Sukhothai Treasure Resort and Spa

Sukhothai is a place you see on foot or by bicycle, in the heat, among old brick and stone, and the thing that matters most in a hotel here is somewhere cool and quiet to collapse afterwards. This one does that job well. Rooms and suites come with a private balcony or terrace and a rainfall shower, there's an outdoor pool, and there's a restaurant on site for the nights when you can't be bothered to go looking for dinner.

It's a comfort choice rather than a character choice. If you want to be in among noodle shops and night market stalls, you'd be better off closer to the new town or right by the park gates. If you want space, a swim and an easy morning, this suits.

November to February is the season worth aiming for. Cooler, dry, and the ruins are far kinder to walk when the sun isn't punishing you. That's also when rooms tighten up, especially around Loy Krathong, which Sukhothai marks in a big way.