Bucket list experience:
The former seat of power of Siamese kings, the glittering Grand Palace complex is one of Thailand’s big tourism draw cards.
Constructed in 1782, the complex includes halls, pavilions and temples set around open lawns, gardens and courtyards – it was the home of Thai kings for 150 years and is still considered their spiritual and ceremonial base. While the King no longer lives here, it’s still used for ceremonies.
Decorated in shimmering mosaics and vivid murals, the buildings are incredible, especially the temple of Wat Phra Kaew.
Wat Phra Kaew is the eye-popping centrepiece of the Grand Palace. It’s also home to the famous Emerald Buddha – a 66cm-high tall statue that was carved from a single jade stone in the 14th century.
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Destination Guide >Take the BTS/Skytrain to Saphan Taksin and then the river ferry (not the tourist boat) to Wharf 9 Tha Chang. From there, it’s a five-minute walk to the entrance.
A photographer’s dream, this site is best done independently so you can wander at your own pace.
Dress modestly out of respect. Don’t wear revealing or tight clothes. No shorts/short skirts or beachwear. Some temples may refuse you entry while others may give you something to wear.
It’s open all year round, seven days a week. The grounds are busiest around noon, and early morning and late afternoon are the best times for photography. Much of the visit is spent wandering around outside, so avoid rainy weather where possible.
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Our writer’s picks of the best places to stay near this experience, closest first
Bangkok, Central Thailand, Thailand
Shanghai chic in the heart of Bangkok’s historic Chinatown, close to some of Bangkok’s best street food stalls, makes for an exotic Chinese-infused stay.
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Bangkok, Central Thailand, Thailand
A lovely riverside retreat, away from the hubbub, to immerse in local life along the river. Most of Bangkok’s postcard sights are a 15-minute boat ride away.
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Bangkok, Central Thailand, Thailand
A charming, family-run boutique stay in Bangkok’s atmospheric Old Town, with all the mod-cons of a well-appointed five star. Min age 15.
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Bangkok, Central Thailand, Thailand
A hyper-smart design hotel on the fringe of Chinatown, within walking distance of legendary street eats and kaleidoscopic temples, but out of earshot from roaring tuk-tuks and rowdy market vendors.
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Destination guides including or relevant to this experience
Central Thailand, Thailand
From dazzling temples to dizzying nightlife, Thailand’s capital is a dish of delicious contradictions, and one of the world’s most dizzying, fast-paced cities.
Our writer’s recommendations of other bucket list experiences our writer says you must do in this destination, closest first
Bangkok, Central Thailand, Thailand
From fancy river cruises to public transport boats, seeing Bangkok from its many waterways gives you a whole new perspective of the city and lives of the locals.
Best for ages: 4+ | £3 | 30+ minutes
Bangkok, Central Thailand, Thailand
Blood, sweat, and muscled men in tiny shorts – there are few better ways to see Thailand’s national sport than a Muay Thai match at Bangkok’s Rjadamnern Boxing Stadium.
Best for ages: 16+ | £11 | 3.5 hrs
Bangkok, Central Thailand, Thailand
Bicycle tours through the back-alleys of Chinatown and Bangkok’s rural suburbs offer a fascinating peek into the daily lives of the city’s residents.
Best for ages: 13+ | £20 | 3-5 hours
Bangkok, Central Thailand, Thailand
The former home of silk magnate Jim Thompson – who mysteriously disappeared in the jungles of Malaysia – is a must-see for its well-preserved teak buildings and art.
Best for ages: 13+ | £4
Other worthwhile experiences near this experience if you have time or interest..
Bangkok, Central Thailand, Thailand
Heaving with jasmine, orchids and marigolds, Bangkok’s flower market is a mesmerising riot of colours, floral scents and boisterous vendors. Visit after midnight, when wholesalers drop off their wares and the market is at its liveliest.
Best for ages: 13+ | Free
Bangkok, Central Thailand, Thailand
Flaming woks balancing on tiny canoes, mountains of fresh fruits – Bangkok’s floating markets are a kaleidoscope of Thai-tinged wonder. That said, their old-timey charm has long faded as souvenirs shops have replaced most noodle joints. It’s a fun day out, but no longer an authentic experience.
Best for ages: 13+ | Free
Bangkok, Central Thailand, Thailand
One of Bangkok’s most popular little museums. The charming, 70-year-old restored teak house offers a compelling glimpse of family life in Bangkok from the 1930s to the 1960s.
Best for ages: 13+ | Free
Bangkok, Thailand
With galleries, concept stores and art markets amalgamating into a kaleidoscope of creativity, Bangkok’s de-facto design district offers an excellent primer on the city’s burgeoning creative scene.
Best for ages: 13+ | Free
Round-ups that include this experience
Multiple countries
The great civilisations of the past have left a legacy of constructions that still stand out and inspire. Built without the wonders of 20th-century technology, many are also monumental feats of engineering; others offer such grace and beauty, that they’ll literally take your breath away.
