Where to Stay in Bangkok 🇹🇭: Best Neighborhoods & Hotels

Bangkok, the vibrant capital of Thailand, is a city that captivates visitors with its unique blend of ancient traditions and modern marvels.

However, with so many diverse neighborhoods and countless accommodation options, deciding where to stay in Bangkok can be overwhelming. Each neighborhood has its own distinct character, attractions, and advantages, catering to different preferences and budgets.

Our Pick of the Best Hotels in Bangkok 🔝

• 💎 Luxury Hotel: Mandarin Oriental ▪ The Peninsula
• ✨ 5-Star: Siam Kempinski Hotel
• 🏨 4-Star: Daraya Boutique Hotel
• 🛏️ 3-Star: Bangkok Saran Poshtel
• 💸 Cheap: The One Smart Living
• 🏢 Apartament: The Rose Residence ▪ Sindhorn Midtown Hotel
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 For Families: Grande Centre Point ▪ Anantara Riverside
• 🏩 For Couples: Avani Plus Riverside

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best areas to stay in Bangkok, highlighting the unique features, top attractions, and recommended hotels in each neighborhood.

So, whether you’re planning a short stopover or an extended trip to Bangkok, join us as we delve into the best neighborhoods and hotels in Bangkok.

Quick Bangkok Neighborhood Guide 📋

• 🔥 For the First Time: Sukhumvit
• 🛒 For Shopping: Siam ▪ Pratunam
• 🍸 For Nightlife: Silom
• 👨‍👩‍👦 For Families: Riverside
• 💸 Budget-friendly: Khao San Road
• 😋 For Foodies: Chinatown
• 🔮 Trendiest: Thonglor

1. Sukhumvit – Best Area to Stay in Bangkok for the First Time 👀

🌃 Vibrant hub: Sukhumvit is one of the most popular and vibrant areas to stay in Bangkok, offering a perfect blend of modern amenities, diverse accommodation options, and easy access to the city’s top attractions.

✨ Advantages of staying in Sukhumvit:

• Convenient location: Sukhumvit is well-connected by the BTS Skytrain and MRT subway, making it easy to explore other parts of the city and reach popular tourist destinations.
• Diverse accommodation options: From luxury hotels to budget hostels, Sukhumvit caters to all types of travelers and budgets.
• Vibrant nightlife and dining: Sukhumvit is known for its lively bars, clubs, and restaurants, offering a mix of local and international cuisines. Popular areas include Soi 11, Soi 33, and Asoke.

🛍️ Shopping and culture: Also, the neighborhood is home to several luxury malls, such as EmQuartier and Terminal 21, as well as local markets like Khlong Toei Market. And, of course, you can’t miss interesting attractions, such as the Kamthieng House Museum, a 19th-century teak farmhouse from Chiang Mai.

✨ Top choice: Whether you’re a first-time visitor to Bangkok or a seasoned traveler, Sukhumvit is a top choice to experience the best of Bangkok’s nightlife, restaurants, shopping and culture.

All hotels in Sukhumvit →

Where to Stay in Sukhumvit? 🏩

Best Hotels in Sukhumvit

• Carlton Hotel Bangkok Sukhumvit – This luxurious hotel offers elegant rooms, an outdoor pool, fitness center, and a terrace. The breakfast buffet is a highlight, with a wide variety of unique cuisines to choose from. The staff is incredibly friendly and welcoming. 
• JW Marriott Hotel Bangkok – From the moment you arrive, the valet service greets you with a smile. The rooms are comfortably furnished and elegant, with soundproof walls and flat-screen TVs. The facilities, including the restaurants and lounges, are outstanding. 
• Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit – Directly connected to the BTS Skytrain and MRT subway stations, this luxurious hotel offers award-winning restaurants and 24-hour room service. The rooms are spacious and well-appointed, and the location is unbeatable. 

