Here, one ofTravel + Leisures top travel advisors shares his guide to two days in the capital.

Bangkok’s central location makes it an ideal launching point for exploring the rest of the country.

Still, any trip to Thailand should begin with a thorough introduction to the capital.

Bangkok cityscape. Bangkok night view in the business district.

Credit: Thatree Thitivongvaroon/Getty Images

For young couples, I might suggest the Tower Club at lebua.

For a classic choice, I recommend The Peninsula.

For something brand-new, opt for the Capella, which opened in October 2020 on Chao Phraya River.

Exterior of Wat Pho Temple.

Wat Pho Temple in Bangkok.Valletta Vittorio/AGF/Getty Images

Once you’ve had time for a nap, the best welcome to Bangkok is a guided street-food tour.

Most locals eat all their meals on the street.

And be sure to try the Crab Omlette at the Michelin Starred stand Raan Jay Fai.

Hand picking up a satay from a plate at a Thai street food vendor

Enjoying satay at a Thai street food vendor.Carlina Teteris/Getty Images

The cavalcade of exquisitely prepared dishes offers a nice contrast to your street-food dinner the night before.

Afterwards, revel in Bangkok’s nightlife.

Where To Stay

Tower Club at lebua: Sky-high luxury with a buzzy energy.

View of the skyline from the The Capella Bangkok Verandah

View of the skyline from the The Capella Bangkok Verandah.Ekkapong Tantiponprasert/Courtesy of Capella Bangkok

The Peninsula: Timeless elegance on the Chao Phraya River.

Capella Bangkok: A relative newcomer that was ranked theNo.

2 city hotel in Asiain 2021 by Travel + Leisure readers.

Interior of the Bamboo Bar at the Mandarin Oriental Bangkok

Interior of the Bamboo Bar at the Mandarin Oriental Bangkok.Courtesy of Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group

Contact him at855-435-1622 orjack.tydeman@audleytravel.com.

A longboat on the Chao Phraya river in front of Wat Arun in Bangkok City, Thailand

A longboat on the Chao Phraya river in front of Wat Arun in Bangkok.Pakin Songmor/Getty Images