Bangkok is one of the most vibrant cities in Asia with towering skyscrapers, rich cultural heritage, and delicious street food. When planning a trip to Bangkok, choosing the right accommodation is essential to make the most of your experience. There’s an abundance of lodging options in Bangkok that cater to all budgets and preferences. You’ll find some of the most extraordinary luxurious hotels with rooftop bars, as well as modest self-catering apartments for budget travellers.
In this article, we’ll provide a comprehensive overview of the best areas to stay in Bangkok and why they are the top picks. From upscale luxury hotels to budget-friendly options, you’ll find all the information you need to make an informed decision.
First time visitors to Bangkok will want to consider staying in Sukhumvit, as the area is well-connected by public transportation and offers a large selection of hotels, restaurants, and shopping options. It’s also a great base for exploring some of the city’s top tourist attractions.
Silom is a great area to stay in Bangkok for business travellers due to its proximity to the city’s central business district.
Budget conscious travellers will want to stay in Khao San Road well known for its budget accommodation, street vendors and vibrant nightlife. It’s the ideal place for backpackers.
Couples and families will want to consider Thonburi, an area with traditional temples, canals, and laid-back atmosphere. It’s a great choice for travellers who want to experience a more quiet and authentic side of Bangkok.
Here is a summary of the best places to stay in Bangkok at a glance:
| ❤️ Best Area for first-timers: | Sukhumvit |
| 💎 Best luxury 5* hotel: | Sindhorn Kempinski Hotel |
| 🏨 Best mid-range hotel: | MUU Bangkok Hotel |
| 🛏️ Best budget hotel: | Hop Inn Bangkok |
In this guide, I will elaborate on each area and explain in detail why it’s interesting and ideal for your preference, budget and travel style.
Table of Contents
- Tips for selecting the best accommodation in Bangkok
- Sukhumvit – Best area to stay in Bangkok for first timers
- Best places to stay in Sukhumvit
- Siam – Best area to stay in Bangkok for shopping
- Best places to stay in Siam
- Silom – Best area to stay in Bangkok for business travellers
- Best places to stay in Silom
- Pratunam – Best area to stay in Bangkok for foodies
- Best places to stay in Pratunam
- Riverside – Nest area to stay in Bangkok for couples
- Best places to stay in Riverside
- Chinatown – Best area to stay in Bangkok for culture
- Best places to stay in Chinatown
- Thonburi – Best area to stay in Bangkok for families
- Best places to stay in Thonburi
- Khao San – Best area to stay in Bangkok for budget travellers
- Best places to stay in Khao San
Tips for selecting the best accommodation in Bangkok
Bangkok has a plethora of accommodation options, from luxury skyscraper hotels to affordable and modest hostels. When choosing accommodations in Bangkok, consider budget, location, and personal travel style. Here are tips to help you find the best option for your trip:
- Budget: Bangkok offers a wide range of accommodations to fit all budgets, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly bunk beds in modest hostels. Prices are more affordable than in other Asian countries like Singapore or Japan. Determine how much you’re willing to spend before starting your search.
- Decide on location: Bangkok is a large and vibrant city, and each area has something unique to offer. Consider the type of experience you want from Bangkok and stay in that area that suits your style. You can pick between staying in the heart of Bangkok to be closer to attractions, or being in a more residential area for a more authentic experience.
- Consider interests: Different areas and hotels in Bangkok cater for different interests. For example, if you’re interested in shopping, Sukhumvit will be a great place to stay, while Khao San Road is a popular option for backpackers and budget travellers.
- Facilities: Think about what types of facilities your accommodation needs to have before booking it. For example, if you’re travelling as a family with kids, you might want access to an apartment with a kitchen. Or if you are a luxury traveller, you might need your hotel to have a pool on site.
Sukhumvit – Best area to stay in Bangkok for first timers
Sukhumvit is a great choice for first-time visitors to Bangkok who are looking for a central location with easy access to amenities and vibrant street life. This 18 km road boasts shopping, dining, and nightlife, with a mix of cosmopolitan and Thai cultural elements that create a unique atmosphere. It’s also located right on the BTS Line.
Sukhumvit attracts many expats and foreigners, who can find restaurants serving cuisine from all over the world, as well as bars, spas, and traditional Thai street food. The area is also home to many atmospheric cafés and lounges.
