Where To Stay In Bangkok: The Best Areas & Hotels In 2024
Want to know where to stay in Bangkok & where the best areas are?
If you want to be in the thick of the action in Southeast Asia then you have to visit Bangkok! During my trips here, I’ve learned a lot about the Thai capital’s unique mix of past and present, with tranquil temples surrounded by high-rise buildings and now I want to help you through the busy streets of this city.
Many people don’t enjoy their stay in Bangkok but that’s because they haven’t found the correct area to base themselves in. Believe me, I’ve made the same mistake many times.
This amazing capital of Thailand has so many different places to visit with its blend of ancient customs and contemporary marvels. People flock to this place from all over the world to see the beautiful temples and bustling markets that never sleep and sample the incredible food.
Whether choosing a budget-friendly guesthouse, or a high-end hotel fit for a family, it’s important to find the perfect base for your city exploration. Some people like the bustling vibes of Siam or Pratunam, while others appreciate the historic attraction of the Old City in Bangkok.
So let me find the perfect starting point for your Bangkok adventure and check out the best areas of the city to help you enjoy this incredible city!
Quick Guide: Where To Stay In Bangkok
Have you already booked your flight? Do you need to know the best areas to stay in Bangkok right away? Then check out these hand-picked listings below.
📍Best Area In Bangkok For First-Timers – Silom
Banyan Tree Bangkok
⭐️ 8.7/10
✔️ Five-star decor
✔️ Aweome Moon & Vertigo Bars
✔️ Stunning location by the river
📍Best Area In Bangkok For Families – Sukhumvit
The Okura Prestige
⭐️ 9.2/10
✔️ Contemporary Japanese design
✔️ Heated rooftop infinity pool
✔️ Close to public transport
📍Best Area In Bangkok For Couples – Bangkok Riverside
Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok
⭐️ 9.4/10
✔️ Incredible riverside views
✔️ 9 pools and 2 restaurants
✔️ 5-star luxury
📍Best Area In Bangkok For Those On A Budget – Chinatown
Shanghai Mansion Bangkok
⭐️ 8.5/10
✔️ 1930s Shanghai decor
✔️ Complimentary mini-bar
✔️ Experience options included
📍Best Area In Bangkok For Nightlife – Banglamphu
Riva Surya Bangkok
⭐️ 9/10
✔️ Five mins to Khao San Road
✔️ Lovely riverbank location
✔️ Spacious pool & bar area
📍Best Area In Bangkok For Shopping – Siam
Siam Kempinski Hotel Bangkok
⭐️ 9.4/10
✔️ Multiple pools with landscaped gardens
✔️ Close to major shopping malls
✔️ Kids club available
Where To Stay In Bangkok For First-Timers
Silom, located at the heart of Bangkok, is an ideal place to stay if this is your first time in Bangkok. This area is located right in the middle of Bangkok’s city centre, and this will give you a sense of what makes Bangkok so vibrant and full of energy. In the busy streets of the capital, places like Lumphini Park can give you some well-needed peace away from all that hustle.
Silom is also an awesome location for food lovers! As well as delicious Thai street foods, there are also plenty of fancy eateries at high-end restaurants – Silom has them all. But first, are you in the mood for some shopping? Then you’re certainly in the right place. There are plenty of local markets for those looking for peculiar pieces or you can visit any of the numerous luxurious malls.
There is a variety of accommodations available in Silom to suit every budget. One of the main reasons to stay here is that you can access any place in Bangkok, thanks to its multiple transport systems, such as BTS Skytrain and MRT, which can take you anywhere in the city.
One thing to consider when staying in Silom is that the busy streets of Silom can get a little crowded (but not overly), especially around its nightlife areas. As it’s such a popular district in Bangkok, you can expect jostling streets and overfilled buses during most hours of the day, so be careful if this isn’t your thing.
Overall, Silom is a convenient place for commuting and getting around the city, with an atmosphere that’s teeming with city life, making it a great area for first-timers.
Where To Stay In Silom
📍Budget Option $ – Warm Window Silom⭐️8.3/10
An ideal choice for budget-conscious travellers, Warm Window Silom has free Wi-Fi and is close to local attractions making it a cosy beginning for any first-time visitor coming to Bangkok.
📍Mid-Range Option $$ – ibis Styles Bangkok Silom ⭐️ 8.6/10
A sweet spot for those searching a bit more without breaking the bank, Ibis Styles combines comfort and convenience into one. Free parking, Wi-Fi, and on-site perks like a fitness centre and pool make it a no-brainer.
