Where to stay in Bangkok

Bangkok is vast. There’s a population of 11 million people within its 1500 square kilometres and towering high-rise buildings of up to 304m high. It’s a modern metropolis with frenetic markets, traditional temples and brilliant nightlife. But where should you base yourself? Whatever kind of trip you’re planning, here’s the lowdown on where to stay in Bangkok.

Bangkok's Old Town (Rattanakosin) - for first-time visitors

Ratanakosin is an area on the left bank of the Chao Phraya. Here a string of boutique hotels enjoys dreamy views across the river’s bustle and colour to the Temple of Dawn on the opposite shore, whose corncob towers are prettily floodlit at night. This area is where to stay in Bangkok for the capital’s three major sights – the Grand Palace, Wat Pho and the National Museum – are just a stroll away.

You can jump on a river bus to explore the rest of the city in a novel way, too. It’s a quiet, traditional neighbourhood where the shutters come down after dark. For something to eat and drink, you’re probably going to want to nip up to Banglamphu or down to Chinatown.

Places to stay in Bangkok's Old Town

• Best for a boutique stay: Dewan Bangkok offers a charming boutique experience in the heart of Old Town. With its stylish decor, comfortable rooms, and excellent location near historic sites.
• Best for budget travelers: 4 Monkeys Hotel provides affordable accommodation without compromising on comfort. Its vibrant atmosphere, friendly staff, and communal spaces make it ideal for budget-conscious travelers looking to connect with fellow adventurers in Old Town.
• Best for cultural immersion: Lilit Bang Lumphu Hotel immerses guests in Thai culture with its traditional architecture and decor. Located near temples and museums, it offers a tranquil retreat after exploring Old Town's rich heritage.

Sukhumvit – best area for dining & nightlife vibes

High-rise buildings and the overhead Skytrain line trap the traffic fumes and noise on Sukhumvit Road, which runs eastwards from the city centre all the way to the Cambodian border. Fortunately, many of Sukhumvit’s numbered side roads are refreshingly quiet, even leafy, and it’s here you’ll find where to stay in Bangkok for pubs and clubs.

Soi 11, “hi-so” Soi 55 and Soi 63 (a bit more studenty) are the main hubs; look out, especially for the wacky, high-concept bars of Ashley Sutton, design guru of the moment (Iron Fairies, Clouds etc). Meanwhile, the girlie bars on Soi Nana and Soi Cowboy are looking almost retro these days, not to mention out of date.

Places to stay in Sukhumvit

• Best for a boutique stay: Night Hotel Bangkok - Sukhumvit 15 combines modern design with comfort. Its prime location, stylish rooms, and attentive service.
• Best for long-term stays: Adelphi Forty-Nine caters to extended-stay guests with its spacious suites and apartment-style accommodations. Featuring full kitchens, living areas, and hotel amenities, it's perfect for those needing a home away from home in Sukhumvit.
• Best for party-goers: Aira Hotel Bangkok Sukhumvit 11 is situated in the heart of Bangkok's nightlife district. With its modern rooms, rooftop bar, and proximity to clubs and bars, it's ideal for travelers looking to experience Sukhumvit's vibrant party scene.

Silom – the perfect area for families

The area south of Thanon Rama I is dominated by Thailand’s most prestigious centre of higher learning, Chulalongkorn University, and the green expanse of Lumphini Park. Thanon Rama IV (in Thai “Thanon Phra Ram Sii”) then marks another change of character: downtown proper, centring around the high-rise, American-style boulevard of Thanon Silom, the heart of the financial district, extends from here to the river.

Alongside the smoked-glass banks and offices, and opposite Convent Road, the site of Bangkok’s Carmelite nunnery, lies the dark heart of Bangkok nightlife, Patpong. Further west along Thanon Silom from Patpong, in a still-thriving South Indian enclave lies the colourful landmark of the Maha Uma Devi Temple.

Here you’ll find the only place in Bangkok where you might be able to eke out an architectural walk, though it’s hardly compelling. Incongruous churches and “colonial” buildings.

