3 hours north of Bangkok is the laid back town of Lopburi. One of the oldest cities in Thailand, a former capital and important part of the Ayutthaya kingdom, it is full of history. There isn’t much to see, but it is worth the visit, if only for its local inhabitants.

Hundreds of macaques roam free around the Old Town. There is a monkey temple where they can be fed, but you are more likely to encounter them before this, hanging from trees and wires and sitting on ledges all over the town. 

Ban Vichayen, built in European style back in the 1680’s as the palace of Greek trader Constantine Phaulkon, who became advisor to the king. It was expanded to serve as the residence of foreign ambassadors, housing a Catholic church in its middle. Today its in a serious state of ruin which gives it a different charm.