Bangkok is a very popular tourist destination, but with all the hotels and other places to stay it can be a bit overwhelming. Since there are so many options and accommodations available, you can question yourself ‘where to stay in Bangkok?’.

Every part of the city has its own charm and drawbacks for travelers. Where you stay in Bangkok depends on what you want from your visit. To help you on your way in this massive city with a population of more than 8 million people, covering 1600 square kilometers I compelled a list of best places to stay in Bangkok.

Navigating through Bangkok is very easy, you can always grab a taxi, or Grab (Thailand’s equivalent of Uber), or of course hopping on a tuk-tuk since they are widely accessible throughout the city.

But don’t forget to use Bangkok’s budget-friendly and user-friendly public transportation system, featuring the skytrain, Subway MRT, river ferries, and buses.

Bangkok Riverside

Prior to the development of roads, highways, and airports, this served as Thailand’s connection to the world. The historic riverside communities that flank it have existed for centuries and played a crucial role in shaping Bangkok into the city it is today.

The fact that you can enjoy great views, a constant breeze, and the chance to take a cheap and scenic river taxi, not to mention easy access to delightful khlong tours that make for a fun afternoon but also easy acces to areas like Chinatown and Rattanokosin Island makes this a great area to stay.

The down side of this area is that you really need to do your homework while staying here, when you don’t know how to find the good restaurants, you might be stuck eating at more expensive ones. Also if you don’t know where the MRT and BTS stations are and how to get there, it’s often hard to get in and out of the area to see things.

But don’t let this scare you down since this is an amazing area to stay while visiting Bangkok you just need to know where to go because exploring the Bangkok Riverside ensures a blend of historical, cultural, and modern experiences along the scenic Chao Phraya River.

Things to see and do in Bangkok Riverside Area

• The Royal Grand Palace: once the residence of the King of Thailand, is a majestic landmark. This iconic palace is Bangkok’s most renowned attraction, making it a must-visit destination in the city. Make sure you visit early since it will get extremely busy later in the day.
• Wat Arun: also known as the Temple of the Dawn, stands out as one of our preferred temples. Its distinctive tower adorned with amazing porcelain tiles is especially the best to visit in the morning, as the sun reflects off its surface, or in the evening when it is illuminated. Similar to the Royal Grand Palace, by going early you’ll avoid the crowds.
• Temple of the Emerald Buddha: Situated within the grounds of the Royal Palace, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaeo) is renowned for its exquisite beauty, housing a Buddha statue crafted from jade. Make sure you take a look when visiting the Royal Grand Palace.
• Icon Siam: this is a must visit for all shopaholics out there, this shopping mall is the 2th largest one in Thailand. With hundreds of shops and restaurants around you can wander around Icon Siam for hours on end.
• Pak Klong Talat: This is a massive flower market where you can buy flowers, fresh fruits and vegetables.
• Asiatique The Riverfront: An amazing open air mall with a riverside setting, offering a mix of shopping, restaurants, and entertainment options.

Hotels To Stay While Visiting The Riverside Area

• Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok: For over 147 years, travelers have followed the Chao Phraya River to experience the renowned hospitality of the Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok. Situated in one of the globe’s most vibrant cities, the luxury five-star hotel is celebrated for its distinctive style, great service, and commitment to excellence.
• Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River: This hotel ranked #3 on The World’s 50 Best Hotels List 2023, and is surrounded by galleries, boutiques, restaurants, and cafés. It’s a lively hub of energy and style.
• The Peninsula Bangkok: Experience a truly unique urban resort at The Peninsula Bangkok. With an unmatched sense of style and savoir-faire, The Peninsula Hotels stands out as the only hotel brand to achieve the prestigious five-star status across all ten of its properties, as awarded by Forbes Travel Guide in 2023.
• Siamotif Boutique Hotel: An amazing hotel when on a “budget”, nestled by the Bangkok Noi canal, a section of the Chao Phraya River, stands an ancient wooden house in Thonburi, surrounded by traditional communities where locals lead simple lives. Just a short boat ride from the Emerald Buddha Temple across the river.
• Loy La Long Hotel: This is another great hotel you can stay at when on a “budget”, the hotel is greatly rated an located close to all the hot spots. Loy La Long was even featured in Thailand’s highest grossing movie of 2009, called Bangkok Traffic (love) Story.
• Sala Rattanakosin Bangkok: This hotel is located next to the Wat Phra and a boat ride away from the Wat Arun, you can even book the Wat Arun suite and have the amazing Wat Arun as your view. Or choose one of there many other available room options.

