Ayutthaya

Situated just a short drive—or a slow but scenic train ride—north of the modern capital Bangkok, former imperial capital Ayutthaya has a rich and fascinating history which can be read in the 400+ historic ruins that are spread throughout the modern city. Established in the 14th century and once a busy trading port and the world’s biggest city with a population of over a million, Ayutthaya was nearly destroyed by the Burmese in 1767 and lay forgotten for almost 200 years, but now, thanks to careful excavation and restoration of its ruins, it’s a stunning patchwork of ancient temples and palaces that will delight temple junkies and history buffs alike. Most visitors just come for the day but to really appreciate all that Ayutthaya has to offer, and to dodge the day-trippers, we recommend staying the night in one of its charming riverside hotels, and sampling the local cuisine.

Obviously the city’s temples are its main draw, in particular, the beautiful bell-shaped stupas of Wat Phra Si Sanphet and the famous Buddha Tree of Wat Maha That, and kids will love the animatronic figures and general weirdness of Wat Tha Ka Rong. And at the beautiful riverside temple Wat Chat Watthanaram, you can even rent a traditional costume and dress up like a Thai noble from bygone days! But Ayutthaya is more than just temples, it boasts one of Thailand’s finest floating markets and its own distinct food culture which you must not miss trying.