Where to Stay in Bangkok: Top Neighborhoods & Areas for Travelers
Bangkok is a city that never ceases to amaze, a must-visit for anyone traveling through Southeast Asia. With its mix of history, culture, and tradition, it’s a magnet for tourists from around the globe. Whether you’re a backpacker on a budget or someone seeking a cultural immersion, Bangkok offers an experience you won’t forget.
The city caters to all types of travelers. You can choose to immerse yourself in the local lifestyle or explore the city’s bustling nightlife. Modern transport options, including the Skytrain and metro, make getting around easier, while buses and taxis remain plentiful. And when it comes to accommodation, you’re spoiled for choice. From luxurious 5-star hotels to clean, budget-friendly hostels, there’s something for every traveler.
Contents
- Key Takeaways
- Siam
- Places to Stay in Siam
- Sukhumvit
- Where to Stay in Sukhumvit
- Khao San & Banglamphu
- Where to Stay in Khao San & Banglamphu
- Bang Rak & Si Lom
- Where to Stay in Bang Rak & Si Lom
- Yaowarat & Phahurat (Chinatown & Little India)
- Where to Stay in Yaowarat & Phahurat
- Thong Lor
- Places to Stay in Thong Lor
- Dusit
- Where to Stay in Dusit
- Old Town
- Places to Stay in Ratanakosin
- Thonburi
- Where to Stay in Thonburi
- More Travel Guides
Key Takeaways
- Bangkok offers experiences for all types of travelers, from cultural immersion to vibrant nightlife.
- The city has modern transport options like the Skytrain and metro, making it easy to navigate.
- Accommodations range from luxury hotels to budget hostels, catering to all budgets.
Siam
Places to Stay in Siam
Pathumwan Princess Hotel – Positioned just opposite Siam Square and the MBK Shopping Centre, this massive and luxurious hotel has ten dining options, offering everything from Italian to Korean and Thai cuisines. This 5-star hotel is perfect if you’re looking for a lavish stay.
Mercure Bangkok Siam – Located near the heart of Siam, this hotel features a rooftop pool with a stunning view of the city. Their various room options cater to different needs, providing a comfortable and stylish stay.
Happy 3 – This hotel offers a relaxing experience with a rooftop terrace and a pool area surrounded by greenery. You can enjoy a drink while overlooking the downtown skyline at their on-site restaurant and bar.
Siam is famous for its shopping scene. Here, you’ll find major malls like Siam Paragon, Siam Center, and Siam Discovery. These malls house countless international brands and chic boutiques, making it a paradise for shoppers. Siam Square is popular among trendy youth, offering unique styles and local designer shops.
If you’re interested in culture, Siam has some fascinating attractions. Jim Thompson House lets you explore the home of the American entrepreneur who revitalized the Thai silk industry. For a unique experience, check out Siam Ocean World, one of the largest aquariums in the world. There’s even an Olympic-size ice skating rink and frequent free Thai boxing matches outside the MBK Shopping Mall.
For anyone who loves shopping or modern urban experiences, Siam is the place to be. Locals often spend their weekends here, making it bustling and lively. Good public transportation links make getting around easy despite the traffic. This area features hotels for every budget, from high-end spots like the Pathumwan Princess to more affordable options like Happy 3. If you prefer something in between, Mercure Bangkok Siam is a great choice.
Siam is a dynamic area that perfectly blends shopping, culture, and fun, providing something for everyone. Whether you’re here to splurge on some retail therapy or soak in the modern vibes, you’ll find Siam to be a memorable part of your Bangkok adventure.
Sukhumvit
Where to Stay in Sukhumvit
When it comes to finding a place to stay in Sukhumvit, you have a wide range of options available that cater to different budgets and preferences.
The Davis Bangkok
The Davis Bangkok offers a unique blend of modern and traditional style. With its Thai-style villas and multiple swimming pools, you can enjoy a luxurious experience. You can choose to stay in the main hotel building or opt for one of the villas for a more private experience.
Travelodge Sukhumvit 11
For a budget-friendly yet comfortable stay, consider Travelodge Sukhumvit 11. This hotel boasts an infinity pool on the rooftop, where you can enjoy stunning skyline views while you swim.