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

• Valia Hotel Bangkok – This hotel offers lovely modern rooms with amenities like washing machines and larger fridges, perfect for longer stays. The location is excellent, and I received a complimentary upgrade to a corner suite room, which was amazing. 
• Ascott Thonglor Bangkok – Everything about this hotel is perfect, from the extremely nice staff to the stylish and spotlessly clean facilities. The rooms look brand new, and the breakfast selection is great, with local and continental options. The swimming pool has a great view. 
• The Fig Lobby – Great rooms, massage services, food, and service. The rooftop vibe is fantastic, and the hotel offers a fitness center, outdoor pool, and free private parking.

2. Siam – Best Place to Stay in Bangkok for Shopping 🛒

🛍️ Shopping paradise:Siam is the heart of Bangkok, known for its world-class shopping malls, vibrant atmosphere, and central location. This area is a must-visit for shopaholics and those who want to stay in the middle of the action.

🌐 Benefits of staying in Siam:

• Shopping mecca: Siam is home to some of Bangkok’s most iconic shopping malls, such as Siam Paragon, Siam Center, and MBK Center. These malls offer a wide range of international and local brands, as well as entertainment options like cinemas and gaming arcades.
• Central location: Staying in Siam puts you in the center of Bangkok, making it easy to reach other popular areas like Sukhumvit, Silom, and Pratunam. Siam is also a major transportation hub, with access to the BTS Skytrain and MRT subway.

🚶 Nearby attractions: Area is within walking distance or a short train ride from popular attractions like the Jim Thompson House, Erawan Shrine, and Bangkok Art and Culture Centre.

🍽️ Culinary diversity: From high-end restaurants to food courts and street food stalls, Siam offers a diverse culinary scene that caters to all tastes and budgets. You can find both local Thai dishes and international cuisines in this area.

All hotels in Siam →

Where to Stay in Siam? 🏨

Best Hotels in Siam

• Grand Hyatt Erawan Bangkok – This 5-star luxury hotel offers resort-styled facilities in a strategic location. The breakfast spread is excellent, with a wide range of options to choose from. 
• Siam Kempinski Hotel Bangkok – An opulent hotel that exudes grandeur from the moment you step inside. The rooms are lavishly appointed, and the service is impeccable. 
• Pathumwan Princess Hotel – Blending Thai hospitality with stylish decor, this award-winning 5-star hotel boasts spacious, clean, and newly renovated rooms. The location is incredibly convenient. 
• Centara Grand at CentralWorld – I always love staying at this hotel. The outdoor pool is amazing, the gym is well-equipped, and the breakfast buffet is superb. The Thai hospitality is top-notch. 

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

• Holiday Inn Express Bangkok – The rooms are clean, comfortable, and the staff is incredibly helpful and kind. A great value for the price.
• Siam Design Hotel – This hotel is very clean, comfortable, and welcoming. The staff is exceptionally friendly and attentive.
• LiT BANGKOK Hotel – The extra radiance room was perfect, with a wonderful bed and bathtub. The hotel offers stylish accommodations in a convenient location. 

3. Silom – Best Bangkok Area for Nightlife 💃

🌆 Lively hub: Silom is a vibrant and diverse neighborhood in Bangkok, known for its bustling business district, lively nightlife, and convenient access to public transportation. This area is popular among both business travelers and tourists.

🚉 Transit central: The Sala Daeng BTS Station and Silom MRT Station are both located in the heart of the neighborhood, providing quick access to popular destinations like Siam, Sukhumvit, and Chatuchak Weekend Market.

🍻 Nightlife hotspot: District is famous for its vibrant nightlife scene, with numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants catering to various tastes and preferences. The area is home to the renowned Patpong Night Market, which offers a unique blend of shopping, dining, and adult entertainment.

🌳 Green oasis: Silom is located next to Lumphini Park, Bangkok’s largest green space. This 142-acre park is a popular spot for jogging, picnicking, and escaping the city’s hustle and bustle. The park also features a lake, playgrounds, and an outdoor gym, making it an ideal place to relax and unwind.

Whether you’re in town for work or pleasure, Silom offers a perfect balance of convenience and excitement.

All hotels in Silom →

Where to Stay in Silom? 🏩

4. Riverside – Bangkok’s Favorite Area for Families 🌆

🌆 Tranquil escape: Bangkok’s Riverside area is a picturesque neighborhood that offers a unique and tranquil escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Staying in the Riverside area provides visitors with a truly immersive and authentic Thai experience.

