Neil Aronson Here is our updated (2024) guide to the most recommended hotels and areas to stay in Bangkok Thailand. In this article we aim to help you figure out where to stay in one of my favorite cities, in my favorite country.
Bangkok is often used by travelers as a jumping off point for travel to other parts of Thailand, such as Chiang Mai in the north, or the many fantastic islands and beaches to the south.
If you are planning to visit our home city, Chiang Mai, check our complete and updated Guide to Chiang Mai Province. Not just the city!
Contents for Bangkok Thailand
Introduction to Bangkok Thailand
About Bangkok Thailand
First of all, Bangkok Thailand is huge. It is one of the most populous cities in Southeast Asia, with a population of over 10 million people. Similar to most of Thailand, the humid rainy season is May-October. During the winter dry season, it is still very warm, especially in the city among the concrete.
The newer of the two major airports, Suvarnabhumi Airport, allows travelers to easily get to other cities in Thailand in an hour, and to all other regions in Asia easily. A 40 minute taxi ride (depending on traffic) will get you from the airport into the city center areas.
Bangkok Thailand is also a little less than 2 hours drive from the popular beach city of Pattaya. From Pattaya and nearby Rayong, you can take a boat to Koh Samet Island, a very popular weekend island getaway. Discover Koh Samet here.
Similarly, another fantastic beach getaway from Bangkok in Hua Hin, about 2.5 hours drive to the south. Famous for its beaches, jungle activities, nightlife, golf, and great hotels.
To get to these locations you can use 12Go, which is Asia’s leading booking site for trains, busses, flights.
Find cheap flights around Thailand and Asia with Air Asia.
The history of Bangkok Thailand goes all the way back to early in the 15th century when it was just a village on the bank of the river to which it sits, the Chao Phraya River. Because of its strategic location, it continued to grow in importance under the rule of Ayatthaya and then the Burmese. Finally to become the capital of Siam in 1782 under King Rama 1.
Over the centuries it became an international economic hub of international trade. And especially after World War 2 with investment from the west. During the Vietnam War it was used as a US military R&R destination, which boosted its tourism industry as well and firmly establishing it as a sex tourism destination.
People: Thai people are some of the most friendly in the world, famous for their ‘Thai Smile’. Not to be confused with the airline! I know because I married one. For travelers, they are very welcoming, helpful, and yes, most speak English.
They take their food very seriously, which makes it a best in Bangkok experience. From fantastic street food to world class high end cuisine, you can find it all in Bangkok.
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Getting There And Getting Around
Airport
Bangkok Thailand has two main airports. The newer international airport Suvarnabhumi (BKK) is one of more modern ones in Asia. It is large but easy to navigate, and I have never had to wait in any long lines. Located east of downtown, about 40 minutes drive. But that depends on the time of day. Traffic around Bangkok can be epic.
Don Mueang Airport used to be the international airport before the opening of BKK. After renovations, it is now used at a regional airport for low cost airlines. So if you are traveling the region, you may use it.
Dozens of major airlines have service to Bangkok Thailand. Our favorite from the US is Korean Airlines through Seoul. Eva, Japan, and China Airlines are good as well. You can look up flights on our Book Travel page.
Flying into the international airport is one way to get there. Many people who are traveling around Thailand will take a train, bus, or local flight to get to Bangkok. The options for traveling cheaply around Thailand are many. 12Go is the best source for trains, busses, and local flights on Bangkok Airways.
Air Asia is probably the most popular regional airline, and can take you all over Southeast Asia.
Getting Around Bangkok Thailand
Bangkok isn’t a walkers’ city. It’s hot, humid, and polluted, so it’s best to take local transport between sights. The exceptions are Chinatown and the area around the Grand Palace, which have several attractions within walking distance. In Siam and Ratchaprasong, elevated walkways connect major shopping malls and BTS Skytrain stations, making it easier to go between hotels and different attractions in the area on foot.
