Phaya Thai Palace
Established in 1909 during the reign of King Rama VI, Phaya Thai Palace is one of the very few European-influenced royal palaces in Bangkok that remains accessible to the public. The grounds feature multiple throne halls built in a striking blend of European architectural styles, lush gardens, and decorative fountains — a distinct contrast to the traditional Thai temple architecture found elsewhere in the city. Its location along Thanon Ratchawithi, close to Victory Monument, makes it relatively straightforward to reach from central Bangkok. Visitors can expect a guided tour experience through the palace buildings and grounds, with architecture that reflects early 20th-century Thai royal taste for Western design. The setting is calm and well-maintained, offering a glimpse into a less commonly explored chapter of Bangkok's royal history. Note that English-language explanations are limited, so international visitors with a strong interest in the history may benefit from arranging a private guide in advance. The palace is open on Saturdays and Sundays only, with afternoon tours running from 13:30 to 15:00. Visitor numbers are limited per session, so arriving early to secure tickets before the tour begins is advisable. Smart, modest dress is expected, in keeping with the site's royal significance.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Phaya Thai Palace, round out your day in Bangkok with contrasting stops nearby.
Visitor Reviews
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 ☕
Only open to the public on Saturday and Sunday 2 slots a day 9:30~11:30 and 13:30~15:30. You can come earlier to buy the ticket before the tour begins. Each tour takes about 2 hours to complete. There's a restaurant in the palace.
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.
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.
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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
Where to stay near Phaya Thai Palace
Find hotels in Bangkok on the booking sites travellers trust most.
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.