How To Visit The Grand Palace, Bangkok (2024)

Knowing how to visit the Grand Palace, Bangkok is a must for all first timer visitors; so we cover where and when to go, what to wear and what to expect.

The Grand Palace is a spectacular architectural masterpiece and one of the city’s most iconic landmarks; this is one of the most popular things to do in Bangkok. Built in 1782, it served as the official residence of the Kings of Siam. While the monarchy no longer resides there, the Grand Palace remains a central part of Thailand’s cultural heritage, hosting royal ceremonies and attracting millions of tourists from around the world.

The sprawling complex, covering over 200,000 square meters, includes beautiful courtyards, halls, and temples, including the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Knowing when to go and what to wear is key, as this can make or break your time and visit the Grand Palace, Bangkok.

Tips on how to visit the Grand Palace Bangkok

When to visit the Grand Palace, Bangkok

As with most temples and attractions in the city centre, it is worth arriving early – like before opening. The Palace opens at 8.30 am, so arrive at 8.15 am to get in and see the Palace before the crowds.

Weekdays generally have fewer visitors than weekends, but expect it to be crowded regardless of the day. The palace closes at 3:30 p.m., so an early start allows you to fully explore the palace grounds at a comfortable pace.

The cooler months between November and February are ideal, as Bangkok’s weather is more manageable. The hot season (March to May) can be intense, while the rainy season (June to October) might lead to brief downpours but often brings fewer crowds.

Avoid the holidays

Thailand has several holidays throughout the year, with some that celebrate royal birthdays or coronation anniversaries. Avoid visiting the Grand Palace on these dates as more often than not, locals flock to the palace and nearby temples for the special occasion.

National Holidays include:

• Chakri Day – April 6

• Songkran Festival – April 13-15

• Labor Day – May 1

• Coronation Day – May 4.

• Visakha Bucha Day – Date varies (usually in May)

• Asalha Bucha Day – Date varies (usually in July)

• HM The Queen Mother’s Birthday – August 12

• Chulalongkorn Day – October 23

• HM The King’s Birthday – December 5

• Constitution Day – December 10

Stay hydrated

Drink water during your trip – Bangkok is hot and humid but drinking water will help keep you hydrated. Remember to find the shade too, especially if you do feel like the heat is getting to you.

What to wear to visit Grand Palace, Bangkok

Wear something light and long – shoulders and ankles need to be covered and leggings are not allowed. If you have a full day of sightseeing, you may not want to wear long trousers, so you can buy or rent long pull-over trousers from the entrance of the Palace. Or, bring trousers in a backpack to change in and out of.

The Grand Palace enforces a strict dress code to show respect for the religious and cultural importance of the site. Visitors are required to wear modest attire and follow the strict guidelines;

• No sleeveless shirts or blouses: Both men and women should cover their shoulders. A lightweight shawl or scarf can be useful for covering up.
• No shorts or short skirts: Pants, long skirts, or dresses that cover the knees are required. Jeans or lightweight pants work well.
• No see-through clothing: Even if you’re covered, sheer or translucent clothing is prohibited.
• Shoes: While sandals and flip-flops are acceptable, visitors may be asked to remove them when entering certain buildings.

How much does it cost to visit the Grand Palace Bangkok?

The Grand Palace Bangkok entrance fee is 500 Baht (about $15 USD), which includes entry to the Temple of the Emerald Buddha and a ticket to the Queen Sirikit Museum of Textiles.

The ticket office is located near the entrance, and it’s best to arrive early to avoid long lines. The palace also offers audio guides in multiple languages for an additional fee.

Guided tours are available if you’re interested in learning more in-depth historical and cultural insights. Alternatively, hiring a private guide is an option, which can offer a more personalized experience.

Bring Cash

The Grand Palace is one of the most expensive historical attractions in Bangkok with current prices being 500 baht for foreigners. You won’t find a cash point in the immediate area around the Palace so bring plenty of cash with you.

How to get to the Grand Palace

If you are staying near the MRT or BTS, you can catch the Silom Line (dark green) to Saphan Taksin Station then take exit 2. From here you can take the Chao Phraya Express Boat to Ta Chang Pier, with the Grand Palace being around a 10-minute walk from the Pier, with clear directions to the Palace.

You can also catch a taxi to the Palace but check the traffic first. It is worth downloading the GRAB app before your visit – it can be difficult to catch a taxi back to your hotel, especially as a lot of taxis will try to avoid using the meter.

Being Aware of Cultural Etiquette

The Grand Palace is a sacred place for Thais, so practicing respect is essential. Some things to be aware of are:

• Be Quiet and Respectful: Speak softly and avoid loud conversations, especially within temple areas.
• Avoid Pointing Your Feet: Pointing your feet at people or religious objects is considered impolite in Thai culture. When sitting, try to tuck your feet beneath you or to the side.
• Remove Hats and Sunglasses in Temples: This is a sign of respect when entering religious sites.
• Avoid Public Displays of Affection: Thais are generally reserved in public, so it’s best to avoid handholding and other forms of physical affection in the palace area.

Don’t plan a full day

Do not underestimate the heat in Bangkok. You will likely be shattered by midday, so plan your morning at the Grand Palace but don’t plan a load of activities for the afternoon.

Bring Socks

A strange one but it is worth wearing a pair of socks with your shoes or bringing a pair of socks if you are wearing flip flops. This is for two reasons: firstly, you will be expected to take your shoes off when entering temples within the grounds, such as where the Emerald Buddha is, and no-one wants to walk around barefoot. Secondly, the Palace can occasionally be very strict with the dress code and will ask you to wear socks.

Stay away from nearby food stalls

Thailand has some great street food but the vendors outside the Grand Palace are not examples of them. Often the food is overpriced and tasteless; instead, head to local restaurants or vendors near apartment blocks – always eat where the locals eat for the best food.

Eat on the river

Not too far from the Grand Palace is Trok Maha That Amulet market. Walk through the market and you find some restaurants along the riverfront – the food here is good, decently priced and offers fantastic views. There are some great seafood restaurants in Bangkok, especially along the river!

Head straight to the entrance

As you walk towards the entrance, you will find tuk-tuk drivers trying to tell you that the Palace is closed. They say this in the hope to entice you to overpay for one of there tours to other temples around the city. Just keep walking to the front of the Palace and ignore the tuk-tuk drivers.

Things to Know Before you go to Bangkok

Now you are all set for your trip! Have an amazing time at the Grand Palace and tell us about your time in the comments below!