If you just want to get to the end of a long street or need to reach the other side of a neighborhood, take a tuk tuk. These noisy three-wheeled vehicles are often hard to resist, but drivers sometimes trap tourists into stopping at tailor or gem shops (that pay them commissions). Refuse any unrequested stops.
Bangkok has an extensive public transportation system that includes buses, a Skytrain (BTS), an underground metro (MRT), and a network of water buses and taxis on the Chao Phraya River. Traffic congestion is a common issue in the city, so taking the ‘subway’ is recommended if possible.
Songthaew’s are a local favorite option. It is your budget option. Small red busses the will drop you off around town, less than 30 baht. Grab is a local Uber type rideshare company that is available in Thailand. Regular cabs are also readily available.
Popular Areas To Stay
Since it is a large city, choosing the right area to stay in is important. Each area provides a different vibe and things to do. Depending on what you want to do while in Bangkok Thailand, will determine where you want to stay. The BTS train runs through the city, but not through all areas.
Without a doubt, I always book hotels through Agoda. Not just in Thailand, but all over the world. Easy to use, great service if you need it, and rewards program.
Sukhumvit
Home to the upmarket business center of the city and many of the most popular nightlife venues. You’ll also find the best places to shop here, within Siam Square. Siam Square is a shopping mecca, full of luxury shopping centers and bargain department stores, designer labels, and trendy fashion boutiques.
The small sois of Siam Square are alive with record stores, bookstores, cafes, and bars. Siam Square has the best shopping in Bangkok and is full of amenities, like cinemas, massage parlors, and salons. The Nana and Asok areas along Sukhumvit are particularly popular for nightlife.
Sukhumvit is arguably the best area to stay in Bangkok for nightlife and has it all when it comes to dining and clubbing! Much of the action centers around Soi 11, Bangkok’s famous party street, a favorite with both ex-pats and visitors, with its extensive selections of restaurants, clubs, and bars.
HOW TO GET TO SUKHUMVIT
To get there take the BTS Skytrain to Asok, Nana or Phrom Phong station, or the MRT (subway) to Sukhumvit station.
Budget: Jellybean The Blocks Hostel – Jellybean The Blocks is a great hostel for socializing, with a rooftop terrace, a bar downstairs, and organized social events like pub crawls and movie nights. The dorms are small, but the beds are excellent and come with individual outlets and reading lights.
Budget: Sukhumvit On Nut Guesthouse — If you prefer the Sukhumvit area, this guesthouse offers budget-friendly rooms close to the BTS Skytrain station, providing easy access to various parts of the city.
Mid-Range: Grand President Hotel – The Grand President Hotel is a large hotel with three different towers, each with its own rooftop pool and restaurant. It’s in the lively Sukhumvit 11 area, near tons of dining and nightlife options.
Luxury: Okura Prestige Bangkok – A large 5-star modern luxury hotel and a trendy choice in the Sukhumvit area. It is part of the Okura chain of luxury hotels, and the hotel’s Japanese heritage has inspired its interior design, attention to detail, and excellent service.
Serviced Apartment: 137 Pillars Residences — If you’re looking for a cozy high-end apartment in central Bangkok, then 137 Pillars Residences may be just the ticket. These light and airy classic-styled apartments include a large bedroom, a separate living area, a kitchen including a washer/ dryer, and a small balcony.
Khao San Road
Khao San Road is a 1 km stretch of shops, bars, restaurants, and street vendors and is home to the backpacker scene – though it is adding more mid-range hotels and boutiques every year. (Banglamphu is the name of the surrounding neighborhood.) People either love it or hate it but it is well worth a visit. It’s centrally located and close to many of Bangkok’s top attractions (like the Grand Palace).
Highlights here include the cavernous Lava Gold Club and the roof top Gazebo, recently voted as one of the best bars in the world, with live bands, sheesha pipes, and plenty of good cheer.
Banglamphu is an old part of town, and you do not need to walk far from Khao San before you are surrounded by traditional shophouses, local homes, temples, and restaurants that have been here for generations.
