Best Places to Stay in Bangkok
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The following eight areas are the best areas to stay in Bangkok:
Table of Contents:
- 1. Khao San/ Banglamphu Area
- 2. Bangkok Riverside
- 3. Sukhumvit Area
- 4. Silom Area
- 5. Siam Area
- 6. Chinatown Area
- 7. Pratunam Area
- 8. The International Airport Suvarnabhumi Area
- Quick Summary Of The Best Places To Stay In Bangkok
1. Khao San/ Banglamphu Area
Why Stay In The Khao San Area?
If you have read the book “The Beach” or seen the movie, then you have heard of Khao San Road. The book sums up this area pretty well: “Khao San is the center of the backpacking universe“.
Khao San is the most famous street in Bangkok, and anyone backpacking through SE-Asia will come through here at one time or another. We stayed in this area on our first trip ever to Bangkok, back in 2005, and we loved it at the time.
If you are in Bangkok to party, Khao San is the place to be! Here you will find “happy hour” both day and night. Even if you don’t choose to stay in this area, it is still a fun place to visit. Have a cold Chang beer at one of the many street pubs and watch the craziness.
You will find cheap Thai street food and markets selling affordable, and trendy clothes, shoes, and accessories in the busy streets in and around Khao San Road. This is also a popular area among young Thais who come here in the evenings, especially during weekends, to enjoy the market atmosphere and nightlife.
Most of the people staying around Khao San road are young backpackers on limited budgets. You won’t find many five stars hotels here, but there are plenty of budget guesthouses and mid-range hotels.
The backpacking hub around Khao San and its surrounding streets is however just a small part of the much larger Banglamphu area that stretches down the river almost to the Royal Palace.
Banglamphu is an old part of town, and you do not need to walk far from Khao San before you are surrounded by traditional shophouses, homes, temples, and restaurants that have been there for generations. Banglamphuś close vicinity to Bangkok’s most prominent attractions has kept development at bay, and the area is still refreshing free of modern malls and skyscrapers. Some of the old shophouses have in recent years been converted into neat boutique guesthouses, hotels, and cozy cafes.
Things To See And Do In Khao San Area
- Khao San Road
Or Thanon Khao San as it is called in Thai. Experience the legendary and lively Khao San Road with its bars, restaurants, street market, and backpacker vibe. Great fun! - Democracy Monument
Enjoy the world-class street food and tasty Thai dessert sold by the street vendors around the Democracy Monument. - Golden Mount Temple
Golden Mount or Wat Saket is a beautiful Buddhist temple that sits on top of the Golden Mountain (Phu Khao Thong). A magnificent temple from which to enjoy the sunset. - Giant Swing
The city’s iconic Giant Swing is over 21 meters high and painted blood red. Built in 1784 by King Rama I, only two years after the establishment of Bangkok as the new capital. - Jay Fai Restaurant
Try Michelin star street food – Legendary Thai chef Jay Fai is still stirring the pots even in her mid-seventies at Raan Jay Fai, Bangkok’s only Michelin star street food restaurant. The crab omelet is deserving of its Michelin star status and its hefty price tag, but unless you have a reservation expect very long lines. - Bangkok National Museum
Explore Bangkok’s largest museum, Bangkok National Museum, and learn about Thailand’s proud history. - River ferry
Take the riverboat like a local and jump off a few stops down the river to explore the Grand Palace and the famous Bangkok temples.
What’s The Catch?
The Khao San Road itself is crowded, busy and noisy, and packed with people in the evenings and at night. The loud music from the bars along Khao San can make it difficult to get any sleep at night, and I would recommend staying in one of the side streets to Khao San Road and not on Khao San itself.
The Khao San/ Banglamphu area does not have a Skytrain or Subway MRT, so the best way to get to/ from Khao San Road is by ferry (walking distance to the river), taxi, Grab car, bus, or by one of Bangkok’s iconic Tuk-Tuks (three-wheeled taxis).
Where To Stay In Khao San Area
Top End
Riva Surya Bangkok
One of the few high-end hotels in this area, the Riva Surya is located
on the riverbank about five minutes walk away from Khao San road. The
rooms are spacious, elegant, and comfortable. There is a lovely pool
area, and breakfast is served on the beautiful balcony overlooking the
river.
If you’re looking for a bit of luxury yet still want to experience
the youthful vibe of Bangkok’s backpacking hub, then this is an
excellent choice. The close by river ferry station means you can easily
take the ferry down to the old town attractions such as the Royal
Palace.
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Mid-Range
Casa Vimaya is a relatively new hotel (opened December 2017) located only a short five-minute walk away from Khao San road. Yet, it is in a quiet street perfect for a good night’s sleep.
The rooms are large, clean, and comfortable, and furnished in a
colonial-style era decor. All rooms have air-con, a private bathroom,
and a big flat-screen TV. Our room was on the ground floor and didn’t
have much of a view, so consider choosing a Riverview deluxe room if
you´d like a better view.
We especially enjoyed the rooftop pool and bar, and we had it almost to ourselves most days. The staff is kind and welcoming.
The hotel is in a perfect location: Khao San road is only a
five-minute walk away, and the Phra Arthit river ferry station is close
by (about 8-minute walking) making it easy to reach the major sights and
temples. All in all, we found Casa Vimaya Riverside to be an excellent
value for the money!
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Old Capital Bike Inn
The Old Capital Bike Inn used to be an old heritage home but
has been completely renovated and turned into one of the most charming
boutique hotels in Bangkok. The ten rooms are all unique and feature
classic Thai teak furniture and wall art, illustrating aspects of life
in old Bangkok.
The interior design and decor may be classic Thai, but modern-day comforts such as flat-screen TV, air-con, and free wifi are tastefully integrated.
This is a family-run hotel and has been in the familyś care for more than a century since the time of King Rama V. It used to be called the Old Bangkok Inn, but when they decided to include their love of old vintage bikes into the design of the hotel, they renamed it. The classic bikes on display are not just for show either, you can borrow one to explore the area, or you can join the staff on a free guided evening bike tour.
There is a cozy little cafe in the lobby serving small meals, including some delicious Belgian waffles and a good selection of tea and coffee. They even have some tasty vegan Thai food options!
You can walk to Khao San road in about 15 minutes and explore temples such as the Golden Mount / Wat Saket just a five minutes walk away.
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Casa Nithra Bangkok
Located a short walk away from Khao San Road, the Casa
Nithra is one of the best mid-range alternatives in this part of town.
You are far enough from Khao San to get a good night’s sleep but close
enough to partake in the festivities. The rooftop swimming pool is
lovely, the rooms comfortable and the breakfast has plenty of options.
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Villa De Khaosan by Chillax
Villa De Khaosan is a fairly new (opened 2018) boutique hotel that has a
great location if you want to stay close to Khao San yet value your
beauty sleep. Just a couple of minutes walk away from the action it is
surprisingly quiet. The hotel’s design is inspired by French
17th-century style, and the rooms are relatively spacious, very clean,
comfortable, and equipped with flat-screen TV (including Netflix),
air-con, and free Wi-fi. There is a gorgeous rooftop pool and bar with a
fantastic view of the city.
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The Bhuthorn Bed and Breakfast
For something a little out of the ordinary, how about a
homestay at The Bhuthorn? With only three rooms this renovated
hundred-year-old shophouse provides a unique accommodation opportunity
in the middle of old town Bangkok.
Staying in one of the beautifully decorated rooms with oriental
dark-wood antique furniture feels like staying in a family home. Great
location, just a short walk away from major attractions such as the
Royal Palace, Emerald Buddha, and Wat Pho.
