The Ultimate 48 Hours in Bangkok Itinerary (Top Tips for Families!)

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Welcome to Bangkok—a city where the chaotic streets, towering skyscrapers, and food stalls feel like an exciting adventure waiting to happen. While Bangkok as a backpacker was amazing, returning with kids felt different.

Bangkok is a great layover stop or jumping off point to head to South Thailand for the beaches, North to the jungles and hill tribes, or explore other areas of Asia.

We’ve spent a lot of time exploring South East Asia as a family and Bangkok always felt a little overwhelming for us.

But after five trips here with the family, we’ve cracked the code:

Break Bangkok down.

With just 48 hours in Bangkok and so much to see, it’s impossible to tackle it all in two days.

But don’t worry—Bangkok is also a city full of hidden gems and pockets of calm, perfect for family travel. Ready to make the most of your 2-day family trip to Bangkok?

Is Thailand Good for Families?

Absolutely! Thailand as a country is known as ‘the land of smiles’ and is famous for its warm hospitality, family-friendly attractions, and delicious food (yes, even the pickiest eaters will find something to love).

Plus, it’s packed with incredible beaches and outdoor adventures if you’re heading beyond the city.

Is Bangkok Good for Kids?

Surprisingly, yes! Bangkok’s vibrant atmosphere might seem intense, but there are loads of fun activities for kids—temples, boat rides, and even markets.

It’s busy but manageable, and with a good plan, you’ll keep the kids entertained while soaking up the culture.

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How to Get to Bangkok

Bangkok has two airports: Suvarnabhumi (BKK) and Don Mueang (DMK).

Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK): The shiny, modern airport that most international flights land at.

• Best option? The Airport Rail Link. It’s fast, clean, and cheap (only 45 Baht). You’ll skip the traffic and zoom straight into the city.
• Prefer a ride? Pre-book a taxi or use ride-sharing apps like Grab to make your airport transfer smooth and hassle-free.

Don Mueang Airport (DMK): Mostly for domestic flights and budget airlines.

• Taxis and Grab are your best bet here. It’s about 30-40 minutes to the city, depending on traffic.

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Getting Around Bangkok with Kids

Bangkok can feel like a maze, but here are the best ways to get around:

• Taxis: Cheap and everywhere, but always check they’re using the meter.
• Grab: Bangkok’s version of Uber. Reliable but can be tough to book at peak times.
• BTS/MRT Trains: The Skytrain (BTS) and MRT Subway are lifesavers. Air-conditioned, affordable, and kid-friendly, it’s one of the easiest ways to get around.
• Tuk-tuks: The fun, three-wheeled ride everyone has to try at least once. Just remember to negotiate your fare upfront or book on Grab.
• Chao Phraya River Boat: Hands down, one of our favourite ways to explore the city. Cheap, quick, and well-connected to major sights.

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Where to Stay in Bangkok with Kids

Sukhumvit Area

This area is super convenient with endless restaurants, shopping centres, and easy access to public transport.

• Budget: Hide and Seek Hometel – Located right under the BTS station. Good sized, clean comfortable rooms. Tasty breakfast and super friendly staff.
• Mid-range: Novotel Bangkok Sukhumvit 20 – Spacious rooms and a rooftop pool for the kids to splash around in.
• Luxury: MUU Bangkok – Family suite, clean spacious rooms with a pool and spa.

Old City (Rattanakosin)

If you’re planning on visiting Bangkok’s iconic temples and palaces, this is the area to stay.

• Budget: Wiengket Heritage – Affordable, with river views and family rooms.
• Mid-range: Neighbor Phuton – Quiet, tucked away from the noise, and perfect for families.
• Luxury: Eastin Grand Hotel Phayathai –A stylish, and luxurious riverside hotel with spacious rooms and a pool.

Siam Area

This is the spot if it’s your first time in Bangkok and you want to be central. Perfect for shopping, food, and transport links.

• Budget: Triple Y – Central location, clean rooms and helpful staff
• Mid-range: House of Papa– Comfortable and family-friendly with great breakfast options.
• Luxury: Siam Kempinski Hotel – Looking for a top end stay? This is top-tier luxury with multiple pools and family-friendly services.

Need more advice on where to stay? Read our full blog post here.

What to Do in Bangkok in 48 Hours- your 2 day itinerary

Day 1 in bangkok

Morning: Markets

Start your day at one of Bangkok’s iconic markets. If it’s the weekend, hit Chatuchak Weekend Market for endless stalls selling everything from clothes to quirky souvenirs.

You will need to haggle unless it states a set price.

Not a weekend? Head to Pratunam Market or try Or Tor Kor Market for a bite of local street food.

**Top Tip**

If you see something you like at the markets, buy it then and there—chances are you won’t find it again!