Banglamphu’s close vicinity to Bangkok’s most prominent attractions has kept development at bay, and the area is still refreshingly free of modern malls and skyscrapers. Some of the old shophouses have recently been converted into neat boutique guesthouses, hotels, and cozy cafes.
The Khao San/ Banglamphu area does not have a Skytrain or Subway MRT, so the best way to get to/ from Khao San Road is by ferry (walking distance to the river), taxi, Grab car, bus, or by one of Bangkok’s iconic Tuk-Tuks.
Budget: D&D Inn — Situated in the lively Khao San Road area, D&D Inn offers budget accommodation with easy access to the bustling street life of this popular backpacker destination.
Budget: Baan Chart Hotel — Tucked away in a quiet street but still close to the action of Khao San Road, Baan Chart Hotel provides affordable rooms with a relaxed atmosphere.
Budget: Rambuttri Village Plaza — Located near Khao San Road, Rambuttri Village Plaza offers budget accommodation in a lively neighborhood with plenty of restaurants, bars, and street vendors.
Bangkok Old Town
Old Town, Rattanakosin is a historic area, bordered by the Chao Phraya and canals which served as moats for the old city. Bangkok’s most revered historical attractions are located in Rattanakosin.
The area is home to a plethora of Buddhist temples, palaces, monuments, and museums. The Old City area is relatively small and ideal for walking to explore the area. Here, you’ll find the Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha), and Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha).
HOW TO GET TO OLD TOWN
To get there, take the river ferry (Chao Phraya Express) to the Tha Tien or Tha Chang piers, or the MRT subway to Sanam Chai station.
Budget: Sawasdee Bangkok Inn: Positioned in the heart of the city, this budget hotel is close to popular attractions like the Grand Palace and Wat Pho.
Mid-Range: Sala Rattanakosin Bangkok — The riverfront hotel to wake up to postcard views of Wat Arun.
Boutique: Aurum The River Place — Stylist hotel also across the river from Wat Arun.
Silom/Sathon
This is Bangkok’s Wall Street (through the day). After nightfall, the people and environment changes considerably. The skyline is lined with skyscrapers boasting the names of local and international financial institutions, law firms, and corporations. You are close to Lumphini Park.
The small sois between Silom Road and Surawong Road becomes alive with people, street life, sidewalk stalls, and street food vendors. Tourist and locals come here to see the infamous Patpong red-light district. It’s filled with go-go bars and brothels.
Go food exploring along Charoen Krung Road. Bang Rak is an old part of Bangkok and is home to some classic Thai restaurants that have been there for generations.
This area is home to King Power Mahanakhon. Bangkok’s tallest building at 320m has an open-air observation deck, a bar, and a skywalk with a dizzying transparent glass floor.
Sri Mahamariamman Temple is another popular attraction in Silom. It was built in 1879 by Vaithi Padayatchi, a Tamil Hindu immigrant.
HOW TO GET TO SILOM
Take the BTS Skytrain to one of three stations: Sala Daeng (for Patpong), Chong Nonsi (closest to Silom Road and King Power Mahanakhon Tower’s Skywalk), or Saphan Taksin (for the riverfront and the Chao Phraya Express boats). You may also take the MRT (subway) to the stations of Silom and Lumphini. By river boat, the pier is Taksin, outside the Saphan Taksin station of the BTS Skytrain.
Luxury: Kimpton Maa-Lai — The Kimpton Maa-Lai is one of Bangkok’s newest 5-star luxury hotels. It’s a high-end hotel with world-class service but with a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. It’s also a pet-friendly hotel, so if you like dogs, you can meet some cute furry friends around.
Luxury: COMO Metropolitan Bangkok: Known for its contemporary design and wellness-focused approach, this hotel offers a peaceful retreat in the midst of the city.