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Budget
Thanabhumi
Located in a quiet neighborhood with views of the river, this guesthouse
is very popular right now. Private rooms are large and while fairly
basic, nicely furnished and very clean with attached bathrooms. There is
a lounge for hanging out and socializing with free coffee and snacks
available! The owner is lovely and super helpful. Wifi is free and
available everywhere. You can walk to Khao San road in less than 10
minutes or to the Royal Palace in about 15-20 minutes. Excellent value
for the money.
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NapPark Hostel
Located very close, but not too close to the craziness
that is Khao San road, this is a great place to meet people and
socialize. With a spacious communal area, friendly staff, and social
vibe, there is no wonder NapPark Hostel keeps popping up whenever
someone recommends a hostel in the Khao San area. The dorm rooms are
kept tidy, and the beds are comfortable. NapPark is the place to go if
you are looking to socialize and get to know other young travelers, and
don´t mind a little noise.
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Bedstation Hostel
Friendly, chilled, and close to Khao San road this dorm
room hostel is another excellent choice for those looking for a social
hostel close to the action. With spotlessly clean air-con dorm rooms
with comfortable beds, a communal area for hanging out, a small gym, and
a pool.
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Bangkok Bed and Bike
Located within walking distance of famous attractions like
the Royal Palace, Wat Poo, and Chinatown. This is a popular and cozy
little hostel with a rustic urban designed interior. There are bikes
available for rent, or you can join a cycling tour.
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2. Bangkok Riverside
Why Stay By The Bangkok Riverside?
Bangkok’s riverside is beautiful and very scenic, especially after dark, with its glittering temples, shrines, and the Royal Palace. In this area, you can explore Bangkok’s historic roots.
Here along the Chao Praya river, Chinese immigrants founded the first settlements of what would become the capital of Thailand. If you are looking for top-end accommodation, this is also where you find most of the top 5-star hotels in Bangkok. There are also a few small unique boutique hotels here where the old traditional houses lining the river have been transformed into charming guesthouses.
We have stayed in the riverside neighborhood a lot and love taking the ferries up and down the river, jumping off along the way to see the many iconic landmarks that Bangkok is famous for such as the Grand Palace, the former royal residence, and the iconic temples Wat Pho, and Wat Arun.
Taking the ferry boat, together with local Thais, is an excellent way to catch a glimpse of everyday life in Bangkok. Even if you do not choose to stay here, Bangkok`s riverside is a must-visit!
Things To See And Do In The Bangkok Riverside Area
- Wat Arun/ Temple Of The Dawn
Temple of the Dawn (Wat Arun) is one of our favorite temples with its unique tower colorfully decorated in porcelain tiles. At its most beautiful in the morning when the sun reflects off the surface, or in the evening when it is illuminated. - Royal Grand Palace
The majestic Grand Palace is the former residence of the King of Thailand. This is Bangkok’s most famous landmark and one of the must-see sights of Bangkok. - Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaeo)
This beautiful temple lies within the Royal Place grounds and is famous for its Buddha statue made of jade. - Gigantic Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho)
The 16m tall reclining golden Buddha and the beautiful temple never fails to impress. A tip is to come in the evening, there will be fewer people, and you can stay and enjoy the temple after sunset. - Flower Market (Pak Klong Talat)
The Flower Market (Pak Klong Talat) is an enormous market selling flowers, fresh fruits, and vegetables. - Asiatique
Asiatique Market is partly an amusement park and partly an outdoor mall and market with lots of shops and several great restaurants. A visit to Asiatique is a fun way to spend an evening. - Dinner Cruise
Dinner cruise on the Chao Praya river is a popular and great way to spend an evening gliding along the mighty Chao Praya river while enjoying a delicious dinner. - Take a ferry or hire a longboat
Explore the Chao Phraya river by jumping on one of the frequently running river ferries, or hire a private longboat to take you into the side channels to catch a glimpse of everyday life by the river. - Icon Siam
Icon Siam is the newest and flashiest of Bangkok malls. The home to Thailand’s first official Apple store, hundreds of shops and restaurants, a vast food court modeled after a floating market, a two-floor arts & crafts department, as well as a large cinema complex including an IMAX screen. A free shuttle ferry runs from the Central Pier and the River City mall. - The Sixth Thai Restaurant
The Sixth – Have lunch at one of our favorite Thai restaurants.
What`s The Catch?
The riverside of Bangkok is a little more expensive than other areas of Bangkok, both when it comes to hotels and restaurants. The district does not have Subway MRT and only one Skytrain station, Saphan Taksin.
From Saphan Taksin, you are a short walk away from Central Pier (3 min) where you can take the riverboats and ferries up the river. Many of the hotels have free shuttle boats that transport guests to and from Central Pier. You can also take the free ferry to Asiatique and Icon Siam from Central Pier.
Where To Stay Along The Bangkok Riverside
Top End
Mandarin Oriental Bangkok
The Grande Dame of Bangkok’s luxury hotels, and the hotel
we will stay at when one day we win the lottery. If you are looking for
that once-in-a-lifetime hotel experience in absolute old-world luxury,
the Mandarin Oriental in Bangkok will not disappoint. As the first
luxury hotel in Thailand, it has hosted royalty, presidents, and
literary legends such as Joseph Conrad, and Noël Coward.
Mandarin Oriental is the perfect hotel for honeymoons and special
occasions. Their customer service is legendary, and they treat you like
royalty from the moment you set foot in the lobby. Some highlights
include a choice of 9 fabulous restaurants, two outdoor pools, a fitness
center, tennis courts, a spa and wellness center, and a location right
on the riverbank with stunning views.
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The Peninsula Bangkok
Located on the “wrong” side of the river opposite the
Mandarin Oriental, this hotel is nevertheless an absolute gem. Less
expensive than its more famous hotel neighbors, it provides remarkable
value for money. With its large comfortable rooms, a lavish breakfast
buffet, exceptional service, spa, beautiful pool, and an amazing river
view, it is the favorite of many travelers. Oh, and by the way, the
hotel provides a free shuttle to take you across the river.
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Mid-Range
AVANI Riverside Bangkok Hotel
One of our absolute favorite hotels in Bangkok is this fairly new
riverside hotel. We keep coming back to this hotel over and over again
as it is simply excellent and has it all.
The Avani Riverside is a more affordable alternative to the classic luxury riverside Bangkok hotels that in many ways rival its more expensive competitors. All rooms face the river, and the view of the Bangkok riverside is just spectacular!
Swimming in the stunning infinity pool on the 26th floor overlooking the beautiful Chao Phraya River and the Bangkok skyline is an unforgettable experience (especially at sunrise and sunset).
The Skybar is very cool, but we found the restaurant food somewhat
overpriced and not that impressive. The rooms are large, modern and the
bed very comfortable. The service is excellent, and they serve a very
nice breakfast spread. There is a shopping mall at the base of the
building, which is very convenient. The free hotel river ferry leaves
every 20 minutes and will take you straight to the Central Ferry Pier
and the Saphan Taksin Skytrain Station in about 10 minutes. You will not
go wrong by booking this hotel.
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Inn A Day
Inn A Day is a unique boutique hotel with one of the best locations in
the city! Right by the Choa Praya riverside with breathtaking views of
the river and the stunning Wat Arun temple and with many of Bangkok’s
major attractions and temples within easy walking distance. Formerly a
warehouse it has been transformed into one of Bangkok’s coolest boutique
hotels blending its modern industrial roots with cozy details and
furnishing.
All rooms have air-con, a flat-screen TV, and free Wifi, but vary in
design and size so study the room options before booking. The more
expensive rooms are larger, have private balconies, a river view, and a
deep wooden bathtub. The staff is lovely, speaks English well, and
serves up some very tasty fresh Thai food in the restaurant. Be aware
that there is no elevator, but the staff will happily carry your
luggage.
