Thailand's most iconic landmark — the former royal residence and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha; arrive early to avoid heat and crowds (open 8:30am–3:30pm).
Wat Pho is famed for the Reclining Buddha and traditional Thai massage school (open 8:00am–6:30pm); take a short cross-river ferry to view Wat Arun from the riverbank (Wat Arun open 8:00am–5:30pm).
Sample street-food favourites such as dim sum, roast duck and seafood in Chinatown; stalls are busiest from noon and late evening (area is lively all day).
Choose Jim Thompson House (silk merchant's traditional home open 10:00am–6:00pm) for architecture and silk history, or the National Museum for archaeological collections (open 9:00am–4:00pm).
Take a 1.5–2 hour train or private transfer north to the UNESCO ruins of Ayutthaya; trains depart frequently from Bangkok's Hua Lamphong station (journey ~1.5–2h).
Grab a quick breakfast at your hotel or an airport café; domestic flights to Chiang Mai depart frequently from Don Mueang and Suvarnabhumi (allow 2h before flight).
Walk the old city's lanes visiting Wat Chedi Luang and smaller temples; most temples are open from early morning until late afternoon (approx 6:00am–5:00pm).
Full-day visit to an ethical rescue and rehabilitation centre (pickups usually 7:30–8:00am). Activities focus on observing, feeding and bathing elephants — no riding allowed; sanctuary visits typically run until late afternoon.
Full-day island-hopping by long-tail or speedboat (most tours leave around 7:30–8:30am and return by mid- to late-afternoon); visit snorkeling spots, lagoons and beaches.
Catch a short long-tail boat from Ao Nang to Railay (10–15 minutes) and explore the stunning limestone cliffs and beaches; boats run daytimes regularly.
Choose an activity: rent sea kayaks to explore hidden bays, book an introductory rock-climb with local guides (open 8:00–17:00), or hike to the viewpoint for dramatic scenery.
Have an early breakfast and check out for your flight back to Bangkok if returning for international departure; allow ~1.5–2 hours for airport/check-in time.
If your onward flight is later or you have a connection, visit Siam Paragon or MBK for souvenirs, electronics and Thai products; both are typically open 10:00am–9:00pm.
Enjoy a final Thai meal near the airport or head straight to your international departure gate; allow 2–3 hours for international check-in/security if flying out from Bangkok.