The dazzling, spectacular Grand Palace is undoubtedly the most famous landmark in Bangkok. It's one must-see sight that no visit to the city would be complete without. It was built in 1782 and for 150 years was the home of the Thai King, the Royal court and the administrative seat of government. The Grand Palace of Bangkok is a grand old dame indeed, that continues to have visitors in awe with its beautiful architecture and intricate detail, all of which is a proud salute to the creativity and craftsmanship of the Thai people. Within its walls were also the Thai war ministry, state departments, and even the mint. Today, the complex remains the spiritual heart of the Thai Kingdom. A strict dress code applies. The Grand Palace, with the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, is Thailand's most sacred site. Visitors must be properly dressed before being allowed entry to the temple. If you show up at the front gate improperly dressed, there is a booth near the entrance that can provide clothes to cover you up properly (a deposit is required). I suggest you to go there very early at the opening (8:30AM) because usually the hordes of chinese tourists arrive around 9-10AM, so you will have a good hour with few people around to take photos. It will take you between 1 to 2 hours to visit the whole complex, but there are many interesting other temples and places to visit around Old Town (Wat Arun, Wat Pho, Wat Ratchabophit, Wat Si Saket, Loha Prasat and the khlongs for example). You can easily spend the whole day walking around Old Town, one of my favorite thing to do in Bangkok.