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Lay La Long
This unique boutique hotel is located in an old Chinese
Family House and is situated right on the riverbank in Chinatown. An
excellent example of how the community is giving new life to these old
houses. They have kept the old wooden structures but refurnished them
with modern comforts, and a restaurant serving tasty Thai food. The
balconies open out right on the river and are a great place to sit and
have a drink and watch the boats go by (as we are doing in the photo
below).
Every room is different and unique and charming and comes with all
modern amenities such as air-con, tv, complimentary Wi-fi, and a
refrigerator. If you are looking for something truly unique, this small
seven-room Bangkok boutique hotel with its friendly staff comes highly
recommended.
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Siamotif Boutique Hotel
The Siamotif Boutique Hotel is another rare gem for anyone seeking a
unique, charming, and authentic stay in a family-owned traditional
wooden Thai house. Set by a side canal of the Chao Praya River, the
property has been in the family since King Rama V, and the main house is
over a hundred years old.
The eight rooms are all unique both in design, size, and color, and have been beautifully refurbished and decorated by local artists and artisans, and modernized with private bathrooms, air-con, free wifi, and a flat-screen TV.
We loved the traditional Thai breakfast served in the small restaurant overlooking the river. The staff is amazing and staying here really feels like you are part of the family.
Located in Thonburi, a quiet residential area, a 10-minute taxi ride
from the main tourist’s sights, this is away from the busy and hectic
modern Bangkok. A perfect place to experience a slice of authentic Thai
life. Taling Chan Floating Market (open every Saturday and Sunday) is
located only a 5-minute taxi/ tuk-tuk drive from Siamotif Hotel.
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Budget
Vera Nidhra
If you prefer a quiet residential neighborhood, then the Vera Nidhra in
Klongsan, on the “wrong” side of the river, is one of our favorite
little bed and breakfast guesthouses. This place has charm by the
buckets with ten cozily designed rooms with super comfortable beds,
air-con, flat-screen TV and fast free Wi-fi.
Despite being a little out of the way, it is well connected with the
closest Skytrain station (Krung Thonburi) just a five-minute walk away.
The Central river station is one stop on the Skytrain, and the brand new
IconSiam shopping mall is also within walking distance.
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3. Sukhumvit Area
Why Stay In The Sukhumvit Area?
Sukhumvit, one of Bangkok’s most modern and cosmopolitan neighborhoods, is located in the central part of Bangkok along Sukhumvit Road.
We have stayed here many times and love this area! It is a very convenient neighborhood to stay in with public transport (Skytrain and MRT), great shopping, modern supermarkets, and lots of different and excellent dining options.
Sukhumvit is popular among ex-pats and westerners living in Bangkok, and you will find restaurants from all over the world here. We love that we can eat a great falafel at a Middle East restaurant one day, have some real Italian pizza, a tender Australian steak, or a juicy American hamburger the next day, and delicious Thai street food in between.
Sukhumvit is arguably the best area to stay in Bangkok for nightlife and has it all when it comes to dining and clubbing! Much of the action centers around the street Soi 11, Bangkok’s famous party street, a favorite with both ex-pats and visitors with its extensive selections of restaurants, clubs, and bars.
As for accommodations in this area, there are plenty of excellent Sukhumvit hotels available at any price range.
One of the main draws of this area is how well connected it is by public transportation since the Skytrain (BTS) runs along Sukhumvit Road, and the Subway (MRT) line crosses it.
Things To See And Do In Sukhumvit Area
Sukhumvit lacks traditional tourist attractions, but it makes up for it by offering some of Bangkok’s best luxury hotels, fashionable shopping malls, spas, restaurants, and hip clubs, and cool bars.
- Shopping
It seems that every few hundred meters along Sukhumvit Road there is a shopping mall. Some of the most notable malls are Terminal 21 with its city-themed floors, Central Chidlom, Emporium, Emquartier, and the ultra-posh Central Embassy mall with its large open bookstore/food court on the top floor. See our guide to shopping in Bangkok for more information. - Nightlife
There is no shortage of nightlife options along the side streets along Sukhumvit. Most famous is Soi 11 (soi means small street in the Thai language) with its many bars and restaurants. Trendy Soi 55 (Tong Lo Road) also has lots of clubs popular with young Thais. - Restaurants
Sukhumvit´s popularity with ex-pats means that you can find just about any type of cuisine here. Whether you are in the mood for Italian pasta, Indian curry, German sausages, Argentinian beef, Irish pub meal, Japanese Sushi, or an American hamburger, they are all here. - Bangkok’s best hamburger
From a humble start selling burgers off the back of his food truck, Daniel Thaigerś hamburgers have become very popular. While the food truck still operates, the easiest way to sample his burgers now, is at his restaurant, Daniel Thaiger Burger, at the end of Soi 11. Highly recommended, and it is our favorite burger in Bangkok. - Street Food
The street Soi 38 has some excellent street food (just next to Thong Lo Skytrain Station).
What`s The Catch?
Some streets in Sukhumvit have a loud nightlife with go-go bars, pole dancing, and sexy shows, especially around the red-light district Nana (the street Soi Nana 4) and Soi Cowboy (off the street Soi 23). These streets are well obscured, easily avoided, and Sukhumvit is otherwise a family-friendly area.
The area is very urban with few green lungs and parks. Traffic along the quite narrow Sukhumvit road can create some epic traffic congestions, especially during rush hours, so your best bet is to use the Skytrain and MRT lines to get around.
Sukhumvit lacks traditional tourist attractions, but it is easy to get to the top tourist attractions in Bangkok from this area.
Where To Stay In Sukhumvit Area
Top End
Okura Prestige Bangkok (5 stars)
A large modern luxury hotel and a trendy choice in the Sukhumvit area.
It is part of the Okura chain of luxury hotels, and the hotel’s Japanese
heritage has inspired both its interior design and attention to detail,
as well as its excellent service. The 240 rooms are spacious, and the
infinity pool on the 35th floor is fantastic!
With the Ploen Chit Skytrain station almost next door, getting around
the city couldn’t be easier. Add to that their legendary breakfast
buffet, and it`s easy to understand why this hotel consistently ranks
among the best Bangkok hotels.
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The Athenee Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel
This is one of the grand old dames of Bangkok hotels. Originally built
20 years ago but refurbished in 2017 it has retained the old-world
luxury of grand staircases, marble foyers, and grand ballrooms. It is
the sort of hotel where people still dress up for dinner, and the
doorman never fails to open the door for you. Rooms are kept in classic
Thai colonial style, elegantly furnished, comfortable, and upgraded with
a very large screen TV and free, fast wifi.
The pool is large and set in a green tropical garden with plenty of
sunbeds, and there is an excellent 24-hour fitness center. The hotel is
located on Wireless Road, in the heart of Bangkok’s embassy neighborhood
less than a five-minute walk to the nearest Skytrain station (Ploen
Chit). It is one of our favorite locations in Bangkok since in addition
to easy access to the Skytrain, and the restaurants of Sukhumvit you can
also walk to Lumpini Park in about 10 minutes. Breakfast is excellent!
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Ariyasomvilla (5 stars)
Ariyasomvilla is a family-owned luxury boutique hotel that prides itself
on giving its guests an authentic “Thai” experience. Set in a green
leafy garden with a relaxing outdoor pool, the city quickly fades away
when you enter the grounds. The design of the hotel and rooms is
inspired by 1940 style Thai decor, although with modern comforts such
as air-con, free wi-fi, and a flat-screen TV. The closest Skytrain
station, Ploen Chit, is about a 15-minute walk away.
