Travel 19 December 2024

2 Days in Bangkok

There’s no place quite like Bangkok—a city where tuk-tuks zip past temples, street food reigns supreme, and every corner is a clash of old and new. Ready to pad your plans with excitement? Let’s wok and roll through the best this city has to offer.

Welcome to Bangkok—or should we say Krung Thep Maha Nakhon Amon Rattanakosin Mahinthara Ayutthaya Mahadilok Phop Noppharat Ratchathani Burirom Udomratchaniwet Mahasathan Amon Piman Awatan Sathit Sakkathattiya Witsanukam Prasit. Don’t worry, we can just stick with Bangkok.

This is a city where tradition and modernity collide, creating a whirlwind of culture, chaos, and charm. From gilded temples to dazzling skyscrapers, Bangkok’s energy is as vibrant as its street food.

To help you make the most of the city, The MICHELIN Guide has crafted a two-day itinerary packed with the best places to eat, stay, and explore. Dive into Bangkok’s organised chaos, and let’s see where the adventure takes you.



Rosewood Bangkok, a Two MICHELIN Key hotel in 2024. (© Rosewood Bangkok)
Rosewood Bangkok, a Two MICHELIN Key hotel in 2024. (© Rosewood Bangkok)

Day 1: Dive into downtown fun in Sukhumvit

Morning
Check in and unwind at Rosewood Bangkok, an urban oasis in the heart of Ploenchit and a proud recipient of 2 MICHELIN Keys in Bangkok. This isn’t just a place to lay your head—Rosewood is where modern design meets Thai elegance, offering the perfect launchpad for your Bangkok escapade. From relaxing in the serene spa to soaking up skyline views from your room, this hotel promises a stay that’s both indulgent and calming.

Just a short hop from the hotel is KICHgallery, a must-visit for art lovers. Curated by a passionate young gallerist, this creative hub showcases an exciting mix of contemporary works by local and international artists. It’s the ideal way to dip into Bangkok’s buzzing art scene before diving into the city’s legendary culinary offerings.


KICHgallery and Polo Fried Chicken, a Bib Gourmand establishment in The MICHELIN Guide Thailand 2024. (© KICHgallery, Anuwat Senivansa Na Ayudhya/ MICHELIN Guide Thailand)
KICHgallery and Polo Fried Chicken, a Bib Gourmand establishment in The MICHELIN Guide Thailand 2024. (© KICHgallery, Anuwat Senivansa Na Ayudhya/ MICHELIN Guide Thailand)

Afternoon
For a true flavour of Bangkok, where the city’s diverse regions blend seamlessly, why not try an Isan-style lunch at Polo Fried Chicken (Soi Polo)? This 2024 Bib Gourmand spot has earned its reputation for exceptional value and taste, serving up crispy, perfectly seasoned fried chicken that’s simply iconic. Pair it with sticky rice, larb, and som tam, and you’ve got a meal that captures the essence of Bangkok’s culinary diversity in one plate. Polo Fried Chicken delivers those bold, authentic flavours that make it a favourite with both locals and visitors.

"Our fried chicken is based on a recipe from the south. We’ve adapted it by using garlic, and we don’t coat the chicken in batter. The result is crispy skin and tender meat inside. When paired with our homemade dipping sauce, it’s absolutely delicious," says Jarinya Supketsopa, the third-generation owner and manager of Polo Fried Chicken (Soi Polo).

Grab a sundowner at Lennon's then walk over to Thai Niyom for an authentic Thai meal. (© Rosewood Bangkok, Thai Niyom)
Grab a sundowner at Lennon's then walk over to Thai Niyom for an authentic Thai meal. (© Rosewood Bangkok, Thai Niyom)

Evening

Bangkok knows how to do rooftops, and Lennon’s at Rosewood Bangkok is no exception. Head up to this stylish speakeasy for a glorious sundowner, passing through a vinyl room before entering the bar with stunning panoramic views of the city skyline. "Sip on cocktails inspired by classic tunes while immersing yourself in the nostalgia of the 6,000-vinyl collection, seamlessly blending the past with a modern twist and music-inspired cocktails," says Mario Vanquero, Assistant Director of Food and Beverage at Rosewood Bangkok. Hands down, it’s the perfect spot to unwind, enjoy a drink, and watch the skyline come to life as the evening unfolds.

For dinner, wrap up your day with a hearty Thai feast across the hotel at Thai Niyom, a 2025 MICHELIN Bib Gourmand restaurant. Tucked away in Mahatun Plaza, this spot puts a modern spin on classic Thai dishes. From velvety curries to fiery phad kaprao aromatic tom yam, every bite is a celebration of bold and authentic Thai flavours.