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Khoa San Area

Khao San Road is probably the most famous street in Bangkok, and anyone who is backpacking through south east Asia will come here at least once. We stayed in this area on our first trip ever to Bangkok, back in 2023, and we really enjoyed our time here.

In this area you’ll find everything your heart desires, from cheap markets and street food to happy hours which are both at daytime and nighttime. Khoa San is a trendy spot for young Thais to frequent in the evenings, especially on weekends, where they can soak up the lively market vibes and nightlife.

When we stayed in Khoa San we didn’t stay in a lavish hotel, since there are not much of them around. You do have lots of budget-friendly guesthouses and mid-range options, that’s where we stayed in and it was amazing.

Hotels To Stay While Visiting Khao San Area

• Khao San Road: also known as Thanon Khao San in Thai, for a legendary and lively experience. Enjoy the bars, restaurants, street markets, and the vibrant backpacker scene. It’s a lot of fun, and something everyone has to visit not only budget travelers.
• Mega Swing: Soaring over 21 meters high and painted a vibrant blood red, this iconic landmark was built by King Rama I in 1784, just two years after Bangkok became the capital. A must visit in the heart of the city!
• Golden Mount Temple: Discover the enchanting Golden Mount Temple, also known as Wat Saket, on top of the Golden Mountain (Phu Khao Thong). This stunning Buddhist temple is the perfect spot to catch a breathtaking sunset. Don’t miss out on the beauty waiting for you at this iconic destination!
• Bangkok National Museum: Dive into the rich history of Thailand, at the Bangkok National Museum, the city’s biggest museum. I really enjoyed going here since I’m a big museum lover!
• River Ferry A riverboat journey just like the locals do! Hop off a few stops down the river, and visit the Grand Palace and Bangkok’s famous temples. The perfect way to experience the heart and soul of this vibrant city and a super cheap way of transportation!

Which hotel should you pick when visiting Khoa San?

• Lamphu Tree House Boutique Hotel: This is one of the boutique hotels me and my boyfriend stayed in when visiting in 2023, I would highly recommend to stay here. The hotel is just a short walk away from Khoa San Road. Not even talking about the amazing facilities, a great room, AC and of course a pool to take a refreshing dive after a long day! Above all, it was very well priced and we would surely revisit this hotel! You also have an amazing family owned “street restaurant” which is next to the hotel, they serve amazing Thai street food. 
• Riva Surya Bangkok: Discover the exquisite Riva Surya Bangkok, a luxurious urban oasis next to the Chao Phraya River. This boutique gem adds a touch of style and charm to your stay. And one of the few high end hotels close to Khoa San Road, since its only a 5 minute walk.
• Khao san Palace Hotel: You’ll find this hotel in the heart of Khao San Road, this makes it a great spot when you want to visit tourist attractions like the golden palace, and the big swing. They also offer luxury facilitates like a rooftop pool.

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Chinatown Area

Chinatown, one of Bangkok’s oldest neighborhoods, was initially home to Chinese traders long before Bangkok became the capital in 1782. Walking through its narrow alleys feels like a journey back in time, offering a glimpse into Bangkok’s fascinating past.