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Hotel Muse (5 stars)
We celebrated Christmas here a couple of years ago, and it
was an absolute pleasure. The hotel combines modern cosmopolitan chic
with the elegance of historic Thai luxury. The rooms are beautifully
decorated, the beds super comfortable, and the bathrooms are just
gorgeous.
The breakfast at Hotel Muse is also among the best we have ever had (try the Muse special omelet), with a fantastic selection of food and cheese on offer. The Speakeasy Rooftop bar is a great place to chill and enjoy the view in the evenings.
The hotel also has a gym and a small pool and is located within
walking distance of shopping centers and the Skytrain station. You can
read about our stay here.
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Bangkok Marriott Hotel Sukhumvit
This Sukhumvit-based branch of the Marriott hotel chain
offers the contemporary elegance and service that you would expect from
the brand. The rooms are large, and well decorated in a contemporary
style with super comfortable beds and every modern convenience.
There is a fitness center as well as a spectacular rooftop pool. The breakfast buffet is one of the best anywhere, with a bewildering amount of options available for every taste. The hotel has several restaurants, and the rooftop bar offers spectacular views across Bangkok. Make sure to go here for sunset!
Tong Lo Skytrain Station is just a couple of minutes’ walk away,
which makes getting around Bangkok very easy. Marriott is also located
very close to the famous street food street, Soi 38 with mouthwatering
Thai food.
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Mid-Range
Hotel Indigo Bangkok Wireless Road
Hotel Indigo is a fresh, comfortable midsize hotel with vintage almost steampunk-inspired decor. Rooms are spacious with a seating area, a large comfortable bed, floor-to-ceiling windows, minibar, air-con, and free wifi. Our favorite part of the room was enjoying the sunset from our small but lovely balcony!
Loved the infinity edge pool
Great views from the open air Skybar
The rooftop bar and infinity-edge swimming pool have a fantastic view
of Bangkok’s skyline. The hotel has a great location just off Sukhumvit
Road on Bangkok’s embassy street. You can walk to Ploen Chit Skytrain
Station in about 3 minutes, and there is a TOPS supermarket just down
the street. The fitness center is well equipped, and the breakfast is
excellent.
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Novotel Sukhumvit 20 (4 stars)
Novotel’s
hotel in Sukhumvit is an excellent value for your money. It still has
that new modern hotel feeling where everything is fresh, and the staff
is enthusiastic and very service-oriented.
The rooms are spacious, modern, and light with comfortable beds and
amazing views of the city. The breakfast is also excellent with a lot of
options on offer.
There is a Skybar on the
roof, a well-equipped gym, and we particularly loved the relaxing
rooftop pool area with plenty of sunbeds. There are lots of
international restaurants in this area, including a German bakery just
up the street where we bought freshly baked bread and cakes every day.
There is also a convenience store right across the street from the
hotel. The hotel provides a free shuttle service to the Asok Skytrain
Station and Terminal 21 shopping mall, or you can easily do the 10
minutes walk yourself.
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Hotel Icon
A modern hotel in a great location in the middle of Soi 2,
right next to the street food stalls, and within a short walk to the
Skytrain station. We were among the first to stay in this hotel when it
opened a few years ago, and we liked it a lot.
The rooms are large, the beds comfortable and the rooftop pool and
gym are excellent. They also have a small restaurant, as well as a free
Tuk-Tuk service that will drive you out to Sukhumvit road and the
Skytrain station Phloen Chit if you don’t feel like walking.
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Budget
Local Time Bangkok
A clean, tidy, and modern hostel located a two-minute walk from Pra
Khanong BTS station. It is on a quiet sidestreet so perfect for a good
night’s sleep. The staff is very warm and welcoming and always willing
to offer tips on what to do or discuss travel plans. Private rooms range
in size from double rooms to family rooms, while dorm rooms (mixed or
female-only) sleep up to six people. There is a cozy coffee shop
downstairs, and a basic but tasty complimentary breakfast.
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4. Silom Area
Why Stay In Silom Area?
Silom is considered Bangkok´s business district and is one of the best areas to stay in Bangkok. Here you find Bangkok’s largest and most beautiful green park – Lumphini Park, great shopping, as well as excellent restaurants with delicious and authentic Thai food.
It is easy to get to/from this area as it has several Skytrain and Subway (MRT) stations, making it an excellent base from which to explore the city.
Silom, along with the Riverside, is our favorite neighborhood to stay in Bangkok.
The perfect Bangkok afternoon for us is a walk/ run in Lumphini Park, then wind down on a bench and watch the many people doing aerobics and Thai Chi. Closely followed by a delicious Thai meal at one of our favorite restaurants and topped off with a Mojito drink at the open-air rooftop bar “Vertigo’s” on the roof of the Banyan Tree Hotel. The views of Bangkok are unbelievable. You feel like you are on top of the world!
Things to see and do in Silom area
- Lumphini Park
Go for a walk or run in Lumphini Park, or challenge yourself by joining the free aerobics going on every afternoon here - Patpong Night Market
A popular open-air street market selling most tourist trinkets. It’s a fun and slightly chaotic experience, but the quality of the goods on offer is not particularly impressive, and the prices need some serious bargaining. - Patpong
The most famous of Bangkok’s red-light districts. - Rooftop Bars
Check out the stunning view of Bangkok from Vertigo`s rooftop open-air bar at Banyan Tree Hotel, or on top of the Lebua State Tower Skybar (made famous by the Hangover 2 movie) - Go food exploring along Charoen Krung Road
Bang Rak is an old part of Bangkok and is home to some classic Thai restaurants that have been there for generations.
What`s The Catch?
The streets Patpong 1 and Patpong 2 (Soi 5 and 4) are party-all-night-long with plenty of go-go bars, shows, and pole dancing. Depending on what you want, these streets can be a bit too much and too loud. Thankfully these streets are easily avoided, and the area is otherwise very family-friendly.
Where To Stay In Silom Area
Top End
SO Sofitel Bangkok (5 stars)
So Sofitel is one of those hotels that may quickly become anyone’s new
favorite hotel. It has a few unique features that set it apart from most
hotels. Like how you get to choose from different room designs at
check-in! The room designs are inspired by one of the five elements-
wood, earth, metal, fire, and water. We chose the blue water-themed
room, designed by local artists, and it turned out to be fantastic, but
they all looked lovely.
Our water themed room
Loved the deep bathtub!
We loved our room on the 23rd floor with stunning views over Bangkok from the floor-to-ceiling windows, a sitting area, a super comfortable bed, a huge flat-screen TV, and our favorite part, a classic deep bathtub. Some rooms even have views of the park from the bathtub!
Another cool detail is that the minibar is free (!), replenished daily, and surprisingly well-stocked. On the ground floor, there is a chocolatier, and the heavenly smell of fresh chocolate meets you as soon as you enter the lobby. Aside from buying tasty treats, you can even take a course and learn to design your own chocolate creations.
We fell in love with the swimming pool on the 10th floor which has a fantastic view of Bangkok and Lumphini Park, and there is a well-equipped fitness center located next to it. Breakfast is excellent with plenty of options to choose from. The rooftop bar and the restaurant Red Sky 360 have a great reputation, but we sadly did not have time to try them out this time.
Lumpini Park is right across the road from the hotel, and you can
walk to the nearest MRT station (Lumpini Station) in 3 minutes. The
closest Skytrain station (Sala Daeng Station) is about 15 minutes walk
away.
