A Complete Guide to Visiting The Grand Palace in Bangkok: Tips, Highlights, and Scams to Watch Out For

When it comes to experiencing the heart of Bangkok, the Grand Palace stands out as a must-visit destination. This iconic landmark perfectly blends tradition with modernity, embodying the city’s rich cultural heritage alongside its rapid growth into a bustling metropolis. From ancient temples to stunning golden architecture, the Grand Palace offers a glimpse into Thailand’s royal past and Buddhist traditions.

Here’s everything you need to know about visiting this breathtaking site, including tips on entry, dress code, and how to avoid the common scams that plague tourists.

What You Need to Know Before Visiting

Entry Fee and Hours

As of July 2025, the entry fee to the Grand Palace for foreign visitors is 500 baht (around $14), while entry is free for Thai nationals. You can easily purchase tickets online or buy them in person at the entrance, where the lines tend to move quickly. The Grand Palace is open daily from 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM.

Dress Code

The Grand Palace is not just a tourist attraction; it’s also a sacred site. Visitors must adhere to a strict dress code. Both men and women are required to cover their shoulders and legs. Shorts and tank tops are not allowed, but T-shirts are typically fine. To be extra cautious, it’s a good idea to bring a sarong or shawl to cover up if needed.

Footwear Tips

Although you will need to remove your shoes when visiting the temples inside the complex, wearing closed shoes and socks is recommended for comfort and hygiene, given the large number of visitors each day.

Prepare for the Heat

Bangkok’s heat and humidity can be overwhelming, especially with little shade at the Grand Palace. Be sure to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat to stay cool while exploring.

Accessibility

The Grand Palace is surprisingly accessible for visitors with reduced mobility. Wheelchairs are available for free, so everyone can enjoy this incredible historical site.

How to Get There

While the Grand Palace is a major tourist spot, it might not be as easy to reach as you think depending on where you’re staying. Here are some transport options:

• By Boat: Take a riverboat to Tha Tien Pier (N8) and enjoy a short walk to the Grand Palace.
• Public Transport: You can catch the MRT to Chai Station, then take a bus or walk 20 minutes to the complex.
• Tuk-tuk or Taxi: Be cautious with tuk-tuks and taxis, as they often overcharge tourists. It’s advisable to use public transportation instead.

The Best Time to Visit

To avoid the midday heat and the crowds, try to visit early in the morning. Arriving as soon as it opens will give you a quieter experience, and you’ll have enough time to explore the complex thoroughly, which can take about 3-4 hours.

What to See at the Grand Palace

The Grand Palace spans over 200,000 square meters and is home to several temples, museums, and architectural wonders. While some buildings are still used by government officials, many of the palaces and temples are open for public viewing. Here are a few highlights you shouldn’t miss:

• Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha): This is the most sacred Buddhist temple in Thailand, housing the revered Emerald Buddha. The temple’s vibrant artwork and the statues guarding the entrance make it a must-see.
• The Cloisters: These stunning cloisters are decorated with 178 murals depicting the legend of Prince Rama. Follow the story as you walk along the intricate paintings.
• Phra Siratana Chedi (The Golden Stupa): The golden stupa is the tallest structure in the complex and holds significant religious importance, offering incredible photo opportunities.
• The Royal Pantheon: This building houses the Emerald Buddha and features exquisite mosaics on its exterior walls. It’s a key part of the Grand Palace’s history and architecture.
• Phra Mondop: Known for its spiral roof and intricate mosaics, this structure is home to ancient Buddhist scriptures. Don’t miss the four Buddhas placed at the corners of the building.
• Miniature Angkor Wat: Although it’s not the real Angkor Wat, the detailed miniature version here is impressive and definitely worth a visit.
• Phra Thinang Boromphiman: This renaissance-style palace once housed the royal family and is still used to host foreign dignitaries. While the interior is off-limits, the building itself is a stunning sight.
• Queen Sirikit Museum of Textiles: Learn about traditional Thai textiles and clothing at this fascinating museum, which is included in the entry ticket.

Common Scams to Avoid

As one of Bangkok’s top tourist attractions, the Grand Palace is often targeted by scammers. Here are two scams to watch out for:

• The Temple is Closed Scam: A common trick involves a person telling you that the Grand Palace is closed for the day because “the Thai people are praying.” They’ll offer to take you on a tuk-tuk ride to another “better” location, often a jewelry or suit shop where you’re pressured into buying overpriced items. If you encounter this, ignore the person and proceed to the entrance as usual.
• Overpriced Souvenir Stalls: Outside the Grand Palace, you’ll find souvenir stalls selling sarongs and elephant pants. The problem is that these items are often marked up significantly, sometimes costing three times as much as they would a few streets away. It’s best to avoid buying anything here and explore other parts of the city for souvenirs.

Final Thoughts

A visit to the Grand Palace is a must when you’re in Bangkok, offering a fascinating look into Thailand’s royal and religious history. From the sacred temples to the stunning architecture, there’s no shortage of things to see. Just remember to follow the dress code, stay hydrated, and be aware of common scams, and you’ll have a memorable and rewarding experience at this iconic landmark.