Chao Phraya River and Thonburi canals, Bangkok

Bangkok was once the 'Venice of the East', and its river and canals are still the best way to see the old city. The cheapest way is the Chao Phraya Express Boat: hop on at Sathorn pier (by BTS Saphan Taksin) and ride upriver past Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn), the Grand Palace, Wat Pho and the old Customs House for the price of a bus ticket. The blue-flag tourist boat has commentary.

For the canals (khlongs) of Thonburi on the west bank, hire a long-tail boat from Tha Chang pier near the Grand Palace. You'll pass wooden stilt houses, small temples such as Wat Rakhang, and the Royal Barges Museum. Agree the route and price before you set off, for about an hour or two.

In the evening, dinner cruises leave from the River City and hotel piers, and the riverside temples are lit up after dark.