Places to stay in Silom

• Best for a boutique stay: Silom Serene A Boutique Hotel offers a tranquil oasis in bustling Silom. With its elegant rooms, lush gardens, and personalized service, it provides a serene retreat for those seeking a boutique experience in this family-friendly area.
• Best for backpackers: The Cube Hostel Silom caters to budget-conscious travelers with its clean, modern dorms and private rooms. Its social atmosphere, communal spaces, and convenient location make it perfect for backpackers.
• Best for business travelers: Furama Silom Hotel caters to business travelers with its well-equipped meeting rooms, business center, and convenient location near corporate offices. Its comfortable rooms and on-site amenities ensure a productive and relaxing stay in Silom.

Siam – for high-end shopping

In the boutiques and booths of Siam Square, young designers hope to make it big selling street gear to the capital’s students and teenagers. If they get their break, they’ll rent a space in one of the huge malls that march eastwards along the adjacent Rama I Rd. Here, they’ll have to compete with the best local labels and international brands like Gucci and Chanel.

The malls also harbour branches of some of the city’s best restaurants. Accommodation in the surrounding area runs the gamut from designer hostels and upscale guesthouses (in the mini-ghetto of Soi Kasem San I) to luxury hotels. In a city that’s notorious for its traffic jams, where cars crawl along at an average of 4km per hour, this area has the best transport connections.

The Skytrain’s only two lines both pass through Siam Square, ready to whisk you to the bars and clubs of Sukhumvit, the river or the Weekend Market, Bangkok’s ultimate shopping experience with 8000 stalls.

Places to stay in Siam

• Best for a boutique stay: Daraya Boutique Hotel offers an intimate and stylish experience in the heart of Siam. With its unique decor, personalized service, and proximity to shopping centers, it's perfect for fashion-conscious travelers seeking a boutique atmosphere.
• Best for luxury shoppers: Siam Kempinski Hotel Bangkok caters to discerning shoppers with its direct access to Siam Paragon mall. Offering luxurious rooms, world-class dining, and a spa, it's ideal for those wanting to indulge in Siam's high-end shopping experience.
• Best for families: Grand Hyatt Erawan Bangkok provides a family-friendly luxury experience in Siam. With spacious rooms, kid-friendly amenities, multiple dining options, and easy access to shopping and attractions.

Khao San Road – for budget travellers and backpackers

Banglamphu’s primary attraction is the legendary Thanon Khao San, a tiny sliver of a road no more than 400m long, which was built over a canal in 1892 and is now established as a favourite place where to stay in Bangkok for the backpackers in Southeast Asia. Crammed with guest houses and restaurants serving yoghurt shakes and muesli, its sidewalks lined with tattooists and hair braiders, it’s a lively, high-energy place that’s fun to visit even if you’re not staying here.

Though ultra-budget-conscious world travellers are still Khao San’s main customers, Banglamphu attracts higher-spending sophisticates to its growing number of stylish restaurants and lively bars and clubs. At night, young Thais gather here to browse the fashion stalls and pavement displays and squash into the trendy bars and clubs that have made Khao San one of the city’s most happening places to party.

Places to stay near Khao San Road

• Best for a boutique stay: Khaosan Art Hotel offers a unique boutique experience near the famous backpacker street. With its artsy decor, comfortable rooms, and friendly atmosphere, it's perfect for those seeking a stylish yet affordable stay in the area.
• Best for solo travelers: Samsen Street Hotel caters to solo adventurers with its cozy rooms and social atmosphere. Located in a quieter area near Khao San Road, it offers a perfect balance of relaxation and easy access to the vibrant backpacker scene.
• Best for groups: Villa Bangkok accommodates groups with its spacious rooms and dormitories. Featuring a communal kitchen, lounge areas, and a fun atmosphere, it's ideal for friends or solo travelers looking to meet others near Khao San Road.

Riverside – luxury stays with serene river views

Riverside, is known for the iconic Riverside Bridge that offers breathtaking views of the city skyline, and the meticulously manicured Riverside Park, a local favourite for morning jogs or afternoon picnics.