📍Luxury Option $$$ – Banyan Tree Bangkok ⭐️ 8.7/10
For affordable luxury, Banyan Tree won’t disappoint. Its embrace of modern Thai decor, cosy rooms, and excellent facilities promises a grand stay. Oh, and I didn’t even mention the two excellent bars!
Things To Do In Silom
✔️ Lumphini Park
Looking for a quiet spot to relax whilst walking around busy Bangkok? Then look no further than Lumphini Park. The park is a peaceful area where people jog, do Tai Chi, or just simply enjoy the peace and quiet.
It’s a lovely break from the busy city and you can even take part in the free aerobics classes. Make sure to keep an eye out for the huge but friendly monitor lizards!
✔️ King Power Mahanakhon Skywalk
Standing 314m above Bangkok is the Mahanakhon Skywalk. The building houses many entertaining attractions such as glass floor walks and sky rides as well as a large shopping mall.
The highlight is the observation deck at the Peak, allowing incredible 360-degree panoramic views across the city.
✔️ Patpong Night Market
Ready to try your hand at bargaining? Head over to Patpong Night Market. It’s full of stalls selling all kinds of things, from fun knock-offs to unique handmade items.
Patpong itself is known as Bangkoks red light district but there’s nothing seedy about the area. It’s a great place to hang with friends, have a chat with some good food, and grab yourself a bargain.
✔️ Sky Bar At Lebua
Want to visit the most famous rooftop bar in Bangkok? Heck, it’s one of the most famous in the world after its appearance in the 2011 movie, The Hangover Part II.
The views are spectacular and the prices are eye-watering! Yes, it’s expensive but it’s a bucket list item for many and I would pay again for the ambience and experience!
Where To Stay In Bangkok With Family
Sukhumvit is a fantastic district for families visiting Bangkok. Thanks to BTS Skytrain, it’s also super easy to get around. You can eat from all corners of the world in Sukhumvit, shop until your legs refuse to carry you anymore in giant malls like Central Embassy Mall and Terminal 21, and relax at places like Benjakitti Park, making it ideal for fun and relaxing with family.
There are also all types of accommodation options to suit all budgets, from high-end properties to those on a tighter budget.
For those looking for a quiet spot, be aware that Sukhumvit is quite a lively area, as is most of Bangkok. Also, bear in mind that since it’s one of the best areas in the city, prices are slightly higher than in other more silent parts of Bangkok.
Sukhumvit is an excellent mix for families in Bangkok with easy navigation, a wide range of activities, and places where the whole family can have fun. Just remember that it can be a bit lively at night and slightly more expensive.
Where To Stay In Sukhumvit
📍Budget Option $ – Grand Business Inn ⭐️ 7.7/10
The Grand Business Inn is great for families, offering spacious rooms making it a popular choice for families. Close to all the nighttime entertainment such as Soi Cowboy and Arab Street.
📍Mid-Range Option $$ – Oakwood Studios ⭐️ 8.4/10
Oakwood Studios is great for families, offering rooms with kitchens so you can feel at home. There’s a lively restaurant, a cool outdoor pool and bar, and even a fitness centre.
📍Luxury Option $$$ – Okura Prestige Bangkok ⭐️ 9.2/10
Okura Prestige was featured in the 2021 Michelin guide and offers your family a bit of luxury with its Japanese-inspired decor. There’s also an onsite gym, a garden to explore, and a rooftop bar.
Things To Do In Sukhumvit
✔️ Thonglor (Korean Town)
The trendy area of Thonglor is nicknamed Korean Town due to the many Korean expats and shops that have sprung up over the years.
It’s a great area to explore and sample some local and Korean food and cool cafes while there’s plenty of street art to try and find too.
✔️ Soi Cowboy
Soi Cowboy is a short street famous for its bars and nightlife It’s great for adults to have a bit of fun exploring bars with bright neon lights once the kids are asleep.
It’s all about the lively atmosphere here but there are ‘go-go’ bars here so if this isn’t your scene just pop into a decent pub and enjoy some people watching.
✔️ Benjakitti Park
Benjakitti Park is a peaceful spot offering a peaceful escape from Bangkok’s busy life. It’s perfect for family strolls, with paths for walking and biking.
There’s a nice boardwalk that goes around the whole park that’s also lit up at night. Just be careful of joggers as the park has become a popular running spot.
✔️ Central Embassy Mall
Central Embassy Mall is a luxury mall for families to shop, eat fancy food, and watch movies in luxury. It’s a bit posh and has something for everyone in the family.
