Hotels in Old City - Travel Guide - TopHotelsBangkok.com

The Old City or Rattanakosin by its Thai name, is the man-made Island created by King Rama I in 1782 for the Thai Royal district of Phra Nakorn, which marked the newly installed Capital of Bangkok, Thailand. Rattanakosin’s foundations were based on the former Capital of Ayutthaya, which was abandoned after being ransacked by the Burmese Army in 1767. Defensive Moats and Walls formed a protective stronghold, with numerous Canals dug to transport people across the then Marsh and Swampland.

Today, the Old City contains many Government Offices and two Universities, in addition to being the religious nucleus of the Nation, with ceremonies, festivals and parades, frequently held throughout the year.

Places to visit include the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha) only accessible from the North Gate, the Lak Muang or City Pillar, which marks the official centre of the Capital, the Museum of Old Cannons, the Sanam Luang (Royal Field) where important ceremonies are held, the National Theatre, National Gallery and National Museum, Thammasat University, Silpakorn University, Wat Mahathat and Wat Pho.

The best was to visit the Old City is to arrive by Barge, as they would have done in ancient times, from North or South, on the Chao Phraya River. The sights from the water are simply amazing and start you off on foot at the North Gate. The Skytrain or Metro rail links will bring you to a suitable Ferry Station, or you can always use a Tuk Tuk or Taxi.

Since the whole area has been designated for many years by the Krung Rattanakosin Plan, for redevelopment into a Historical Park, few modern Hotel facilities exist. Please see our selection below, if you are considering staying in this area.
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