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Bangkok is one of the biggest cities in Asia (and the world!) and deciding where to stay in there can be challenging!
I love Bangkok and I keep coming back pretty much every year and I can confirm that the best neighborhood is Sukhumvit, an unmissable area for tourists bustling with life!
Read this article because you will get a nice round-up of all the most important neighborhoods in this huge city. Not only that, but I went ahead and compared all accommodation options in the city and handpicked the best of the best for each price group here!
This way you can skim through this post fast and book your ideal accommodation in just a couple of minutes!
I didn’t forget to include tips from my own visit to Bangkok, so by the end of this article, you’ll know what the best area for your stay is, and you’ll be ready to book your room right away!
If you are in a hurry
Here are the top 3 hotels in Sukhumvit, best place to stay if you are visiting for the first time:
Check out this map of the 7 recommended Bangkok neighborhoods!
1. Sukhumvit – where to stay in Bangkok for the first time
Sukhumvit 11-mile (18 km) long road, it is a bustling and modern district, known for its long road lined with high-rise apartments, luxury hotels, and a diverse range of dining and nightlife options.
Sukhumvit is also a shopping haven, with malls like Terminal 21 and EmQuartier.
This is a modern and fun part of the city, and there’s always something to do (you can see how I planned my trip in this 3-day Bangkok itinerary).
One of the best things about Sukhumvit is how easy it is to get around. It is well connected through the subway (MRT) and the elevated Skytrain (BTS) that can take you from one point to another in no time.
The area is also famous for its vibrant neon-lit nightlife scene, including trendy bars and clubs along with infamous red-light districts like Soi Cowboy and Nana Plaza.
If you think Sukhumvit is the perfect area for you, see below the hotels I recommend in this neighborhood for every budget.
Luxury (from US$130 and up)
- Grande Centre Point – this is a unique 5-star accommodation with excellent facilities, including an outdoor pool and fantastic terrace where you can relax after a full day of exploring Bangkok!
- Skyview Hotel Bangkok – one of the best luxury hotels, with a contemporary design and a central location. Their on-site pool bar, Liquid, is one of the nicest ones in Bangkok, where you can have some cocktails while swimming in their saltwater rooftop pool.
Mid-range (US$50 – US$130)
- Gardina Asoke Hotel & Residence – awaits you with an outdoor pool, an on-site restaurant, and a well-equipped fitness center! The rooms are spacious, with huge windows and modern decor! I promise you’ll love it!
- Hotel Clover Asoke – this hotel is close to Skytrain stations and Terminal 21 Shopping Mall. All rooms are air-conditioned, tidy, and spacious. The rooftop swimming pool offers perfect views of Bangkok skyline.
Budget (up to US$50)
- Met A Space Pod @Phrom Phong – this futuristic capsule hotel will make you feel as if you are in outer space! The rooms themselves are an experience and for a superb price!
- The Qube fifty Hotel – one of the best cheap hotels in Bangkok! You will get free Wi-Fi all over the accommodation, a tidy room with air conditioning, and the help of the friendly staff. And wait until you see the rooftop garden with sun loungers!
2. Siam – best Bangkok neighborhood for shopping
The Siam area is also located on Sukhumvit Road, but a bit further away, closer to the river, so I am including it as a different area. This is usually where I choose to stay myself when I visit Bangkok.
Siam Square is the city’s best area if you want the top shopping experience, as you will be close to fashionable and modern shopping malls!
Siam Paragon Shopping Mall, MBK Center, Siam Discovery, and Central World Mall are some must-visit shopping hotspots in Siam. But when you’ve had enough shopping, there are plenty of other things to do, regardless of whether you’re coming as a couple, with the whole family, or solo!
Visit the Madame Tussauds, marvel at sea creatures at SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World, or take the kids to Siam Amazing Park (map).
Alternatively, Park @ Siam is a great place if you want some peace and quiet.
Luxury (from US$140 and up)
- Pathumwan Princess Hotel – this award-winning 5-star hotel is centrally located in Siam Square. It has very stylish and clean rooms and excellent service! One of the best things about this classy hotel is that it is near MBK Shopping Center!