Where To Stay In Bangkok For Couples
Bangkok Riverside, towards the south of the city, is a beautiful area with breathtaking views of the river and the city that’s just perfect for couples visiting Bangkok. The hotels around here are excellent because they provide spacious rooms and unique little touches for couples.
It’s located near many hot spots, far from the noisy city centre, meaning you’ll enjoy a more peaceful getaway. Some hotels and guesthouses have small gardens or pools right next to the river, and there are many places to eat, with plenty of international cuisine on offer, so you will always find something new to try.
This part of the capital can get a little crowded at night with boats and events, just like others I have mentioned before, which some people may dislike. It’s also more upscale and costs more than other parts of Bangkok.
However, Riverside is an ideal choice for couples wanting privacy together with comfort and beautiful surroundings because it offers exclusive views of Bangkok’s tranquil beauty.
Where To Stay In Bangkok Riverside
📍Budget Option $ – Vera Nidhra ⭐️ 9.5/10
Vera Nidhra is a perfect couples’ rendezvous point with stylish air-conditioned rooms and beautiful seating areas. Additionally, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property, and there’s also a common room.
📍Mid-Range Option $$ – Loy La Long Hotel ⭐️ 8.9/10
Loy La Long has comfortable rooms reminiscent of old China and was featured in the 2009 movie Bangkok Traffic. It’s cosy and unlike any other for couples who need something out of the ordinary.
📍Luxury Option $$$ – Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok ⭐️ 9.4/10
Any couple looking for a spot of luxury will love the Mandarin Oriental. Rooms are immaculately furnished while the pool and facilities give this hotel a well-earned 5-star rating.
Things To Do In Bangkok Riverside
✔️ Flower Market (Pak Khlong Talat)
Enjoy a perfect stroll with your partner around Bangkok’s flower market. It is a beautiful market full of colours and smells with lots going on, making it livelier for couples to walk around together.
✔️ Royal Grand Palace
The official residence of the Thai Royal Family until 1932, the Grand Palace is a must-see and the number-one thing to do in Bangkok.
The fantastic design legacy, many temples and significance to the country make it one of Bangkok’s most popular attractions.
✔️ Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew)
Housed in the Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew is seen as the most important in Thailand as it is where the Emerald Buddha statue is located.
Made from jade, the Emerald Buddha’s origins are shrouded in mystery and it has been housed in many temples throughout Asia.
✔️ Asiatique the Riverfront
A kind of hybrid amusement park with some decent shopping opportunities and breathtaking panoramas over the cityscape, including its observation wheel. It is great fun during a romantic night date at this place.
Where To Stay In Bangkok On A Budget
Backpacking or budget-conscious? Then the vibrant and cultural area of Chinatown has some of the most affordable accommodations in Bangkok.
The central location, among other things, is a strong selling point of this area. This means you will be in the middle of everything, including transportation hubs. However, during rush hours, the place could become quite busy and noisy; something to think about if you require a bit more peace.
There are numerous guesthouses and hostels in Chinatown that are cheap enough to have extra money left for yourself without leaving any form of comfort aside. There are many places where you can eat delicious local food at local prices. However, just avoid the unhygienic vendors as there seems to be one on every corner..
Chinatown is a great choice when on a tight budget as it offers affordable rates, easy access to amenities, and great food. Just be ready for the frantic pace of this lively quarter!
Where To Stay In Chinatown
📍Budget option $ – Photohostel ⭐️ 9.2/10
With beautiful wood finish private rooms, Photoshostel is one of the best choices for those on a tight budget who need a comfortable stay in Bangkok.
📍Mid-Range Option $$ – Ago Hotel Chinatown ⭐️ 9.1/10
Find a great deal in lively Chinatown with this affordable hotel that puts you in the middle of all the action.
📍Luxury Option $$$ – Shanghai Mansion Bangkok ⭐️ 8.5/10
Enjoy luxurious accommodation at reasonable prices by staying at this fancy hotel located in central Bangkok, which is always bustling with activity.
Things To Do In Chinatown
✔️ Wat Traimit Temple & The Golden Buddha
This is a great temple that has the largest golden Buddha statue made of solid metal in the world, and you must see it at least once while you’re in Chinatown.
✔️ India
Experience the thrilling atmosphere of Little India. A bustling area where you can wander around, shop for cheap things, and eat delicious Indian meals.
✔️ Sampeng Market
Find your way through the crowded alleys of busy Sampeng Market, and haggle your way around all the cheap stuff ranging from clothes and accessories to souvenir items and trinkets.
