The Grand Palace (or Royal Palace) can be visited quickly, as the interior is not open to the public because it is one of the royal residences still in use. While the King of Thailand does not live there, the palace is at his disposal. Sometimes you will encounter a guard in white uniforms, who seem to be there more for parades than for the actual security of the place.

Open daily from 8:30 am to 3:30 pm. I recommend visiting in the morning, as the complex closes around noon several times a year due to royal ceremonies. Please note that as this is a royal residence, appropriate attire is required. Covering shoulders and knees is not always sufficient, so it is advisable to dress a little more elegantly than usual. The entrance ticket, which includes entry to Wat Phra Kaew, costs 500 baht. Since 2019, the price also includes admission to a Khon performance, a traditional Thai mask theater that you shouldn't miss!

Beware of tuk-tuk drivers who tell you the Grand Palace is closed and offer to take you to other attractions instead. They are usually lying and trying to lure you into jewelry stores where they collect commissions and the gemstones they offer are often fake. This is one of Bangkok's classic scams.

How to get there

How do you get to the Grand Palace? Beware of tuk-tuk drivers who claim the Grand Palace is closed and want to take you to other attractions instead. They are usually lying and will try to lure you into jewelry stores where they collect commissions and the gemstones offered are often fake. This is one of the classic scams in Bangkok.