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Old City (Rattanakosin) Information Guide
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Old City (Rattanakosin) Information Guide

Straddling the Chao Phraya River and situated just north of Chinatown, the Old City (Rattanakosin) is where you'll find Bangkok's most spectacular and revered historical attractions. Not only part of the Kingdom's rich past, but intrinsic to it, a day or two spent exploring here will give you a deep insight into the heart, soul and psyche of the Thai people, with shimmering, spire-shaped eye-candy on nearly every corner.

Founded by King Rama I in 1782 at the start of the Chakri Dynasty, it was originally carved out of a bend in the river to strengthen the defensive position of the new Siamese capital. Sights include the regal majesty of the Grand Palace, the awe-inspiring beauty of Wat Phra Kaew, and the traditional learning centres Wat Pho and Wat Mahathat, the latter widely considered one of Thailand's first universities and a centre for meditation. Sanam Luang, a historic park next to the Grand Palace traditionally used for important Royal or Buddhist ceremonies, and the National Gallery can also be found here.

The Old City: a charm that is all its own

Nowadays, the Old City has the same frenetic pace and kind of traffic you'll find elsewhere in the city. But, while the areas east of Rattanakosin - places like Silom, Siam and Sukhumvit - have been steaming headlong into the future for decades, the palaces, temples and old buildings of Rattanakosin have retained their perspective and pride of place. Without the intrusion of high-rises to disrupt the classic, low-rise skyline, the Old City has a charm that is all its own, and is a must for visitors wanting to delight in Thai culture and history at its most refined.

Close by is the incongruous traveller enclave Khao San Road, and the artsy ambiance of Phra Arthit Road. To find out more about Rattanakosin, read our Brief History of Bangkok.


Old City (Rattanakosin): Where to stay 

Stay in the Old City (Rattanakosin) for easy access to Bangkok's enchanting temples and captivating riverside, and to soak up this area's distinctive low-rise charm. The following accommodation ranges from budget to four-star, with some great deals available. (READ MORE)


Old City: Alphabetical list of hotels 


The best way to experience the flavour of the Old City is to stay in the area. Along with some of the most incredible deals we have secured for you, our A to Z list of hotels guide will help you find an accommodation that best suits your needs, taste and budget. (READ MORE)


Old City: What to see & do 

The majesty and grandeur of Rattanakosin's temples, palaces and pavilions, which date back to the beginning of the Chakri Dynasty and the foundation of the new capital, rarely disappoint... (READ MORE)


Old City (Rattanakosin): Shopping 

 The Old City is not big on conventional modern-day shopping opportunities, but (rather fittingly to its character) there are some great markets to explore. (READ MORE)


Old City (Rattanakosin): Where to eat 

If you're after food toned down for the Western palate and Thai fusion foods, the best place to eat and drink in the Old City is definitely Khao San Road and the road's fringing it. (READ MORE)


Old City (Rattanakosin): Nightlife 

Bangkok's Old City does not have what one would call a nightlife scene. For that, you'd be better off heading to nearby Khao San Road for an anything-goes vibe... (READ MORE)


Old City (Rattanakosin): Getting around 

Not served by the Skytrain (BTS), your options for getting around Rattanakosin are limited to taxis tuk-tuks, walking or river taxis. (READ MORE)




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