Central
Ayutthaya
The former royal capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site: temple ruins, giant Buddha images and river views, an easy day trip from Bangkok.
⭐ Highlights
- 1Wat Mahathat and the Buddha head in the tree roots
- 2Wat Chaiwatthanaram at sunset
- 3Wat Phra Si Sanphet
- 4Cycling between the ruins
- 5An evening boat ride around the island
More destinations
All destinations →- Bangkok
Central
Bangkok
Thailand's capital: royal temples and palaces, a busy river, street food on every corner, rooftop bars and huge malls. Most visitors start and end their trip here.
- Phuket
Andaman coast
Phuket
Thailand's largest island, on the Andaman Sea: long sandy beaches, lively Patong, quieter bays in the south and a colourful Old Town. A base for boat trips to Phi Phi and Phang Nga Bay.
- Chiang Mai
North
Chiang Mai
The north's cultural capital: hundreds of temples inside and around the old walled city, mountain views, night markets and a relaxed café scene.
🧳 Before you go
- Check the visa rules for your passport on the official Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs website before you book; they change from time to time.
- Emergency numbers: Tourist Police 1155 (English spoken), Police 191, Medical emergency 1669.
- Thailand uses the Thai baht (THB). Cards work in malls and hotels; carry some cash for markets, street food and taxis.
- Dress modestly at temples and the Grand Palace: shoulders and knees covered, shoes off where asked.
- Use metered taxis or ride-hailing apps; agree the fare first for tuk-tuks and boats.
- Drink bottled or filtered water, and use sun protection: the midday sun is strong all year.
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