Bangkok is one of the most visited cities in Southeast Asia. It is the capital city of Thailand that is known for its vibrant nightlife, shop malls, markets, golden temples, rooftop terraces, and delicious food scene.
If you’re visiting Thailand for the first time, you’ll most likely arrive in Bangkok before traveling to other parts of the country. Even if you’re a return traveler, Bangkok always has something new and exciting to offer.
I’ve traveled to Bangkok several times, and I’ve never once felt bored. I once spent three months traveling around Thailand and found myself passing through Bangkok multiple times.
It is when I traveled from Chiang Mai in the north to Pattaya in the central region, and from Koh Kood in the Eastern Gulf of Thailand to Hua Hin and other beaches in the South.
See more:
Looking for a right place to stay in Bangkok can be challenging, especially for first-time visitors. So, in this article I will share with you the 8 most popular areas to stay in Bangkok along with some good hotels in each area.
If you are looking for Where to stay in Bangkok, keep reading!
Best Areas to stay in Bangkok
Bangkok is a huge city with 50 different districts and more than 1,500 square kilometers. There are around 3,500 accommodations in the city listed on Booking.com. It is important to find the right area to book your stay to make the most of your visit.
The 8 most popular areas to stay in Bangkok include Sukhumvit, Siam, Pratunam, Silom, Old Town, Chinatown, Riverside, and Khao San Road. Each of these areas has their own pros and cons.
In general, Bangkok is divided into two parts, the historic Old Town and the modern Downtown. The Downtown includes areas of Sukhumvit, Siam, Pratunam, and Silom. The Old Town contains areas of Rattanakosin Island, Chinatown, part of the Riverside area.
Downtown Bangkok is closer to Suvarnabhumi Airport and has better connections to public trains (Airport Rail Link, MRT underground, and BTS skytrain). This area has a vibrant nightlife and shopping scene, westernised atmosphere, and high rise buildings.
Bangkok Old Town is located on the banks of Chao Phraya River, further away from Suvarnabhumi Airport. It has a better connection to the ferry systems. This area has a historic feel, more local atmosphere, and is home to many of the city’s most iconic attractions.
If you want to stay close to the airport, public trains, shopping centers, night markets, and the red light districts, it is best to stay in Downtown Bangkok, either in Sukhumvit, Siam, Silom, or Pratunam. This area has a cosmopolitan atmosphere rather than a sense of historic charm.
If you are into sightseeing and want to experience the traditional way of life and the authentic Thai atmosphere, it is best to stay in Bangkok Old Town, either in Rattanakosin, Chinatown, or Riverside.
The best place to stay for first-timers is somewhere that is located within 5 to 10 minutes walking from the train stations or ferry stops. This makes you explore all parts of the city easily no matter which area you choose to stay in.
If you are backpackers, you can consider staying in Khao San Road, which is the backpacker center of Thailand and Southeast Asia. You will find some good budget hostels in this area.
The last time I traveled to Bangkok as a solo female traveler on a budget. I stayed in several hostels and guest houses throughout the city, in Sumkhumvit, Old Town, and Silom. I will share more details of my stay in Bangkok at the end of this article.
My top hotel picks in Bangkok:
- Luxury: Grande Centre Point Hotel Terminal21
- Mid-range: Holiday Inn Bangkok by IHG
- Budget: ibis Styles Bangkok Sukhumvit 4
Best Places to Stay in Bangkok
1. Sukhumvit
Sukhumvit is one of the top areas to stay in Bangkok, especially for first-timers. This area is the transport hub of the city, and is home to some of the city’s best restaurants, bars, and shopping malls. It is a great place for shopping, nightlife, and dining.
Sukhumvit is the area around Sukhumvit Road. Sukhumvit Road is an approximately 500km long street running all the way from Bangkok, passing the eastern Gulf Thailand to the border with Cambodia.
The most popular areas to stay in Sukhumvit for tourists, in my opinion, are the areas from Nana Station to Thong Lor Station. However, you can find a wide range of amenities from Sukhumvit Soi 1 to the area around Phra Khanong BTS Station.
Sumkhumvit is well-served by BTS sky train, MRT underground train, and ferry system. Major BTS stations in this area include Nana, Asok, Phrom Phong, Thong Lor, and Ekkamai stations.
This Sukhumvit BTS green line will take you to Siam Shopping district, Chatukcheck Weekend Market, and lots of shopping malls like Terminal 21, Emquartier, Emporium, Central World, and Siam Paragon. You can connect with other train lines for further exploration.
This neighborhood is also home to Sukhumvit MRT Station (just a few minutes walk from Asok BTS station). You can use this line to get to the Old Town, Chinatown, and some famous night markets like Jodd Fairs Ratchada.
Among Bangkok’s many popular tourist areas, Sukhumvit is the one of the closest areas to Suvarnabhumi Airport. You can use the combination of Airport Rail Link with either BTS or MRT trains to reach your hotel depending on your location. I recommend using Google Maps for the most accurate navigation.
Red lights districts and adult entertainment are centered around the lower parts of Sukhumvit. Famous nightlife spots are Nana Plaza and Soi Cowboy. It is packed with bars, go-go bars, rooftop bars, night clubs, massage shops, and restaurants.