🌉 Stunning views: The Riverside area is renowned for its stunning views of the Chao Phraya River and the city skyline. Many hotels and resorts in this area offer breathtaking river views.

🏯 Cultural icons: Some of Bangkok’s most significant cultural and historical attractions are located in the Riverside area, including:

• Grand Palace
• Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha)
• Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)
• Bangkok National Museum

🚣 Unique transportation: Staying in this area allows you to easily explore these iconic sites on foot. The Riverside area offers a unique transportation experience with river taxis and long-tail boats. These traditional modes of transportation provide a scenic and memorable way to navigate the city.

Whether you’re looking for luxury accommodations or budget-friendly options, the Riverside area has something to offer every type of traveler.

All hotels in Riverside →

Where to Stay in Riverside? 🏨

Best Hotels in Riverside

• Chatrium Hotel Riverside Bangkok – An oasis of tranquility along the Chao Phraya River. The spacious rooms offer stunning river views, and the infinity pool is a true highlight. The attentive staff provides impeccable service. 
• Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort – A luxurious urban resort with a tropical vibe. The elegant rooms are beautifully appointed, and the lush gardens create a serene atmosphere. The riverfront pool and spa are simply divine. 
• Shangri-La Bangkok – This iconic hotel exudes grandeur and sophistication. The rooms are lavishly decorated, and the service is truly world-class. The riverside location offers breathtaking views of the city skyline. 
• Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River – An ultra-luxurious haven with impeccable attention to detail. The contemporary rooms are spacious and stylish, and the riverfront infinity pool is a true gem. The dining options are exceptional. 

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

• Ibis Bangkok Riverside – A modern and comfortable hotel with a prime riverside location. The rooms are compact but well-designed, and the rooftop pool offers stunning city views. 
• Ramada Plaza Bangkok Menam Riverside – This hotel offers excellent value for money, with spacious rooms and a convenient riverside location. The outdoor pool and fitness center are great amenities. 
• Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel & Towers – A stylish hotel with contemporary Thai decor and floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing river views. The facilities are top-notch, including a large conference center. 

5. Khao San Road – Where to Stay in Bangkok on a Budget 💸

🌍 Backpacker’s hub: Khao San Road is a legendary backpacker haven in Bangkok, renowned for its lively street life, budget-friendly accommodations, and vibrant nightlife. This bustling area is a melting pot of cultures, attracting travelers from all over the world who are seeking an authentic and immersive experience in the heart of Bangkok.

💰 Benefits of staying in Khao San:

• Budget-Friendly Accommodation: Khao San Road is a backpacker’s paradise, offering a wide range of affordable hostels, guesthouses, and budget hotels.
• Lively Street Life and Nightlife: Khao San Road is famous for its energetic street life and vibrant nightlife scene. The area is lined with street food vendors, bars, clubs, and lively outdoor markets, creating a unique and exciting atmosphere day and night.
• Immersive Cultural Experience: Despite its reputation as a backpacker hub, Khao San Road is also a gateway to authentic Thai culture. Nearby attractions like the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and Wat Saket offer visitors a glimpse into Thailand’s rich history and traditions.

🚗 Transportation woes: Khao San Road is not directly connected to Bangkok’s public transportation system, which can make it challenging to navigate the city. However, taxis and tuk-tuks are readily available, albeit at a higher cost.

🔊 Lively atmosphere: Also, area can be quite noisy and crowded, especially at night, due to the high concentration of bars, clubs, and street vendors. This may not be ideal for travelers seeking a more peaceful and relaxing atmosphere.

✨ Authentic adventure: If you’re looking for an authentic and budget-friendly adventure, Khao San Road is a must-visit destination. But it’s unlikely to be a good choice for families.

All hotels near Khao San Road →

Where to Stay near Khao San Road? 🏩

Best Hotels near Khao San Road

• Baan Noppawong – A beautifully restored colonial house that exudes old-world charm. The rooms are tastefully decorated, and the courtyard garden provides a serene oasis in the heart of the city. 
• Centara Life Hotel Bangkok Phra Nakhon – This modern hotel offers stylish and comfortable accommodations. The outdoor pool and fitness center are excellent amenities, and the location is perfect for exploring Khao San Road. 
• Casa Vimaya Riverside – A hidden gem just steps away from the vibrant Khao San Road. The rooms are spacious and well-appointed, and the rooftop pool offers stunning city views. 