The neighbourhood is home to several Michelin-starred restaurants. At the forefront is "The River's Edge," where celebrity chef Maria Santos crafts innovative dishes that celebrate local, seasonal ingredients. For a more intimate dining experience, book a table at "Whisper," a speakeasy-style establishment known for its expertly crafted cocktails and small plates.

If you're itching to get on the water, several companies offer river cruises. While private charters are available for those with deep pockets.

For a taste of luxury without breaking the bank, the River Spa offers a "twilight package" – access to their thermal suites and a glass of bubbly for a fraction of their usual day rates. Book in advance, as these slots fill up fast.

Places to stay in Riverside

• Best for a boutique stay: Khaosan Art Hotel, offers a unique boutique experience near the Chao Phraya River. Its artistic ambiance, comfortable rooms, and proximity to river attractions make it a charming choice for boutique lovers.
• Best for skyline views: Tower Club at lebua boasts stunning riverside and city views from its luxurious suites. With its iconic Sky Bar, gourmet restaurants, and exclusive amenities, it's perfect for those seeking a high-end experience with breathtaking vistas.
• Best for families: Chatrium Hotel Riverside Bangkok offers spacious suites and apartments ideal for families. With its river views, multiple pools, kids' club, and shuttle boat service.

Chinatown – for the best street food

It’s chaotic, noisy and dirty, but for some people, Chinatown fulfils their every dream of a Bladerunneresque Asian city. Endless gloomy alleyways unfurl like serpentine department stores, hawking everything from fabrics to flowers, from pots and pans to ginseng roots. The range of hotels is limited, but it's a great place where to stay in Bangkok for street food - restaurant tables sprawl onto the pavements 24/7.

There’s even an enclave of authentic Indian eateries in Pahurat. Long-distance trains and the urban subway line stop at Hualamphong station for ease of access – or a hasty departure.

Places to stay in Chinatown

• Best for a boutique stay: Talakkia Boutique Hotel offers a stylish retreat in the heart of Chinatown. With its uniquely designed rooms, rooftop terrace, and proximity to street food havens, it's perfect for travelers seeking a boutique experience in this vibrant district.
• Best for culture enthusiasts: The Unforgotten B&B immerses guests in Chinatown's rich heritage. Housed in a restored shophouse, it features traditionally decorated rooms, cultural activities, and easy access to historic sites and bustling markets.
• Best for foodies: Ago Hotel Chinatown caters to food lovers with its prime location near famous eateries. Offering comfortable rooms, a hip design, and insider tips on the best local cuisine.

Pratunam – for the best markets

Pratunam is a bustling shopping district located in the heart of Bangkok. It is where to stay in Bangkok for its bustling markets, street food stalls and inexpensive fashion boutiques. Pratunam is especially popular with travellers seeking budget shopping opportunities.

Ten minutes walk north of the Erawan Shrine and extending northwest from the corner of Rajaprarop and Phetchaburi roads, Pratunam Market is famous for its low-cost, low-quality casual clothes. The vast, dark warren of stalls is becoming touristy near the hotels on its north side, but there are still bargains to be had elsewhere, especially along the market’s western side.

Places to stay in Pratunam

• Best for a boutique stay: Theme Boutique Hotel Bangkok offers a unique stay with its themed rooms and personalized service. Located near Pratunam's markets, it provides a quirky and comfortable base for shoppers exploring the area's bustling retail scene.
• Best for shoppers: Grand Diamond Suites Hotel caters to avid shoppers with its prime location near Pratunam Market. Offering spacious suites, a rooftop pool, and easy access to wholesale outlets.
• Best for budget travelers: Hyde Park Hotel Bangkok provides affordable comfort in the heart of Pratunam. With its clean rooms, friendly staff, and proximity to markets and malls, it's ideal for budget-conscious travelers.

