The sprawling neon city of Bangkok is internationally known for its promiscuous nightlife. For the more worldly traveler, the city of Bangkok represents extravagant temples, lively street markets, busy canals, and an adventure down every back alley!
With so many different sides to this metropolis, how can one know where to stay in Bangkok?
No matter which part of Bangkok you are drawn to, here is a guide to make sure you are in the thick of whichever action you desire!
Our travel experts have traveled firsthand to Bangkok to make make sure YOU have the best guide begin your journey in South East Asia.
After today you will not only know where to stay before setting off on your Thailand adventure but you will also be able to know the chaotic city of Bangkok like the back of your hand.
These are our best picks for where to stay in Bangkok!
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At A Glance: Where To Stay In BANGKOK
Looking for a specific place to stay? These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in Bangkok.
WHERE TO STAY IN BANGKOK | |||
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Best Air BnBBest Air BnBSuchada’s Airbnb |
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Best Budget HotelBest Budget HotelThanabhumi |
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Best Mid-Range HotelBest Mid-Range HotelEastin Grand Hotel Sathorn |
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Best Luxury HotelBest Luxury HotelMandarin Oriental Bangkok |
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This non-smoking one bedroom apartment comes with modern interiors and an inviting space. You’ll also have access to the apartment’s gorgeous swimming pool. The location is also unbeatable with convenient access to BTS Sanam Pao.
There’s also a complimentary cleaning service every three days along with a free Tutuk that takes you right to the BTS station. There’s truly no better place to return to after a day exploring Bangkok.
For those truly wanting to make yourself at home in Bangkok, look no further than the Thanabhumi Hotel. Each of these snug rooms are complete with a balcony looking over the city. Depending on your needs or budget, this hotel has rooms ranging from a basic one bedroom to a fully furnished apartment.
Located in the thriving business district of Bangkok, Eastin Grand Hotel offers luxury service and amenities for half the price. In the expat neighborhood of Sathorn, you can find classy upscale bars and exquisite international cuisine.
Complete with an infinity swimming pool, you can relax in the water while still taking in the breathtaking Bangkok skyline.
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Overlooking the Chao Phraya River, this 140-year-old hotel still stands tall as the pinnacle of luxury and class in Bangkok.
From the best restaurants in town to top of the line service, this hotel defines what a true luxury hotel should be like. With all the things included in this hotel, you may be too busy pampering yourself at the Mandarin Oriental to even find time to go out into the city.
Bangkok is a textbook megacity. With a population of over 8.2 million people, it is no wonder that the size of this metropolis can be described as anything less than massive.
Bangkok has so much to offer all kinds of tourists. History buffs, urban explorers, foodies, and party goers all have their different pieces of heaven throughout the city, although it may be overwhelming at first finding out where you want to go.
With each different district of Bangkok being geared to a different kind of tourist, it can be hard to decide which neighborhood to stay in when visiting this vivacious city.
The island of Rattanakosin, or more commonly known as “the old city”, is the heart of Thai architecture, culture, and history. In this small area, you will find the highest density of majestic temples and palaces all waiting to be explored.
Ratchadapisek hosts as much nightlife and culture as the rest of Bangkok with more of a local “Thai” feel. Just North East of downtown, Ratchadapisek has one of the largest night markets in the country and a slew of budget bars and nightclubs.
Sukhumvit is so famous that it has given the whole city of Bangkok the reputation of being the “Sin City of the East”. Sukhumvit is actually the name of the longest boulevard in the country, stretching 301 miles from Bangkok to the Cambodian border.
In the city itself, Sukhumvit is home to some of the best nightlife, luxury hotels, bars, and clubs in the city, all tucked into its narrow alleyways.
With so many downtowns, Bangkok will have you walking amongst golden halls and elaborate statues in places in the morning and then hitting the dance floor in some of the hottest bars in the world at night. No matter where you decide on staying, Bangkok will have you entertained for weeks to come!
Among so many unique places around Bangkok, here are the top five neighborhoods to stay in while you are exploring the city of angels. With each area being vastly different from each other, by the end of this list you will know which district is best for you!
The history of the Thai people as we know them today starts along the banks of the Chao Phraya River. Extravagant palaces and temples complete with golden roofs which reach out to touch the heavens stand proudly at every street corner. To truly have your breath taken away while in Bangkok by the grandeur of Thai culture, look no further than the old city.
The center of the old city and even Bangkok itself is the Grand Palace. Droves of tourists from around the world all converge on this walled city within a city to bask in the sheer awesomeness of the royal halls and shimmering temples. One could easily spend a whole day exploring each of the unique shrines and chambers which make up one of the most elaborate palaces in the world.
The old city is part of a bigger district called Phra Nakhon which includes Khao San Road, which is better known as the center of the backpacking world. Here you can find the streets lined with street vendors as well as various local bars and restaurants, all within walking distance from Rattanakosin.
This gorgeous colonial style shophouse was recently renovated to accommodate two bedrooms. There’s a spacious living area to unwind at after a day traversing the streets of Bangkok along with a kitchen area.
