Follow a local guide through a half-day tour of Bangkok's most iconic architectural wonders. Start things off at the Royal Grand Palace, near the banks of the picturesque Chao Phraya River, and wander the temples, pagodas and well-kept gardens of this essential city stop. The famed kings of Siam called this stunning gilded palace home from 1782 until 1925. Visitors can see the famous Temple of the Emerald Buddha and check out the Gautama Buddha that was carved from a single of piece of jade.
After exploring the city's most famous royal home, head to Bangkok's oldest temple, Wat Pho. See the famed golden Reclining Buddha, stretching some 140 feet (43 m) long. Explore the temple interior decorated with some 1000 images of Buddha.
This memorable tour concludes with a visit to Wat Traimit Temple, where the 5.5-ton, solid gold Buddha lives. Widely believed to be nearly 700 years old, it was discovered in 1954, hidden in a plaster casing that hid its true value.
Travelers should remember to wear long pants or knee-length skirts and have shoulders covered when entering the temples and palace.