Whether you’re looking for budget, mid-range, or luxury accommodation, Sukhumvit has something for everyone. Many of the hotels, like The Davis Bangkok and Travelodge Sukhumvit 11, offer great amenities to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable.
Sukhumvit is also well-connected, with easy access to the BTS Skytrain and the metro. This makes it simple to travel around Bangkok. The Asok and Nana areas are particularly popular due to their proximity to public transit and a variety of dining and entertainment options.
For food lovers, Sukhumvit is a paradise. The streets are lined with a mix of international cuisines. You can find everything from Lebanese dishes to Italian pizza, and of course, delicious Thai street food.
In the evenings, the district comes alive with numerous rooftop bars and nightclubs. Whether you’re in the mood for a quiet drink or a night of dancing, you’ll find plenty of places to enjoy yourself.
Landmarks like Terminal 21 Mall offer shoppers a variety of boutique stores and dining options. Meanwhile, spots like Soi Cowboy provide a more vibrant nightlife experience that attracts many travelers.
For those looking to indulge, you might want to check out the Banyan Tree Hotel. It’s known for its exceptional service and luxurious amenities. The Banyan Tree is perfect for those who want to treat themselves to an unforgettable stay.
Whether you prefer a bustling scene or a more laid-back environment, Sukhumvit offers an array of experiences for every type of traveler.
Khao San & Banglamphu
Where to Stay in Khao San & Banglamphu
Khao San Road is widely known for its lively atmosphere. If you’re looking to dive into the heart of Bangkok’s backpacker scene, this is the place for cheap drinks, unique eats, and some truly unforgettable (sometimes bizarre) entertainment like the notorious ping pong shows. But don’t worry, it’s not all craziness.
Just a short walk away, Banglamphu offers a more relaxed vibe, showcasing a more traditional side of Bangkok with its charming markets and old-style shop houses. This neighborhood provides a glimpse of what Bangkok used to be like before the crowds took over. Despite the chaos, you can find good, affordable hotels and hostels in this area. Some even have pools and rooftop terraces for a bit of relaxation after a day of exploring.
Chillax Resort – This 4-star hotel is perfect if you want to stay close to Khao San Road but still enjoy a quiet night. It features a classy rooftop infinity pool where you can unwind after a day of adventures.
Nouvo City Hotel – Here, you’ll find a relaxing rooftop pool, a fitness center, and two restaurants. It also has a small spa for a bit of pampering.
Taraplace Hotel Bangkok – This hotel offers great value with large, well-decorated bedrooms. Their rooftop terrace is a cozy spot to relax at the end of the day.
If you’re traveling around Thailand, Khao San Road is a handy spot because many buses pick up and drop off here. This makes it easier to hop on to your next destination. So, whether you’re a party lover or looking for a mix of the old and new, Khao San and Banglamphu have something to offer.
Bang Rak & Si Lom
Where to Stay in Bang Rak & Si Lom
- Shangri-La Hotel Bangkok
- The Shangri-La Hotel Bangkok is a luxurious choice with a variety of dining options, including a top-rated restaurant. Situated along the river, this hotel is also conveniently located near a BTS station, making it easy to explore other parts of the city.
- The Grand Sathorn
- Enjoy stunning city views from the rooftop pool and sundeck at The Grand Sathorn. The on-site restaurant serves local Thai dishes, and the hotel provides a free riverboat shuttle to Asiatic The Riverfront. Street food stalls nearby offer affordable and tasty dining options.
Yaowarat & Phahurat (Chinatown & Little India)
Where to Stay in Yaowarat & Phahurat
Shanghai Mansion Bangkok – Imagine stepping back into a world of Shanghai’s old charm, with a splash of colonial style. This hotel, established in 1892, offers a unique blend of luxury and history. It houses an elegant restaurant and a cozy jazz bar for those relaxed evenings.
Norn Yaowarat Hotel – Perfect if you’re watching your budget, this hotel provides dormitory rooms with pod-style beds. It’s a great place to get a good night’s sleep without breaking the bank.
Thong Lor
Places to Stay in Thong Lor
Bangkok Marriott Hotel Sukhumvit – This upscale hotel sits on the top floors of a tall building, providing guests with amazing views of Bangkok. The rooms have elegant marble bathrooms that add a touch of luxury. The rooftop restaurant is a standout feature, offering stunning panoramic views. You can also enjoy a swim in the rooftop pool.
