The dazzling former royal residence built in 1782, a complex of gilded halls and spires that also houses Wat Phra Kaew and the Emerald Buddha. Dress modestly with shoulders and knees covered; entry is 500 baht, and it is best visited early to beat the heat and crowds.
The Temple of Dawn on the Thonburi riverbank, its towering prang encrusted with colourful porcelain and nicknamed the Eiffel Tower of Thailand. Climb the steep steps for river views; foreigner entry is 500 baht.
One of Bangkok’s oldest and largest temples, home to the enormous gold reclining Buddha and the birthplace of traditional Thai massage. A short walk from the Grand Palace.
A scenic cruise around Helsinki’s southern shores and islands, taking in the Suomenlinna fortress and the leafy archipelago from the water, with refreshments on board.
Helsinki’s postcard landmark: a gleaming white neoclassical cathedral with green domes presiding over the grand Senate Square. Free to enter and often hosting classical concerts.
Helsinki’s award-winning central library, an architectural showpiece of curving timber and glass that functions as a free public living room, with reading terraces, workshops and city views.
Helsinki’s waterfront market square by the harbour, with stalls selling berries, produce, crafts and fried whitefish (muikku) snacks, and ferries to Suomenlinna leaving from the quay.
Named Helsinki’s best restaurant by Time Out for 2026, an understated, stylish spot in Vallila serving a well-priced set dinner in a warm, neighbourhood-living-room setting.
A buzzy, well-reviewed restaurant in the trendy Kallio district, high on Helsinki’s 2026 best-of lists for its confident modern cooking and relaxed vibe.
A Michelin-starred restaurant serving a creative, produce-led tasting menu built on Finnish and foraged ingredients in an intimate central dining room.