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Bangkok Culture & history

Our most recommended Bangkok Culture & history

From Bangkok: Ayutthaya Temples Small Group Tour with Lunch

1. From Bangkok: Ayutthaya Temples Small Group Tour with Lunch

Enjoy a small-group tour of the magnificent temple ruins of Ayutthaya, the capital during the golden age of Siam. All entrance fees, an expert guide, and lunch at a local restaurant are included. Travel from Bangkok in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle or choose to join the tour at your first stop in Ayutthaya, Wat Lokayasutha. This temple is known for its giant reclining Buddha image, one of the few structures remaining intact here. Your next stop is Wat Phra Sri Sanphet, being part of the royal palace complex this is where royalty performed rituals. It is considered the most important temple of Ayutthaya. Then, visit Wat Mahathat Ayutthaya. One of the oldest and most significant temples in the history of Ayutthaya, it once housed the Buddha's holy relic. Admire the famous Buddha head entwined within the roots of a Bodhi tree. After, tuck into a hearty lunch at a local Thai restaurant, where your guide will be available to advise on local culinary specialties. Last but not least, finish your trip at the grand, riverside Wat Chaiwattanaram. Marvel at its compelling architectural style, influenced by the Angkor Wat complex in Cambodia, as you wander around the monumental grounds.

Bangkok: City Highlights Temple and Market Walking Tour

2. Bangkok: City Highlights Temple and Market Walking Tour

Meet the group at River City Bangkok by 9:00 AM and head to the Emerald Buddha Temple by local transport. Along the way, pass by the amulet market, one of the most famous, historical community markets of Rattanakosin Island. Discover the first stop of Wat Phra Kaew which is commonly known in English as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha and officially as Wat Phra Si Rattana Satsadaram. It is regarded as the most sacred Buddhist temple in Thailand.  Explore the Grand Palace which was the official residence of the Kings of Thailand. Nowadays, the Grand Palace is still used for official events. Several royal ceremonies and state functions are held within the walls of the palace every year.  After the Grand Palace, continue to visit Wat Pho, if you've selected this option. On the way, pass Tha Thien Market, a cultural food market that sells dried, salted seafood and wholesale products. Visit the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, Wat Pho. It is on the list of six temples in Thailand classed as the highest grade of first-class royal temples. Learn about King Rama I who rebuilt the temple complex on an earlier temple site and how it became his main temple where some of his ashes are enshrined. The temple is considered the earliest center for medical public education surrounded by the marble illustrations and inscriptions placed in the temple for public instructions. It has been recognized by UNESCO in its Memory of the World Programme. Most importantly, it is the birthplace of traditional Thai massage which is still taught and practiced at the temple today. Complete the list of must-visit temples in Bangkok by continuing your journey to Wat Arun (the Temple of Dawn), one of Bangkok’s most famous landmarks. The temple is known for its giant 70-meter tower next to the Chao Phraya River and is decorated with tiny pieces of colored glass surrounded by Chinese porcelain.

From Bangkok: Ayutthaya Historical Park Small-Group Day Trip

3. From Bangkok: Ayutthaya Historical Park Small-Group Day Trip

Visit sites that date back to 1350 at the Ayutthaya Historical Park. Learn about Buddhist history, architecture, and religion as you explore countless temples with your experienced tour guide. In the 18th century, much of Ayutthaya was destroyed by Burmese invaders; witness the structures in their various states of disrepair. Tree roots growing around scattered Buddha heads only adds to the historical charm of this unique destination. After departing from Bangkok bright and early, see Bang Pa-In Royal Palace en route to Ayutthaya. Used as a summer residence for ancient Thai kings, the golden pagodas and serene pools make for a great introduction to the region’s glorious past. After arriving in Ayutthaya, take several hours to explore fascinating ancient religious sites including Wat Mahathat, where a decapitated Buddha head sits nestled between ancient tree roots. Continue to Wat Mongkol Borpit, known for its enormous seated Buddha statue. Discover Wat Phra Sri Sanphet, the most holy and important complex of the ancient Thai capital. Finally, explore Wat Chaiwatthanaram, known for its towering stone chedis. This site is one of the main reasons Ayutthaya was awarded UNESCO status in 1991.