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

• Siri Grand Bangkok Hotel – A fantastic value hotel with clean and comfortable rooms. The outdoor pool and garden area are lovely spots to relax after a day of sightseeing. 
• 4 Monkeys Hotel – This trendy hotel offers stylish and affordable accommodations. The rooms are modern and well-designed, and the bar area has a lively atmosphere.
• Siri Ratchadamnoen Bangkok Hotel – A great budget option with a prime location near Khao San Road. The rooms are simple but clean, and the staff is incredibly friendly and helpful. 

Best Hostels

• Lamphu House Bangkok – A cozy and welcoming hostel with a homely vibe. The dorms are clean and comfortable, and the common areas are perfect for meeting fellow travelers. 
• Chillax Resort – A lively and social hostel with a great atmosphere. The dorms are well-designed, and the outdoor pool area is a fantastic spot to hang out and make new friends. 
• The Mulberry Hotel Bangkok Khaosan Road – A budget-friendly hotel that also offers hostel-style dorms. The rooftop terrace is a highlight, offering stunning views of the city skyline. 

6. Chinatown (Yaowarat) – Best Neighborhood to Stay in Bangkok for Street Food 🥘

🐉 Cultural immersion: Bangkok’s Chinatown, also known as Yaowarat, is a vibrant and bustling neighborhood that offers an immersive cultural experience for travelers.

🏮 Heritage hub: Chinatown is the heart of Thai and Chinese cultures, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich heritage and traditions of both civilizations. From the ornate Chinese temples to the bustling markets, every corner of Chinatown offers a glimpse into the area’s fascinating history.

🏪 Iconic landmarks: Staying in Chinatown puts you within walking distance of some of Bangkok’s most iconic markets, such as Sampeng Lane Market and Talat Noi. Additionally, you’ll be close to historic temples like Wat Traimit (Temple of the Golden Buddha) and Wat Mangkon Kamalawat.

💰 Budget-friendly: Chinatown is home to a wide range of budget-friendly hotels, hostels, and guesthouses, making it an attractive option for travelers on a tight budget. These accommodations often offer a more authentic and local experience than the larger chain hotels.

All hotels in Chinatown →

Where to Stay in Chinatown? 🏨

Best Hotels in Chinatown

• Shanghai Mansion Bangkok – An elegant boutique hotel that seamlessly blends Chinese and Thai design elements. The rooms are beautifully appointed with intricate details, and the tranquil courtyard is a true oasis amidst the bustling streets of Chinatown. 
• ASAI Bangkok Chinatown – A modern and stylish hotel with a vibrant atmosphere. The sleek rooms are well-designed, and the rooftop pool offers stunning city views. The location is perfect for exploring the sights and sounds of Chinatown. 
• Grand China Bangkok – This hotel exudes a sense of grandeur with its impressive lobby and spacious rooms. The traditional Chinese decor is a delightful touch, and the central location makes it easy to immerse yourself in the vibrant Chinatown neighborhood. 
• Hotel Royal Bangkok – A charming hotel that captures the essence of old Bangkok. The rooms are cozy and comfortable, and the friendly staff makes you feel right at home. The location is unbeatable, just steps away from the heart of Chinatown. 

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

• Arawana Express Chinatown – A no-frills hotel that provides excellent value for money. The rooms are basic but well-maintained, and the central location is perfect for exploring the sights and street food of Chinatown. 
• Lhong Yaowarat Hostel – A cozy and welcoming hostel with a friendly atmosphere. The dorms are clean and comfortable, and the common areas are perfect for meeting fellow travelers and swapping stories.

7. Pratunam – Where to Stay for Markets 🛍

🛍️ Shopper’s haven: Pratunam is a shopper’s paradise in Bangkok, renowned for its bustling markets and budget-friendly accommodations. This vibrant neighborhood is a hub for bargain hunters and fashion enthusiasts, offering a wide range of clothing, accessories, and souvenirs at incredibly low prices.