✔️ Legendary Street Food (Yaowarat Rd)
Treat your taste buds on Yaowarat Road, aka the best street food district in Chinatown! Enjoy delicious local foods without putting too much strain on your pocket.
Where To Stay In Bangkok For Nightlife
If you want to experience Bangkok’s famous nightlife, you have to stay in Banglamphu, home of Khao San Road. There are also a ton of pubs, clubs, and fun spots to spend the entire evening there.
Partying on Khao San Road and Rambuttri Alley tops many people’s Bangkok bucket list but remember that it gets packed and really noisy. Which might not be ideal if you like quiet evenings out on the town or are a light sleeper.
This area is also fantastic for budget travellers, with modern hostels and unique small hotels. Because of this, it’s the perfect place for travellers who want to be in the middle of all the action without having to pay as much for accommodation. Booking your hotel or hostel in advance, and online, can help avoid any nasty surprises.
Those who enjoy the nightlife and want to see Bangkok at night should stay in Banglamphu. I would recommend sampling the nightlife at least once no matter what type of traveller you are!
Where To Stay In Banglamphu
📍Budget Option $ – Lilit Bang Lumphu Hotel ⭐️ 8.9/10
This is a great place for those on a budget as it offers a comfortable stay at an affordable price in a vibrant area and close to Khao San Road with easy access to Bangkok’s nightlife.
📍Mid-Range Option $$ – Centara Life Hotel Bangkok Phra Nakhon ⭐️ 8.6/10
This hotel is located in a busy area and is ideal for those who want to explore Bangkok’s night activities and convenience. Rooms are modern and spacious while facilities include fitness and an outdoor pool.
📍Luxury Option $$$ – Riva Surya Bangkok ⭐️ 9.0/10
Let yourself enjoy the luxury of staying at Riva Surya Bangkok, which has an elegant design, intimate interior, and lovely river view where you can rest after having a busy night in Bangkok.
Things To Do In Banglamphu
✔️ Wat Pho Temple
One of the highlights in Bangkok is Wat Pho Temple. The grounds are nice and peaceful compared to the busy, sometimes overcrowded Grand Palace.
Of course, everyone visits to see the reclining Buddha statue which, at 46 metres long, is one of the largest statues in Thailand.
✔️ Golden Mount Temple
Step up to the Golden Mount Temple and take in the great views of Bangkok at night. It is a fantastic night experience.
✔️ Bangkok National Museum
Besides partying, you can go to the Bangkok National Museum and see how Thai people have lived throughout history.
✔️ River ferry
Take a ride on a river ferry along the Chao Phraya River. You’ll enjoy some great views, and it will prepare your mind nicely for your evening or morning in Banglamphu.
Where To Stay In Bangkok For Shopping
Huge malls like Siam Paragon, MBK, Central Chitlom and Central World make the area of Siam a shopper’s haven. This is the best stay in Bangkok for those who love shopping but want a bit more than the local night market.
Whether you need fashion or tech stuff, it’s all within reach. Just be prepared to deal with crowds, especially on weekends.
Siam isn’t all about shopping. The nightlife here is also pretty good and everything is relatively close by. After you have spent your hard-earned money during the day, the next thing will be to go out and enjoy some of the coolest bars and restaurants that can be found anywhere in Bangkok. Just be aware that the hotels in this area can be a little more expensive.
There are also plenty of food markets and bars nearby making Siam the best area to stay in Bangkok for shoppers.
Where To Stay In Siam
📍Budget Option $ – Kritthai Residence ⭐️ 8.4/10
The Kritthai Residence has simple furnished rooms and is close to the malls and transport networks, making it ideal for people who like exploring, eating, and lounging.
📍Mid-Range Option $$ – Ibis Bangkok Siam ⭐️ 8.0/10
Located at the heart of Siam, Ibis is pet-friendly and is perfectly located for exploring stores and markets without hurting your bank account. Guests can also make use of the tour desk.
📍Luxury Option $$$ – Siam Kempinski Hotel Bangkok ⭐️ 9.4/10
World-class luxury that you’d expect with Kempinski. Spacious rooms, landscaped grounds and multiple pools. This hotel also has easy access to all the major shopping malls in Bangkok.
Things To Do In Siam
✔️ Shopping
Shopaholics have their choice from some of the most excellent shopping spots in Bangkok. Siam Paragon, Central World, Central Chitlom and Siam Centre are all here and you can buy anything you want, from highly-priced brands to mouth-watering meals.
✔️ MBK Shopping Mall
MBK is the perfect place for people who want to go on a shopping haul as well as hang out with their friends. This mall is the oldest in Bangkok and is well-known for its cheap prices and wide range of available things.