From Bangkok: Ayutthaya & Ayothaya Floating Market Day Trip

4. From Bangkok: Ayutthaya & Ayothaya Floating Market Day Trip

Discover some of the notable historical sites of Ayutthaya on a day trip from Bangkok. Visit ancient temples and palaces as well as the Ayothaya Floating Market with an expert guide. After meeting in Bangkok in the morning, start the 2-hour drive to Ayutthaya. The ancient city of Ayutthaya was founded around 1350 and became the second capital of Siam after Sukhothai. On this full-day trip, you will explore the ruins of the old city, in the UNESCO-listed Ayutthaya Historical Park. The park is an archaeological site that contains palaces, Buddhist temples, monasteries, and statues. Visit the Bang Pa-In Royal Palace, originally built in 1632 by King Prasat Thong. At this spot, you can find a number of impressive buildings built in different architectural styles from Thai, Chinese and European design. Continue your tour with a visit to the Ayothaya Floating Market and enjoy some free time for lunch at your own expense. After lunch, you will visit 2 more historical sites, Wat Phra Sri Sanphet and Wat Mahathat, to discover the ruins of the great temple sites. You will return to Bangkok in the early evening, where you will be dropped off at a location close to the original meeting point.

Bangkok: Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew Guided Walking Tour

5. Bangkok: Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew Guided Walking Tour

Take a short walking tour around Bangkok that will introduce you to some of the city’s most famous landmarks in just two hours. Witness the Grand Palace of Bangkok and the temple of Wat Phra Kaew on this tour with multiple starting times for you to choose from. Start your adventure with a trip to the Grand Palace. Located in the heart of Bangkok, this site is considered one of the most visually stunning architectural marvels in Thailand. Wander around the massive home of the royal family and be on the lookout for brilliant statues, amazing images, and more. Venture to Wat Phra Kaew, located within the Grand Palace complex and commonly referred to as Temple of the Emerald Buddha. This temple houses one of the country’s most sacred and revered statues. See the famed statue that was made from a single piece of jade and explore the temple grounds.

From Bangkok: Historical Day Tour to River Kwai

6. From Bangkok: Historical Day Tour to River Kwai

Learn about the construction of the Burma Railway, also known as the “Death Railway,” on this 10-hour historical tour to Kanchanaburi, approximately 80 miles (130 kilometers) west of Bangkok. Upon arrival, you will tour the well-kept War Cemetery, where the graves of an estimated 9,000 Allied soldiers are tended. They perished while constructing the notorious "Death Railway,” which the Japanese had hoped would stretch all the way to the Burmese border. Uncover the terrible history of the railway at the Thailand-Burma Railway Centre, an interactive museum, research, and information center dedicated to presenting the story of the Thailand-Burma Railway built during World War II. See the past recreated and relived with pictures and artifacts. You will also ride a train along the original Death Railway track, with a sumptuous lunch awaiting at the disembarkation station. Return to Bangkok in the late afternoon for your hotel drop-off.

Bangkok: Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun Private Tour

7. Bangkok: Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun Private Tour

Immerse yourself in local culture on a guided tour to the Grand Palace and Emerald Buddha Temple. Travel in a comfortable car and have the option to expand your experience with options that include visits to the Wat Pho and Wat Arun temples. Journey to the old part of Bangkok and discover Wat Phra Kaew which is commonly known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha and officially as Wat Phra Si Rattana Satsadaram. It is regarded as the most sacred Buddhist temple in Thailand.  Explore the Grand Palace which was the official residence of the Kings of Thailand. Nowadays, the Grand Palace is still used for official events. After the Grand Palace, continue to visit Wat Pho, if you've selected this option.  Pass the Tha Thien Market, a food market that sells dried, salted seafood and wholesale products. Travel to Wat Pho by private car, a local Tuk Tuk, or take a scneic stroll there.  Discover the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, Wat Pho (depending on the option you select). It is on the list of six temples in Thailand classed as the highest grade of the first-class royal temples and has been recognized by UNESCO. Continue your journey to Wat Arun (the Temple of Dawn). On this trip, you will also get to experience a local shuttle boat which takes you across the Chao Phraya River to Wat Arun.  Pick to option to visit Wat Arun and see this temple which is famous for its giant tower which is next to the Chao Phraya River, standing 70 meters high. The temple is decorated with tiny pieces of colored glass surrounded by Chinese porcelain. After a fun cultural half-day out at any option selected, you will be transferred back to your hotel in Bangkok safely.