- Grand Hyatt Erawan – one of the best Bangkok hotels with resort-style facilities in Bangkok’s Siam area. It offers easy access to the city’s leading shopping centers like Central World, Siam Paragon, Erawan Mall, and Gaysorn via Skywalk!
Mid-range (US$80 – US$140)
- Holiday Inn – this is my first recommendation for a mid-range stay in Siam. Just a short walk from Siam Paragon and Platinum Mall, the hotel has a gym, a pool, and 3 dining options. It’s also within walking distance of 2 public transport stations!
- LiT BANGKOK Residence – guests can enjoy the hotel’s spacious and stylish rooms and suites, but they can also use the concierge services or ask for assistance with their laundry. The on-site restaurant offers both local and international dishes.
Budget (up to US$80)
- Mercure Bangkok Siam – I know I say this a lot, but this is an incredible Bangkok hotel that offers beautiful views over the city and the neighborhood! Each room has free Wi-Fi, a minibar, a fridge, and all the facilities you may need during your stay!
- Lazy Sunday hostel – this is my last recommendation for a budget stay in Siam. This hostel has classic design, comfy beds and is close to restaurants and attractions like Central World and SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World!
3. Bangkok Riverside – best area for a family stay
If you want to enjoy stunning views in Bangkok’s most romantic and historical part, you should choose Riverside!
Maybe you are not fond of the modern and glamorous parts of the city and want to enjoy the traditional vibe of Bangkok.
If that’s the case, Riverside is a very scenic area full of temples, historical attractions, and shrines– it is a tourist spot you don’t want to miss!
Riverside is stretched along the Chao Phraya River and it is perfect for families and history buffs.
Even though there are not many public transportation options, there is a Skytrain stop (Saphan Taksin), ferries down the river, taxis (they’re cheap in Thailand), or a tuk-tuk to get from one point to another.
There are sightseeing, dinner and party boats tours available for you to enjoy along the Chao Phraya River.
The Riverside is a great place for family activities, and you should start by exploring Thai history and culture. The must dos on your list should be the Wat Arun temple (map), one of Thailand’s oldest and most beautiful temples and the Grand Palace, former residence of the Thai King and the ceremonial heart of the Kingdom of Thailand.
Another must-visit in the Riverside area is Asiatique The Riverfront, a large, open-air shopping mall. There are plenty of shops and restaurants, and I’m sure your kids will insist on riding the spectacular Ferris Wheel!
Luxury (from US$170 and up)
- Mandarin Oriental Bangkok – nothing screams luxury hotels in Thailand like the Mandarin Oriental. Enjoy the view from the floor-to-ceiling windows from the family rooms, order room service, and use the outdoor swimming pool.
- Four Seasons Hotel – very close to the Chao Phraya River, the Four Seasons has an amazing pool, a relaxing garden, and 2 on-site restaurants. The hotel offers various family services, from free strollers to babysitting services, for an extra charge.
Mid-range (US$70 – US$170)
- Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort – one of the best resorts in Thailand, overlooking the Chao Phraya River. The rooms are decorated in Thai style; they’re spacious and sparkling clean. The hotel also has an outdoor pool and a private boat shuttle.
- Chatrium Bangkok Hotel Riverside – this is another excellent 5-star Riverside hotel in Bangkok that awaits you with an outdoor pool and a great spa. Moreover, you can choose from 6 dining options and benefit from free parking and Wi-Fi.
Budget (up to US$70)
- Baan Wanglang Riverside – at this hotel, you’ll get a cozy room with a private balcony and access to free Wi-Fi. The hotel will provide complimentary bottled water, and guests can use the free shuttle to get to the nearby Rakang Temple.
- River Home Bangkok – you can choose from a variety of rooms at this 3-star hotel. Each room is air-conditioned and has a private bathroom; you can also use a shared kitchen and turn to the front desk if you want them to organize a tour for you and your family.
4. Khao San – where to stay in Bangkok on a budget
Khao San is the old city area with all the iconic attractions and the perfect place to see authentic Bangkok life!
A walk on Khao San Road means visiting unique Bangkok tourist attractions, including Wat Pho, The Grand Palace, and Wat Phra Kaew. Khao San Road will show you the good side of Thailand and a bit of the city’s history.
