Rattanakosin museums: National Museum and Museum Siam

Royal regalia, ancient art and an interactive museum about what it means to be Thai.

Area

Old town

Start from

Old town

Distance

in the city

Time needed

half a day

Best season

All year (good on rainy days)

Difficulty

Easy

Transport

MRT Sanam Chai; walk

Tickets & rules

Entry tickets

Why go

The National Museum, in the old Front Palace, holds Thailand's most important collections of art and archaeology. Museum Siam, near Wat Pho, is an interactive museum exploring Thai identity.

Both are good places to spend a hot or rainy afternoon.

At the National Museum, highlights include royal funeral chariots, ancient Buddha images and the beautiful Buddhaisawan Chapel with its murals. Museum Siam's interactive displays explain how Thailand developed, from ancient kingdoms to modern Bangkok.

The story

The National Museum is located in the Front Palace, once the residence of the Viceroy.

Museum Siam is housed in a former government building and uses interactive exhibits to tell Thai history.

The Front Palace was home to the Viceroy, the second most important figure in the kingdom. After the position was abolished, the palace became a museum.

Museum Siam opened in 2008 and quickly became popular with families and students.

Getting there

Take the MRT to Sanam Chai for Museum Siam, then walk or take a taxi to the National Museum.

Check opening days; many museums close on Mondays.

A suggested plan

1. MorningMuseum Siam.
2. AfternoonNational Museum and its gardens.

Where to stay

Old town hotels.

Good to know

• Volunteer guides sometimes offer tours; check the museum schedule.
• Combine with the Grand Palace.
• Allow extra time for the National Museum; it's large.