For a more upscale atmosphere with trendy bars, rooftop terraces, and expat establishments, head to Phrom Phong, Thonglor, and Ekkamai area.
If you are solo travelers and couples who are on a budget, want private rooms, and don’t mind a bit further away from the city center, you can find some good value accommodations around Phra Kha Nóng, On Nut, or Bang Chak BTS station. It is a 20-30 minute train ride to the more central areas.
From the airport, you can easily use the Airport Rail Link to either Phatya Station or Makkasan Station, then change to BTS or MRT to get to your hotels in the Sukhumvit area.
Sukhumvit is one of the most dynamic and cosmopolitan districts in Bangkok that has a wide range of international communities. It is truly a melting pot of global cultures.
The Japanese and Korean communities are concentrated around Thonglor (Soi 55) and Ekkamai. These areas are home to many Japanese supermarkets, Japanese restaurants, izakayas, as well as Korean BBQ restaurants and beauty clinics.
Then there are Western Expats from the US, UK, Australia, and Europe in neighborhoods like Asok, Phrom Phong, and Nana. You will find international schools, co-working spaces, gyms, and Western-style cafés and pubs in these areas.
The Indian, South Asian, and Middle East communities are prominent in the Nana area (especially near Sukhumvit Soi 3 and Soi 11).
If you are tired of shopping and nightlife activities, you can have a break at the nearby Benjakitti Park and Lumpini Park. They are located just south of Sukhumvit and only a short MRT subway ride away.
The downside of staying in Sukhumvit is that it is a bit further away from iconic sights of the city like the Grand Palace, Wat Arun, and Wat Pho, but you only visit these attractions in one day or two, and you can reach it by public transportation.
Where to stay in Bangkok in Sukhumvit:
Grande Centre Point Hotel Terminal21
Grande Centre, in my opinion, is one of the best places in Bangkok for families and couples who want a true 5-star experience in Bangkok. This hotel has a prime location in the heart of Sukhumvit, right at the top of the famous Terminal 21.
You can easily walk to Sukhumvit MRT station and Asok BTS station. You can get to the hotel by using Airport Rail Link to Makkasan Station, then transfer to Phetchaburi MRT station for another train to Sukhumvit MRT Station, followed by a short walk to the hotel.
All major shopping malls, night markets, and night spots are all within a short train ride away from Grande Centre Point.
Additionally, Grande Centre also has excellent facilities such as comfortable beds, kids playgrounds, a fitness center, a spa, and the pool with stunning views of the city.
Carlton Hotel Bangkok Sukhumvit
Carlton is one of the best hotels in downtown Bangkok. It is a 5-star luxury hotel located in the heart of the city. It is just 10 minutes walk from both Phrom Phong And Asok BTS station.
You can easily walk to a range of high-end shopping malls like EmQuartier, Emporium, and EmSphere, as well as the budget-friendly Terminal 21. The red light area of Soi Cow Boy and the peaceful Benchasiri Park are also very close to the hotel.
Carlton has high level services and beautiful facilities with spacious modern rooms, a rooftop swimming pool, spa, gym, restaurant, and bar.
Novotel Bangkok Sukhumvit 4
Novotel is a great choice for those looking for a mid-range 4-star hotel in Lower Sukhumvit. It is located only 5 minutes walk from Nana Station, making it easy to explore the city by train.
You can reach the hotel by taking the Airport Rail Link to Phaya Thai Station, then transferring to the BTS and riding to Nana Station, followed by a short walk.
Lots of restaurants, bars, and shops are within walking distance from Novotel. You will be a short walk from Korean Town, Little Arab Town, and Nana Plaza. All the shopping malls in Siam and Phrom Phong are just a short train ride from the hotel.
Novotel has beautiful rooftop areas with an outdoor swimming pool, a rooftop bar with stunning views of the city. With around 100 USD/night, Novotel is a great value for money hotel in downtown Bangkok.
For more budget friendly options, and other information about Sukhumvit, you can see at:
2. Siam
Siam is the best place to stay in Bangkok for shopping. It is a modern district of Bangkok located in the central location, right next to Sukhumvit and Pratunam. It is also a convenient location to get to both Suvarnabhumi Airport and Bangkok Old Town with its iconic attractions.
Siam Square has high concentrations of modern shopping malls. You will be surrounded by Bangkok’s best malls like Siam Paragon, MBK, Central World, Siam Discovery, and Siam Square. All malls are within walking distance from each other and are linked by networks of sky walks.
In addition to the modern malls, Siam is home to several cultural and historical attractions such as the National Museum, Jim Thompson House Museum, and Erawan Shrine.
Siam is very well connected to 2 BTS skytrain lines (Sukhumvit and Silom lines), so you can easily get around by public transportation. Major stations in this area include National Stadium, Siam Station, and Chit Lom Station.
You can use the BTS Sukhumvit line to get to Chatukchak Weekend Market or Sukhumvit for more nightlife and shopping. The Silom line will take you to the Silom to visit Patpong Night Market. This line takes you to the riverside, where you can transfer to a boat ride along the Chao Phraya River.
