Grand Palace

You can easily spot the spires, roofs and golden facades of Bangkok’s Grand Palace glittering in the sun as you approach the complex by road or river – the vivid pavilions, temples and closely manicured gardens of the palace and its adjoining royal temple Wat Phra Kaeo are the city’s most popular sights. Must-sees in a city packed with beautiful temples, the original buildings were built here in 1782 when Bangkok became Thailand’s capital – successive monarchs have each added their own structures to the mix, marking the progression of Thai architectural styles over the years.