Grand Palace Thailand
Adjoined to the Temple of the Emerald Buddha complex, the Grand Palace used to house Bangkok's royalty. This European-inspired palace is one of the most impressive buildings in Thailand, with its white, molded walls and golden roofs and peaks. While many of the rooms are closed to tourists, some highlights remain open for viewing.

An informative, if small museum is inside, containing models of the palace, various Buddhas, and facts about the restorations that the palace has undergone. The Grand Palace Hall is an impressive room built for receptions, with a distinct European style. It was here that King Rama VIII was shot dead in his room in 1946, a subject that is still considered taboo to talk about in Thailand.

The antique, original throne of the Thai Monarchy can be seen in Amarinda Hall, which is used today for royal ceremonies. Boromabiman Hall has housed every king since Rama VI, although Thailand's current King, Rama IX, now lives in a different palace in a nearby part of Bangkok.