Siam is easily reachable from Suvarnabhumi Airport by taking Airport Rail Link to Phaya Thai Station then transferring to Sukhumvit BTS skytrain line. The Old Town with iconic sights like Grand Palace and Wat Pho are just 5km away from Siam, so you can take a short Grab taxi ride to this area for sightseeing.
Additionally, the Saen Saep Canal is located in the north of Siam Square. You can take a boat ride along this canal to reach Bangkok Old Town, Khao San Road, and the Chao Phraya River.
Where to Stay in Bangkok in Siam:
Pathumwan Princess Hotel
Pathumwan Princess is one of the most popular 5-star hotels to stay in Bangkok. It is centrally located in Siam, the shopping hub area of Bangkok, right next to MBK Center and Siam Square.
This hotel is directly linked to National Stadium BTS Station and only 5 minutes walk from Siam BTS Station, offering easy access to the airport and other attractions in Bangkok.
Not only surrounded by shopping malls, this hotel is also close to some cultural attractions like the Erawan Shrine, Bangkok Art & Culture Centre, and Jim Thompson House Museum.
The rooms at Pathumwan Princess are spacious and have stunning city views. They also have comfortable rooms for families. The pool area is also large and a great place to relax.
Holiday Inn Bangkok
Holiday Inn is a nice 4-star mid-range hotel centrally located on Ploenchit Road, within walking distance from the Chit Lom BTS Station. You can reach the hotel from Bangkok airport by taking Airport Rail Link to Phaya Thai Station, then transfer to Sukhumvit BTS line, followed by a short walk to the hotel.
You can walk to a range of shopping malls such as Central World, Gaysorn Plaza, Siam Paragon, Big C Supercenter Ratchadamri, and Platinum Mall. Overall, Holiday Inn is a great deal for those who want a central location, excellent access to trains, malls and nightlife.
P18 Hotel Bangkok
P18 3-star good value for money hotel located near both Siam and Pratunam district. It is set in a small alley, just a 5 minute walk from Ratchathewi BTS Station. This allows you to access Bangkok airport by train easily.
If you are on a budget and don’t mind a bit distance from the main roads, P18 Hotel is a good option. You are also close to theSaen Saep Canal where you can take a boat ride to Old town and Chinatown quickly without worrying about road traffic.
Additionally, you’ll be close to major malls like Central World, MBK, Platinum Fashion Mall, Pratunam Market, and Siam Discovery.
You can see more hotels and things to do in Siam in these articles:
- Where to Stay in Siam
- Is it better to Stay in Sukhumvit or Siam?
- How to get to Siam
- 12 Best Things to do in Siam
3. Pratunam
Pratunam is the best place to stay in Bangkok for a budget traveler. This area has a central location with direct access to the Airport Rail Link, which is convenient for those who want to have easy access to both Suvarnabhumi Airport and the other popular parts of the city.
When I arrived in Bangkok in the late evening, I chose to stay the night in the Pratunam area because after 8 hours of flight, I just wanted to go straight to the hotel and rest.
Phayathai Station and Ratchaprarop Station are two airport rail links stations in Pratunam. From these stations, you can walk or take a few minutes Grab taxi (if you have a big suitcase) or Grab Bike (cheaper and convenient if you have a light backpack) to your hotel.
Pratunam is well-connected to BTS Sukhumvit line with several stations serving this area like Phaya Thai Station, and Ratchathewi. You can easily use this train line to visit Chatukchak Weekend Market, Siam, Sukhumvit, and Silom.
Siam shopping district is located right south of Pratunam, which is convenient for shopping while staying in a budget area. It is just a stop away on the BTS train or you can walk between these two areas. There is also a skywalk connecting Platinum Mall in Pratunam to Central World and Big C in Siam area.
The Pratunam area itself is known for its several wholesale fashion shopping malls and markets. Major places for shopping in Pratunam are the Pratunam market, Platinum Mall, and Pantip Plaza.
Other points of interest include the Baiyoke Tower, and Victory Monument. Baiyoke Tower is one of the tallest buildings in Bangkok, featuring an observation deck and a revolving viewpoint on the 77th and 84th floor. They also have seafood buffets, so you combine the ticket for activities on one visit.
Pratunam is popular with locals and Asian tourists. This area has a wide variety of food including local Thai food, Chinese food, Indian food, or Lebanese food. You can dine at a restaurant, a foot court on the shopping mall, and at the night markets.
There are lots of hostels and affordable hotels and hostels around the major train stations such as Phaya Thai, Ratchaprarop, and Ratchathewi.
Where to stay in Bangkok in Pratunam:
Baiyoke Sky Hotel
Baiyoke is a popular 4-star mid-range hotel in Pratunam of Bangkok. It is located within an easy 5 minute walk from Ratchaprarop Station where you can catch direct Airport Rail Link to Suvarnabhumi Airport.
From the hotel, you can easily walk to a range of hotel restaurants serving Thai, Chinese, and Indian food. The Pratunam Night Market and Platinum Fashion Mall are within walking distance from the hotel.