Elephant Sanctuary & Kanchanaburi Highlights Tour

8. Elephant Sanctuary & Kanchanaburi Highlights Tour

This full-day tour begins when you meet with the group and drive to ElephantsWorld. Learn about this sanctuary for old and rescued elephants, who will spend their remaining years well cared for in a natural environment. Help care for the animals by feeding them, gathering food and bathing them. Around noon, enjoy a buffet lunch before heading out to see the major attractions of Kanchanaburi. Visit the Bridge on the River Kwai, which is part of the infamous Death Railway, built by prisoners during World War II. Continue your tour with a stop at the Kanchanaburi War Cemetery, the final resting place of 6,982 allied prisoners who died during the construction of the railway.

Bangkok: Wat Pho and Wat Arun Guided Walking Tour

9. Bangkok: Wat Pho and Wat Arun Guided Walking Tour

Enjoy a short walking tour around Bangkok with an experienced guide. Visit some of the city’s most famous landmarks in just three hours and choose from multiple start times to ensure flexibility within your schedule. Follow your guide as you venture to the world-famous Wat Pho. Witness the remarkable 46-meter long reclining Buddha statue and colorful mosaic shrines. Be in awe of one of the most stunningly aesthetic temples in Bangkok. See the famed Buddha statue and walk around the impressive temple grounds. Continue your journey to War Arun, a 300-year old temple known for its enormous white Chedi inlaid with thousands of colorful mosaic pieces. Located at the banks of the Chao Phraya River, this temple is a magnificent landmark seen around the city.

From Bangkok: Ayutthaya Day Tour by Bus with River Cruise

10. From Bangkok: Ayutthaya Day Tour by Bus with River Cruise

Embark on a day tour to Ayutthaya by bus and boat. See the ancient capital of Siam and its many temples and historic monuments. Depart from River City Bangkok onboard a luxury boat for a cruise down the Chao Phraya River. Relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery along the river with the morning atmosphere on the upper deck passing by the Temple of Dawn and The Grand Palace. Enjoy a Thai and international buffet lunch on board. After the cruise, board a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle and travel to Ayutthaya province. First, stop to see Wat Lokayasutharam. This temple is known for its giant reclining buddha. Continue to Wat Phra Sri Sanphet, which is part of the royal palace complex. It is considered the most important temple of Ayutthaya. Next, visit Wat Mahathat Ayutthaya, one of the oldest of its kind in the province. Fnish your trip at the grand riverside Wat Chaiwattanaram. Marvel at its compelling architectural style, influenced by the Angkor Wat complex in Cambodia, as you wander around the monumental grounds. Then, hop back on the bus for your transfer back to Bangkok.

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What people are saying about Bangkok

Overall rating

4.7 / 5

based on 3,417 reviews

Unreal!!! What an amazing day. I would highly recommend getting a private tour guide for this special experience. We visited the salt flats, took the train into the heart of the 1st market, and saw the intimate details of how the stall owners have to work around life on the train tracks. For the 2nd market, we had a private long tail boat take us to the heart of the market where we had the option to buy food, beer, souvenirs - all from our boat. This is a must do if you’re visiting Bangkok. Special shout out to our amazing guide, Siri.

If you are thinking of booking this trip just book it! brilliant way to see so much in one day outside of the business of the city! special mention to our tour guide Theravadh(Wat) and his driver, both were excellent at their jobs and Wat is such a friendly, and funny man who made the experience so much more enjoyable! the whole tour is amazing, beautiful spots to visit and is a must on a Bangkok trip if you want to see something different! would definitely recommend.

Very nice to be guided around the tempels and get some insights to Thailand, the temples and their history. Included a coconut and some sweet potato balls and a ferry ride to the other side of the canal. Lovely guide, Mam.

Katy was our guide and she was SO CUTE. She was so knowledgable and chirpy the whole entire trip. This was one of the key highlights in Bangkok - what a unique experience! Totally recommend

Simply put: excellent! You see and experience a lot, in just one day! Many memories to share also with family and friends.