Grand Palace

Grand Palace which includes a park and heritage architecture
Grand Palace
Grand Palace
Grand Palace featuring a temple or place of worship as well as a small group of people
Grand Palace which includes a temple or place of worship


The majestic European/Asian-style complex was once the home of the kings of Siam and is now both a place of worship and a must-see Bangkok landmark.

The gilded roofs of the Grand Palace are Bangkok’s most famous landmark. This not-to-be missed sight offers many photo opportunities outside, and more than 200 years of royal and sacred history inside the palace’s white walls. The complex is home to the much-worshipped Emerald Buddha and many elaborately decorated temples, statues and pagodas.

The Grand Palace was built in 1782 under King Rama I, who established Bangkok as Thailand’s capital. You can see his ancient thrones in Amarind Hall, the building that was once his residence as well as the Hall of Justice. The Grand Palace has remained the seat of the Thai royal families for more than 150 years and Thailand’s current king still uses it for ceremonies.

The Grand Palace today blends ornaments and architecture from Thai, Asian and European styles because each royal has added features that suit his taste. Check out the French-style Boromabiman Hall and the golden, bell-shaped 19th-century structure Phra Si Ratana. Visit the audience hall in Dusit Maha Prasat to see an ancient throne inlaid with mother-of-pearl. Next door is Chakri Maha Prasat, a neoclassical building topped with Thai spires. On weekdays, step inside to visit the weapons museum. The nearby Inner Palace was once the king’s harem, a village for women and children only. It is closed to the public.

Follow monks in saffron-colored robes to the most sacred place on the Grand Palace grounds, Wat Phra Kaew. Inside the temple, the small statue of the Emerald Buddha sits on its traditional Thai-style golden pedestal.

The Grand Palace is located on the banks of the Chao Phraya River in the historic district. Taking a ferry is the most scenic way to get there, with a stop at the nearby Tha Chang pier. The complex closes in the mid-afternoon, so get there early. Cover your arms, legs and feet before you step inside. Join a free tour or browse the many Grand Palace buildings at your own pace with a guidebook or the audio tour, available to rent for an additional fee.

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Things to do near Grand Palace

While visiting the Grand Palace in Bangkok, don't miss the chance to explore nearby shopping opportunities. Consider joining a city tour or taking part in daily tours to fully appreciate the rich history and stunning architecture of the area. These activities will enhance your experience and provide a deeper understanding of Thai culture.

Shopping

For a delightful shopping experience near the Grand Palace, visit Chinatown, just 1.6km away, offering vibrant local goods. Khlong Ong Ang Walking Street, located 1.4km from the palace, presents a lively atmosphere for families. If you're up for a drive, ICONSIAM, 3.2km away, features a vast array of shops and entertainment.

Recreation

At Rajadamnern Thai Boxing Stadium, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of traditional Thai boxing. For a serene escape, Health Land Spa & Massage Asoke offers rejuvenating treatments in a tranquil setting. Alternatively, enjoy the opulence of The Racquet Club, where luxury and relaxation await you.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of shooting at the Bangkok Shooting Range, situated 6.4km from the Grand Palace. For family fun, head to Fantasia Lagoon Water Park, located 12.9km away, offering entertainment and adventure. For water sports enthusiasts, Thai Wake Park, 37.0km away, promises an exhilarating outdoor experience.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife near the Grand Palace with a visit to Sala Chalermkrung Royal Theatre for a cultural performance, or enjoy the adventure-filled atmosphere at KidZania Bangkok. The National Theatre also offers captivating shows, perfect for a family night out.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Grand Palace

When visiting the Grand Palace in Bangkok, you’ll find a wealth of attractions to explore, including stunning temples and vibrant street scenes. This area is perfect for those seeking a cultural experience, as well as outdoor activities in urban parks. With a rich blend of history and modernity, the Grand Palace and its surroundings offer something for every type of traveller, ensuring a memorable visit to this iconic destination.

  • Khaosan Road: Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Khaosan Road, a bustling street known for its eclectic mix of backpacker culture, street food, and lively nightlife. It’s the perfect spot to experience the city's energetic vibe and meet fellow travellers.
  • Wat Arun: Discover the stunning architecture of Wat Arun, a magnificent temple adorned with intricate details and rich history. This cultural gem offers a serene escape and a glimpse into Thailand's spiritual heritage, especially at sunset.
  • Chao Praya River: Enjoy the scenic beauty of the Chao Praya River, where you can take a leisurely boat ride and soak in the picturesque views of Bangkok's skyline and riverside landmarks, making it an ideal outdoor experience.

Best time to go to Grand Palace

The best time to visit Grand Palace is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. April is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. December is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January81.1°F (27.3°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
February83.3°F (28.5°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly High
March85.6°F (29.8°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
April87.4°F (30.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May87.3°F (30.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
June85.5°F (29.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
July83.8°F (28.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
August83.7°F (28.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
September82.8°F (28.2°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
October82.2°F (27.9°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
November82.0°F (27.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
December80.6°F (27.0°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Grand Palace

For an economical visit to the Grand Palace in Bangkok, consider travelling during the off-peak months of May and September to October, when accommodation rates drop. Booking your hotel about a month in advance or exploring last-minute deals on platforms like Expedia can yield significant savings. Tuesdays are the cheapest days to stay, while Fridays tend to be pricier. Make use of Expedia's search filters to find affordable hotels and consider bundling your hotel, flights, and activities for additional discounts. Don't forget to explore free local attractions to enhance your travel experience without breaking the bank.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Grand Palace are May and September to October, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to December to February, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel around Grand Palace about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Grand Palace is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Grand Palace is Friday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. To discover the best prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can enjoy potential savings by combining your Grand Palace hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.