This hotel is one of the famous skyscrapers in Bangkok. It has an observation deck and a revolving roof deck with stunning views of the city, and multiple restaurants. If you are not staying at the hotel, you can buy a ticket to the observation deck or the seafood buffet at its onsite Bangkok Sky Restaurant.
Lemontea Hotel Bangkok
Lemontea is a good 3-star hotel located in the heart of Pratunam district and is surrounded by affordable shopping malls and markets. You’ll be close to Pratunam Market, the night market, and Platinum Mall.
Additionally, it is also only a 10 minute walk from Ratchaprarop Station where you can catch the train to Suvarnabhumi Airport. The Phaya Thai BTS Station is also a 10 minute walk away to explore other downtown areas by train.
Metz Pratunam
Metz is a great budget hotel in Pratunam. It is also conveniently located within a 10 minute walk from Phaya Thai Station which offers easy access to the airport and BTS line.
You can explore Siam shopping district and Sukhumvit nightlife area with ease. Popular places like Pratunam Market and Pantip Plaza are also within walking distance.
If you need more accommodation options in Pratunam, I recommend reading:
- Where to Stay in Pratunam
- 10 Best Things to do in Pratunam
- Should You Stay in Sukhumvit or Pratunam?
4. Bangkok Old Town
Bangkok Old town is the best area to stay in Bangkok for sightseeing, local atmosphere, and historical and cultural attractions. This is the oldest part of the city packed with temples, palaces, museums, local markets, and Colonial architecture.
The Old town is located on the eastern bank of Chao Phraya River. It is located on Rattanakosin Island, with Chao Phraya River on its western side and artificial canals on other sides. These canals were dug when the old town was established to protect the city from Burmese invasions.
The Old Town is home to the city’s most important sights such as the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Golden Mount, and Wat Arun. The backpacker hub Khao San Road is also located in this area. Old Town has only a few high rise buildings, and offers a more traditional atmosphere.
Additionally, the old town has several local attractions like the Pak Khlong Talat (Flower Market), The Old Siam Plaza, National Museum Bangkok, or Museum Siam.
It is also right next to Bangkok Chinatown, which is a good spot for street food. You can walk to Chinatown or take a short Grab Bike to Chinatown for exploration from the old town.
If you are planning to go to Hua Hin or Kanchanaburi by local train, it is also convenient to get to Thon Buri Station to take the train. I used to take the MRT line from Sam Yot Station to Bang Khun Non Station, then walk to Jaran Sanitwong for trains to these cities.
There are no BTS running though the Old town, but there are several MRT underground stations (Sanam Chai and Sam Yot) passing the neighborhood, offering convenient access to downtown areas like Sukhumvit and Siam for more shopping and nightlife.
The Old town is well-connected with the river and canal boat systems. You can easily take the hop on hop off boat to visit iconic sights and shopping malls along the river. They are Wat Arun, ICON Siam, and Asiatique Shopping Mall.
The canal boat system on Saen Saep canal near Golden Mount will take you to Siam and Pratunam easily. Along the way, you can visit the historic Jim Thompson House Museum. Traveling by boat is a good way to experience local life and avoid the road traffic, which is often congested in Bangkok.
Downside of staying in the Old town is that it is located further away from Bangkok’s two airports. It has no skytrain connecting to it, but accessible by MRT and river boat. I recommend using Google Maps for the best navigation of what public transportations to use to get to your hotel.
Be aware that, as the Old Town is home to many of Bangkok’s main attractions, it is also a common area for tourist scams. Exercise common sense to steer clear of unnecessary issues or potential scams.
Where to Stay in Bangkok Old Town:
Villa De Pranakorn
Villa De Pranakorn is a beautiful hotel located in the heart of the old town. It is a great location to explore iconic attractions on foot or short tuk tuk/ Grab ride. You’ll be close to the Rommani Nat Park, Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Wat Arun, and Wat Samet.
This hotel is also only 10 minutes walk from the Sam Yot Station on MRT line, which is convenient for easy access to the airport and downtown Bangkok with its shopping malls and nightlife areas.
In terms of the facilities, it has comfortable bed rooms and an outdoor swimming pool. The room is fully equipped with a small fridge, a kettle, and toiletries. If you want a good hotel in the central old town, Villa De Pranakorn is the place to be!
Chakrabongse Villas
I recommend Chakrabongse Villas for families and couples who want to be in the heart of the old town, and stunning views of the Chao Phraya River and Wat Arun. The hotel is located near the riverfront, within an easy walk to the iconic Grand Palace and Wat Pho.
Additionally, you’ll be very close to the ferries and MRT train station. This makes it easy to explore both the old and modern part of the city. Within one train ride from Sanam Chai MRT station, you can easily reach downtown Bangkok areas such as Sukhumvit and Siam.
With the ferry stops nearby, you can easily explore different attractions along Bangkok Riverside area such as Chinatown, ICON Siam Shopping Mall, and Asiatique The Riverfront.
These are just a couple of good places to stay in the old town. If you want to know more suggestions for all budgets, you can check these articles:
- Where to Stay in Old Town Bangkok
- Should You Stay in Sukhumvit or Old Town?
