Phaya Thai Palace
This is the Bangkok palace for people who've had their fill of gilded chedis and want something stranger: a royal residence from 1909, built in the reign of Rama VI, done up in a mix of European styles rather than Thai ones. There's a hall in Byzantine style. Look down at the marble floor and you can pick out fossilised sea creatures in the stone. Throne halls, gardens, fountains, and a café near the entrance that shares the building's interiors.
The catch is language. Reviewers who love the place still say the same thing: there's almost no English explanation, so without a guide you're walking through pretty rooms with no idea what you're looking at. Ring ahead and arrange an English-speaking guide, and the visit turns into something else entirely. Dress modestly, as you would for any royal site.
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Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Phaya Thai Palace, round out your day in Bangkok with contrasting stops nearby.
Reviews from Google
Great place to explore architecture from the beginning of XX century, the time of HM Rama VI. It is the Thai palace constructed with the references to the different European styles. There is even the Hall in Bysantian style. On some marble blocks of the floor ancient sea creatures fossiles can be seen. The visit is possible in the morning or from 1:30 pm. Better to contact them in advance for the English speaking guide. There is a nice cafe in the entrance of the palace, sharing the Place's interior and style. Even menu looks like the artefact from the past. Worth to be visited. The cafe has good coffee ☕
A must visit place. Sit besides the Ratchawitee road, near Victory monument. Should call for the tour guide if you want to know the history in depth. Dress properly.
The palace is truly beautiful and a hidden gem in Bangkok. The only disappointing part is that there is no English explanation for international visitors.
A sample of visitor reviews from Google. Read all 1,513 reviews on Google.
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Phaya Thai Palace: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Phaya Thai Palace worth visiting?
Phaya Thai Palace holds a 4.6★ rating from 1,513 Google reviews, placing it among the highest-rated temples & culture in Bangkok.
What are the opening hours of Phaya Thai Palace?
Phaya Thai Palace is typically open 13:30-15:00 — see the full day-by-day schedule in the location info on this page. Hours can change on Thai public holidays, so check ahead for holiday visits.
When is the best time to visit Phaya Thai Palace?
The best months to visit Bangkok are November – February, with the most reliable weather. Crowds peak in December & January — going early in the day usually means fewer people. Months to think twice about: April – May (peak heat).
Where is Phaya Thai Palace located?
Phaya Thai Palace is at 315 Thanon Ratchawithi, Khwaeng Thung Phaya Thai, Khet Ratchathewi, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10400, Thailand, in Bangkok. Getting around Bangkok: BTS Skytrain (most central areas); MRT Metro (underground).
Location Info
315 Thanon Ratchawithi, Khwaeng Thung Phaya Thai, Khet Ratchathewi, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10400, Thailand+66 2 354 7987www.phyathaipalace.org/Visitor Information
Best time to visit
November – February
Avoid: April – May (peak heat)
Rainy season
May – October
Avg. temperature
25°C – 34°C(77°F – 93°F)
Crowds
Peak: December & January
Getting there
Suvarnabhumi (BKK) and Don Mueang (DMK) airports serve Bangkok with direct flights from most major cities.
Getting around
- •BTS Skytrain (most central areas)
- •MRT Metro (underground)
- •Airport Rail Link (ARL)
- •Chao Phraya Express Boat
- •Grab (ride-hailing app)
- •Metered taxis — always use the meter
Where to stay near Phaya Thai Palace
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Tips for Visiting Temples & Culture
Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees at all temples. Carry a light scarf or sarong — some temples lend wraps, but not all. Shoes come off before entering any building with a Buddha image.
Mind Your Feet
Never point your feet at a Buddha image or a monk — it's considered deeply disrespectful. When sitting inside a temple, tuck your feet behind you or to the side.
Ask Before Photographing
Exterior photos are almost always fine, but some interior halls prohibit photography. Look for signs, and never pose irreverently with Buddha images — it's a legal offense in Thailand.
Nearby Places
Mekalarujee Palace
A historic royal villa from the reign of King Rama VI, tucked within the grounds of Phaya Thai Palace.
Victory Monument
A war memorial marooned in a roundabout, and you'll only ever see it from the walkway above.
Chitralada Villa Royal Residence
A working royal home, not a sight, so don't come expecting to get past the wall.
Numthong Art Space
A tucked-away contemporary art gallery in Bangkok's Ari neighbourhood, showcasing fine Thai artwork.
Similar Temples & Culture Across Thailand
Doi Suthep Temple
Go at first light, before the tour vans arrive, and the golden chedi and the whole Chiang Mai valley are yours.
The Sanctuary of Truth Museum
A hand-carved wooden giant still under construction, and watching the carpenters work is half the point.
The Big Buddha, Phuket
A 45-metre marble Buddha on a hilltop, though the front is closed and you'll be viewing from behind.
Tha Phae Gate
Free, open all hours, and best after dark when the brick gate is lit and the square fills up.
Where to stay near Phaya Thai Palace
Find hotels in Bangkok on the booking sites travellers trust most.
- Compare prices across sites
- Filter for free cancellation
- Secure checkout on the partner site
Compare rates on Booking.com
Largest selection
Compare rates on Expedia
Bundle & save
Compare rates on Hotels.com
Member prices
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
Location Info
Visitor Information
Best time to visit
November – February
Avoid: April – May (peak heat)
Rainy season
May – October
Avg. temperature
25°C – 34°C(77°F – 93°F)
Crowds
Peak: December & January
Getting there
Suvarnabhumi (BKK) and Don Mueang (DMK) airports serve Bangkok with direct flights from most major cities.
Getting around
- •BTS Skytrain (most central areas)
- •MRT Metro (underground)
- •Airport Rail Link (ARL)
- •Chao Phraya Express Boat
- •Grab (ride-hailing app)
- •Metered taxis — always use the meter