Bangkok, Thailand

South-east Asia's most exhilarating city lives its life at such a hectic pace you might only be able to take a few days among the Thai capital's temples and skyscrapers before escaping to the coast or the northern hills. While you're here, make sure your five senses take in as much as they can of Bangkok ancient and ultra-modern, from the Emerald Buddha to Baiyoke Tower II.

Known to Thais as Krung Thep (a shortened version of its record-breaking full name), Bangkok straddles the Chao Phraya River, 20km upstream from the Gulf of Thailand. It became the region's capital in 1768, after the Burmese army burnt Ayuthaya to the ground, and has since grown from a small trading post into a global city. Bangkok can be a confusing and noisy metropolis to travel around so take the Skytrain or river boats for a more relaxing journey to the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaeo in the Old City, the floating markets along the khlongs and Downtown Bangkok for textile and gemstone shopping. When you're feeling hungry, you'll find an amazing array of food on offer everywhere you look, from the best Thai restaurants in Silom and Sukhumvit districts to street stalls among the narrow alleyways of Chinatown.

Recommended highlights

The following experiences are possible from Bangkok. Talk to our expert travel consultants about how to make your holiday extra special:

Bangkok City Temple Tour and Chinatown Adventure

Whilst in Bangkok, you should visit 3 of the most impressive Temples: Wat Traimit - the Golden Buddha Temple: Wat Po - the Reclining Buddha Temple and Wat Benjamaborpit - the Marble Temple. Top the day off with an enjoyable ride through the busy streets of Chinatown.

Half-Day Adventure on the Thonburi Klongs with Temple of Dawn

If you've got a half a day to spare, travel by long-tailed speedboat on the picturesque Chao Praya River and Klongs (canals) of Thonburi, making sure you pick up some local goodies at the floating markets, before stopping at the Temple of Dawn for some quiet time and repose.

Half-Day Thonburi Klongs and Grand Palace

If you can spare a half-day in Bangkok, you should make the effort to travel by long-tailed speedboat on the picturesque Chao Praya River and Klongs (canals) of Thonburi, where you can view the magnificent floating markets before visiting the Grand Palace for some personal reflection and contemplation.

Samut Prakarn's Crocodile Farm and Wrestling Show

If you fancy getting up close and personal with some dangerous creatures of the snappy variety, why not visit one of the world's largest Crocodile breeding farms and experience the thrilling, world-famous 'Crocodile wrestling show' - a proposition not for the fainthearted.

Elephant and Crocodile Shows At Samphran

If you have a half-day to spare whilst you're staying in Bamgkok, you could watch the greatest Elephant show in Thailand, along with an unusual Crocodile wrestling show. For a slower-paced, more refined activity, why not take a stroll through the beautifully kept Orchid Farm nearby.

Shop in Style on the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market

If you're prepared to get a taxi 110km west of Bangkok, then you should take a boat ride through the canals to visit the floating market at Damnoen Saduak. Also visit the 'Phra Pathom Chedi', which is the largest Pagoda in South East Asia, and within an easy driving distance of Damnoen Saduak.

River Trip To Koh Kred Island

Whilst you stay in Bangkok, why not visit an Island on the Chao Phraya River originally inhabited by Mon People from Burma. Koh Kred is an idyllic little gateway and a wonderful example of rural Thai lifestyles. Koh Kred is home to artisans of ceramic ware unique to the island, so make sure you pick some up as a souvenir before you leave.

Shop on the Damnoen Saduak Floating River Markets

If you're looking for an alternative shopping experience, then you should head to the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market on the Klongs (canals) of Bangkok, where fresh flowers, fruit and vegetables of the region are at their best. Afterwards visit the site of the famous 'Bridge over the River Kwai' and pay your respects at the Allied War Cemetery.

Ancient Capital of Ayuthaya by River Cruise

Visit the glorious ruins of this ancient Capital of Ayuthaya situated 90km north of Bangkok, with easy access by river cruise. If you're in the mood for more culture, why not visit the 'Bang-Pa-In' Summer Palace of King Rama IV with its charming mixture of Thai, Chinese and Gothic architecture.

Ancient Capital of Ayuthaya By Road

If you fancy more of an over-land experience, why not drive to the ancient capital of Ayuthaya, situated 90 km north of Bangkok and then take a long tailed boat around Ayuthaya Island. If that's not enough culture for you, you should stop by at the 'Bang-Pa-In' Summer Palace of King Rama IV with its charming mixture of Thai, Chinese and Gothic architecture.

The Waterways of Bangkok By Day

If you want to combine the highlights of Bangkok City, we suggest you visit Wat Trimitr, Wat Po and the Grand Palace. Then, for a more unique view of the city, why not take a ride through the amazing klongs of Bangkok on a long-tail boat. If you fancy a broader view, board a converted Rice Barge for a cruise on the bigger canals.

Get Back To Nature in Khao Yai

A short distance from Bangkok, you can take an oxcart through rice fields, an elephant ride in the jungle and walk along marked trails through Khao Yai National Park. The National Park is home to many species including Tigers and wild Elephants, so make the most of this unique experience and spend the whole afternoon here.

Sala Rim Nam Thai Dinner and Classical Dance on the River Chao Ptaya

Set on the banks of the Chao Praya River, directly opposite from the Oriental Hotel, Sal Rim Nam serves up delectable Thai cuisine that you will find delectable and authentic. If you stick around after your dinner has been digested, you'll be further enthralled with a performance of Thai classical dance.

River Of Kings Evening Dinner Cruise

If you're in need of an extra special dining experience whilst you stay in Bangkok, then head to the Chao Praya River. Jump aboard a boat and enjoy a superb Thai and International theme buffet dinner whilst cruising along the river. You'll also take in the sights of Wat Arun, the 'Temple of Dawn' and the Grand Palace by night.

Evening Dinner Cruise on Loy Nava Cruise Liner

For a more romantic setting, why not take your loved one on the Loy Nava Cruise liner (a traditional converted Rice Barge) for a superb Asian dinner, whilst slowly drifting along the riverside of the Chao Phraya River, past the 'Temple of Dawn' and the Grand Palace.