- 15 Things to do in Bangkok Old Town
- How to get to Old Town Bangkok
5. Bangkok Chinatown
Chinatown is the best place to stay in Bangkok for street food and stunning Chinese architecture. It is a historic and vibrant area located next to the Chao Phraya River and Bangkok Old Town. It is known for its street food scene, wholesale market, and several cultural attractions.
Yaowarat Road is the main road and is the heart of Chinatown. The road is busy both day and night, but it gets even livelier after dark when crowds gather for the night markets and street food.
The street is lit up with colorful lanterns and neon signs featuring both Chinese and Thai writing from restaurants and shops. You can stroll along the main road and side alleys to explore the many street food stalls and Michelin-starred restaurants.
Lots of Bangkok street food tours start from Bangkok Chinatown. You can consider taking a tuk tuk street food tour or explore the food by yourself. There are a cluster of street food stalls at Soi Yaowarat 11, as well as numerous famous seafood restaurants at the intersection of Yaowarat and Phadung Dao Road.
In addition to the street food scene, Chinatown is home to the wholesale Sapeng Lane market and several famous temples such as Wat Traimit and Wat Mangkon. You can spend day time exploring these markets, temples, and other attractions like Chinatown gate and Talat Noi area.
Chinatown is well-connected to both MRT trains, and the boat systems on Chao Phraya River and The Khlong Phadung Krung Kasem Canal. Hua Lamphong and Wat Mangkok MRT stations served this area.
Along the riverfront, you can take a boat at Ratchawong to visit major sights along the Chao Phraya River like the old town, Wat Arun, ICON Siam, and Asiatique.
Chinatown has a good selection of mid-range hotels and budget backpacker hostels. If you are traveling on a budget, it is also a good area to look for your accommodation.
Where to stay in Bangkok Chinatown:
Shanghai Mansion Bangkok
Shanghai is a popular hotel in Chinatown. It is centrally located on Yaowaraj Rd, which is the main road and heart of Chinatown. You’ll be a step away from the range of restaurants, shops, the night market, temples, and cultural attractions.
It is also within 5 minutes walking Wat Mangkon MRT station, making it easily reachable from the airport and downtown Bangkok by trains.
The hotel has unique Chinese architecture with comfortable rooms, and live music events in its onsite classic bar/ restaurant evening evening.
ASAI Bangkok Chinatown
ASAI is a great 4-star mid-range hotel located next to the MRT Wat Mangkon Station, making it convenient to explore the whole city. You can also walk to Yaowarat Street, Night Market, Wat Trai Mit, and many other attractions within Chinatown.
If you want check more hotels in Chinatown, you can read these article:
- Where to Stay in Chinatown Bangkok
- Should You Stay in Sukhumvit or Chinatown?
- 10 Best Things to do in Chinatown Bangkok
- How to get to Chinatown in Bangkok
6. Silom
Silom is a modern district located in central Bangkok, close to the vibrant Sukhumvit and the scenic Riverside. It is the central business district of Bangkok by day and transforms into the vibrant nightlife area in the evening. It is also gay friendly area of Bangkok.
Silom is well-connected to BTS, MRT, and boat systems. The MRT underground train can take you straight to Chinatown, Old Town, Sukhumvit, and the Airport Rail Link train.
The Silom BTS skytrain will take you directly to Siam shopping districts and the riverside area where you can transfer to the boat to explore attractions along the Chao Phraya River, in Old Town and Chinatown.
Major train stations in Silom are the Si Lom MRT station and Sala Daeng BTS Station. You can transfer between the Skytrain and the underground train at these stations. Another importation station in Silom is Saphan Taksin where you can transfer to Bangkok Sathorn Pier for further exploration on boat.
These areas are home to famous skyscrapers such as Mahanakon Building and State Tower, where you can visit the rooftop terraces and sky walks and enjoy stunning views of the city at sunset.
Silom is home to Lumpini Park, which is one of the largest parks in central Bangkok. The park is a great place to escape from the heat and the hustle and bustle of the city center. From Lumpini Park, you can walk along the skywalk to reach another huge park, Benchakitti Park.
Silom has a vibrant nightlife and shopping scene. The nightlife is concentrated in the Patpong Night Market, Silom Soi 4, Soi 2, and Thaniya Road (Little Tokyo).
There are plenty of accommodations in Silom, including luxury 5 star hotels and budget hostels. If you want an easy walking distance to the nightlife, book somewhere near Silom and Sala Daeng Station. For stunning rivers and a quieter atmosphere, head to the riverside area.
Where to stay in Bangkok in Silom:
SO/ Bangkok
SO Hotel is a 5-star hotel conveniently located near Silom, in North Sathorn. It is right next to Lumpini Park and is only 5 minutes walking from Lumpini MRT station.
You can access the city’s nightlife attractions and shopping malls easily by train. The Patong night market is only 1 stop subway away.
The Standard, Bangkok Mahanakhon
The Standard is a luxury hotel in the Bangrak area of Silom. It is inside the Mahanakhon building, which is home to Bangkok’s best skywalk and rooftop. If you go to the top for free if you are staying at the hotel.
