Half Day in Bangkok: Old Town
Half Day in Bangkok: Old Town
Tour of Old Town Bangkok
Explore the historic core of Rattankosin, or Old Town Bangkok, to deepen your understanding of the city’s historical, geographic, and cultural foundations.
This tour is best started early in the day to avoid heat and crowds. Requirements for respectful/modest attire apply at temples, mosques, and other religious sites. Visitors should avoid disrupting religious observances and remain mindful of posted customs.
Where to Start
While heading to the Grand Palace, listen to the Rattanakosin Island audioguide for an overview of the area.
What to See
Plan to spend a short amount of time exploring the Temple of the Emerald Buddha and browsing the stalls at Tha Prachan Amulet Market. All other stops are designed to be experienced from the outside, with only very brief interior visits where appropriate.
While you won't actually visit Wat Arun, walking along the river between Wat Pho and the Tha Prachan Amulet Market provides you with an opportunity to see it, since is located on the other side of the river.
Use the associated audioguides as you visit the following locations:
- The Grand Palace: royal residence with ornate architecture and ceremonial halls
- Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew): home of the sacred Emerald Buddha in an elaborately decorated complex
- Wat Pho: a temple famous for its giant reclining Buddha and traditional Thai massage school
- Wat Arun: a riverside temple known for its towering spire decorated with colorful porcelain
- Tha Prachan Amulet Market: a bustling market selling Buddhist amulets and religious charms
- Wat Suthat Thepwararam: a temple known for its giant Buddha image and murals
- The Giant Swing (Sao Ching Cha): the iconic red ceremonial swing is used Brahmin rituals
- Democracy Monument: a landmark that commemorates Thailand’s transition to a constitutional monarchy
- Loha Prasat: a multitiered metal-crowned temple
- Wat Saket: a temple known for its tall golden chedi and panoramic views
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Audio Guides
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