✔️ Apple Central World
Apple is huge in Asia and their flagship store in Bangkok is the largest in Thailand. You can be sure that the products here aren’t cheap knock-offs like you can get at the markets.
✔️ Madame Tussauds Bangkok
The famous wax museum has found its way to the Thai capital. Expect your usual favourite wax figures, including Justin Bieber, Chairman Mao, Brad Pitt and a bunch of celebs from Thailand.
✔️ Jim Thompson’s House
This museum houses the collection of Jim Thompson, the American who revitalised the Thai silk industry in the 50s and 60s. He began collecting Southeast Asian art and much of it can be seen here.
✔️ Siam Square Walking Street
A newcomer to Siam, the walking street opened in 2022 and is a great place to soak up the buzzing atmosphere while exploring the different eateries, chic cafes and fashion bargains.
Where NOT To Stay In Bangkok?
Bangkok is amazing, but there are certainly areas to avoid. I am not saying these areas aren’t worth visiting. However, there are a couple of places you may want to avoid depending on what you’re looking for.
❌ Khao San Road – Many backpackers will tell you that staying on the infamous Khao San Road is half the reason why they didn’t enjoy Bangkok. Sure it’s where all the action is and there are some cheap stays to be had but if sleep is important to you, you’ll pay that extra couple of dollars! Stay close if you want to experience the nightlife but far enough so it doesn’t suck you in!
❌ Nana Plaza is a super busy area where the nightlife buzzes with lights and bars making it an area to avoid for people who are light sleepers (including myself). It would be best if you stay elsewhere if you want to be fresh for your temple tour the next morning.
As I mentioned before, you shouldn’t avoid these destinations completely. Just know that there are better areas to stay in. You should certainly see as much of the city as you can though. It’s all part of the adventure after all!
FAQs: Where To Stay In Bangkok
Now that you have all the details you’ll need for your trip to Bangkok, let’s answer some FAQs to help you along with your planning.
What Is The Best Part Of Bangkok To Stay In?
The best area to stay in Bangkok will depend on your travel preferences. Let me summarise my top recommendations for places to stay in the city.
Silom – Best for first-timers in the heart of Bangkok and a great starting point.
Sukhumvit – Best for families with lots of kid-friendly activities.
Bangkok Riverside – Best for couples. Perfect for peaceful dates.
Chinatown – Best for budget travellers. Lively, well-priced with affordable activities
Banglamphu – Best for nightlife and young adults. The ‘sin city’ of Bangkok!
Siam – Best for shopping. The shopping centre of Bangkok
What Is The Main Area Of Bangkok?
To experience the best of Bangkok, head to Sukhumvit. The place is bursting with shops, tasty street food, and exciting nightlife. Remember that even the traffic jams have some beauty in them (well, I mean the colourful Tuk Tuks).
What Is The Most Lively Area In Bangkok?
Bangkok has a lot of lively places, right? But Sukhumvit Soi 11 Street would be my pick! With so many fun bars and restaurants, it’s a great spot to take in the city’s nightlife.
Is Bangkok Walkable?
Yes, Bangkok is quite big but you can surely walk at your own pace in some areas. It can be quite hard to cover long distances due to the size of the city, heavy traffic on the roads and hot weather. So, taking public transport, tuk-tuk, or taxi could be really helpful!
How Many Days Do You Need In Bangkok?
You can see many of Bangkok’s highlights in 3-4 days. Many people just spend one or two days and then leave but I personally love Bangkok and 5-7 days allows you to go deeper, and explore the surrounding areas.
Wrapping Up: Where To Stay In Bangkok
That wraps up my recommendations on where to stay in Bangkok. For me, the city is an awesome place to start your Southeast Asian adventure. The busy streets and delicious food are the perfect introduction to Thailand.
It’s also the perfect place to base yourself to explore other parts of Thailand. You can easily take day trips to Ayutthaya or the floating markets while the airports can easily transport you to the northern cities or south for a bit of island hopping.
Whether you decide to stay in Silom for your first time or decide to head straight to Khao San Road. You have plenty of options in Bangkok. It’s a bit like choosing between spicy curry or tasty pad Thai – just go with your taste buds!
I’ve visited Bangkok numerous times and it didn’t matter if I stayed in Sukhumvit or Chinatown, the transport options in the city mean you’re never too far away from a cool market, beautiful temple or pumping nightclub.
All that’s left to do is find your passport, pack your bags (leave room for souvenirs) and get ready to discover around this vibrant city.