The hotel has a good location, just a 5 minutes walk from Chong Nonsi BTS Station, making it easy to get around and explore the city. Several shopping malls and Patpong Night Market are within a short distance from the hotel.
The hotel has beautiful facilities with comfortable rooms and stunning views of Bangkok. There is a gym, fitness center, pool, restaurant, and bar.
You can check more hotels and things to do in Silom in these articles:
- Where to Stay in Silom Bangkok
- Is it better to stay in Sukhumvit or Silom?
- Should You Stay in Silom or Siam?
- 12 Best Things to do in Silom
7. Bangkok Riverside
Bangkok Riverside is the best place to stay in Bangkok for families and couples who want a scenic river view and quieter atmosphere compared to other more central areas like Sukhumvit and Siam.
The Bangkok Riverside stretches around 10 km along the banks of the Chao Phraya River. It passes major areas and attractions like Bangkok Old Town, Chinatown, Wat Arun, Icon Siam, and Asiatique.
On the east bank of Chao Phraya River is the old town, Chinatown, and Asiatique. This side offers easier access to the downtown areas. To the west bank, you can see Icon Siam, Wat Arun, and Thon Buri district. This side is further away from the downtown areas and iconic attractions.
The Bangkok Riverside is very well connected to the boat system. You can easily take the tourist hop on hop off boats to explore all sides along the river.
There are just a couple of train stations serving the riverside area. These include Saphan Taksin BTS Station near Silom and Sanam Chai MRT Station in Bangkok Old Town.
Saphan Taksin Station is within walking distance from Sathorn Pier, while Sanam Chai is within walking distance from Tah Tian/ Wat Pho Pier. You can transfer easily between boat and train systems at these stations.
The Chao Phraya Riverside offers a tranquil and upscale atmosphere. It is a good base to see all the city’s charming historical attractions as well as visit some of the most modern shopping malls like Icon Siam and Asiatique The Riverfront.
You can find some large brand hotels along the rivers that provide stunning river views. For the best connection to public transport, I recommend staying somewhere near Saphan Taksin Station or Sanam Chai MRT Station.
Where to Stay in Bangkok Riverside:
Ramada Plaza by Wyndham
Ramada is a popular 5-star hotel located along the Chao Phraya River. It is within walking distance to many shops, easterlies, and massage shops. You’ll also within 10 minutes walk to Asiatique shopping malls areas with lots of other restaurant and entertainment options.
This is, like many other hotels along the rivers, not the most central location but you’ll have easy access to the boat and ferries for connecting with BTS to explore the downtown part of the city.
Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River
Four Seasons is an ideal base for families and couples who want a luxury retreat along Bangkok Chao Phraya River. It has excellent facilities such as 2 swimming pools, a fitness center, and Exceptional Breakfast. The location is peaceful, the rooms are elegant and spacious.
The Riverside Bangkok is large area, for more hotel options, you can check these articles:
- Where to Stay in Riverside Bangkok
- Is it better to Stay in Sukhumvit or Riverside Bangkok?
- 8 Best Things to do in Riverside Bangkok
- How to get to Riverside Bangkok
8. Khao San Road
Khao San Road is the best place to stay in Bangkok for backpackers, budget travelers, singles and young visitors who love parties. This is the backpacker hub of Southeast Asia, located in the heart of the old town.
Khao San Road is just a few hundred meter street but is packed with cheap bars, nightclubs, weed shops, street food, and souvenir stalls. It is a good place to go for nightlife and street food.
There is no BTS or MRT in this area, the closest MRT Station is Sam Yot Station, located within 20 minutes walking distance from the hotel. The area is within 10 minutes walk to Phra Arthit pier, which offers hop on hop off boat along the river.
In addition to the nightlife, Khao San road is a good base for sightseeing and exploring the old part of Bangkok. It is close to the city’s most important sights such as the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Wat Arun, Golden Mount, National Museum Bangkok or Siam Museum.
Just be mindful that Khao San Rd is usually getting louder and rowdier at night. If your hotels are right on Khao San Road, I recommend booking a room in the back to avoid the noise. Also consider a room with soundproofing facilities or stay off on the alleys off the main street.
There are also many hotels and hostels around Khao San Road, such as on the trendy Soi Rambuttri Tani. You can book hotels in the surrounding of Khao San for quieter sleep but still within easy walk to the action.
Where to Stay in Bangkok on Khao San Road:
Buddy Lodge, Khaosan Road
Buddy Lodge is a popular 4-star mid-range hotel located right on the busy Khao San road. You’ll be surrounded by many shops, restaurants, bars, and massage shops. This hotel has a nice rooftop area with a Swimming pool.
All major sights in Bangkok like Democracy Monument, National Museum, Grand Palace and Wat Pho, are within walking distance from the hotel or you can take a short tuk tuk/ Grab Bike ride. The Phra Arthit ferry stop is also close by offering easy access to many attractions along the river.
Baan Chart
Baan Chart is a good mid-range hotel near the vibrant Khao San Road. It is also close to the S1 Airport bus stop, making it convenient for those getting from the airport to the hotel by bus.
The Phra Athit Pier is also close by, which means you’ll explore the riverside and its iconic attractions along the river easily. It has a small but lovely rooftop pool, which is perfect to watch the sunset.