Grande Centre Point Sukhumvit 55 – This is another high-end option in Thong Lor. It’s close to fancy malls like The Emporium, and there’s even a shuttle service to the nearest BTS station. The hotel has a sleek and polished vibe, perfect for those looking for a bit of luxury.
Thong Lor is filled with nightclubs, bars, and various dining options. It’s popular with the trendy, young crowd of Bangkok, as well as tourists seeking a vibrant nightlife scene and varied international cuisine. The main street, Sukhmvit Soi 55, is well-connected by the BTS Skytrain, making it easy to get around.
Moreover, the neighborhoods around Thong Lo station, such as Ekkamai, are also becoming popular, with new businesses opening up. If you’re into chic boutique shopping and classy hangouts, Thong Lor is the place to be.
Accommodations in Thong Lor might be on the pricier side, but you get what you pay for. The hotels here are often stylishly decorated in a modern style and come with facilities like swimming pools and yoga classes. Meanwhile, there are more budget-friendly guesthouses that are simple but clean and comfortable.
No matter your budget, Thong Lor offers a range of places to stay, each providing a unique experience of Bangkok’s trendiest district. Whether you’re staying in a high-end luxury hotel or a more affordable guesthouse, you’ll be surrounded by the best of what this vibrant area has to offer.
Dusit
Where to Stay in Dusit
- The Raweekanlaya Bangkok – Surrounded by beautiful trees and nature, The Raweekanlaya Bangkok is set in a historic building that dates back to the 1800s. Initially built for the Royal Governess, this place has it all. The garden offers a peaceful retreat with a 120-year-old banyan tree and a relaxing swimming pool.
Old Town
Places to Stay in Ratanakosin
Sala Arun Aparthotel – This 4-star hotel offers rooms with balconies that overlook the river. From your balcony, you can see the beautiful Wat Arun temple on the other side of the river.
Boutique Hotels – If boutique hotels are your thing, then Ratanakosin is perfect for you. Here, you can find small and uniquely designed hotels nestled in historic buildings.
Ratanakosin is also home to the Temple of the Emerald Buddha and many essential museums and parks. For sightseeing, this area is top-notch. Using the river ferry service makes it easy to get around, as it is well-connected.
Thonburi
Thonburi, nestled along the west bank of the Chao Phraya River, stands out with its serene and relaxed vibe. Unlike the rest of busy Bangkok, Thonburi offers a calmer atmosphere. This district is historically significant as it was the original settlement of Bangkok. While it has seen modern development, you can still witness the traditional ways of life here.
Where to Stay in Thonburi
If you’re looking to experience the charm of Thonburi, there are some excellent places to stay:
AVANI Riverside Bangkok Hotel – This luxury hotel offers fresh and minimalistic interiors. It’s not just a place to stay; it’s connected to Riverside Plaza, which is filled with a variety of shops, bars, and restaurants. You can enjoy all the conveniences right at your doorstep.
Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort – True to its name, this hotel feels more like an inner-city resort. You can relax in a sprawling outdoor area next to the river, surrounded by tropical trees. The large swimming pool is perfect for a refreshing dip on a hot Bangkok day.
Staying in Thonburi gives you easy access to Bangkok’s famous floating markets. These markets, bustling with vendors on boats, offer a unique shopping experience. You’ll find affordable and delicious food in the local markets, which is great if you’re watching your budget.
Even though Thonburi may not have the best public transport connections, the river ferries are frequent and offer the simplest way to get around. Whether you’re enjoying the riverside views, exploring Wat Arun, or sampling local delights, Thonburi provides a unique glimpse into Bangkok’s rich heritage.
Kai
Hey there! I’ve been eyeing Bangkok for my next adventure, and this article’s got me itching to book a flight ASAP. But I’m kinda torn between staying in the bustling Sukhumvit area or going for something more chill like Banglamphu. Anyone got any personal faves? I’m all about soaking up the local vibes and finding those hidden gem street food spots. Oh, and has anyone tried those floating markets? Worth the hype? Lemme know your Bangkok must-dos – I wanna make sure I don’t miss out on anything epic!