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Oriental Residence Bangkok (Apartments)
The Oriental Residence Hotel is a modern, classy hotel with a great
location within walking distance of both Lumpini Park and Sukhumvit
Road. We loved the elegantly decorated apartments with hardwood floors
and super comfortable beds. The large bath ensuite is quite beautiful
with a relaxing bathtub and a walk-in closet. A small but well-equipped
kitchen and a sitting area also make this an excellent option for
extended stays.
Light and airy apartments
Enjoying the fabulous pool at Oriental Residence Bangkok
There is a large swimming pool as well as a well-equipped fitness center. However, what impressed us the most here was the staff. Rarely have we experienced this level of friendly and attentive service in a Bangkok hotel. From the small complimentary chocolate treats brought to the room to the chilled lemon water served by the pool and the nightly turndown service, it is truly first class.
The hotel has a free shuttle service to the nearest Skytrain station
(Phloen Chit Station), or you can easily walk there in less than 10
minutes. Overall, this is one of our absolute favorite Bangkok apartment
hotels!
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Banyan Tree Bangkok
We have visited the spectacular rooftop bar Moon Bar and some of the
great restaurants at Banyan Tree Hotel in Bangkok many times. We have
also visited friends who have stayed at this hotel, but for some reason,
we have never stayed here ourselves yet. It’s something we hope to
remedy soon! From the moment you step into the huge beautiful hotel
lobby, you’ll be in no doubt that this is a high-class luxury hotel.
The rooms are spacious and beautifully decorated in a classic style; some might say it’s a little old-fashioned. There is a health club offering Yoga, a fitness center, a sauna, and a beautiful outdoor area with tropical plants, a juice bar, and a pool.
Location wise it is very close to Bangkok’s largest green lung, Lumphini Park, which is perfect for walking, running, and aerobics. We simply love this park – the perfect getaway from the busy and urban metropolitan Bangkok. There is a subway/MRT station (Lumphini Station) close by, and the hotel offers a complimentary shuttle service to the nearest Skytrain Station.
On the roof, you find the Moon Bar, our favorite Bangkok sky bar,
along with the restaurant Vertigo, where we recently celebrated a
special family birthday. Viewing Bangkok from this 61st-floor open-air
bar is a spectacular experience and should not be missed even if you
decide not to stay here.
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Bangkok Marriott Hotel The Surawongse
This is Marriott’s newest hotel in Bangkok, and it instantly became very popular. It is the sort of hotel that ticks all the boxes. It has large, comfortable, contemporary designed rooms with everything you would expect from a modern hotel, including a rooftop infinity pool, and a sky bar.
The hotel is, however, not the most unique, exciting, or Thai-esque hotel in Bangkok (aside from the friendly Thai service that is) but it is a quiet and comfortable place to base yourself.
It is located in the Bang-Rak area, closer to
the river than too Lumpini Park, with plenty of restaurants and classic
eateries around in the neighborhood. The nearest Skytrain station is
about 15 minutes walk.
Click here for latest prices
Mid-Range
The Quarter Silom by UHG (4 stars)
Silom has been a little lacking in excellent mid-range
hotels, but this newly built hotel (2020) ticks all the right boxes.
Well located down a side street off Silom Road, surrounded by many
restaurants and with Sala Daeng Skytrain and Lumphini MRT stations just a
few minutes away, this hotel is an excellent base from which to explore
the city.
The rooms are modern, fresh, and elegantly furnished with comfortable
beds, free and fast Wi-Fi and a massive 50″ flat screen tv with
Netflix. There is a well-equipped fitness center and a mid-sized
swimming pool, but it’s not on the roof, so it is not ideal for
sunbathing. However, you can catch some rays or relax in the evening on
the rooftop sun terrace. Breakfast is excellent, and Lumphini Park is a
five-minute walk away. Overall, this is one of the best hotel deals in
Bangkok right now!
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Siri Sathorn Hotel – Apartments
Siri Sathorn Hotel is a condo-hotel with large, comfortable,
full-serviced apartments perfect for families. It’s been around for a
while, but the apartments are well maintained, modern, and offer
excellent value. The hotel has an outdoor swimming pool and a fitness
center. It’s in a great location on a quiet street yet within walking
distance of Silom’s restaurants, Lumpini Park and Skytrain, and MRT
stations.
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Urban House
There aren´t that many high-quality, affordable hotels around in the
Silom area, but Urban House is a welcome exception. It offers basic but
spotlessly clean, modern, and fresh double and triple rooms with
air-con, TV, and private bathrooms.
The staff is amicable and helpful, and free snacks, tea, and coffee
are available in the lobby. Situated just a few minutes walk away from
Sala Daeng Skytrain station and Lumpini Park, and with a supermarket
close by, it is a great base for exploring Bangkok.
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5. Siam Area
Why Stay In The Siam Area?
Siam is THE shopping center in Bangkok and has the highest density of shopping malls in the city – MBK, Siam Paragon, Central World, Siam Discovery, Siam Center, and Central Chitlom are all here.
You can easily walk in between these shopping malls and shop till you drop or your credit card catches on fire. Here you will find everything you need as well as plenty of things you did not know you needed!
Siam is the place to stay if you want to shop in air-conditioned fashionable shopping malls, go to the cinemas and eat at cool pubs and restaurants.
But the Siam area isn’t just about malls; Siam Square is a hub of small shops and eateries. It is very popular among trendy young Thais who flock here searching for stylish and funky clothes.
At the Jim Thompson House Museum, you can learn about Thai Silk and the man that made it world-famous on a guided tour through this well-preserved traditional Thai house.
Things To See And Do In Siam Area
- Shopping
Shop and dine at the many fashionable shopping malls in this area such as Siam Paragon, Central World, and Central Chitlom. - Jim Thompson`s House
Get a feel for how it was to live in old Bangkok and visit the lovely Jim Thompson House, a traditional Thai house/ museum. Jim Thompson was the man who made Thai silk world-famous, and his house is today a museum. - Apple Central World
Apple’s largest flagship store in Thailand opened outside Siam Paragon in 2020. - Cinemas
See the newest blockbuster films at the many modern cinemas in this area – 3D, 4D, and Imax, or enjoy a classic movie at the traditional Scala Movie Theather. Films are usually shown in their original language with Thai subtitles. - Food Courts
All the large shopping malls have great food courts with a bewildering selection of affordable food from all over the world. - MBK Shopping Mall
Experience Thai teenagers go shopping crazy at MBK – Bangkok’s oldest shopping mall. - Thai boxing
Check out the free Thai boxing fights/ shows every last Wednesday each month outside the MBK shopping mall. Great fun! - Sea Life Bangkok Ocean World
Sea Life Bangkok Ocean World – one of the world’s biggest aquariums located on the ground level of the Siam Paragon shopping mall. - Madame Tussauds Bangkok
Madame Tussauds – Bangkok’s branch of the famous wax figure museum, is located on the 6th floor of the Siam Discovery shopping mall. - Ice Skating
Go ice skating (Yep, you read right: ICE skating) at the ice skating rink inside Central World shopping mall (ground floor).
What’s the catch?
The Siam area is quite busy and crowded, especially on the weekends when all the locals come here for shopping and to just hang around and meet friends.
It can be challenging to find excellent and authentic Thai food here. The best dining experiences here are food courts and restaurants, mainly inside or connected to the many shopping malls, like the Groove dining area in Central World shopping mall (ground floor) which has many fashionable international restaurants.
Where To Stay In Siam Area
Top End
Siam Kempinski Hotel Bangkok (5 stars)
Despite its central location in the middle of the busy Siam area, the
Siam Kempinski Hotel feels like a resort with its large landscaped
garden with no less than three pools. Once part of the “lotus pond
palace” (Wang Sra Pathum) the hotel’s design is influenced by the lotus
motif and its shows in the hundreds of paintings and sculptures that
decorate the grounds.
