In the heart of Bangkok, the Democracy Monument was built in 1939 to mark the 1932 coup that ended the absolute monarchy and introduced a constitutional government. The central sculpture shows soldiers and civilians, but the change of power happened mostly without bloodshed while the king was away. It’s a quick stop if you’re exploring Rattanakosin, and the surrounding traffic circle gives you a real sense of the city’s pace and energy.

The neoclassical-style former palace of the Marquis of Matallana, erected in 1776, is home to a captivating assembly of 19th-century artworks, furnishings, and decorative objects that capture the essence of Madrid's cultural, political, and everyday life of that era. Its collection provides a glimpse into the lavish lifestyles of wealthy individuals during that period. The exhibition includes pieces by renowned artists such as Goya, Esquivel, Madrazo, Alenza, and the Bécquer brothers. In addition, you can marvel at ceramics from Sargadelos and Sèvres, exquisite jewellery crafted from ebonite, lava, and human hair, a selection of porcelain dolls, as well as several pianos and pieces of imperial and Isabelline furniture. The Magnolia Garden, styled after the French gardens of the 18th century, is one of the most enchanting parts of this exceptional museum.

For contemporary art and culture, the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre is the place to go. The multi-level space hosts exhibitions, theatre, film screenings, and design shows, with works ranging from paintings and sculptures to pottery. It’s a good spot to see modern Thai creativity in action and catch something unexpected.

A contemporary museum embracing a wide range of German and French art from Impressionism until present-day works. The park of the museum houses a sculpture garden.