"Thai Niyom's standout feature is the taste that reminds us of the meals our mother used to make when we were kids, a recipe passed down from her. We use fresh chillies and spices, and our homemade curry pastes, which give the dishes a rich, well-rounded flavour in our style," says Kasama Laopanich, chef and owner of Thai Niyom.


The iconic Grand Palace and the flower market. (© Shutterstock)
The iconic Grand Palace and the flower market. (© Shutterstock)

Day 2: Immerse yourself in the charm of the old Thai kingdom

Morning
Kickstart your day with an early visit to Pak Khlong Talat, Bangkok’s buzzing flower market and one of the top ten flower markets in the world. It also ranks as the third-largest orchid market globally—impressive, right? This isn’t just a market; it’s a sensory overload of vibrant colours and heady floral scents. At its liveliest around dawn, the market is a hub for fresh blooms sourced from across Thailand and neighbouring countries. Stroll through the bustling stalls, grab a quick street snack from a local vendor, and soak up the energy as Bangkok comes to life around you.

If it’s your first trip to Bangkok, ticking off its historic landmarks is a must. Start with a stroll through The Grand Palace—this iconic site is a dazzling tribute to the heart of the Kingdom of Thailand. The Grand Palace served as the official residence of the Kings of Siam and Thailand from 1782 to 1925. Next, wander over to Wat Pho, formally known as Wat Phra Chetuphon Wimon Mangkhalaram Rajwaramahawihan, the birthplace of traditional Thai massage and home to the impressive Reclining Buddha.

Supanniga Eating Room (Phra Nakhon), where you can immerse yourself in the riverside way of life of Bangkokians. (© Anuwat Senivansa Na Ayudhya/ MICHELIN Guide Thailand)
Supanniga Eating Room (Phra Nakhon), where you can immerse yourself in the riverside way of life of Bangkokians. (© Anuwat Senivansa Na Ayudhya/ MICHELIN Guide Thailand)

Afternoon
For lunch, make your way to Supanniga Eating Room (Phra Nakhon) in Tha Thien, a MICHELIN-selected gem that’s as much about the view as it is about the food. Nestled by the river, this spot serves classic Thai dishes with a modern twist in a laid-back yet stylish setting. "It’s the perfect place to savour the rich, complex flavours of Thai cuisine while soaking in a picture-perfect view of the Temple of Dawn," says Chanika Moositone, restaurant manager of Supanniga Eating Room (Phra Nakhon).


Ojo, perched on the 76th floor of the iconic King Power Mahanakhon building, holds the title of Thailand’s highest restaurant. (© The Standard Bangkok)
Ojo, perched on the 76th floor of the iconic King Power Mahanakhon building, holds the title of Thailand’s highest restaurant. (© The Standard Bangkok)

Evening
As the sun sets, head to the MICHELIN-listed Ojo of The Standard Bangkok, a one MICHELIN Key hotel that is situated on the 76th floor of King Power Mahanakhon. It’s the highest restaurant in the country, offering jaw-dropping views alongside inventive Mexican-inspired cocktails and a stellar selection of mezcal. With the city lights sparkling below, who wouldn’t want to enjoy a delectable cocktail atop Thailand’s skyline?

Chef Prin Polsuk and Thanyaporn 'Mint' Jarukittikun, the power couple behind a Star restaurant in Saladaeng in Bangkok. (© Akkapat Inthuprapa/ MICHELIN Guide Thailand)
Chef Prin Polsuk and Thanyaporn 'Mint' Jarukittikun, the power couple behind a Star restaurant in Saladaeng in Bangkok. (© Akkapat Inthuprapa/ MICHELIN Guide Thailand)

For your final dinner in Bangkok, step into Samrub Samrub Thai. This one MICHELIN Star gem immerses you in the flavours of traditional Thai cooking, perfectly embodying the old-town charm of the day. Chef Prin Polsuk is dedicated to preserving ancient techniques and reviving forgotten recipes, some of which date back to funerals and royal libraries.

For Chef Polsuk, this establishment is about more than just food. “At Samrub Samrub Thai, we serve food like at home with family—where cooking and sharing meals bring joy, and that happiness is passed on through every dish,” he says. Every bite at Samrub Samrub Thai tells a story, connecting you to Thailand’s rich culinary heritage, and the cosy setting makes it the perfect way to end your Bangkok adventure.


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