Tinidee Trendy Bangkok Khaosan
Tinidee Trendy has a great location, just off of Khao San Road. It is within easy walking distance from convenience stores, lots of restaurants, shops, and street stalls. Great base to explore Khao San and Bangkok Old Town area. I highly recommend this hotel for couples and families with kids.
Want to know more about Khao San Road, check these articles:
- Which is better, Sukhumvit or Khao San
- Which area is better, Chinatown vs Khao San Road?
- Where to Stay in Khao San Road
- A Travel Guide to Khao San Road
Where did I stay in Bangkok – my personal experience
I recently traveled to Bangkok on a budget as a female traveler. I looked for budget-friendly hostels and hotels in all central areas of Bangkok like Sukhumvit, Silom, Pratunam, and the Old town. These hotels all have easy access to public trains, so you can get around the city easily.
I was in Bangkok in November and December (the high season) and booked the hotels at the last minute, so I didn’t have many options. Prices also tend to spike during this period, but if you book in advance, you’ll have access to better options.
Diff Hostel (Pratunam)
I booked Diff Hostel because of its convenient location, availability, and positive reviews from guests. I arrived at Bangkok airport around 8pm after an 8 hour flight from Melbourne. I wanted to stay somewhere near the Airport Rail Link, and this hotel was perfect for that.
Location
Diff Hostel is located in Pratunam, within 10 minutes walking distance from Phaya Thai Station, which is the last station on the Airport Rail Link train. It is very convenient to get straight to the hotel by train from Suvarnabhumi Airport.
Being located in a small alley, Diff Hostel offers a quiet atmosphere away from busy road traffic. It is close to many restaurants, massage shops, street food stalls, and convenient stores.
Major attractions in Phaya Thai like Platinum Fashion Mall, Pratunam Market, and Baiyoke Observation Deck are around 20 minutes walk from the Diff Hostel.
There are a range of good restaurants on Phetchaburi road and Phaya Thai Road near the hotel. I had my dinner at Jasmine Siam Kitchen, just 4 minutes walk from Diff Hostel.
I can also walk to Phaya Thai Station on the BTS green line to get to the Chatukchak weekend market. This BTS line also takes you to Siam shopping district and the famous Sukhumvit area.
Amenities
I stayed in a shared female dorm room. The room was compact with 6 beds. It was clean with both air conditioning and fan inside the room. Each room has a thick curtain, so it blocked the light well. The temperature in the room was quite cold though.
There were a couple of bathrooms and toilets on my 2nd floor. It was also clean with a fan hanging out in the wall to keep the area dry. There is a kitchen area with fridge, sink, microwave, cutlery to use. They also have tall tables, and chairs where you can chill and enjoy the nice views.
The breakfast is simple but nice, with two slices of toast, some watermelon, scramble eggs, and veggies. The common area of the 1st floor where the reception is located is also a good place to relax.
The hotel doesn’t have an elevator for guests, but it does have a luggage lift, which is a bonus for travelers like me with a medium-sized suitcase.
Overall, Diff Hostel is a good place to stay in Bangkok for budget travelers, solo, backpackers, and those who want easy access to Suvarnabhumi Airport by airport rail link train.
The White den Sukhumvit 44 (Sukhumvit)
I wanted to stay somewhere in central Sukhumvit in Nana or Asok Station, but since I booked a hotel spontaneously at the last minute, there weren’t many options available that fit my tight budget.
Luckily, The White den Sukhumvit 44 was available, close to the train station, and in my budget range, so I booked it. It also has pretty good reviews from guests at the time of my booking.
Location
The hotel is located right on Sukhumvit road, within 5 minutes walking from Phra Khanong BTS Station and 10 minutes walk from Ekkamai Station. It is convenient to get to other parts of Sukhumvit by train.
There are plenty of local Thai, Japanese, Korean restaurants and cafes in this area. You can easily get to the trendy Ekkamai and Thong Lor which have lots of establishments for Japanese and Korean expats.
Some local attractions close to the hotel include Wat That Thong, Science Center for Education (Planetarium Bangkok), and Gateway Ekkamai shopping mall.
Since it is located in the upper part of Sukhumvit Road, it has quieter nightlife compared to the Nana and Asok area, but you can still use the train to get to these nightlife spots easily.
Amenities
I booked a queen studio room with a double bed inside the room. The owner was very friendly and sent me a welcome email and showed me how to get to the accommodation.
There was a nice cafe on the ground floor, and the staff at the cafe helped me to carry my suitcase to the room on the 3rd floor. There is no lift in the hotel. If you are on a high floor like the 6th floor, it can be challenging getting up and down sometimes.
The room was quite compact with white wall and white bed sheet. There were mini fridges, a large mirror, small table, chair, filter bottle, and free tea and coffee. There is a nice projector inside the room, which is a bonus for watching Netflix.
The bathroom is clean with shampoo and shower gel. The downside is that my room doesn’t have a window, so it feels a bit stuffy inside. Another downside is that it’s right on the main road, so it can be noisy from the traffic if you stay in the room facing the street.