NOTE: The area around Chinatown and Khao San is also considered to be the Old Town.
Khao San is made for budget travelers – you will find many affordable accommodations and hostels there. I myself stayed there when I visited Bangkok for the first time (traveling on a tight budget back then), it was a great choice!
Khao San Road is the busiest, loudest area of Bangkok. Visit and experience it, however if you are looking to rest well, stay somewhere else!
For food, you can always stop by one of the many food stalls along Khao San Road, but if you want to sit down for a meal, there are plenty of options, too.
Even though Khao San Road is a lively area, it does not have an MRT station close or any public transportation, so you would have to take a taxi after the metro.
Please also note that this area is always bustling, especially at night, so I would not recommend staying here with small kids (unless you manage to find something on a small quiet street).
Luxury (from US$100 and up)
- Riva Surya Bangkok – this beautiful modern hotel near Khao San Road and offers stunning views over the river. There are both indoor and outdoor dining options!
- Ayathorn Bangkok – a 4-star hotel with a garden, a bar, and a rooftop pool. While staying here, you can work out at the gym or just spend your time relaxing on the terrace. Wi-Fi is free of charge, and an American breakfast is served every day.
Mid-range (US$50 – US$100)
- Old Capital Bike Inn – an amazing, affordable accommodation with clean rooms decorated with hand-painted porcelain and classical furniture! You will get free Wi-Fi and a great breakfast, and I recommend the delicious coffee at the on-site coffee shop!
- Chillax Heritage Hotel Khaosan – this hotel boasts unique decor inspired by the ancient epic Ramayana. At this non-smoking property, guests can go for a swim in the pool, hit the gym, or just stay in their air-conditioned, comfortable rooms.
Budget (up to US$50)
- Bangkok Saran – one of the most gorgeous 3-star hotels, offering magnificent city views from the rooms! Of course, you will also get free Wi-Fi, and you can choose from different types of rooms, including a single or a 5-person room.
- Khao San Social Capsule Hostel – an amazing, affordable accommodation with clean rooms! There are shared bathrooms, hair dryers and wonderful staff!
5. Silom – best Bangkok area for business travelers
Silom in Bangkok is a major financial district by day (it is also known as the Embassy District) and it transforms into a lively entertainment hub at night.
I know I already spoke about a couple of areas that are great for nightlife, but Bangkok seems to offer that pretty much in all districts, no escaping that 🙂
If you’re a party lover, I suggest you visit the 2 famous streets, Patpong 1 and Patpong 2. Patpong Night Market and the “Red Light District” are there.
Suppose you are not that fond of partying until the morning. In that case, you can visit the other streets in this area, and you will easily avoid all that music and noise and enjoy a relaxing time there.
The Lumpini Park used to be a royal reserve until 1925 when it was declared a public space.
You can enjoy a stroll in Lumpini Park, the biggest park in the city, catch some fresh air, and enjoy the locals doing their daily Tai Chi there.During your stay here, I highly recommend you visit the Mahanakhon Skywalk, the highest viewing deck in all of Thailand! Make sure to grab a drink at the bar, which is also the highest rooftop bar in the country!
Luxury (from US$150 and up)
- Tower Club At Lebua – another gorgeous 5-star hotel in Bangkok that provides world-class entertainment, facilities, and service. I recommend you enjoy a drink and a meal at the Sky Bar, an award-winning restaurant!
- The Standard – you’ll have everything you wish for at The Standard. There’s an outdoor swimming pool, a gym, and a terrace with amazing views. The rooms are modern and comfortable, and you can order room service or dine at any of the 6 restaurants.
Mid-range (US$50 – US$150)
- The Cotton Saladaeng Hotel – guests at this hotel can enjoy an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness center, and a delicious breakfast. There’s also a restaurant on-site offering Australian and Asian cuisine, and free parking is provided by the hotel.
- ibis Styles Bangkok Silom – a chic hotel with cool, modern decor and even a year-round outdoor pool! Plus, there is a wide choice of breakfast options!
