Phya Thai Palace

You may have driven along Thanon Ratchawithi and spotted a pointed spire rising above the trees without knowing what it belongs to. That is Phaya Thai Palace, where European grandeur meets leafy garden charm.

Construction began under Rama V before the palace was extensively remodelled under Rama VI. It has since served as a royal residence, hotel and, later, part of Phramongkutklao Hospital. Its defining landmark is Phiman Chakri Throne Hall and its tower, while the Roman Garden convincingly evokes a European courtyard. After exploring, stop for coffee at Café Norasingh, set inside a characterful  historic building and well suited to lingering over the view.

Thanon Ratchawithi, Thung Phaya Thai, Ratchathewi, Bangkok. Saturdays and Sundays only. Two sessions: 9am-11am and 1.30pm-3pm.