Thailand’s capital and most populous city, Bangkok is a bustling, busy urban grid with incredible contrasts at every turn. Towering skyscrapers lie shoulder to shoulder with village homes that are over two centuries old, while the skyline is taken up by ancient Buddhist temples alongside neon signs. Colorful markets such as the Chatuchak Weekend Market ply their goods to locals and tourists alike, where you can buy anything from food to antiques.

Royalists will love the Grand Palace, a former royal residence used for ceremonial purposes only. Wander through the four impressive buildings that are open to the public and marvel at their interesting architecture and ornamentation. For more architectural splendor, visit the Wat Phra Kaew, the spiritual home of Thai Buddhism, which is attached to the Grand Palace. The Wat Arun with its decorative spire, was built as a royal palace and a temple for the Emerald Buddha, and is impressive in its own right. An impressive 3 meter tall, gold Buddha image welcomes visitors at the Wat Traimit that dates from the 13th century. Take a tour of Bangkok by night where you are taken by tuk-tuk to some of the city’s most iconic sites. You’ll loop along the famous Chao Phraya River, taking in the illuminated skyline and stopping over at some of the more famous temples and markets that are open 24 hours a day. Bangkok’s nightlife is world famous, as the city seems to relax after hot and humid days. We have  offered our best suggestions  below to fill in your spare time while in Bangkok