There is a beautiful spa and a Kids Club. This is a great base if you
enjoy shopping, cinema, and dining, as this hotel is located in an
extension to Siam Paragon Mall, Siam Center Mall, and Siam Discovery
Mall.
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Centara Grand at Central World (5 stars)
Centara Grand hotel is located next door to the Central World
Shopping Mall, perfect for shopping, dining, and watching films at the
top-notch cinema complex. Rooms are spacious and furnished in a modern
style with every comfort and convenience you would expect from a
five-star hotel.
We enjoyed the large rooftop
swimming pool surrounded by a beautiful garden area. There is also a
spa, a fitness center, and no less than two tennis courts. The Red Sky
Bar on the 55th floor is one of the best in Bangkok with spectacular
views of the city. The breakfast selection is excellent with plenty of
options, and the dinner buffet in the restaurant serves food from all
over the world. We celebrated a fantastic New Years’ eve here a few
years ago. Simply a very convenient and comfortable hotel to stay at.
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Mid-Range
Sindhorn Midtown, an IHG Hotel
This three-star hotel is a recent addition to the Siam area, opening its
doors in 2020. It is quickly becoming quite popular with reasonably
priced, spacious, well-decorated modern rooms with fast wi-fi, large
screen tv, refrigerator, and a seating area. There are also one and
two-bedroom apartments available for larger families.
Chitlom Skytrain Station is a five-minute walk away, and Siam’s malls
are also within easy walking distance. In addition, there are plenty of
good restaurants close by along Sukhumvit Road and a 7-11 is just
across the street. The breakfast buffet is excellent and served until
noon! So if you like to sleep in, then this is the hotel. There is a
lovely swimming pool on the 18th floor as well as a fitness center and
sauna.
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Siam@Siam Design Hotel
Siam@Siam is a mid-range design hotel with a youthful vibe, friendly
staff, and a fantastic location. The closest Skytrain station (National
Stadion Station) and the shopping malls around Siam Square are a quick
five-minute walk away.
Our room was clean and comfortable, with air-con and minibar, and we
loved the view. The bathroom was, however, looking a little dated. The
internet connection was also somewhat unstable when we visited.
There is a swimming pool with plenty of sunbeds as well as a
well-equipped fitness center. The open-air Skybar has a great view of
the Bangkok skyline. We found the breakfast to be excellent with plenty
of both Thai and Western options.
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Happy 3 (3,5 star)
Happy three is located next to Jim Thompson House, in a quiet alley, and
very close to Subway station “National Stadium Station” and the river
ferries. It is also within easy walking distance of the Siam Shopping
Malls, so perfect location for shopping.
Guests highlight their breakfast. The swimming pool is a bit small;
it is about 6 meters long, and under a roof so no place for sunbathing
if that is of interest to you.
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Ibis Bangkok Siam (3 stars)
This hotel is in the heart of Bangkok right next to MBK Shopping Mall
and the Subway station “National Stadium Station”, and within a short
walk from Paragon Shopping Mall. We have stayed at other Ibis hotels in
other areas of Bangkok, and like their modern, comfortable design,
service, and friendly staff.
Their rooms are compact but well-designed and have all you need. This
hotel, Ibis Bangkok Siam, has breakfast in the restaurant shared with
the more expensive Mercure Hotel. The Wi-Fi is excellent. The swimming
pool is nice and quite large, with sun loungers in the sun.
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Budget
Siam Eco Hostel (2 stars)
This newish hostel (opened 2019) offers spotlessly clean rooms and a
great location close to Ratchathewi Skytrain station and within easy
walking distance of the shopping malls. Both private rooms and
dorm-style accommodation are available, all air-conditioned with free
wi-fi and comfortable beds. The private rooms have large screen tv and
shared bathrooms. A basic breakfast is included in the price.
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6. Chinatown Area
Why Stay In Chinatown?
Staying in Chinatown used to be the sole domain of budget travelers but the recent influx of more upscale yet affordable boutique hotels is bringing ever more visitors to this lively and colorful part of town. The two new metros (MRT) stations, Wat Mangkon, and Sam Yot that opened in 2019 have made Chinatown much more accessible, and this trend is definitively set to continue.
Chinatown is positively bursting with energy, sounds, smells, and colorful neon signs. Most of the action centers around Yaowarat Road, and this area comes alive in the evenings when thousands of Bangkokians come here to feast on world-class street food. Here you can find everything from mouth-wateringly fresh seafood to roasted duck, dim sum, and traditional desserts.
Many of the restaurants have been here for decades, serve only one dish, and have truly perfected it. Read our post on Bangkok Thai food for some tips on which restaurants and dishes to try.
Chinatown is one of the oldest areas in Bangkok and was first inhabited by Chinese traders, even before Bangkok became Thailand’s capital in 1782. Ducking into the narrow alleys and streets feels like stepping back in time and witnessing a bit of Bangkok’s past.
Chinatown’s buildings are old, and many are built in the traditional Chinese architecture style with small stores that still sell traditional Chinese goods like gold, tea, herbs, and spices, as well as street-side noodles cafes and bustling markets. Exploring this area is great fun!
While Chinatown has always been known as a great place to find budget accommodation, there are now more options than ever including some of Bangkok’s coolest boutique hotels.
If you plan to take the train out of Bangkok from Bangkok Railway Station (Hua Lamphong) early in the morning and are looking for a cheap place to stay, Chinatown is also a great option for that.
Things To See And Do In Chinatown
- Wat Tramit Temple & The Golden Buddha
Marvel at the Golden Buddha (Phra Phuttha Maha Suwana Patimakon), a five-meter tall Buddha solid gold statue that weighs 5,5 tons! It was discovered that the figure is made of gold when it was accidentally dropped during transportation and the plaster that covered it fell off. - Sampeng Market
The narrow lanes that surround Sampeng square form Chinatown’s biggest and most popular market. Here you will find every trinket known to man. Navigating these narrow lanes can be a bit of a challenge but just go with the flow, have fun, and enjoy the craziness. Shop Chinese goods like tea, spices, and pottery. - Street Food
Chinatown is the best place to enjoy world-class street food in Bangkok. Have a bowl of delicious Chinese noodles and dumplings at one of the many street-side restaurants. - Gold
If you are looking to buy gold, Chinatown is the place to come. - See the old authentic Bangkok
Walk the narrow alleyways and take in the smells, sounds, and colors of traditional old Thai/ Chinese culture and life. Take a guided walking tour and learn more about this area. - Little India
Explore Little India, just a short walk from Chinatown.
What`s The Catch?
Some of the streets and buildings are not very well maintained and have a bit of a run-down feel. You will not find many fancy restaurants here, a lot of the places to eat close early and there is no nightlife to speak of. Chinatown does not have Skytrain, but the opening of the two new MRT stations Wat Mangkon and Sam Yot on the blue MRT line has made it much easier to get to Chinatown.
Where To Stay In Chinatown
Top End
Shanghai Mansion
Shanghai Mansion is the trendiest and coolest boutique hotel in
Chinatown. The hotel’s decor is inspired by the Shanghai of the 1930s,
and they have nailed the look. We chose one of their larger rooms and
loved the elegant decor and especially the deep bathtub. We were also
very pleasantly surprised by how quiet it was despite the hotelś
location in the heart of Chinatown’s most popular area.
The hotel offers some unique complimentary experiences, where you can choose one experience per night of stay. We did their guided walking tour of Chinatown, which we found to be an excellent introduction to Chinatown as well as the free Chinese Dim Sum High Tea serving. The third option is a free Thai massage at the hotel spa.