Most of the main attractions can be reached by foot, and you can even pop by the Feungnakorn Hotel that’s right across the street to take a peek at the friendly Koi.
The locally owned Innspire Bangkok took their family home and transformed it into a bed and breakfast nestled into the center of Bangkok. With comfy rooms and balconies which overlook their lush serene neighborhood, you are still within walking distance from the busy Khao San Road and Grand Palace.
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With some of the best views of the river and within walking distance of the Grand Palace, Sala Rattanakosin is the best place to relax while taking in the beauty of the old city.
The hotel also offers upscale dinning, classy bars as well as cooking classes and walking tours to truly leave you with the memories of a lifetime.
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To even further immerse yourself in the Old City of Bangkok, one should stay at the Chakrabongse Villas, one of the most luxurious heritage hotels in the city. Originally built by Prince Chakrabongse in 1908, these classical villas now stand as an oasis in the heart of the bustling city of Bangkok.
There are many different suites to choose from as well as smaller b&bs next to the riverside and infinity pool.
If you want to truly feel like a local while in Bangkok, look no further than Ratchadapisek (Ratchada). This is the area where most locals go to unwind by hitting the bars, clubs, and restaurants.
Ratchadapisek is also home to the new Ratchada Night Market, a new extension of the bigger but out of the way, Rot Fai Market. To truly see Bangkok’s culture and modern art, but sure to check out the colorful stalls selling anything from second-hand goods to arts and crafts. Many locals also attend a weekly car show nearby the market, showing off their surreal rides to the public
Other than Ratchadapisek’s night markets, this area has some of the best spas in all of Bangkok. Tourists and locals alike can pamper themselves at the extensive spa palaces located nearby their hotel.
Ratchadapisek is the best place to find a hotel for a discounted price and put yourself in the center of the city, making it easy to reach any part of Bangkok.
This beautiful apartment comes with all the modern furnishings, and even has access to a sky pool, gym, and a sauna. You’ll feel right at home with the spacious kitchen along with all the amenities you could possibly need.
Right across from the space is a large shopping mall along with nightlife entertainment. The Rama 9 station is also in close proximity to this high-end residence.
Located in the center of the upscale residential area of Ratchadapisek, the Roseate Ratchada is within walking distance of some of the best shopping malls and clubs in Bangkok. Their fully furnished modern rooms are sure to relax guests with only a fraction of the cost of other resorts.
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The Amari Residences gives one the feeling of being at home while traveling in the exotic city of Bangkok. The Residences includes a rooftop lounge and pool as well as other first-class amenities. The rooms range from anything from simple single rooms to fully furnished apartments.
The brand-new Lancaster Bangkok has state of the art facilities, including a rooftop pool, fitness center, and spa. Located within walking distance from the subway, sprawling markets, and modern shopping malls.
The Lancaster is a great place to relax and base yourself in Bangkok to easily access all points of the city.
What Sukhumvit lacks in history and culture is made up in its abundance of shopping malls, nightclubs, and restaurants.
A longtime favorite of foreign tourists and expats, Sukhumvit is one of the busiest areas of Bangkok and for a good reason. The longest street in Thailand has some of the hottest upscale clubs such as Nanz and Glow.
For those wanting to take a look at the underbelly of Bangkok, be sure to walk through the infamous Soi Cowboy or Nana. Even though these are two alleyways are on par with being Bangkok’s Sodom and Gomorrah, many tourists can still be found gawking at the risqué dancers and flashing neon lights.
The red-light district is only one façade of Sukhumvit, it also hosts affordable fine dining, lively street markets, and the ever-popular Terminal 21. A mall which every floor is decorated to represent a different country.
No matter what your pleasure is, you are sure to find it in Sukhumvit.
This clean and comfortable apartment comes with a King-sized plush bed along with a cosy living area, kitchenette, and a bathroom with stylish interiors.
Staying at this contemporary apartment means that you’ll have access to a complimentary electric shuttle transfer service, and a short walk to BTS Sky Train Ploenchit Station. It’s also just a 15-minute walk to the main area of Sukumvit.
Escaping from the chaotic city streets down a back alley, the Tints of Blue Residence creates a homey atmosphere in the middle of one of the most booming districts of Bangkok. This trendy budget hotel is complete with a rooftop pool, fitness center, and restaurant within its doors, ensuring guests are relaxed and ready to go back out and explore the rest of this amazing city.
Other than its cozy rooms, the Asoke Residence includes a swimming pool, jogging track, spa, and nightclub all within its hotel. Combining the best service with the convenience of being in the middle of the action in Sukhumvit, the Asoke Residence is the best place to unwind after exploring the bustling Thai streets.
After completing all of your shopping and clubbing on the streets below, you can retire to a hotel of complete tranquility at the Okura Prestige Bangkok. With the most luxurious facilities money can buy, this hotel is unmatched in its ability to spoil their guests and provide classic Thai hospitality.
Thonglor and Ekkamai is our pick for the coolest place to stay in Bangkok
The upscale chic neighborhood of Thonglor and Ekkamai was originally home to Bangkok’s young professionals and Japanese expats. As the area began to grow, artists and expats began to flock to the neighborhood, leaving their own mark on these unique streets.