High End: Banyan Tree Bangkok — This hotel is famous for its rooftop restaurant and bar with stunning city views. It’s a five-star hotel that combines luxury with a touch of Thai hospitality.
Luxury: Sukhothai Bangkok — A luxurious hotel blending traditional Thai architecture with modern comfort, located in the heart of the city.
Serviced Apartments: Oriental Residence Bangkok — The Oriental Residence Hotel is a modern, classy hotel with a great location within walking distance of both Lumpini Park and Sukhumvit Road.
Siam & Ratchaprasong
Siam is famous shopping in Bangkok and has the city’s highest density of shopping malls – MBK, Siam Paragon, Central World, Siam Discovery, Siam Center, and Central Chitlom are all here. I worked for the Sea Life Center over 10 years ago!
You can easily walk in between these shopping malls and shop till you drop or your credit card catches on fire. Here you will find everything you need along with plenty of things you never knew you needed!
All the large shopping malls have great food courts with a bewildering selection of affordable food from all over the world.
Visit Jim Thompson`s House. Get a feel for how it was to live in old Bangkok and visit the lovely Jim Thompson House, a traditional Thai house/ museum. Jim Thompson was the man who made Thai silk world-famous, and his house is today a museum.
Visit Erawan Shrine, which is a statue attracting thousands of daily visitors hoping for good fortune.
HOW TO GET TO SIAM AND RATCHAPRASONG
Take the BTS Skytrain to one of three stations: Siam, Chit Lom, or National Stadium.
Budget: Ibis Bangkok Siam: Located in the vibrant Pratunam area, this hotel is close to shopping centers like MBK and Siam Paragon. It offers modern and comfortable rooms at affordable rates.
Higher End: Intercontinental — I have stayed here several times. The rooms are nice, and can walk to malls and parks.
Luxury: Grand Hyatt Erawan — Just next to the Erawan Shrine. And just down the road from all the shopping.
Chinatown (Yaowarat)
Chinese merchants moved to the east bank of the Chao Phraya River in the early 1780’s, making Chinatown the oldest neighborhood in Bangkok Thailand. The neighborhood was defined by trade then and still is today.
These days, Chinatown isn’t set as a tourist attraction. It is a genuine Chinese neighborhood where people work and live. The streets of Chinatown are vivid and hectic – packed full of people, market stalls, and a concentration of gold shops. One of the best places for street food.
Visit The Sampeng Market. The narrow lanes surrounding Sampeng Square form Chinatown’s biggest and most popular market. Here you will find every trinket known to man. Navigating these narrow lanes can be challenging, but just go with the flow, have fun, and enjoy the craziness. You can make a good deal on Chinese goods like tea, spices, and pottery.
HOW TO GET TO CHINATOWN
Take the river ferry (Chao Phraya Express) to the Ratchawong pier or the MRT (subway) to Hua Lamphong station.
BUDGET: At Hua Lamphong Hostel – This hostel is pretty straightforward, with six-bed mixed-gender dorms, huge lockers, and en-suite bathrooms. It’s in a perfect location for travelers, as Bangkok’s train station is right across the street.
MID-RANGE: W22 by Burasari – The rooms here are plain but comfortable, with wood furnishings and decent beds, and the walls are well soundproofed (this is important when you’re trying to get a good rest in Chinatown!). There is a rooftop bar, a laundry room, and a common area with a pool table.
Mid-Range: The Mustang Blu — Mustang Blu is perfect for anyone looking for a unique boutique hotel with tons of charm and history.
Mid-Range: Shanghai Mansion — Shanghai Mansion is the trendiest boutique hotel in Chinatown at the moment. The Shanghai of the 1930s inspires the hotel’s decor.
Mid-Range: Hotel Royal @ Chinatown — Featuring a rooftop salt-water pool, this is the perfect place to escape the heat of Chinatown’s streets. The rooms and apartments are quite large, making them a good choice for families or groups.