🏪 Wholesale markets: This area of the city is home to several famous wholesale markets, including Pratunam Market and Platinum Fashion Mall, where you can find an incredible variety of clothing, accessories, and souvenirs at rock-bottom prices.

🗼 Nearby attractions: Despite its reputation as a shopping mecca, Pratunam is also conveniently located near some of Bangkok’s top attractions, such as:

• Baiyoke Sky Tower
• Central World
• Siam Paragon

This makes it an ideal base for exploring the city’s sights while also indulging in some retail therapy.

🏩 Budget accommodations: Area is home to a wide range of affordable accommodations, including budget hotels and hostels. These options cater to travelers on a tight budget, offering clean and comfortable rooms at reasonable prices.

All hotels in Pratunam →

Where to Stay in Pratunam? 🏩

Best Hotels in Pratunam

• Novotel Bangkok Platinum – A modern and stylish hotel that offers the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. The spacious rooms are tastefully designed, and the rooftop pool provides a refreshing escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. 
• Amari Bangkok – This luxurious hotel exudes an air of sophistication with its elegant decor and impeccable service. The rooms are beautifully appointed, and the outdoor pool is a true oasis in the heart of the city. 
• Pullman Bangkok King Power – A sleek and modern hotel that offers a touch of luxury. The rooms are stylish and comfortable, and the rooftop bar provides stunning city views. The hotel’s central location makes it easy to explore the vibrant Pratunam neighborhood. 

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

• Center Point Pratunam – A fantastic value hotel that offers spacious and well-equipped rooms. The location is unbeatable, just steps away from the famous Pratunam Market and BTS station. 
• VIE Hotel Bangkok – A trendy and stylish hotel that offers a unique and memorable experience. The rooms are modern and well-designed, and the rooftop pool is a highlight. 
• The Sukosol Hotel – A charming hotel that blends colonial-style architecture with authentic Thai aesthetics. The rooms are cozy and comfortable, and the central location is hard to beat.

Best Hostels

• GN Luxury Hostel – A vibrant and social hostel that offers a fun and lively atmosphere. The dorms are clean and comfortable, and the common areas are perfect for meeting fellow travelers. 
• Good Day Hostel – A cozy and welcoming hostel that feels like a home away from home. The dorms are well-designed, and the rooftop terrace is a great spot to relax and socialize.

8. Thonglor – Trendiest Area in Bangkok 🌟

Thonglor is an upscale and trendy part of Bangkok, known for its chic cafes and stylish restaurants.

🌟 Culinary hotspot: Thonglor is a foodie’s paradise, offering a diverse array of dining options ranging from cozy cafes with thai food and trendy brunch spots to upscale restaurants and lively bars. This neighborhood is at the forefront of Bangkok’s culinary scene, with many innovative and Instagrammable eateries to explore.

💎 Luxury shopping: In addition to its culinary offerings, Thonglor is home to a variety of high-end boutiques, lifestyle stores, and luxury malls, catering to those with a taste for the finer things in life. This area is a hub for fashion, beauty, and wellness, making it a perfect destination for indulging in some retail therapy or pampering.

🏡 Convenient location: While Thonglor has a distinct vibe of its own, it is conveniently located within the larger Sukhumvit area, providing easy access to the city’s main commercial and entertainment districts. This makes it an ideal base for those who want to experience the best of both worlds – the trendiness of Thonglor and the vibrant energy of Sukhumvit.

All hotels in Thonglor →

Where to Stay in Thonglor? 🏨

Best Hotels in Thonglor

• Ascott Thonglor Bangkok – An exceptional serviced residence that feels like a luxurious home away from home. The spacious apartments are impeccably designed, with fully-equipped kitchens and modern amenities. The rooftop pool offers a refreshing escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. 
• Grande Centre Point Sukhumvit 55 Thong Lo – A sophisticated hotel that exudes elegance and comfort. The rooms are tastefully appointed, and the warm toilet seats add a touch of luxury. The outdoor pool and terrace provide a serene oasis for relaxation. 
• MUU Bangkok Hotel – A sleek and contemporary hotel that epitomizes urban sophistication. The rooms are stylishly decorated, and the rooftop pool offers a refreshing respite from the city’s energy. The attentive staff ensures a truly memorable stay.