Safe to say that this is the most vibrant and lively area in Bangkok and also my favorite Bangkok neighborhood. This lively area is well know for its lively markets and a lot of shops and eateries. Visitors are greeted by a sea of colorful signs, amazing architecture, and of course delicious street food.

When I visited Chinatown I booked a foodtour, you’ll eat at amazing spots which you wouldn’t find on your own, a MUST if you’re a food lover! Let me tell you more about it.

Things to see and do in China Town Area

• Tuk Tuk Food Tour: Number one on my list of things to do in Chinatown, this Michelin guide food tour was simply amazing. We ate at so many different incredible street food/restaurants which where all on the Michelin guide. All together it took about 3 hours, not only amazing food was consumed but we also had a fun time in the Tuk Tuk who brought us to all the locations safely. Next to that we had the most amazing guide which made this tour perfect. I would highly recommend you take this tour when you visit Chinatown.
• Experience Authentic Old Bangkok:Go through the narrow alleyways of Talad Noi, immersing yourself in the rich scents, sounds, and vibrant colors of traditional Thai and Chinese culture. This is the way to really experience what China Town has to offer.
• Visit Trendy Hangouts in Chinatown: Chinatown doesn’t only offer endless street food stalls, but has also seen a wave of hip coffee shops, bars, and nightclubs sprouting up in old, once-abandoned buildings.
• Little India: Close to Chinatown you’ll find Little India, when entering you’ll be greeted with a burst of burst of colors, the aroma of spices, and lots of street food vendors.

Where To Stay When Visiting The China Town Area?

• The Mustang Blu: Probably one of the most unique hotels in de area, this hotel offers tons of charm and history. Refurbished with care by owner and fashion designer Ananda Chalardcharoen, seamlessly blends classic vintage style with modern comfort. The hotel features ten private rooms available in two layouts, all boasting a charming industrial design aesthetic. 
• Shanghai Mansion Bangkok: Relax at the Shanghai Mansion, Chinatown’s best known and award-winning boutique hotel. And easy to acces by the MRT, Wat Mangkorn underground metro station.
• Norn Yaowarat Hotel: This hotel is located in the centre of Chinatown, and offer various room options including dormitories. In walking distance from Wat Mangkon BTS station (Bangkok metro) makes this a great way to explore Bangkok even more!

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Silom Area

Silom is a lively area in Bangkok, Thailand. Picture busy streets, tall buildings, and exciting nightlife for both locals and tourists. Silom sits right in the middle of Bangkok, making it super easy for travelers to check out other cool spots in the city.

Across from Convent Road and alongside the smoked-glass banks and offices also known as modern Bangkok, you’ll find the vibrant nightlife hub of Bangkok called Patpong. 

If you head west along Thanon Silom from Patpong, there’s a lively South Indian area. Here, you can spot the eye-catching Maha Uma Devi Temple, a colorful landmark.

Things to see and do in Silom Area

• Visit Lumphini Park: Tucked beneath the tall buildings of Silom and Sathorn in Bangkok is Lumphini Park, the city’s favorite green oasis. With its open fields, calm ponds, and winding paths, it’s a hotspot all day and a great gateway from the busy city. Plus, keep an eye out for the charming monitor lizards hanging out there! When we visited Lumphini Park we wandered there for hours on end, in my opinion this is a must when you stay in Bangkok.
• Shopping in Silom: The Silom Area offers a variety of experiences. You’ve got the lively Patpong street market every night, and there are also fancy malls like Silom Complex. Silom has something for every kind of shopper.
• Bangkok Seashell Museum: Ever thought seashells could be fascinating? Well, at the Bangkok Seashell Museum, you definitely will! With over 3,000 seashells showcasing 600+ species, it’s a variety that can amaze even the least interested.
• Street food: Ofcourse you can enjoy street food in every area of Bangkok, but the Silom Area has a nice collection of street food vendors at the Bangkok Silom Night Market. I would highly recommend you go and explore the wide variety of foods when you visit Bangkok.

