As the King has moved his residence to Chitrlada Palace in northern Bangkok, the Grand Palace, built in 1882, is now only used for major ceremonies or Royal functions. Its exterior, an interesting blend of Thai and European architecture, is worth a look and there are a couple of staterooms and halls that are open to visitors. 

The home to Thailand's most sacred relic-the Emerald Buddha-and the country's most stunning temple, Wat Phra Kaew, was completed two years after the capital was moved from Thonburi to Rattanakosin in 1784 and forms the northeastern corner of the Grand Palace complex.

The Temple of the Reclining Buddha is the oldest and largest wat in Bangkok, originating in the 16th century before being rebuilt by Rama I.

Across the river from Wat Pho is Wat Arun or Temple of the Dawn, one of the city's best-loved landmarks and an important religious sight in its own right. Before being moved to Wat Phra Kaew, the Emerald Buddha was temporarily housed here by Rama I where there had been a temple since the Ayutthaya period.

Apart from the many temples across the city, there are a far greater number of small shrines where Thais pay their respects to various deities and spirits. Don't expect serenity here.

American businessman Jim Thompson was largely responsible for the worldwide popularity of Thai silk.

A former market garden, this was converted into a residence and garden by Princess Chumbot of Nakhon Sawan.

Built in 1909, Phaya Thai Palace was a country cottage to which Rama V could escape on the weekends. It housed a radio station, before the whole place was turned into a hospital.