Overall, it is a good base for budget and mid-range travelers who want a private and safe place to stay not too far from the center of the action. It is good for a short stay like a night or two.
Ban Thungdang Housetel (Old Town & Sukhumvit)
Like many visitors to Bangkok, I wanted to stay in the old town to experience the authentic and historic side of the city with its iconic temples and places.
Accommodations in the old town tend to be cheaper than those in Downtown Bangkok (in Sukhumvit, Siam, and Silom), so I was able to book a nice private stay even at the last minute.
Many hotels and guesthouses in the Old Town are small, family-run places, so they offer a more personal and homely experience. Many hotels are converted from old historic buildings, creating a unique boutique charm that reflects the area’s rich heritage.
Location
Ban Thungdang is a small family-run hotel located in the heart of Bangkok Old Town. It is set in a small alley way but within easy walking distance to all attractions in the historic old town.
I can walk to Democracy Monument within 5 minutes, to Khao san Road within 10 minutes, to Golden Mount and Panfa Leelard Pier within 10 minutes. You can use a canal boat at Panfa Leelard to get to Siam and Pratunam area easily.
From Ban Thungdang, I walked everywhere in the old town and even Chinatown. I walked to major sights like Wat Pho, Grand Palace, Flower Market, Old Siam Palace, Yaowarat Road and Sampeng Lane market. If I am tired of walking, I can easily use a Grab Bike with a reasonable price.
Amenities
I stayed in a mini queen bed room at Ban Thungdang. Check in was easy. The room was clean with a big bed, air conditioning, a small window, table, chair, and a clothing rack.
The bathroom is clean and in a good size. The common area outside is also a nice place to work and chill. It has basic amenities but overall a safe and clean place to stay in Bangkok Old Town. It was good for me as a solo female traveler. The beds are also spacious, so couples can enjoy staying here too.
The Cube Hostel Silom
I wanted to stay in Silom for a change of pace, having already stayed in Sukhumvit and the Old Town. The Cube Hostel Silom was in a good location and was available at my last minute of booking, so I booked it.
Location
The Cube Hostel Silom is located in a small alley near Sala Daeng Road. It is just a 5 minute walking distance from Silom MRT Station, and 5 minutes walk to Sala Daeng BTS Station. This is very convenient to get around the city by public train.
You can also easily walk to Lumphini Park Park, Patpong night market, and a range of shopping malls in the Silom area. The famous sky walk at King Power Mahanakhon is only a 20 minute walk from the hostel.
From the hotel, it was a 50 baht Grab Bike to Central World, the meeting point of the tour to Maeklong Railway Market and Damnoen Saduak Floating Market.
Amenities
I booked a dorm female room at The Cube Hostel Silom. The room was clean and the bathroom was outside of the room, which is also clean.
My room was on the 6th floor, and since there was no lift, going up and down got a bit tiring. The owner was kind though, he carried my suitcase to the room when I checked in and checked out. Many people keep it down in the common area and only bring necessary items up to the room.
There is a curtain in each bed, so it was good to block the light. The big window with views of the city. The temperature inside the room was set quite low and there was the noise from constructions nearby.
The ground area has a nice common area with book shelfs, a public computer, and a nice back yard with trees, tables, and chairs.
I would stay in this hostel because of its location and safety. If nothing else is available when you book, this place isn’t a bad option.
ISSara by d Hostel
I stayed at this hostel for a night when transferring from Koh Kood to Hua Hin. There wasn’t a direct transport between these two cities, so I had to stay in Bangkok for a night.
I chose to stay in Bangkok Old Town this time because I plan to take the train from Jaran Sanitwong Station to Hua Hin. Jaran Sanitwong Station is easily reachable on the MRT train line.
Location
ISSara by d Hostel has a prime location in the heart of Bangkok Old town. It is just a 10 minutes walk to Sam Yot Station, where you can easily take a train ride to downtown Bangkok (Sukhumvit and Siam) for more shopping and nightlife.
It is also very close to Wat Pho, Grand Palace, and Khao San Road. You can easily walk everywhere in the old town when staying at Issara. Very close to the hotel, you can find some local attractions like Wat Ratchabophit, Saranrom Park, and a local market.
Amenities
I stayed in the 4-bed female dorm room. The room was compact but clean with a large window with the view of the street outside. The bed has a thick curtain, so it can block the light. The bathroom and toilet are outside of the room.
The main highlight of this hostel is the rooftop terrace, which offers stunning views of Bangkok — especially the nearby temple and the street below.
The rooftop terrace has a coin washing machine and dryer, so it is very convenient to do laundry by yourself. While waiting for the laundry, you can enjoy stunning city views.
There might be mosquitoes at night on the rooftop, so prepare insect repellent with you. In the morning, the rooftop is also a great place to see the sunrise and do yoga.
The downside of ISSara by d Hostel is that, like many budget and mid-range hotels in Bangkok, there’s no elevator. Carrying a suitcase up and down to the room can be a bit of a challenge.
See more: Where to Stay in Thailand
Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, Bangkok never runs out of exciting things to discover. I hope this article on where to stay in Bangkok will help you to find the right place to stay in the city for you. Enjoy your trip to the capital of Thailand!