Where To Stay When Visiting The Silom Area?

• Montien Hotel Surawong Bangkok: Freshly renovated in 2021, the Montien Hotel Surawong Bangkok now has 485 rooms, each with fantastic views of the neighborhood. The hotel features Ruenton, a Michelin-recommended Thai-Chinese restaurant, and Phar-ram IV bistro serving a European a la carte menu.
• Lebua At State Tower: Indulge in the luxury of lebua at State Tower, Bangkok’s iconic five-star hotel with suites. They’ve amped up their famous Thai hospitality, and paired it with stunning views, lavish suites, and fantastic restaurants and bars.
• Mode Sathorn Hotel: Consider Mode Sathorn Hotel for a relaxing stay. Renowned for its romantic ambiance and close proximity to fantastic restaurants, it’s the perfect spot to savor the best of the Silom Area. Above all this hotel is very well priced.

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Pratunam Area

Pratunam covers just a small, bustling area of central Bangkok, stretching from Phetchaburi Road in the south to Chaturathit Road in the north.

Pratunam boasts some of the finest shopping spots in not just Bangkok but all of Southeast Asia, earning its reputation as the ultimate shopping destination in the city. This makes it a great area to stay if you are a lover of big shopping malls.

I actually really enjoyed spending time in Pratunam Area. This area has it all, from massive malls to cute coffee shops.

Things to see an do in Pratunam Area

• Platinum Fashion Mall: Frequently likened to an indoor version of the Chatuchak Weekend Market, it focuses on wholesale fashion and accessories. With four floors of shopping space housing around 1,300 shops, it’s a bustling hub for fashion enthusiasts.
• CentralWorld Mall: The shopping center boasts more than 500 stores including local, high street as well as high-end brands along with world-class entertainment and services. I’ve spend hours inside this mall, you just lose track of time when wandering around. A great place for all shopping lovers to visit!
• Red Sky: A rooftop bar on top of the Centara Grand Hotel at CentralWorld Mall. Whether you’ve been exploring the Siam malls or navigating the bustling Pratunam Market, the location is conveniently accessible from both. And a great place to have a drink after a long day of high end shopping!
• Pratunam Market: It’s known for affordable clothes and apparel, offering knock-off designer brand tees, 50 Thai baht ‘luxury’ sunglasses, as well as full-length silk dresses and sarongs.
• Baiyoke Tower Observation Deck: Experience a panoramic view of Bangkok from the observation deck atop the 309-meter-tall Baiyoke Tower. A serene escape from the bustling shopping centers and traffic of Bangkok’s streets, this skyscraper provides breathtaking views of the city.

Where To Stay When Visiting The Pratunam Area?

• Top High Airport Link Hotel: This hotel is not only very affordable but perfectly located in the center of Pratunam. This 3-star hotel offers, massages, an outdoor swimming pool and restaurant.
• The Berkeley Hotel Pratunam: This 5-star hotel is one of the best in the Pratunam Area, since it is very well priced and offers all the facilities you need to enjoy your stay in Bangkok. Above all it is very well located so you can easily acces all the hotspots.
• Akara Hotel: The fusion of east and west meets seamlessly, blending classic charm with modern elegance. Our rooms, adorned with refined white wood and marble decor, exude style while providing state-of-the-art amenities. Experience contemporary comfort within the embrace of neoclassical allure.
• Hotel Tranz: Hotel Tranz is conveniently situated opposite the Airport Rail Link, offering a quick 30-minute ride to and from Suvarnabhumi Airport. Plus, with the BTS skytrain right at the hotel’s doorstep, guests enjoy easy access to various areas in Bangkok. So a great location plus a great price!

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The International Airport Suvarnabhumi Area

Suvarnabhumi Airport serves as the primary international gateway for Bangkok, welcoming travelers arriving from Europe, Australia, or the USA.

