Siam Square

The theatres of APEX were built in the late 1960s and have changed little ever since; seeing a film here is a kind of retro experience not found in other cinemas. It is widely known for its more offbeat and art house films. It is spread over two theatres: Lido Theatre has three screens, usually with Japanese, Korean and other foreign films on show, while Scala Theatre only has one screen with first-run Hollywood films. Unfortunately, the late 1960s Siam Theatre has been destroyed in fires that resulted from the 2010 red shirt demonstrations. It is rumored to be replaced with a new shopping complex.

Going to see a film here is a great night out. You get a few hours in a plush theatre house, complete with air-con, assigned seats and the newest technology including IMAX and 3D glasses. All the new Hollywood releases are featured nightly, but you can also pick most Thai films as they have English subtitles but inquire at the desk first if this is the case. Don't forget the mandatory standing ovation to the King before the film starts.

With about 4,000 seats and 25 screens, this has got to be one of the largest cinemas in Asia. The complex includes three separately branded cinemas. It also houses 4DX for blockbuster movies the first and only one in Thailand, price 400-500 baht per seat. 4DX features 2 kind of special effects: Motion Effects 3D Seat Movements, Vibration, Neck/side/face/leg air, face water, back/butt kicker, leg tickler, back speakers and Environmental Effects 1000 types of scents, fog, fan, strobe, bubbles, laser. The Siam Pavalai is a 1,200-seat theatre, the largest of the bunch and often even home to concerts. The six "Ultra Screen" cinemas are much more luxury with reclining seats. Last but not least, Enigma is a members-only cinema with lounge seats.

This is a venue for horse races under royal patronage. Races are held every two weeks on Sunday.