The hotel’s restaurant, The Red Rose, offers up-scale dining should
you get tired of the street food. All in all, we found the Shanghai
Mansion to be a fantastic relaxing base from which to explore Chinatown.
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Mid-Range
The Quarter Hualamphong by UHG
If you are looking for something a little more upscale
than Chinatowns normal guesthouses and hostels, this western-style hotel
may be just what you are looking for. It’s located close to Hua Lampong
MRT and railway station making it easy to get around Bangkok from here.
It is also a popular choice for travelers waiting to take an early
train. There is a rooftop terrace with great views and they recently
built a swimming pool.
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The Unforgotten B&B
The Unforgotten B&B is a slightly quirky, charming boutique hotel
located right around the corner from the Golden Buddha Temple. If you
prefer your hostels filled with character, history, and helpful friendly
hosts, this old home converted into a B&B is just perfect.
Every room is unique and furnished with a mix of Chinese antiques and
a dash of Victorian inspiration. Of course, modern comforts such as
air-con and wifi are all present as well. The included breakfast is
quite excellent. You can walk to the Hua Lumpong MRT station in about
five minutes, and into the center of Chinatown in less than ten minutes.
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Budget
Norn Yaowarat Hotel
Norn Yaowarat Hotel is a fairly new (opened March 2017), bright and
fresh budget hotel with a fantastic location on Soi Texas, surrounded by
the best of Chinatown´s street food. Both dorm and private rooms are
available, and the price includes a surprisingly good free breakfast.
All rooms are well sound isolated, spotlessly clean, with
air-condition and free Wi-fi, while private rooms also have a
flat-screen TV and a private bathroom. Some rooms even have a balcony!
The staff is super helpful and speak English quite well, and there is a
cool little coffee shop on the first floor.
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Tian Tian Hostel
Tian Tian Hostel checks all the right boxes with its newly
renovated, cozy, well decorated, clean rooms (private and dorms), a
friendly host, and a great location in the center of Chinatown´s most
vibrant area. In addition, the new Wat Mangkon MRT station is just a
five-minute walk away, and breakfast is surprisingly tasty as well.
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River View Guesthouse
River View is an iconic if somewhat run-down budget
guesthouse in Chinatown, with both dorm rooms and private rooms
available. The rooms are simple, clean, and spacious but the bathrooms
could do with a renovation.
The guesthouse is showing its age, but the rooftop restaurant is
still a cool place to have a drink while watching the sun set over the
river. The river ferry station Pier 4 is very close to the guesthouse,
so you can take the ferry from here to famous attractions such as Wat
Arun.
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7. Pratunam Area
Why Stay In Pratunam Area?
We have stayed in this area several times, and we like it because it`s close to great shopping and within walking distance to the Siam area but cheaper than Siam when it comes to hotel prices. It also has a more authentic Thai feel with its markets and street food.
The Pratunam area is chaotic, crowded, and vibrant, and packed with shopping opportunities. It has Thailand`s tallest building, the 88 floors high Baiyoke Sky Hotel, a Bangkok landmark, that can be seen from far away.
Markets and vendors line the streets in this area, and you can make some great bargains at low prices. Just remember to haggle.
Things To See And Do In Pratunam Area
- Pratunam Market
You can do some great bargains at the huge Pratunam Market. Here you can buy clothes and accessories at wholesale prices. - Pantip Plaza Shopping Mall
Shop IT equipment, electronic and gadgets till you drop at Pantip Plaza, a vast five-floor electronic mall. A fun visit for us geeks! - Victory Monument
A large military monument with western design, and one of Bangkok’s major traffic intersections. Around the statue, you can find yummy Pad Thai, Lad Na, and other typical Thai dishes sold at a low price. - Neon Market
Spend an evening at Neon Market (Talad Neon), a popular night market open daily.
What`s The Catch?
The streets in this area can be pretty crowded and chaotic especially on weekends. Lots of traffic.
Where To Stay In Pratunam Area
Top End
Amari Watergate Hotel (5 stars)
Located just opposite the Platinum Shopping Mall, it is close to
shopping of all kinds. It is only a short walk to the Subway station
“Ratchathewi” while the nearest Sky train station “Chit Lom” is about
15-20 minutes walk. Amari Watergate has everything one would expect at a
five-star hotel – a beautiful swimming pool, spa, excellent breakfast
buffet, and a well-equipped gym. A very convenient and comfortable
modern hotel.
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Akara Hotel
Akara Hotel is a fairly new boutique hotel (opened November 2017) that
has been making a lot of fans with its beautifully decorated interior,
warm service, and convenient access to Suvarnabhumi Airport via the
Airport Rail Link (a 3-minute walk away from Akara Hotel).
Standard rooms are cozy, modern, and comfortable with marble
bathrooms. There are a grand rooftop pool and a sky bar with fantastic
views of the city. You can walk to Siam and the shopping malls in about
15 minutes, or take the free tuk-tuk shuttle service to the Phaya Thai
Skytrain Station.
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Mid-Range
Novotel Bangkok Platinum Pratunam (4 stars)
Also located in between shopping malls like Platinum and close to the
night market. The huge swimming pool looks fantastic, and the guests
highlight the breakfast. The rooms are modern and spacious. It is about
15-20 minutes walk to the nearest Sky train station “Chit Lom”.
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Budget
Le Tada Parkview Hotel (3,5 stars)
This is a fairly new hotel. It is bright and modern, close to the Subway
station “Victory Monument”, and just next to the Santi Phab Park where
you can get a bit of green grass under your feet. Good value for your
money.
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Boxpackers Hostel (2 stars)
This hotel reminds me of Japanese capsule hotels where you sleep in
small rooms that look like boxes. It is shared bathrooms only. The hotel
looks new, fresh, and modern, and you get free breakfast. The common
areas are very cozy and a great place to make new friends from all over
the world. Located close to the Pratunam Market and Baiyoke Sky Bar.
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Lemontea Hotel (3 stars)
A modern and fresh hotel. The rooms are not the biggest but have a cozy,
fun, and modern design. You are welcomed with a free cup of lemon tea
(suits the hotel name… 🙂 ), and you get two bottles of water for free
each day. It is located down an alley from the main road, with a
7-Eleven next door and several massage places on the same street. There
is a 5-minute walk to the Platinum shopping mall.
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8. The International Airport Suvarnabhumi Area
Why Stay Close To Suvarnabhumi Airport?
The only reason to stay in the area around Suvarnabhumi Airport is if you have an early plane to catch, or arrive late in Bangkok and don’t want to head into the city straight away. This is not the area to stay in if you want to see Bangkok and its sights.
The Suvarnabhumi Airport is about a 45-60 minutes drive from the main center of Bangkok, depending on the traffic. You can take the Skytrain – the “City Line,” which takes about 26 minutes from/to the “Phaya Thai station.” It stops at six stations along the way. You can also take the Skytrain Express Line which only takes 15 minutes to/from “Makassan station.” The Skytrain operates from 6 a.m. to midnight. For more info, check the Airport Rail Link website.
There are many great luxury hotels in the area, offering excellent value for your money as they are usually cheaper than in the city itself.
Things To See And Do In Suvarnabhumi Airport area
Not much is going on in this area, and there is not much to see or do here apart from staying at your hotel. You will find Mega Bangna – a vast shopping mall, Boran Bang PLI Floating Market, and some temples in this area.
What`s The Catch?
The Suvarnabhumi Airport area is pretty far away from the city center of Bangkok (45 – 60 minutes by taxi), and there is not much to see or do out here in this area. Many of the hotels in this area offer free shuttle service to the Skytrain station from which it is easy to head into town (30 minutes).
