Thai dishes, with an emphasis on seafood — the grilled squid roe with kaffir lime is a notable standout.
Now you’re in one of the hippest areas of Bangkok, with coffee shops, bars and art galleries set along Charoen Krung Road — it’s the city’s oldest paved street, and has gone through a creative renaissance in the last few years. Visit ATT 19, a hybrid retail and exhibition space, where you can buy artisanal gifts including crafts, antiques and design pieces from all over Asia. Another under-the-radar spot is Heng Seng on Talad Noi, which has produced hand-embroidered prayer pillows for more than a century. After some shopping, take a breather at Citizen Tea Canteen, a stylish spot for Thai tea.
SATURDAY: EVENING
Smith-approved stay the Siam has its very own Sala Thai-inspired boat on hand for sunset cruises, where you’ll be able to see all of Bangkok’s most spectacular sights – from the Grand Palace to Wat Arun — from the water, with drinks and canapés served onboard. The Siam is also home to a Muay Thai boxing ring and a private Sak Yant studio, where a sacred Thai tattoo becomes a spiritual rite of passage for many guests. Not ready for something so permanent? Opt for a timeless memento instead: a private portrait captured with one of the earliest cameras ever made, the daguerreotype.
For dinner, try Nusara, the brainchild of Thitid ‘Ton’ Tassanakajohn, who gained recognition for his craft at award-garlanded Le Du. A paean to his grandmother’s Thai cookery, the restaurant traces its flavours back to the Rattanakosin Kingdom, with a focus on fresh ingredients — don’t miss the shrimp paste, perfected over the course of 80 years. Relish the 12-course tasting menu while enjoying the views of Wat Pho outside.
For something more casual, Bangkok is home to hawker stalls that have earned Michelin stars. Street-food queen Jay Fai’s signature crab omelettes are worth the queue — it’s an experience in itself watching Fai (in her signature goggles) work the wok as you wait. Or visit the original Lim Lao Ngow outpost in Chinatown to try its famous fish-ball noodles, which have been a staple for 60 years.
Afterwards, weave through Soi Nana’s neon-lit alleyways on the fringes of Chinatown for a bar crawl. Tep Bar, set in a renovated two-storey shophouse, is perennially packed and has a soundtrack of traditional instruments playing classic Thai pop. The cocktails are made using local ingredients (including moonshine, so pace yourself).
SUNDAY: MORNING

Wat Arun
Start your morning with a temple tour of Bangkok’s heavyweight hotspots. First up is Wat Pho, where the colossal reclining Buddha stretches out in all its golden glory. Then, it’s off to the Grand Palace, home to Wat Phra Kaew — the revered Emerald Buddha is surrounded by an intricate collection of statues and smaller temples. Prepare to be amazed by the hand-painted murals and glittering gold panels.
Wat Pariwat, meanwhile, is a little more offbeat. Dubbed the ‘David Beckham temple’ (on account of it having a statue of the footballer beneath the main altar), it blends traditional spiritual iconography with pop-culture references. Keep an eye out for Mickey Mouse and Pikachu tucked in among the sacred figures.
SUNDAY: AFTERNOON
Time to recharge in vibrant Chinatown. Start at legendary hole-in-the-wall eatery Lao Tang (467/1 Yaowarat Road), trying its signature stewed goose. Just a short walk away is Bangkok Kunsthalle, a publishing warehouse that stood empty for more than two decades following a fire. Now revitalised by former Hauser & Wirth director Stefano Rabolli Pansera, it has quickly become one of South-East Asia’s most exciting contemporary galleries, recently showcasing works from multi-disciplinary Thai artist Korakrit Arunanondchai.
Next up, Sukhumvit, one of the most vibrant districts of Bangkok, with its various migrant influences on cultural and dining experiences (from Japan, Korea, India and Bangladesh).
Shopping malls are a dime a dozen in Bangkok, but Terminal 21’s unique design recreates several world-famous cities within. For some preloved purchases, head to the Vintage Store, which stocks luxury brands such as Chanel, Hermès, Dior and Yves Saint Laurent, or the Lost & Found Store for retro items from Japan.
Sukhumvit has many hipster-approved watering holes too. Walden is a minimalist Japanese-style café and bar, with delightful cocktails: highballs, sakes, shōchū and umeshu are its specialities. Or unwind in a more traditional way, with a soak at Yunomori Onsen.
SUNDAY: EVENING
For dinner, Bo Lan in Sukhumvit, run by couple Duangporn Songvisava and Dylan James, is one of Bangkok’s most forward-thinking dining spots. It is one of the only zero-waste restaurants in the city, with ingredients sourced from around the country. For a little less spice after a few days of Thai cuisine, you might be in the mood for some pizza, in which case retreat to Fest at Public House for some woodfired slices, washed down with expertly made cocktails.
NEED TO KNOW
Transport Suvarnabhumi Airport is the main international gateway to Bangkok, with the fastest connections to the city centre. The Airport Rail Link can get you to Phaya Thai station in just 30 minutes; a taxi ride typically takes around 30 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic. Once in the city, the BTS Skytrain and MRT subway are your friends, or a tuk-tuk is always an alternative option, though they’re pricier since they’re aimed at tourists.
When to go Bangkok is a vibrant destination year-round, but the best times to visit are between November and February, when the weather is cooler and drier. This is peak tourist season, with the best of bustling markets, outdoor festivals and lively street life. March to May sees rising temperatures, and while it can be hot, it’s also a great time to explore the city with fewer crowds. June to October is the rainy season, but it’s also when you can experience the city’s lush greenery (and enjoy lower hotel rates).
What to buy If you’re in need of new reading material, visit Dasa Books, Bangkok’s biggest and best second-hand bookshop, with more than 18,000 multi-lingual fiction and non-fiction titles. Or there’s Chatuchak Market, which has thousands of stalls selling handicrafts, street food and more. It’s one of the biggest markets in the world, so earmark a few hours of your day if you plan to visit.
Good to know Cash is still king in Bangkok, so be sure to have plenty to hand, as many places don’t accept card payments. The traffic can be relentless between 4pm and 6pm — a Grab motorbike will come to the rescue at this point.
See more of our 48-hour city guides
Discussion about this post