Until 2006, Don Mueang Airport held the status of Bangkok’s primary airport until the inauguration of Suvarnabhumi Airport. Currently, Don Mueang Airport is utilized for domestic flights and serves as a hub for certain low-fare international Asian flights, including airlines such as AirAsia, Nok Air, and Lion Air.

Both airports are situated at a considerable distance from downtown Bangkok, approximately a 45-minute drive from the central area of the city. The only reason you’ll stay here is when you have an early flight to catch, or you maybe arrive in the middle of the night, and don’t want to go into the city directly.

Things to see and do in Airport Suvarnabhumi Area

There is not much to see and do in this area, apart from the big airport terminal. You can explore Mega Bangna, an extensive shopping mall housing 400 shops, or indulge in the luxury offerings of Central Village, an outlet store featuring 300 high-end stores. For those with additional time, consider a visit to Samut Prakan Ancient Siam, an expansive outdoor museum located approximately 40 minutes away from the airport.

But if you’re visiting Bangkok I would not recommend you to stay in this area, just because its such a long trip to all the hotspots in central Bangkok.

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Siam Area

Siam stands out as the premier shopping destination in Bangkok, boasting the highest concentration of shopping malls in the city. Within its vicinity, you’ll find renowned establishments such as MBK, Siam Paragon, Central World, Siam Discovery, Siam Center, and Central Chitlom. But don’t forget visiting siam square after a long day of shopping.

When we visited Bangkok in 2023 we spent a whole day exploring these massive shopping malls, and bought some really affordable “luxury goods”. Siam offers a diverse array of goods, ensuring you not only find everything you require but also discover numerous items you never knew you needed.

Siam is definitely the best place to stay if you like to shop and stay away from Bangkok’s heat! Since all these malls are air-conditioned. But don’t worry, Siam doesn’t only offer malls, on the Siam square you can find various little eateries and shops. And during nighttime you’ll see lots of performers, musicians and food trucks!

Things to see and do in Siam Area

• Shopping: Ofcourse this has to be the first one on the list, visit all the major malls like: iam Paragon, Central World, Central Chitlom and MBK.
• Apex Scala Theatre: The Apex Scala Theatre in Siam Square provides a more intimate one-screen movie theatre experience in contrast to the expansive complex located in Siam Paragon, just a stone’s throw away.
• Pathum Wanaram Temple: Constructed by King Rama IV in 1857 as a place of worship adjacent to his Sa Pathum Palace, Pathum Wanaram Temple showcases remarkable craftsmanship. When exploring the site, be sure to admire the intricate carvings on the crematorium, which offer rare examples of ancient artistry, featuring elaborate stencils and lacquered sculptures.
• Red Sky Rooftop (Centara Grand Hotel): Situated atop the Centara Grand CentralWorld Bangkok, Red Sky is an elegant sky bar and restaurant. With breathtaking panoramic views of the city from its 56th floor, it stands as one of the premier spots in the city for an exquisite dining and drinking experience, particularly following a day of shopping.
• Jim Thompson House: Jim Thompson House was the residence of James Harrison Wilson Thompson, an American businessman who devoted more than 30 years to revitalizing Thai silk during the 1950s. It’s a museum and art centre showcasing Thompson’s collection of Asian antiques and Thai silk.
• Madame Tussauds Bangkok: At Siam Discovery Center, you can engage with lifelike wax figures exhibited throughout the venue. Most of these figures are interactive, allowing you to touch, hug, play, and even kiss them. Since I’ve visited Madame Tussauds in Amsterdam multiple times I didn’t visit the one in Bangkok but if you never visited Madame Tussaud I would recommend you to go!

Where To Stay When Visiting Siam Area?