Budget (up to US$50)
- Ekanek Hostel – a minute away from Patpong, this hostel has a comfortable terrace, a shared lounge area, and a bar. The staff is accommodating, and the rooms have private bathrooms stocked with free toiletries, a desk, as well as stunning city views!
- Urban Hostel Bangkok – my other budget recommendation for this neighborhood. The hostel has excellent prices and great service; they even offer private rooms! Urban Hostel offers free Wi-Fi, a terrace, and air conditioning!
6. Chinatown – best Bangkok area for foodies
Chinatown in Bangkok, also known as Yaowarat, is renowned for its vibrant streets filled with gold shops, market stalls, and an incredible array of street food, especially at night.
Chinatown is a must-visit for foodies, you will want to try everything from dim sum to seafood, I promise!
Founded in the early 1780s, this is a genuine Chinese neighborhood full of great street food stalls offering tasty Thai food, fresh seafood, roasted duck, dim sum, and traditional desserts.
You should also stop by the Chinese Gate, an important landmark and a great photo op! Another must-see is Wat Traimit Temple, aka the Golden Buddha Temple, one of the most beautiful temples in the city!
Luxury (from US$100 and up)
- Shanghai Mansion Bangkok – an award-winning boutique hotel in the heart of Chinatown, decorated in traditional 1930s Shanghai decor with modern amenities. The Red Rose Restaurant within the hotel serves Chinese fusion dishes and features live jazz music
- The Mustang Blu – fancy incredible boutique hotels? This one features a terrace and views of this busy city. Among the facilities of this property are a restaurant, a 24-hour front desk, room service, and free Wi-Fi.
Mid-range (US$50 – US$100)
- Tamni – this fantastic hostel provides accommodation with a bar, free private parking, a shared lounge, and a garden. It also has a shared kitchen, and you can expect to find a seating area and get access to free Wi-Fi in your room.
- Ago Hotel – featuring a restaurant, free private parking, a bar, and a shared lounge. This is one of the mid-range hotels that offers luxury perks for an affordable price – concierge services, a currency exchange, and room service, to name a few.
Budget (up to US$50)
- Hostel Urby – conveniently located within walking distance of many restaurants, this 3-star adults-only hostel awaits you with a restaurant, a bar, and a terrace. It’s also in a perfect location, close to Princess Mother Memorial Park and the Museum of Siam!
- Tiny Taladnoi Hostel – all the rooms at this hostel are air-conditioned and have free Wi-Fi. Some of the dorm rooms have a kitchenette, but all guests are welcome to use the shared lounge.
7. Pratunam – best area for luxury enthusiasts
Pratunam is a hip and colorful neighborhood within the larger Ratchathewi district. In this part of town, you’ll find shopping malls, bars, restaurants, and many of the best luxury hotels.
It is a bit further away (20 min to Lumphini park and about 40 to the Grand Palace by public transportation), but it has a metro, so getting anywhere is relatively easy.
The Pratunam Market is the one thing you cannot miss while staying in the area. It’s one of Bangkok’s largest clothing markets, and the Platinum Fashion Mall where you can find a wide range of affordable fashion and accessories.
The Pratunam Market also sells traditional Thai clothing, giving you a peak into Thailand’s past.
The Baiyoke Tower is one of the highest observatory viewpoints in the city. It’s definitely worth buying a ticket because it includes one free drink at the bar, but it’s possible even to stay there!
Luxury (from US$120 and up)
- Chatrium Grand Bangkok – as a prominent hotel in Bangkok, Chatrium prides itself on impeccable service. With as many as 4 restaurants, a pool, and a sun terrace, guests will certainly leave the hotel satisfied.
- Amari Bangkok – just meters from Pratunam Market and the ferry terminal, the hotel features an outdoor pool, spacious rooms decorated in Thai fashion, a spa, and 3 restaurants.
Mid-range (US$50 – US$120)
- Lemontea Hotel Bangkok – the rooms at this hotel are bright and spacious, with an en-suite bathroom with a shower. There’s also a flat-screen TV, free Wi-Fi, and a safety deposit box in each room. Parking is free of charge for hotel guests.
- Hotel Ordinary Bangkok – this boutique hotel boasts an outdoor swimming pool, a garden, and a terrace. It also offers room service, luggage storage, and concierge services. Wi-Fi is free, but parking incurs an additional charge.
