How to spend a half-day or full day exploring Bangkok's historic heart on foot.
Start at Wat Pho for sunrise light and smaller crowds; cross the short walk to the Grand Palace compound; the river ferry pier (Tha Chang) is nearby for boat transport.
Walk north through Sanam Luang park; National Museum; Thammasat University grounds (historic university).
Amulet market near Wat Mahathat; cross to the west bank by ferry for Wat Arun; walk south along the river.
Return to east bank; explore the lanes around Khao San Road (avoiding the street itself); small restaurants in Banglamphu's back lanes.
Most of the Old City is walkable in 20 minutes; the heat makes tuk-tuks tempting for 3–4 minute hops; river boats connect outer points.
