Central Thailand

Bangkok

Ancient temples meet rooftop bars and world-class dining

Thailand's vibrant capital is where ancient temples, rooftop bars, bustling markets and world-class dining come together. Whether you're exploring historic landmarks, hunting down incredible street food or experiencing its famous nightlife, Bangkok offers something for every type of traveller.

Must visit

Grand Palace

Thailand's most sacred royal complex

Chatuchak Weekend Market

One of the world's largest markets

Wat Arun

The Temple of Dawn, glowing at sunset over the river

Wat Pho

Home of the Reclining Buddha and ornate chedis

ICONSIAM

Riverside shopping and dining

Perfect for

City Breaks

Rooftop bars, malls and skyline views around every corner

Food Lovers

Street food stalls and Michelin-starred kitchens side by side

Nightlife

From riverside bars to legendary night markets

Shopping

Chatuchak Market and Chinatown's Yaowarat Road

Before you go

Use the BTS Skytrain or MRT⌄

It's the easiest way to avoid Bangkok's notorious traffic.

Visit temples early⌄

Go early morning and dress respectfully — shoulders and knees covered.

Chatuchak is weekends only⌄

The market is only fully open on Saturday and Sunday.

Ayutthaya

Centuries-old ruins of the former Siamese capital

Once the capital of the Kingdom of Siam, Ayutthaya is one of Thailand's most fascinating historical destinations. Just over an hour from Bangkok, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is filled with centuries-old temple ruins, ancient palaces and iconic Buddha statues.

Must visit

Wat Mahathat

Home of the famous tree-root Buddha head

Buddha Head in the Tree

A serene stone Buddha head cradled in banyan roots

Wat Chaiwatthanaram

Riverside ruins, stunning at sunset

Ayutthaya Historical Park

The UNESCO-listed heart of the old royal city

Wat Phra Si Sanphet

The grandest temple of the old royal palace

Perfect for

History

Centuries-old temple ruins and ancient palaces

Temples

Some of Thailand's most iconic Buddha statues

Photography

Golden-hour light across the ruins

Cycling

Flat terrain makes exploring by bike easy

Before you go

Rent a bicycle or tuk-tuk⌄

It's the easiest way to explore the spread-out ruins.

Visit early or late in the day⌄

Avoid the midday heat by timing your visit for morning or late afternoon.

Easy day trip from Bangkok⌄

Reachable by train or car in about an hour.

Kanchanaburi

Wartime history meets waterfalls on the River Kwai

Nestled along the River Kwai, Kanchanaburi combines fascinating wartime history with waterfalls, national parks and peaceful riverside scenery. It's one of western Thailand's most rewarding destinations for travellers looking to experience both culture and nature.

Must visit

Bridge over the River Kwai

Iconic WWII landmark

Death Railway

Historic rail line hugging the Wang Pho viaduct

Hellfire Pass Memorial

Moving wartime history museum

Wat Ban Tham

The Dragon Temple, wound around a hillside cave

Giant Raintree

A centuries-old rain tree with sprawling branches

Perfect for

Nature

Erawan National Park and its cascading waterfalls

History

The Death Railway and Hellfire Pass

Scenic Journeys

Ride the historic Death Railway line

Adventure

Sai Yok National Park and jungle trails

Before you go

Stay overnight⌄

There's far more to explore here than just the famous bridge.

Visit Erawan Falls early⌄

Get there before the tour groups for the clearest water.

Easily reached from Bangkok⌄

About 2–3 hours by car or train.

Khao Yai National Park

Thailand's oldest national park, wild elephants and jungle waterfalls

A UNESCO World Heritage Site and Thailand's oldest national park, Khao Yai spans dense rainforest, grassland and waterfalls just a few hours from Bangkok. It's home to wild elephants, gibbons and hundreds of bird species, making it one of the best places in the country for a jungle escape without leaving Central Thailand.

Must visit