Sukhumvit is easy to navigate, with access to both the Skytrain and MRT subway. Popular attractions in the area are Benjasiri Park; an open grassland with views of the city, Khlong Saen Saeb canal, Soi Arab alleyway with numerous Arabic restaurants and shops, WTF Gallery and Café; an institution of art and alcohol, and Cheap Charlie’s Bar; offering all drinks for 80 baht.
There are numerous hotels in the area ranging from luxury to budget friendly apartments. Regardless of your budget, you can easily find a great lodging room in the area, just a stone throw away from restaurants and entertainment.
Best places to stay in Sukhumvit
Carlton Hotel Bangkok Sukhumvit – SHA Extra Plus is located in Bangkok, just 0.7 miles from Emporium Shopping Mall. This 5-star hotel offers luxurious accommodations with breathtaking city views. You can enjoy a refreshing swim in the outdoor pool, keep fit in the fitness center, and relax on the terrace
Enjoy convenient amenities such as 24-hour front desk services, room service, and complimentary Wi-Fi. Take a dip in the year-round outdoor pool, get some exercise in the fitness center, relax in the sauna, or stroll through the lovely garden.
Rezt Bangkok is a 3-star hostel that provides a shared kitchen and 24/7 front desk service. Guests can relax in the comfortable seating area of their rooms, some of which feature a coffee machine, a balcony, and views of the city. All rooms are equipped with bed linen.
Siam – Best area to stay in Bangkok for shopping
With hotels located conveniently near the shopping malls, Siam is the best area to stay in Bangkok for shopping. In Siam, you’ll find the city’s largest air-conditioned malls like MBK, Siam Paragon, Central World, Siam Discovery, Siam Center, and Central Chitlom.
Siam is well-connected with the city as it is the hub for the BTS Skytrain, providing easy access to other tourist destinations in Bangkok. The bustling Siam square offers a unique shopping experience with its small sois selling books, records, and antiques. The area is also safe, offering popular tourist attractions such as the world-renowned Siam Ocean World aquarium, located in the basement of Siam Paragon mall.
Siam can get congested, especially during weekends, and its heavy traffic can be a challenge. The shopping and dining options here are predominantly western-style, offering little of the authentic Thai experience. Siam is more family-friendly and offers a peaceful nightlife with fewer bars and nightlife.
Hotels in Siam come with great amenities and have a very attractive price tag. In Siam, luxury accommodation has prices of mid-range hotels, making it very attractive to shoppers who want to have the extra cash for their souvenirs and other gift purchases.
Best places to stay in Siam
Indulge in opulence at the Siam Kempinski Hotel Bangkok, where you’ll find an array of pools surrounded by stunning landscapes. With a direct link to the Siam Paragon shopping centre, this resort-style hotel offers free WiFi, exquisite dining, and a top-notch spa for a truly luxurious experience.
Daraya Boutique Hotel, a 4-star property located in Bangkok, offers comfortable stays with an outdoor pool, free WiFi, concierge services, and a shared lounge.
Siam Stadium Hostel is a convenient choice for travelers visiting Bangkok, offering a shared lounge and free WiFi. It is located near popular attractions such as Gaysorn Village Shopping Mall, Central World, and SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World.
Silom – Best area to stay in Bangkok for business travellers
Silom is popular for its central location, upscale hotels, and vibrant street markets. Silom is also a great choice for business travellers due to its proximity to the city’s central business district.
During the day, Silom transforms into Bangkok’s financial district and is home to numerous high-rise buildings and corporate offices. At night, the neighbourhood comes alive with delicious street food, a vibrant nightlife, and various entertainment options.
One of the highlights of Silom is Lumphini Park, the city’s largest green space, which offers a peaceful escape from the bustling city. For those looking for a unique cultural experience, the Bangkokian Museum, featuring two traditional houses, is a must-visit.
For fancy cocktails, head to the SkyBar, located on the 63rd floor, offers breathtaking views of Bangkok’s skyline.
Accommodation options in Silom range from budget-friendly to luxurious hotels rooms, making it easy to find a place for your budget and needs. It’s also the area to find business hotels, perfectly suited for the salarypeople who travel for work. Despite being a popular tourist destination, the area remains suitable for business travellers seeking a well-rounded Bangkok experience.
Best places to stay in Silom
Stay in luxurious comfort at a 5-star hotel offering a fitness center, spa, and three dining options including a Thai restaurant, Chinese restaurant and rooftop bar. Enjoy air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi and private bathrooms
The Standard, Bangkok Mahanakhon offers a range of amenities, including an outdoor pool, free parking, a fitness center, and a restaurant. Guests can enjoy free WiFi, room service, a 24-hour front desk, and other convenient services such as an ATM, concierge, and luggage storage.
