Why you should go: At this popular spot for Bangkokian day trips, locals revisit their heritage culture at the various sites of religious architecture. But as famous as the ancient monuments are the town’s mischievous and over-confident monkeys.

How to get there: The first train leaves at 5am from Hua Lamphong train station (TKURL) and takes 1.5-2 hours. It’ll drop you off within walking distance of the major tourist attractions. Buses go from Mo Chit station (URLTK) every 20 minutes from 5:30am-8:30pm.

What to do: Expect to visit a lot of museums and shrines. Start at Phra Narai Ratchaniwet, a former palace converted into a national museum. It belonged to King Narai of TKDATE, who would stay there on hunting trips. Next, head to the Hosoponsin Museum, which focuses on religious Thai art and archaeology and is considered one of Thailand’s finest. Also don’t miss Wichayen House, a former royal reception house built to welcome the first envoys of Louis XIV of France. The elegant, Renaissance-style structure is now a museum. The house itself was and built in an elegant, renaissance-style structure. The Khmer-style ruins at Phra Prang Sam Yot are probably the town’s most famous attraction, and also where you’re most likely to be swarmed by monkeys.

Insider tip: The monkeys will want to climb on you. Put any jewelry out of reach of prying paws, carry no food on you, and don’t be afraid to use the bamboo stick to fend them off.

Eat here: Visit Padthaiburi for a unique take on pad Thai. Also, try Sahai Phan Taa, a family-friendly Thai dining establishment open for lunch and dinner.