Start your walking tour from Prachan Pier (Tha Prachan in Thai), nearby you’ll find the historic National Museum (4 Na Phra Tha Rd., 02-224-1333), home to some of the most impressive art and antiques in the country. In addition to historic pieces from the Dvaravati Srivijaya to Sukhothai and Ayutthaya periods, the museum features regional art like Indian Gandhara, Chinese weapons,  ancient ceramics and musical instruments. At the other end of Sanam Luang is the most-visited landmark in Thailand, Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew (open daily 8:30am-4:30pm. Entry B350). Construction on the royal residence of the first king of the current Chakri Dynasty began in 1762, and the complex is split into three zones: the Outer Court, where you’ll find Wat Phra Kaew and the Emerald Buddha, Thailand’s most sacred Buddha image; the Middle Court, which contains the Dusit Maha Prasat and Chakri Maha Prasat buildings; and the Inner Court, former residence of the royal consorts. Be sure to get there early before the day is too hot. Beware, touts will tell you the palace is closed for a national holiday. Ignore them! On the same grounds, you’ll also find the Queen Sirikit Museum of Textiles (Na Phra Lan Rd., Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, 02-255-9430), which tells the story of how HM Queen Sirikit has helped turn Thai silk from a simple local handicraft into a key export and an icon of Thailand. Highlights include the Queen’s personal dresses and ornate costumes by leading international designers. 

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AFTERNOON 

 

Behind the Grand Palace, on the bank of the Chao Phraya River, is the four-year-old Nagaraphirom Park. What was once a row of shop-houses and several other old buildings is now a breathable green space with views of the Grand Palace. Relax among trees and lotus ponds while enjoying a great view of the Temple of Dawn before you continue on your walk. Next, pay your respects to the 43-meter-long reclining Buddha at Wat Pho (open daily 8am-5pm), whose three-meter-tall feet are inlaid with mother of pearl displaying 108 Buddhist symbols. In a beautiful colonial-style building nearby, Museum Siam (4 Sanam Chai Rd., 02-225-2777. Open Tue-Sun 10am-6pm) is one of Bangkok’s best museums, portraying the history of Thai communities through multimedia installations and interactive exhibitions. The venue also hosts an interesting lineup of rotating exhibitions.

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EVENING

 

 

After exploring Thailand’s heritage, take a break at Supanniga x Roots (see Highlight) and enjoy Thai food with great views of the Temple of Dawn (Wat Arun). This stylish riverside venue boasts a small number of guestrooms but half of the building is dedicated to wining and dining. There’s also a rooftop bar—the perfect place for sipping cocktails. If you’re in the mood for more drinks, head to The Deck (Arun Residence, 36-38 Maharaj Rd. 02-221-9158), a charming outdoor venue just a short walk from Sala Rattanakosin. Set in a five-room boutique hotel, The Deck offers a delightful atmosphere to enjoy another drink or two, and also has a sophisticated Thai food menu. Finish your Old Town tour with a night visit to Pak Klong Talad (open 24 hours), Bangkok’s largest flower market. Flowers from not only Thailand but around the world arrive here each day to be distributed to hotels, restaurants and small retailers. If you’ve still got some energy left, go mingle with backpackers from all over the world on the notorious Khao San Road, or head to the local drinking street of choice, Phra Athit (see below), which is just around the corner. Our top address there is Rarb (49 Phra Athit Rd., 081-406-3773), which specializes in Northeastern bar snacks and cocktails. 

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Phra Athit Hot Spots

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