Kinnon Hostel in Bangkok’s Silom district offers rooms with free WiFi, a 10-minute walk from Sala Daeng BTS Skytrain Station and Silom MRT station. The hostel features a restaurant, rooftop garden, bar, shared bathroom with free toiletries, and offers a à la carte or Asian breakfast.
Pratunam – Best area to stay in Bangkok for foodies
If you’re a foodie looking for a place to stay in Bangkok that offers a constant flow of delicious bites and is close to shopping, Pratunam is your spot. Pratunam is known for its 24-hour market, and is a hub of young travellers and food enthusiasts, serving a range of Thai delicacies from Thai fish cakes to fried chicken and kueh.
Pratunam is located just a short 15-minute walk from Siam‘s shopping district and the BTS Skytrain station. You’ll find quality budget-friendly accommodation in this area too, close to all the fun food. The street food and market vendors here offer a more authentic Thai experience than other tourist hotspots, and you can even find wholesale fashion prices.
Pratunam is also home to the iconic Baiyoke Tower. An 88-floor skyscraper boasting the tallest and most epic views over Bangkok skyline, particularly at magic hour when Thailand’s famed sunsets burst over the city.
Although Pratunam can be crowded and traffic heavy, the proximity to street food culture is unmatched.
In terms of accommodation, Pratunam is more suited for mid-range and budget travellers. You’ll find several well priced decent hotels, but this is not the area for luxury.
Best places to stay in Pratunam
InterContinental Bangkok offers luxury in Pathumwan, 200 yards from Chitlom BTS Station, with spa treatments, an outdoor pool and 5 dining options. The hotel is a 5-minute walk from shopping at Central World Plaza and Gaysorn Plaza.
Chatrium Grand Bangkok is a 5-star hotel with a pool, parking, fitness center, and restaurant. It offers free WiFi, a kids’ club, room service, and additional services such as an ATM, concierge and currency exchange.
Tang House provides express check-in and check-out, non-smoking rooms, a restaurant, free WiFi throughout the property and a bar.
Riverside – Nest area to stay in Bangkok for couples
The Riverside is the perfect area to stay in Bangkok for couples looking for a romantic getaway. This idyllic neighbourhood is set along the picturesque Chao Phraya River and is known for its luxury accommodations and stunning riverfront views.
With its mix of historic temples, palaces, and modern high-end hotels, Riverside is the epitome of Bangkok’s cultural heart. Take a scenic riverboat tour to visit iconic landmarks like the Wat Arun temple, the vibrant Flower Market, and the Asiatique riverfront market.
For a truly authentic Thai experience, couples can wander the streets of Riverside at night and sample the delicious local cuisine.
Riverside is an expensive area with more luxury hotels and accommodation options, with limited options for budget travellers. The area is a little further from downtown and the main Skytrain station, with only one connection to the station.
Best places to stay in Riverside
Mandarin Oriental Bangkok is a luxurious property located on the Chao Phraya River offering teak wood furnished rooms and Thai silk decor, an outdoor pool, Thai cooking classes, yoga lessons, and free shuttle boat to popular shopping destinations and restaurants.
The Peninsula Bangkok – SHA Extra Plus offers luxury guest rooms with river views and full facilities, including an outdoor pool and fitness centre.
The Salil Hotel Riverside Bangkok offers fabulous facilities including an outdoor pool, parking, fitness centre, and garden. It features a restaurant and terrace and offers room service, 24-hour front desk, concierge service, and currency exchange.
Chinatown – Best area to stay in Bangkok for culture
Chinatown is the ideal place to stay for culture seekers visiting Bangkok. With a rich history dating back to the late 1700s, this bustling neighbourhood offers a unique glimpse into the lives of the Chinese settlers who made it their home.
Here, you’ll find an abundance of street food vendors, selling dishes that are truly representative of Thai cuisine. From the delicious aromas that fill the air, to the lively and vibrant atmosphere, Chinatown promises to tantalize your taste buds and immerse you in a truly authentic cultural experience.
The streets are always active with vendors selling food, gold, tea, and spices, providing a glimpse into the everyday lives of the Chinese community. Despite the busy atmosphere, there are still a number of affordable boutique accommodations, each offering a charming blend of old and new, with rooms restored from traditional Chinese style buildings.
