For most visitors to Bangkok, Rattanakosin Island (which partially overlaps with, but is not identical to, the old city of Phra Nakhon) is the oldest part of the capital. In fact, Rattanakosin is Thailand's fourth capital; Thonburi, directly across the river, was the third.

From this perspective, Rattanakosin could be described as Bangkok's "New Old City," although in the modern context with its many centuries-old buildings, this is somewhat confusing. But never mind.

If you read through the travel guide I've created, you'll know all the sights and activities in Rattanakosin within minutes. Even if you don't visit Thonburi (let alone Ayutthaya and Sukhothai) for comparison!

Rattanakosin is not Thailand's original capital

Before I dive into my Rattanakosin travel guide, let's take a brief look at Thai history. While Rattanakosin is undoubtedly "old," it was neither Thailand's first nor second capital. Those two were Sukhothai, located roughly halfway between Bangkok and Chiang Mai, and Ayutthaya, about a third of the way between Bangkok and Sukhothai. Both cities are well-preserved and absolutely worth a visit.

Around 1767, a Burmese attack on Ayutthaya prompted the Thai royal family to relocate the capital to Thonburi, situated directly across the river from present-day Bangkok. Just five years later, King Rama I (the first of the Chakri dynasty, which still rules Thailand today) established the fourth (and currently last) Thai capital in what is now Bangkok's old city, specifically on Rattanakosin Island.

The best sights in Rattanakosin

The Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew

To be honest, I don't necessarily think the Grand Palace (and the adjacent Wat Phra Kaew, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha) lives up to the high expectations. The 500 baht entrance fee is definitely not justified! Nevertheless, it's the heart of Bangkok's old city and Thailand's most famous tourist attraction, so you should definitely see it.

Wat Pho

I think the nearby Wat Pho (also known as the Temple of the Reclining Buddha) is an excellent addition to your Rattanakosin trip. Although the entrance fee has increased significantly in recent years (300 baht in 2026, compared to less than a quarter of that ten years ago), the enormous reclining Buddha is simply breathtaking.

BONUS: If you visit Wat Pho in the afternoon, be sure to cross the road around sunset and walk along Soi Tha Suphan for a breathtaking view of Wat Arun on the other side of the river. You'll thank me later!

Wat Saket

Whether you enjoy the view from the top or admire the castle-like structure from the ground, the aptly named Golden Mountain (officially Wat Saket) is an absolute highlight in Bangkok's old city. TIP: I advise against wasting time and money at the overrated Raan Jay Fai nearby!

The Giant Swing (Sao Ching Cha)

That says it all, and another of my favorite things to do in Rattanakosin is just around the corner from Wat Saket. I'm talking, of course, about Sao Ching Cha, which translates to "Giant Swing." It's called that because locals in the 18th century actually used the swing to try and get closer to Nirvana. (Many, unfortunately, "achieved" it.)

More treasures from Rattanakosin

After exploring the main sights of Rattanakosin, I recommend heading north. Sights worth seeing include the impressive Lohas Prasat temple, the magnificent marble temple Wat Benjambophit, or the standing Buddha at Wat Intharawihan. Alternatively, if you travel south to Sam Yot railway station, you can visit the European-style temple Wat Ratchabophit.

Are Rattanakosin and Phra Nakhon the same place?

Although Phra Nakhon (literally "Royal City") is located on Rattanakosin Island, it is not necessarily the same place. Rattanakosin encompasses more than just Phra Nakhon; it also includes parts of Yaowarat (Chinatown) and the backpacker district of Khao San Road. However, for many tourists, it is easier to use these places interchangeably.

In other words, a visit to Rattanakosin doesn't necessarily require a trip to Phra Nakhon, but any visit to Phra Nakhon inevitably leads to a visit to Rattanakosin. And since most tourists traveling to Old Bangkok ultimately want to see attractions like the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and the Giant Swing, it's understandable that they consider this distinction irrelevant. Another interesting side note: Dusit Palace is located neither in Phra Nakhon nor in Rattanakosin!

Other frequently asked questions about visiting Rattanakosin

Is Rattanakosin worth a visit?

Rattanakosin is absolutely worth a visit! Besides being home to some of Bangkok's most impressive ancient and royal sites, it's one of the city's most pedestrian-friendly districts and a true paradise for street food lovers. Thanks to its MRT connection to the modern part of the city, it's easier than ever to reach.

Are Rattanakosin and Thonburi the same thing?

Although Rattanakosin and Thonburi are both part of Bangkok's old city, they are not the same. Thonburi, on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River, was the capital of Thailand before Rattanakosin (on the east bank) assumed that status. I still recommend visiting both!

Should I visit Bangkok's old town?

You should definitely visit Bangkok's old city! This applies regardless of whether you prefer Rattanakosin, the more famous part with the Grand Palace and the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, or venture off the beaten track to Thonburi, where you will find, among other things, the giant Buddha Wat Pak Nam.

Conclusion

Looking for things to do in Rattanakosin? This newer part of Bangkok's old city is a true traveler's paradise, with charm extending far beyond the famous Grand Palace. It's a place that invites you to return again and again; I go back almost every time I'm in Bangkok, and the area somehow seems even more impressive and captivating each time, whether I'm there for a specific reason or just because. I particularly love spending sunset and the time just after dark there, but it's magical at any time of day – even the mornings are beautiful! Need help planning your Bangkok trip (and your Thailand trip in general)? Request your personalized Thailand itinerary today!