Riverside/ Thonburi
This area in Bangkok Thailand comprises the entire west bank of the Chao Phraya River – across the water from the city’s center. If you’re sensitive to breathing polluted air then staying in Thonburi can make a noticeable difference on allergies. On this side of the river there’s a slower, more relaxed Bangkok that gives visitors a glimpse into traditional Thai culture.
Canals make their way through the relatively isolated neighborhoods. Vendors sell noodles from old Thai long tail boats and locals prefer to bicycle through the sois. The most popular tourist activity is to hire a long tail boat and explore the waterways and floating markets.
Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok: A legendary luxury hotel located along the Chao Phraya River, known for its elegance, impeccable service, and historical significance.
The Peninsula Bangkok: Another upscale hotel on the riverside, offering panoramic views of the city. It’s praised for its luxurious accommodations and excellent facilities.
Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort: Situated along the Chao Phraya River, this resort-style hotel offers a tranquil setting with lush gardens and a range of recreational facilities.
Shangri-La Hotel, Bangkok: Situated along the river, this five-star hotel is known for its spacious rooms, multiple dining options, and beautiful gardens.
Bangkok Shopping
Leave room in your luggage to bring back hand made crafts and clothing from locals. As well as high end shopping, Bangkok has maybe too many shopping options. From street markets to fancy indoor shopping malls, and everything in between.
WHAT TO BUY IN BANGKOK THAILAND
Lower prices and a wide variety of products have made shopping in Bangkok a major attraction for tourists. Typically Thai items are the most tempting buys, especially silk, which comes in a large variety of designs. The city is also known for its gems (especially rubies and sapphires), and for tailors who create custom quality suits and dresses at reasonable prices.
WHAT NOT TO BUY IN BANGKOK THAILAND
Resist getting wood or bamboo pieces — they’re often quite attractive and cheap, but you don’t want to contribute to Thailand’s disastrous deforestation problem. Also skip the fake purses, t-shirts and watches with luxury logos, as they’re not only illegal, but customs officers may confiscate them.
To find out the Best Ways To Pay For Everything, when traveling in Thailand, read our article.
Chatuchak Weekend Market: One of the largest markets in the world, Chatuchak is a bustling weekend market where you can find everything from clothing and accessories to home decor and exotic pets.
Night Markets:
The popular Suan Lum Night Bazaar is found on Ratchada Road, close to the Lad Phrao station of the MRT underground metro and the The Bazaar Hotel, opening at around 4pm in the afternoon and only closing at midnight. It has literally thousands of stalls selling everything from clothing to jewelry, to handicrafts and home décor and souvenirs.
Take a night market tour with Viator.
Also for the later hours of the day (opening daily, except Mondays, at 8pm), is the Saphan Phut Night Market, by the Memorial Bridge, popular with young Thais hunting for fashion and second-hand items.
Even more famous is the Patpong night market, with neon-lit stalls of cheap souvenirs and fake goods set up each evening by the bars that make up Bangkok’s most famous red-light district.
Asiatique The Riverfront: A large open-air mall and entertainment complex on the Chao Phraya River, offering shopping, dining, and cultural performances.
Siam Paragon and Siam Center: High-end shopping malls in the Siam Square area, offering luxury brands, entertainment, and dining options.
MBK Center: A popular shopping mall known for its vast array of shops selling clothing, electronics, souvenirs, and more. It’s a great place for bargain hunting.
Damnoen Saduak Floating Market & Maeklong Railway Market Tour: Located east of the city, these are two of the most famously photograhed places. Going by tour is the best option. Damnoen Saduak is the most popular floating market in Thailand.
Close by is Talad Rom Hoop, also known as ‘Train Umbrella Market’, for a unique market experience. The market literally sits on the railway track and every day customers and shopkeepers make way for the Bangkok-Maeklong train to pass.
We hope this helps you plan your visits to Bangkok Thailand.
Do not forget Travel Insurance when visiting Bangkok Thailand. For why, and options, visit our guide. Why Do I Need Travel Insurance.
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