Bangkok

On the west bank of the Chao Phraya River sits one of Thailand's most distinctive landmarks, the Buddhist temple Wat Arun. The temple gets its name from the Hindu god Aruna, often personified as the radiations of the rising sun, hence its common name The Temple of Dawn. Its five spires or prangs are covered in porcelain mosaics and seashells giving Wat Arun a gleaming iridescence when the rising sun illuminates it at dawn. Linger in the mythical gardens, climb the steep white stairs, and soak up the romantic views at sunset.

The Grand Palace in Bangkok is a dazzling spectacle of opulence and history, a must-see for any traveller venturing to Thailand’s capital. This architectural marvel, originally constructed in 1782, was the official residence of the Thai monarch and is a stunning testament to traditional Thai craftsmanship. As you explore its ornate temples, gilded spires, and intricately decorated halls, you'll be mesmerised by the Emerald Buddha Temple, home to Thailand’s most revered religious artefact. Get in early to bypass the bustle and crowds, and remember to show respect by wearing long pants – no shorts allowed.

Directly adjacent to the Grand Palace, Wat Pho is known as the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, as it is home to the largest reclining image of Buddha in the nation, at an impressive 46 metres long and 15 metres high, and adorned with mother of pearl and gold plating. Not limited to this one attraction, Wat Pho temple is home to over 1,000 images of the Buddha, towering statues, buildings, and stupas. It is also home to the renowned Thai massage school for monks, and visitors can have this exceptional service on the grounds.

Awarded twice TripAdvisor Traveller's Choice 'No. 1 Experience in Thailand', this tuk-tuk night tour is a great way to discover Bangkok and learn about the local culture. See famous temples and sights illuminated at night as you whizz around the city in an iconic 3-wheeled taxi. Visit The Flower Market, the grounds of Wat Arun, and Chinatown. Plus, enjoy snacks, dinner and a dessert.

Claimed to be the world's biggest and most diverse weekend market, the Chatuchak Weekend Market is a must-visit for travellers seeking an unparalleled shopping experience. The JJ Market, as it is also known, offers more than 15,000 stalls divided into more than 25 sections. Here, you will find all sorts of goods, including plants, antiques, electronics, cosmetics, fresh and dry food, handicrafts, ceramics, furniture, clothing, and books, to name a few.

Located just 80 kilometres north of Bangkok, the Ayutthaya Historical Park is a mesmerising UNESCO World Heritage Site that transports visitors back to Thailand's illustrious past. Once the thriving capital of the Kingdom of Ayutthaya, the park boasts an array of stunning ruins, including majestic temples, towering prang (reliquary towers), and giant Buddha statues. Highlights include Wat Mahathat, famous for the Buddha's head entwined in tree roots, and Wat Phra Si Sanphet, the grand royal temple. Accessible by train, bus, or a scenic river cruise from Bangkok, Ayutthaya offers a captivating day trip or overnight escape, allowing travellers to immerse themselves in the rich history and architectural splendour of this ancient city.

The Jim Thompson House Museum in Bangkok offers an intriguing glimpse into the life of the American silk entrepreneur who transformed Thailand’s silk industry. Nestled in a lush garden, this exquisite compound of traditional Thai teak houses showcases an impressive collection of Asian art and antiques collected by Jim Thompson himself. Visitors can explore the intricately furnished rooms and gain insight into Thompson's enigmatic disappearance in 1967, which remains one of Thailand's enduring mysteries. Guided tours provide fascinating details about Thompson’s influence on Thai silk and his storied life, making it a captivating stop for those interested in history, culture, and the art of silk.

Discover an enchanting side of Bangkok that most travellers don’t get to see by gliding along the city’s picturesque canal ways. Hop aboard a traditional longtail boat and navigate the 'klong' (canals) of the Chao Phraya River, immersing yourself in the vibrant local life of the Thonburi district. Enjoy two hours on the water, with stops at Baan Silapin (The Artist’s House) and the impressive Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen.

Wat Traimit, also known as 'The Temple of the Golden Buddha', is a Royal temple located in the Chinatown area of Bangkok. It is famous for being home to the world's largest solid gold Buddha image. The image is more than three meters tall, weighs about five and a half tons and is most likely some 700 to 800 years old. This is also a good place to kick off your visit to Chinatown.

Thailand’s revered King Rama IV built this temple’s large golden chedi atop the ruins of previous temple buildings. The chedi is layered with centuries of gold leaf. Visitors can take the easy winding stairs that encircle the mount to the viewpoint at the top. A small entrance fee allows you to enter the terrace and the temple area where you will have a 360-degree view of Bangkok.

Found in Siam Paragon Mall, Sea Life is Bangkok’s modern, sleek aquarium complex, the largest aquatic centre in Southeast Asia. Kids and adults alike will enjoy Ocean World’s 30,000 aquatic creatures from 400 different species. Marvel at this remarkable underwater world and dive with the sharks if you dare.