Need a break? Pop into the Children’s Discovery Museum next to Chatuchak for some hands-on fun. It’s got a climbing wall, sandpit, splash park, and more. Free entry!

Afternoon: Explore the ‘Green Lung’ of Bangkok

Escape the chaos with a visit to Bang Krachao, a lush, peaceful island just a short boat ride from the city.

Rent bikes and ride around the elevated walkways surrounded by greenery and traditional Thai villages. Perfect for a chill afternoon with the kids.

Evening: Sunset Cruise

End your day with a sunset cruise along the Chao Phraya River. Hop on a traditional Thai boat or a modern dinner cruise and enjoy the best views of Wat Arun and the Grand Palace—minus the crowds.

Day 2 in bangkok

Morning: Temples and Palaces

Kick off your day at the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha). These iconic landmarks get crowded fast, so arrive early to avoid the heat and lines.

Wat Pho, home to the giant golden Reclining Buddha. Kids will love seeing this massive statue, which is 50 feet tall and 150 feet long.

Afternoon: Wat Arun and Artist’s House

Take the boat across the river to Wat Arun for some epic photo ops. If you’re running short on time, this is skippable, but it’s a beautiful temple with views of the city.

Then head to the Artist’s House (Baan Silapin) for something a bit different. This traditional Thai house along the canal has art displays, puppet shows, and fun activities like jewellery-making for the kids.

Evening: Chinatown

Wrap up your day in Chinatown. Grab some street food, take a walk down Sampeng Lane, and if you’re still up for it, hit one of the rooftop bars for a last look at the Bangkok skyline.

What to Eat in Bangkok with Kids

Bangkok’s food scene is incredible. Whether you’re hitting the street stalls or dining in one of the malls, there’s something for everyone. But if you’re nervous about street food with kids, follow these tips:

1. Is it busy with locals? If the locals eat there it must be good!
2. Does it look clean? This might need an element of flexibility to usual standards
3. Are you planning on ordering fried food? If whatever it is will be fried within an inch of its life, you are probably good?
4. Fruit juice, smoothies? No added ice or water should be fine.
5. Spicy can mean spicy. Thai food usually comes with the chance to spice things up after you have ordered. Play safe until your palette has adjusted.

Looking to level up the hygiene then head to a shopping mall, they always have a food court, some even have two of different standards. Fancy restaurants and quick meals.

There are tons of kids restaurants with play areas or you can head to a cat café, dog café or even a pig café.

Must-try dishes:

• Pad Thai (Stir-fried noodles)
• Khao Pad (Thai fried rice)
• Moo Ping (Grilled pork skewers)
• Mango Sticky Rice
• Kai Jeow (Thai omelet)

For picky eaters: Head to one of the many food courts in Bangkok’s malls for a variety of familiar options.

Things to Do in Bangkok at Night

Bangkok doesn’t sleep, and there’s plenty to do in the evenings with kids:

• Asiatique The Riverfront: A blend of night market and amusement park, with great restaurants and family-friendly activities.
• Bangkok Malls: Siam Paragon and CentralWorld stay open late and have fantastic restaurants, ice cream shops, and more.
• Khao San Road: While more known for its nightlife, the energy is fun for a quick evening walk with older kids—just avoid the bar-heavy areas.

What to Pack for Bangkok

• Light clothing: Bangkok is hot, so pack light, breathable fabrics.
• Modest outfits: If you plan to visit temples, make sure to pack clothes that cover your shoulders and knees.
• Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses: The Bangkok sun is no joke.
• Comfy shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking!

Forgot something? You can anything you need in the malls and markets.

Only have 24 hours in Bangkok? 

If you only had a short stay with kids here are my top 5 things to do in Bangkok.

Eat Thai food- not just Pad Thai. Hit the street food stalls and go wild.

Visit a temple- All have something special just don’t miss out.

Ride a tuk tuk- With loud music blaring, disco lights fashing and a small fear of dying, enjoy the thrill of driving through Bangkok on these iconis vehicles.

Get a thai massage- you will make noises you never knew were possible but will feel great after.

Take a bike ride around the Green lung- the city is great but it feels nice to see if from another perspective.

If You Have More Than Two Days in Bangkok

If you’re lucky enough to have more than 48 hours, here are some great day trips from Bangkok:

• Ayutthaya: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with ancient temples, about 90 minutes from the city.
• Damnoen Saduak Floating Market: An iconic floating market where you can shop for souvenirs and snacks from traditional Thai boats.

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48 Hours in Bangkok with Kids

Bangkok is a whirlwind of culture, food, and energy. Two days might not seem like enough to explore it all, but with this itinerary, you’ll get a great taste of what this fascinating city has to offer.

Trust us—you’ll leave wanting more!