• Asia Hotel Bangkok: This hotel is perfectly located, with just a 650 meter walk to the big malls like Siam Paragon. They offer various facilities like an outdoor swimming pool, amazing fitness center and even an area to play snooker! Above all this hotel is very well priced, and amazingly rated.
• Evergreen Place Siam by UHG: Great location, with just a 10 minute walk from Siam Square. Relax at there rooftop swimming pool after a long day of shopping or head over to their amazing gym for a workout. With a great rating and perfect location, this is a great pick when staying in the Siam Area.
• Siam Kempinski Hotel Bangkok: Recently joining the ranks of Siam’s upscale hotels, the Chatrium Grand welcomed its first guests in late 2022. This is one of the most luxurious hotels you’ll find in the area. And if you want to treat yourself, this is it. They offer the best rooftop swimming bar I’ve ever seen in Bangkok, and treat you with various drinks and snacks on your room not even talking about the great room service. Conveniently located with just a few minutes walk away from Siam’s malls and the Siam Skytrain station.

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Sukhumvit Area

Situated in the central part of Bangkok along Sukhumvit Road, Sukhumvit is recognized as one of the city’s most modern and cosmopolitan neighborhoods.

Staying in this neighborhood is highly convenient, thanks to accessible public transport options (Skytrain and MRT), excellent shopping opportunities, modern supermarkets, and a diverse array of outstanding dining choices.

Sukhumvit stands out as arguably the best location for a vibrant nightlife experience in Bangkok, offering a diverse array of dining and clubbing options. The epicenter of the excitement is Soi 11, renowned as Bangkok’s famous party street. This bustling locale is a favorite among both ex-pats and visitors, boasting an extensive array of restaurants, clubs, and bars.

Things to see and do in Sukhumvit Area

• Shopping: Just like many other areas in Bangkok this is a great one to go shopping. Along Sukhumvit Road, it appears that every few hundred meters there is a shopping mall. Among the most noteworthy ones are Terminal 21, featuring city-themed floors, Central Chidlom, Emporium, Emquartier, and the exceptionally luxurious Central Embassy mall, complete with a spacious open bookstore/food court on its top floor and an amazing statue made by KAWS, my personal favorite!
• Octave Rooftop Bar & Lounge: Octave Rooftop Bar & Lounge, a four-story nightlife destination located within Bangkok Marriott Hotel Sukhumvit, welcomes visitors throughout the day. However, the optimal time for a visit is during the evening, allowing you to relish the stunning sunset views of Bangkok. But make sure to have a look around, since this is one of the many spots in Sukhumvit area to enjoy the nightlife!
• Museum of Science & Planetarium: The Bangkok Science & Planetarium Museum provides an exceptional venue for informal learning about science and technology, natural history, the environment, and deep space. This isn’t really one of the populair tourist attractions but worth visiting.
• Benjakitti Park/ Benchakitti Park: The largest park in Bangkok, situated nearest to Sukhumvit, is akin to the neighborhood’s green lung. The recently expanded Forrest Park section is truly remarkable and serves as an ideal location for an afternoon stroll.

Where To Stay When Visiting Sukhumvit Area?

• Hotel Indigo Bangkok Wireless Road: Hotel Indigo is a fresh, comfortable midsize hotel with vintage, almost steampunk-inspired decor. Well located and the rooftop bar and infinity-edge swimming pool have a fantastic view of Bangkok’s skyline.
• Carlton Hotel Bangkok Sukhumvit: Stylish and contemporary, Carlton Hotel Bangkok Sukhumvit is a luxury hotel that offers 338 elegant rooms and suites, a choice of renowned dining venues including the signature Cantonese restaurant, Wah Lok, and a chic sky bar with panoramic views of the cityscape.
• Hotel Clover Asoke: Hotel Clover Asoke was officially inaugurated in June 2016, featuring a total of 95 rooms across four distinct categories: Standard, Clover Style, Ladies’ Floor, and Executive Room. With a chic design, the hotel focuses on a girl-friendly and solo female traveler concept. Each room boasts a unique design, and the corridors are themed with distinct styles.