Chinatown is a must-visit for anyone interested in experiencing the cultural and historical richness of Bangkok. There are many mid-range hotels that come at very decent prices, and have private bathrooms and comfortable beds. There are some hostels in the area, but private rooms in 2 and 3-star hotels cost the same, offering more privacy and amenities.
Best places to stay in Chinatown
The Unforgotten B&B in Bangkok offers accommodation, a garden, a shared lounge and a restaurant. Free WiFi is featured throughout the property.
Located within 350 yards of Yaowarat Street Food Market, ASAI Bangkok Chinatown in Bangkok features a number of amenities including a restaurant, a bar and a garden.
Built in 2021, this 3-star hotel is within 2 miles of Temple of the Emerald Buddha and 2.1 miles of Wat Pho. Oldthaiheng features a 24-hour front desk, airport transfers, a tour desk and free WiFi throughout the property.
Thonburi – Best area to stay in Bangkok for families
Thonburi is the best place to stay in Bangkok for families due to its peaceful and relaxed atmosphere compared to the busier city centre. Thonburi offers a great balance between cultural immersion and relaxation. Located on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River, Thonburi offers a unique experience for families who want to experience the true essence of Thai culture and heritage.
Families can explore the local temples and markets, go on a riverboat tour or visit the famous floating market, which offers a glimpse into the traditional way of life in Thailand. The area is also home to several parks, museums and cultural centres, making it a perfect destination for tourists who are interested in history and art.
Accommodation options in Thonburi range from budget-friendly hotels to luxurious resorts, offering families a comfortable stay in a peaceful environment. Thonburi is also well-connected to the city centre by local boats and public transportation, making it easy to access all the sights and attractions of Bangkok.
Best places to stay in Thonburi
Avani Plus Riverside Bangkok Hotel offers rooms with contemporary style and views of the Chao Phraya River. Features include a rooftop infinity pool, restaurants, and free public WiFi.
The Star of Sathorn is situated just a 3-minute walk from BTS Wongwian Yai Skytrain Station. This hotel offers free WiFi, free private parking on site and shuttle service to ICON SIAM and Grand Palace
The stylish Focal Local Bed & Breakfast is located in Bangkok’s Thonburi District. It offers a free Tuk-Tuk shuttle to Krung Thonburi BTS Skytrain Station and Chao Phraya River Pier.
Khao San – Best area to stay in Bangkok for budget travellers
Khao San Road is the perfect area for backpackers and budget travellers to stay in Bangkok. It’s a great place to experience the city’s nightlife and street food, and is also within walking distance of some of Bangkok’s top tourist attractions, such as the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew temple.
The illustrious neighbourhood is home to a spectacular array of traditional sites and historical attractions. Among them are some of the most famous and sacred temples in Thailand.
Khao San Road, famously depicted in the movie “The Beach”with Leonardo DiCaprio, is a hub for backpackers and budget travellers from all over the world. In fact, Khao San is described by Alex Garland in his best-selling book as “the centre of the backpacking universe,”
With an abundance of cheap accommodations, street food vendors, bars and clubs, this area is perfect for those seeking a lively atmosphere and an explosive nightlife in Bangkok. The nearby Soi Rambuttri offers a more relaxed vibe, popular among locals, but still offers a glimpse of the city’s evolution.
Staying on Khao San Road can be noisy due to the nightlife, so opting for accommodation on one of the side streets may be a better option for a good night’s sleep. Accommodation here is tailored for budget and party goers and not luxury travellers.
Best places to stay in Khao San
Situated in Bangkok, near Khao San Road, Wat Saket and Bangkok National Museum, Thanabhumi features free WiFi, and guests can enjoy a shared lounge and a terrace.
With a shared lounge, the 3-star hotel has air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi. The property is non-smoking and is located 0.7 miles from Khao San Road. At the hotel each room is equipped with bed linen and towels.
The LOL Elephant Hostel is located 1.4 miles from Temple of the Golden Mount, a 3-minute walk from Khao San Road and 2.1 miles from Temple of the Emerald Buddha
As you can see, Bangkok is generally safe, so make sure you practice common sense at all times. Also, buy travel insurance before your trip! As already mentioned, most tourists stay in Sukhumvit, Siam, or Riverside and those areas are safe and great for every budget.
Love Thailand? Don’t forget to check when to visit Thailand to have the best vacation. For island travels, check our guides on where to stay in Phuket, where to stay in Krabi and where to stay in Koh Samui.
You now know where to stay in Bangkok to suit your requirements and travel style. Where did you pick for your upcoming holiday? Let me know in the comments section below.
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