Ayutthaya

Cycle through the temple ruins of Siam's ancient capital, an easy day trip from Bangkok.

For four centuries Ayutthaya was one of Asia's greatest cities. Today its brick prangs and serene Buddha images form a UNESCO-listed historical park best explored by bicycle. Highlights include Wat Mahathat's tree-wrapped Buddha head, the three chedis of Wat Phra Si Sanphet, and sunset at Wat Chaiwatthanaram. Trains from Bangkok take around 90 minutes.