Budget (up to US$50)
- P18 Hotel Bangkok – at this 3-star hotel, all rooms have a private bathroom with a shower and free toiletries, a wardrobe, a desk, and a flat-screen TV. Air conditioning and Wi-Fi are included in the price.
- In a Box Hostel – a nicely decorated hostel offering both private rooms and beds in shared dormitories. Guests staying in dormitories get access to private lockers and can use shared showers and the common area.
BONUS: Best hotels near the airport
Even though Bangkok has 2 airports, most international tourists land through Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK). As you can imagine, BKK Airport is far from the city, which can be an issue if you are traveling on a tight schedule or have a layover and want to catch a quick nap.
Either way, your best choice is to stay near the BKK Airport.
NOTE: if you don’t want to stay near the airport, the Bangkok Airport Rail Link operates every day between 06 a.m. and 12 a.m. and can take you from BKK to the city center.
- Luxury (from US$130 and up): Le Meridien Suvarnabhumi – offering an infinity outdoor pool, restaurants, a fitness center, Le Meridien Family Kids Club, and luggage storage; this incredible resort will make you want to postpone another day of your flight!
- Mid-range (from US$80 – US$120): Summit Windmill Golf Residence – one of the best hotels I’ve seen! This residence features free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, an outdoor pool, and a golf course. Its location is another plus – just 15 minutes away from the airport!
- Budget (up to US$80): Oriole Residence – this hotel offers a 24-hour front desk and room service, both much-needed after a long flight. And if you need some outdoor time after a long flight, each room has its own private balcony.
FAQs about where to stay in Bangkok
🤔 What is the best area to stay in Bangkok?
The best Bangkok neighborhood has to be Sukhumvit, a great area full of life where you will find everything you are looking for!
🚨 Where should i avoid staying in bangkok?
Even though Bangkok is quite safe, one area you should avoid is Khlong Toei, one of Bangkok’s poorest places. And on a quick note, Patpong and Huai Kwang are the city’s red-light districts if that’s something you want to avoid.
🕺 Where should i stay in Bangkok to enjoy the nightlife?
Silom is definitely the top spot for nightlife, but the Khao San area also has plenty to offer if you are looking for a good party time.
👪 Where to stay in Bangkok with family?
The Bangkok Riverside is the best neighborhood for enjoying the trip with your family. Since it is full of breathtaking top tourist attractions and historical places, it is definitely family-friendly!
🌆 Where to stay in Bangkok for 3 nights?
If you only have 3 nights in Bangkok, I recommend you book accommodation in Sukhumvit, because it’s centrally located and you’ll be close to the top attractions. As for hotels, my recommendation is to go to the Grande Centre Point.
👩❤️👨 Where to stay in Bangkok for couples?
🚇 How to get around Bangkok?
There are plenty of ways to get around Bangkok; some of the best options are skytrain, metro, and tuk-tuk. The best taxi app to use is Grab.
❄️ What is the best time to visit Bangkok?
The best time of year to plan a trip to Bangkok is winter, more specifically, between November and February. The weather is not as hot as in summer, and you’ll be more comfortable while exploring the city.
📅 How many days to stay in Bangkok?
To have the full Bangkok experience, you’ll need to stay in the city for at least 4 or 5 days. However, if possible, I recommend staying a bit longer – Bangkok is definitely worth your time!
Conclusion
We are done! I’m sure you are already eager to visit Southeast Asia. So now you know where to stay in Bangkok, and you can start planning your trip.
To make things easier for you, here are my top 2 hotel picks:
- Grande Centre Point – the spa is amazing, and the terrace offers spectacular views of the city!
- Skyview Hotel Bangkok – floor-to-ceiling windows allow you to admire the skyscrapers, and you can adjust the room temperature!
Just a reminder, Bangkok is an incredible place to visit, so most hotels tend to be fully booked. If you find a good fit, book ASAP!
And if you want to learn more about this beautiful country, you can find all my articles about Thailand here.
If you have any questions or suggestions, feel free to tell me in the comments below. I am always curious to hear from my readers!
Yulia
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