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

• Kokotel Bangkok Dheva Thonglor – A trendy and modern hotel that strikes the perfect balance between style and affordability. The well-designed rooms are a delight, and the rooftop bar is a great spot for evening cocktails.
• Ashley Hotel BKK – A fantastic mid-range option that exceeds expectations. The rooms are spacious and well-equipped, with smart toilets and Thai-style bidets. The location is incredibly convenient, just a short walk from the BTS station.

Best Hostels

• Double Five – A stylish and modern hostel that breaks the mold of traditional hostels. The dorms are bright and airy, with private pod-style beds for added privacy. 
• Lamurr Hostel – A simple yet chic hostel that offers excellent value for money. The capsule-style bunks are cozy and well-designed, and the location is unbeatable, just steps away from the EmQuartier mall. 

Best Hotels near Bangkok International Airport 🛫

Novotel Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport

I’ve stayed at the Novotel a few times during layovers and it’s incredibly convenient, being just a 2-minute drive from the airport with a free 24-hour shuttle running every 15 minutes. The rooms are comfortable and bookings are for a full 24 hours from check-in, which is great for awkward flight times. It’s a bit dated in parts, but perfect for getting as much sleep as possible before an early flight.

Le Méridien Suvarnabhumi, Bangkok Golf Resort & Spa

For a more luxurious stay near the airport, I highly recommend Le Méridien. It’s a beautiful sprawling resort with an 18-hole golf course, excellent spa, huge gym, and stunning outdoor infinity pool. There’s a free shuttle to the airport (about 15 minutes away), as well as to a nearby mall and Skytrain station. The restaurants are top-notch, especially the Italian and Thai options.

Siam Mandarina Hotel

When I’m looking to save a bit of money but still want convenience, the Siam Mandarina is a great 4-star choice. It’s modern, highly-rated, and only a 5-10 minute drive from the airport. The rates are often lower than the Novotel while still offering a comfortable stay. The location isn’t quite as ideal, but the free airport shuttle makes it a breeze.

Best Areas & Hotels in Bangkok on a Map 🗺

FAQs about Visiting Bangkok, Thailand ❔

What is the main area of Bangkok?

The main central areas of Bangkok are Siam Square, Sukhumvit, and Silom/Sathorn. Siam Square is the modern city center with huge shopping malls. Sukhumvit is a popular area for restaurants, nightlife, and hotels. Silom and Sathorn make up the main business district.

Where to avoid staying in Bangkok?

There aren’t really any unsafe areas to completely avoid in Bangkok. However, the Khao San Road backpacker area can be noisy and chaotic. Patpong and Nana Plaza are seedy red light districts that some may want to avoid. Khlong Toei has a large slum area that is best avoided at night. In general, first-time visitors may want to skip Ratchathewi, Pahurat, and outer areas that are further from the main attractions.

How to stay safe in Bangkok?

Bangkok is a relatively safe city, but take normal precautions. Be wary of scams, especially around the Khao San Road area. Avoid unlicensed taxis or tuk-tuks. Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. Only use official tourism offices, not fake ones. Stay in a hotel with good security and lock valuables in the room safe. Write down your hotel name and address in case you get lost.

Where to go in Bangkok at night?

Popular nightlife areas include Sukhumvit, especially Soi 11 and Soi Cowboy, as well as Silom and the Patpong Night Market. Khao San Road is the main backpacker party area. Thonglor and Ekkamai offer trendy bars and clubs. Chinatown has a lively atmosphere and great street food at night. The Chao Phraya riverfront is scenic after dark.

Is it cheap to stay in Bangkok?

Bangkok has accommodations for every budget, from cheap hostels to 5-star luxury. Hostels can cost under $10, while nice hotels are available for $30-50. The Khao San Road and Chinatown areas have the cheapest budget options. Siam and the Riverside have more expensive hotels. Sukhumvit and Silom offer everything from budget to high-end. Overall, Bangkok is an affordable city compared to other capitals if you look around.