Banglamphu: for a buzzing vibe

The former backpackers-only ghetto of Banglamphu has grown up a lot in recent years. The crash pads with paper-thin walls and shared bathrooms haven’t disappeared, but nowadays you can also choose stylish hotels with rooftop pools, elegantly converted traditional houses and smart, modern hostels.

And the buzz on the streets is still there. Fashion stalls, trendy bars and clubs bring out young Thais from all over the city, as well as world travellers. On top of all that, there’s a great neighbourhood of old-fashioned shophouse restaurants to the south of Democracy Monument. The big-ticket sights of Ratanakosin are within walking distance, too.

Places to stay in Banglamphu

• Best for a boutique stay: Lamphu Tree House Boutique Hotel offers a unique stay in a tranquil setting. With its charming wooden architecture, lush gardens, and proximity to historic sites, it provides a peaceful retreat in the midst of Banglamphu's lively atmosphere.
• Best for comfort: Nouvo City Hotel combines modern comfort with Thai hospitality. Featuring well-appointed rooms, a rooftop pool, and easy access to Banglamphu's attractions.
• Best for relaxation: Chillax Resort lives up to its name with its spa-like atmosphere and rooftop pool. Offering stylish rooms, wellness facilities, and a serene ambiance, it provides a relaxing haven for those looking to unwind after exploring Banglamphu's buzzing streets.

Bangrak: best neighbourhood for luxury hotels

This area south of Rama IV Road shelters some of the best hotels where to stay in Bangkok, and on the planet. The Mandarin Oriental and the Peninsula are both consistently voted among the world’s top ten. These and a clutch of other high-end places on the banks of the Chao Phraya offer superb standards of service and excellent spas, restaurants and swimming pools in their riverside gardens.

They also have their own shuttle boats to ferry guests up and down the river. A boat trip is a lovely way to start a day’s exploration or return to your bed at night, gliding through the bright city lights. Public Express Boats will help you to get more out of the Chao Phraya, while the Skytrain arrows north from the river through the city centre.

Places to stay in Bangrak

• Best for a boutique stay: The Siam Heritage Hotel offers a taste of old-world charm in modern Bangrak. With its colonial-inspired decor, personalized service, and convenient location.
• Best for design lovers: PASSA Hotel Bangkok attracts design enthusiasts with its sleek, modern aesthetic. Featuring stylish rooms, innovative amenities, and a prime location in Bangrak.
• Best for long-term stays: Beanstalk Bangkok caters to extended-stay guests with its spacious serviced apartments. Offering home-like comforts, a fitness center, and easy access to Bangrak's amenities, it's perfect for those needing a longer-term base in this luxurious area.

Ratchada – vibrant area for night markets & entertainment

As you step into Ratchada, you'll find yourself in one of Bangkok's most vibrant districts. This is where you'll find the famous Ratchada Train Night Market (Talad Rot Fai), where you can lose yourself in a maze of vintage goods, street food, and quirky bars.

Try Tep Bar for its artisanal Thai spirits and live traditional music, or visit Funky Lam for a taste of Laotian cuisine in a hip setting. For a truly unusual experience, book a table at Dialogue in the Dark, where you'll dine in complete darkness, served by visually impaired staff.

The night markets and entertainment venues are the heart of Ratchada's appeal. Besides the Train Night Market, don't miss the Thailand Cultural Centre Night Market for its focus on handicrafts and local products. For entertainment, the RCA (Royal City Avenue) complex offers a string of nightclubs and live music venues.

Places to stay in Ratchada

• Best for a boutique stay: Maverick Ratchada Hotel offers a stylish boutique experience in the heart of Ratchada. With its modern decor, comfortable rooms, and proximity to night markets and entertainment venues, it's perfect for travelers seeking a trendy base.
• Best for nightlife enthusiasts: Resort V - MRT Huai Khwang caters to night owls with its location near Ratchada's vibrant nightlife scene. Featuring comfortable rooms, a rooftop bar, and easy access to clubs and night markets.
• Best for budget-conscious travelers: Bangkok 68 provides affordable accommodation without compromising on location. Offering clean rooms, friendly service, and proximity to Ratchada's attractions and MRT station.

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