Buddha statues in Wat Yai Chai Mongkol in Ayutthaya

The easiest way out of Bangkok is to head north by train.

The ancient city of Ayutthaya, which was the capital of Thailand for over 400 years up to the 18^th Century, is just 90 minutes by rail from Bangkok’s Hualamphong Station.  

It makes a great base for exploring further north as well as being a restful and rewarding stop in its own right.

If you arrive in Ayutthaya by train, a five Baht ferry ride across the Chao Phya River leads to the grubby commercial centre of the city. If this was all there were to Ayutthaya, you’d turn around and go straight home.

But 20 minutes walk west along Naresuan Road lies the old city, an amazing area of ancient ruins, picturesque lakes and magnificent, still-functioning temples.

Naresuan Road has plenty of inexpensive hotels.