Thonglor and Ekkamai host loads of quaint cafes, swanky vintage shops, and modern art galleries. This is the place where fashion trends are set for the rest of Bangkok.
Nothing summarizes the essence of Thonglor better than the Thonglor Art Space. Part café part art studio, this once bare drab building has been transformed into the forerunner for the most groundbreaking place of artistic expression in the whole country.
While still a part of Sukhumvit, Thonglor, and Ekkamai stands out of the many alleyways and backstreets as the center of youth culture for the entire city. Take in some art, sip on some coffee, and bask in the artistic ambiance of Thonglor and Ekkamai.
Located in a modern condominium, this fantastic space comes with some incredible amenities. You’ll have access to the rooftop swimming pool along with a sauna room, skyscape gym and more.
Guests can also take the complimentary shuttle service, and the apartment is in close proximity to Thonglor. This is a great urban oasis to stay at in the heart of Bangkok.
Located in a Japanese neighborhood in Thonglor, Goodfellas Thong lo is not only a trendy hostel nestled in one of the coolest areas of Bangkok, but it also has a cute coffee shop on the first floor when you can cozy up with a good book.
The hostel’s comfortable homey atmosphere and friendly staff will make you feel like you are part of the family while staying in Bangkok.
This spacious four-star hotel ensures you have a relaxing stay with its comfortable rooms, swimming pool, a top-class service. Somerset Ekamai is an oasis away from the honking cars from the streets, giving guests a refuge of relaxation and peace before heading back out to continue their Bangkok adventure.
The Akyra Thonglor Bangkok is where luxury living meets artistic expression in this modern aesthetically appealing hotel. With rooftop lounges and a restaurant which will set the bar for Thai cuisine, you are sure to lose yourself in the sheer ambiance of this luxurious boutique hotel.
The Riverside is the cradle of civilization for all Thai people. Here you will find the oldest of temples and most vibrant of culture. Other than the awe-inspiring shrines and palaces which line the banks of the Chao Phraya River, the Riverside offers a boat rides, shopping, and fine dining.
Many people can be found lounging on longboats, buzzing up and down the water which splits Bangkok into two. While either drinking beer or eating snacks, tourists can sit back and relax as they watch all the most iconic landmarks of Bangkok slowly pass by.
The Riverside offers a unique mix of being close enough to all the action and attractions of Bangkok, while still keeping its distance in calm relaxing neighborhoods overlooking the water. It doesn’t matter if you want to be able to be in walking distance of the Old City or simply yearning for a relaxing holiday by the river, The Riverside is simply the perfect place for families.
This villa is great for families because it’s a roomy villa with a total of four bedrooms and five bathrooms. This elegant and luxurious holiday villa comes with dark wood flooring and Thai inspired decoration.
Guests staying in this gorgeous villa would also have complimentary pickup from the airport along with free breakfast. There’s also a swimming pool to take a dip at along with a modern gym.
V Varee Bangkok is the best budget hotel on The Riverside, with breathtaking views of the city skyline and river. Each room includes free wi-fi, air conditioning, and some even with a riverside balcony. V Varee puts the city at your doorstep with many of Bangkok’s most popular temples within walking distance from your hotel.
Located on the west side of the Chao Phraya River, Avani Riverside has some of the best views of the water and the sprawling city of Bangkok. With comfortable rooms offering striking views of the skyline as well as a rooftop pool and lounge, this hotel will let you feel like you are truly resting in the heart of Bangkok.
The Siam Hotel is a tourist destination in itself. Within its walls it has lush gardens, cozy cafes, retro bars, and even a Muay Thai boxing ring. This Gatsby-esque hotel offers yoga classes, cooking classes, and even boxing lessons. With so much to do at The Siam, you may not find time to even leave the resort.
Exploring gleaming golden temples during the day and dancing in the neon lights at night, Bangkok truly is a city that never sleeps. With so much fun and excitement, you may find it hard to find time to actually relax in your hotel. Thus, it is vital to find a hotel that fits all of your needs as a tourist and leaves you refreshed and ready to continue your adventure.
Rattanakosin is our favorite area to stay in Bangkok. It puts you at the doorstep of some of the most mystical places and temples of Thailand which still being close to the restaurants and bars in Khaosan and China Town.
The Sala Rattanakosin is in such a great location that it literally combines the best of the what Old City and Riverside have to offer, making it our top pick for hotels in Bangkok.
Is there a hotel or neighborhood that should be on the list? Let us know in the comments below. Now all you need to do is book your accommodation with our handy guide to the best hotels in Bangkok and check out the 15 best things to do in Bangkok!
We wish you a safe journey to Bangkok Thailand!
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Emma Johnson lives to travel! Born in Washington D.C., Emma is a hotel connoisseur and a staff writer at Hotel Jules. An army brat, Emma got the travel bug early and has never been able to stop. Now, she has proudly visited 70+ countries and plans to visit every country in the world! Passionate about her ukelele (obviously) and her family, Emma eventually wants to retire in Thailand and write a book about all of her travel experiences.