📝 1. Overview
Old City, also known as Rattanakosin Island, is Bangkok’s cultural heart and royal cradle. Home to glittering temples, historic landmarks, and sacred palaces, this area is where Thailand’s royal past breathes life into the present. With tuk-tuks zipping past golden spires and monks walking along ancient paths, every corner radiates heritage and spiritual charm.
🌟 2. Highlights
🏯 Grand Palace: Iconic complex with royal halls and the Emerald Buddha
🙏 Wat Pho: Home of the Reclining Buddha and traditional Thai massage
🛶 Chao Phraya River: Scenic cruises with riverside temples
🪔 Wat Arun: Majestic temple at sunset—photo favorite
🎨 National Museum: Thai history, art, and cultural treasures
🛍️ Tha Maharaj: Riverside lifestyle mall with cafes and night views
🗺️ 3. Zones in Old City
| Zone | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Grand Palace Area | Royal grounds, sacred temples, museums |
| Wat Pho Area | Massage school, Buddha statues, riverside dining |
| Sanam Luang & Around | Open park, street food, local markets |
| Tha Tien & Tha Maharaj | Ferry piers, café culture, riverside views |
🎟️ 4. Tickets & Passes – Popular Attractions
| Attraction | Price (Adult) | Opening Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaew | 500 THB | 8:30 AM – 3:30 PM |
| Wat Pho | 200 THB | 8:00 AM – 6:30 PM |
| Wat Arun | 100 THB | 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM |
| National Museum Bangkok | 200 THB | Wed–Sun: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM |
🟡 Dress modestly when visiting temples—shoulders & knees covered
💡 5. Tips
👗 Wear temple-appropriate clothes (no shorts or sleeveless tops)
📸 Visit Grand Palace early to avoid crowds and heat
💰 Carry small bills for entrance fees & river taxis
🧘♂️ Don’t miss a Thai massage session at Wat Pho
🌅 Cross river to Wat Arun at sunset for epic photos
🍽️ 6. Must-Try Foods in Old City
🥢 Pad Thai from Thip Samai – Legendary Bangkok street food
🍲 Boat Noodles at Victory Monument Alley – Rich and spicy
🍚 Mango Sticky Rice – Sweet, creamy, iconic Thai dessert
🌶️ Som Tum (Papaya Salad) – Tangy, spicy, refreshing
🍧 Thai Iced Tea – Sweet and cooling must-have drink
🏨 7. Recommended Hotels (Top 3 Picks)
🏨 Riva Arun Bangkok
→ Riverside boutique hotel with direct views of Wat Arun and Wat Pho.
👑 Aurum The River Place
→ Charming stay near the Grand Palace, ideal for walking exploration.
🛏️ Sala Rattanakosin Bangkok
→ Stylish hotel with rooftop dining facing the Chao Phraya River.
🚗 8. Access
📍 From Major Airports
BKK (Suvarnabhumi) → Old City: ~45–60 min by taxi
DMK (Don Mueang) → Old City: ~40–55 min by taxi
📍 Getting Around
🚶 Best explored on foot or tuk-tuk within the zone
🚤 River ferries connect to key piers like Tha Tien & Maharaj
📷 Hop-on river cruises also available for sightseeing
🌐 9. Contact / Info
🔗 Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT)
📞 Info Line: +66 2 250 5500
📍 Visitor Info: Grand Palace entrance, National Museum lobby