Where To Stay In Suvarnabhumi Airport Area
Top End
The Grand Fourwings Convention Hotel (5 stars)
We stayed at this hotel on our way from Vietnam to Railay Beach in the
South of Thailand, when we missed our connecting flight in Bangkok to
Railay (Krabi airport). Thai Airways sent us to this hotel, and we loved
it from the moment we stepped into the lobby of Grand Four wings.
The lobby and reception area are huge, and so are the rooms. Unfortunately, we only stayed here one night, and we had to get up early to take the first plane to Krabi, so we did not get the chance to try the swimming pool. We had a look at it, and it’s excellent with a great lounge area where you can sit and have some sun as well as enjoy the view of the Bangkok skyline.
The dinner and breakfast were delicious with a great variety of food,
both western and Asian. And the best – they had a huge chocolate
fountain! I dipped fruits, marshmallows, and sweets all evening! 🙂
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Novotel Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport(4 stars)
This hotel is located right next to entrance four at the airport. You
can either walk to the airport or take the free airport shuttle (2-3
minutes). There is an air-conditioned underground walkway. The same
walkway also leads to an Airport Rail Link station if you want to head
into downtown Bangkok (30-45 minutes each way).
The rooms are very spacious and the complimentary breakfast buffet
starting at 3 am is a huge plus if you have an early plane to catch.
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Mid-Range
Canalis Suvarnabhumi Airport Hotel
Canalis is a new airport hotel that has created somewhat of a buzz since
it opened in 2019. With a great location, just 2km from the airport (a
10-minute taxi ride), friendly helpful staff, and more of a holiday
resort feel than your typical airport hotel.
The rooms are spacious, stylishly decorated, spotlessly clean with
soft, comfortable beds, air-con, fast wi-fi, tea/coffee making
facilities, and a large screen tv with English channels. Among the
hotel’s facilities are a large swimming pool and an excellent fitness
center. You can find street food, bars, and quite a few restaurants
nearby, and the Robinson Shopping mall is just a five-minute taxi ride
away.
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Gate43 Airport Hotel
Gate43 is a newly built (2020) airport hotel less than a 10-minute drive
away from the airport. The rooms are fresh, spacious, and comfortable
with a large screen tv including streaming services. There is a swimming
pool and a shuttle to the airport that runs day and night (make sure to
book it in advance). This area is lacking in restaurants and shops, so
best suited for a quick stopover, or an early morning flight and is not
ideal for longer stays.
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Budget
U-Tiny Boutique Home Suvarnabhumi (3 stars)
If we were to stay at a smaller and less pricey hotel close to the
airport, we would opt for this one! It looks cozy, with a lovely
swimming pool set in a green and lush garden.
Free airport shuttle every hour is a plus.
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Quick Summary Of The Best Places To Stay In Bangkok
Riverside – Bangkok’s best area for first-time visitors
If you have the budget, then the riverside is the calmest and most
scenic area of Bangkok. Bangkok can feel a little overwhelming for
first-time visitors, and the riverside is an escape away from the
traffic and noise. Here is also where you find most of Bangkok’s best
hotels, many of the major sights, including the Royal Palace and the
famous temples as well as a glimpse of the fascinating life along the
river.
⇒ Read more about the Riverside area
⇒ Click here for our recommended Riverside hotel
Sukhumvit Road – Bangkok’s best area for nightlife and international restaurants
Sukhumvit Road has become a popular area to stay in Bangkok for its wide
choice of accommodations and its many bars and restaurants serving food
from every corner of the world. It is a popular area among western
ex-pats and is arguably the best area to base yourself for nightlife. It
is also very well connected by both Skytrain and Subway MRT stations.
⇒ Read more about the Sukhumvit area
⇒ Click here for our recommended Sukhumvit hotels
Silom – Bangkok’s best area for families
One of our favorite areas is the business district of Bangkok – Silom.
It houses Lumpini Park, Bangkok’s answer to NYś Central Park and is a
welcome quiet escape from the traffic and noise. Silom also has plenty
of restaurants, shopping malls, and delicious street food and is well
connected with both Skytrain and MRT stations.
⇒ Read more about the Silom area
⇒ Click here for our top recommended Silom hotels
Siam – Bangkok’s best area for shopping
Siam is the shopping center of Bangkok where most of the big malls are
located. Siam is an excellent option if you prefer the modern side of
Bangkok with its shopping malls, modern cinemas, bookstores, food
courts, and attractions such as Sea Life Bangkok Ocean World, the
largest aquarium in South East Asia, and Madame Tussauds. It is well
connected by several Skytrain stations making it easy to explore the
rest of the city from here.
⇒ Read more about the Siam area
⇒ Click here for our top recommended Siam hotels
Chinatown – Bangkok’s best area for street food and exploring Bangkok’s historic roots
Chinatown is best suited for those who want to immerse themselves in the
historical and cultural roots of the city and for devout street
foodies. It is a busy and very chaotic part of town that may feel a
little too hectic for most first-time visitors. Chinatown is also one of
the best-preserved and historically authentic areas, so don’t forget to
visit even if you are not staying in this area. Once home to mostly
dingy ultra-low-budget hostels, in recent years cool boutique hotels,
and cozy B&Bs have started to pop up in old renovated Chinese
shophouses, making Chinatown an up and comer.
⇒ Read more about Chinatown
⇒ Click here for our recommended Chinatown hotels
Bangklamphu / Khao San – Bangkok’s best area for backpackers and budget travelers
Khao San is the backpacker hub of the world, and if you are a
backpacker, this is most likely where you will want to be. However,
Banglamphu is more than just Khao San, and close by are historic and
quiet neighborhoods where you can find beautiful boutique hotels within
easy walking distance of the major attractions such as The Royal Palace.
⇒ Read more about the Khao San area
⇒ Click here for our recommended Khao San hotels
Pratunam – Bangkok’s best area for shopping for bargains
Pratunam is a mix of residential neighborhoods and less posh malls like
Platinum Mall and electronic outlets. There are also some markets here
like the famous Pratunam wholesale market, the enormous electronics mall
Pantip Plaza, and the fun and lively Neon night market.
⇒ Read more about the Pratunam area
⇒ Click here for our top recommended Pratunam hotels
Suvarnabhumi Airport – Bangkok’s best area for transit/ over-night stay
Staying here is only recommended if you are in transit or for some
reason need to be close to the airport. It is too far away to use as a
base for exploring Bangkok and its sights. Having said that, there are
some excellent hotels out here for anyone in transit.
⇒ Read more about the Suvarnabhumi area
⇒ Click here for our top recommended airport hotels
There you go, our favorite and recommended hotels in the eight different areas of Bangkok. Hopefully, you now know a bit more about Bangkok’s many areas, and deciding where to stay in Bangkok has become a little easier.
We intend to add more hotels and info to this guide in the future, so please let us know if you have any suggestions and tips!
Have a great trip to Bangkok! ♥
Travel Guides
We used the Lonely Planet`s Thailand travel guide on our trip. You can get that and other great books by clicking on the pictures below which will take you to Amazon.com (affiliate links):
PIN IT FOR LATER!
What is your favorite area and hotel in Bangkok? Do you miss any information or tips in this “Where to stay in Bangkok” guide? Please leave a comment in the comment area below. Thank you!
Disclosure: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, and we will earn a small percentage of the sale if you purchase through them at absolutely no extra cost to you! This helps us keep the content up to date, create new travel guides, and keep the website going. Thank you! ♥ For more information, see our disclosure here.
Written by Maria Wulff Hauglann
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