Attraction
The Grand Palace
Bangkok's former royal residence, a walled complex of throne halls, courtyards and the revered Temple of the Emerald Buddha beside the Chao Phraya River.
A free contemporary art centre opposite MBK, with a spiralling atrium, rotating exhibitions, independent shops and cafés over several floors.
Good to know
The BACC is the city's main public venue for contemporary art, and its white spiral ramp, rising through the building like a smaller Guggenheim, makes it a pleasure to explore. The upper floors host changing exhibitions of Thai and international work, from painting and photography to installation and design.
The lower levels are filled with small galleries, bookshops, craft stalls and coffee counters, so it is easy to spend a relaxed afternoon here. Entry is free, which makes it a useful stop on a shopping day in Siam. It connects to BTS National Stadium by skywalk and is a short walk from the Jim Thompson House. Note that the centre is closed on Mondays.
Reviewed by Lifestylemetro · Details checked October 23, 2026
No, entry is free.
It is closed on Mondays and open 10:00 to 20:00 from Tuesday to Sunday.
Thing to do
One of the world's largest weekend markets, with more than 15,000 stalls across 27 sections selling clothes, crafts, plants, antiques and street food.
Tour operator
A Bangkok tour company based at River City by the Chao Phraya, running guided bicycle, longtail boat, walking and tuk-tuk tours through the city's backstreets.
Restaurant
Chef Gaggan Anand's theatrical tasting-menu restaurant, serving progressive Indian cuisine with an emoji menu, ranked third on Asia's 50 Best Restaurants 2026.
Hotel
Bangkok's grand old riverside hotel, first opened in the 1870s, with a historic Authors' Wing, acclaimed restaurants, a renowned spa and the Bamboo Bar.