Where To Stay in Bangkok? 6 Best Areas & Places to Stay + Where to Avoid! 🇹🇭

Bangkok is a huge city, and the area you choose to stay in can significantly influence your experience.

Planning a last minute trip to Bangkok? 🇹🇭
Here are some of my favourite places to stay & things to do:

🛌 Places to Stay:
1. Eastin Grand Phaya Thai (incredible luxury hotel with 2 rooftop pools)
2. Sindhorn Midtown Hotel (best breakfast buffet I've ever had & a nice rooftop pool)
3. Holiday Inn Bangkok Silom (nice location and incredible value for money)

🎟️ Top Activities & Tours:
1. Take a private tour and visit the top temples in Bangkok
2. Go on a guided bike tour around the city (I loved this!)
3. Explore the floating market & the railway market

✈️ If you arrive at Suvarnabhumi Airport from abroad, I highly recommend booking the fast-track immigration service - the lines can get pretty long.

So, I’m glad you’re consulting this article to uncover the best areas and places to stay in Bangkok.

Drawing from my personal experiences, including my initial visit in 2016 and subsequent trips (five and counting), this guide is crafted to help you find a spot that suits your travel style and expectations.

I have a fondness for Bangkok, having made it a point to stay here during each of my Thailand visits. The city’s diverse character and the hospitality of its people are just a couple of reasons I keep coming back.

In this guide, I’ll share my preferred areas in Bangkok and suggest hotels in each neighborhood.

Let’s get right to it: where to stay in Bangkok?

Best Areas in Bangkok

Here’s a rundown of the best areas to stay in Bangkok if you just want a quick overview:

• Siam – best area to stay for your first time in Bangkok ⭐️
• Khao San Road – wild nightlife & backpacker vibes 🍹
• Silom – interesting area between the river & Lumpini Park 🦎
• Sukhumvit & Thonglor – big city vibes close to everything 🙌
• Pratunam – city center & easy airport access ✈️
• Chinatown – the most hectic & buzzing area ⛩️

Click on the area’s name to see the top hotels in that area.

The guide on where to stay in Bangkok continues below with in-depth info and my recommended hotels.

1. Siam – best area to stay for first-time visitors ⭐️

The area around Siam in the best area to stay if you’re coming to Bangkok for the first time.

Siam, located in the heart of Bangkok, is an outstanding area for first-time visitors to Thailand.

This central district skillfully blends modern features with traditional aspects, providing a perfect base for newcomers to the city.

Getting around Siam is simple, especially with the BTS Skytrain.

• Key stations like Siam and National Stadium allow you to explore far and wide.

This network is a gateway to historic sites and contemporary attractions, offering easy access across Bangkok.

See the best hotels in Siam here.

For those who enjoy shopping, this area won’t disappoint as Siam is also the best area to stay in Bangkok for shopping.

With malls like MBK Center and Siam Paragon, you can indulge in everything from quirky local items to high-end brands.

Culture enthusiasts will appreciate the nearby Jim Thompson House, which I found quite interesting – and I loved that they serve coconuts in the little bar area.

Food is a big part of the Siam experience.

The area is excellent for sampling Bangkok’s diverse culinary offerings, from street food stalls to elegant restaurants.

I also very much enjoy eating at the food courts in the shopping centers – it’s cheap and I’ve had some of my best meals in Thailand here.

In summary, Siam’s combination of convenient transport, cultural richness, and varied dining make it a prime spot for anyone looking to experience the full flavor of Bangkok for the first time.

Places to stay in Siam

Here are some of the best hotels in the Siam area of Bangkok. This area is known for some of the best hotels in Bangkok, so I will start with the most luxurious and then work my way down so there’s a hotel for every budget.

Siam Kempinski Hotel Bangkok is a slice of luxury in the city’s heart.

Think of it as your upscale oasis, surrounded by Bangkok’s non-stop energy.

What makes it stand out are the lush gardens and inviting pools – perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. Plus, it’s right next door to Siam Paragon Shopping Mall.

This means top-notch shopping and entertainment are just steps away, blending high-end comfort with the convenience of city life.

See more photos & book here.

Sindhorn Midtown Hotel Bangkok is another excellent place to stay in Bangkok’s city center. I stayed here on a trip in the spring of 2023 and thought it was close to perfect.

The highlight for me was starting each day with their incredible breakfast buffet. Breakfast buffets in Bangkok are usually very good, but this one was truly something else.

There’s also a big rooftop pool with a bar, which I very much enjoy: sitting up there, looking out over the skyline of Bangkok with a beer in hand, and then jumping into the pool.

The view is spectacular, especially as the city lights up at dusk.

It’s withing walking distance to the Central World and Siam shopping centers as well as Lumpini Park and multiple Skytrain-stations.

So, to be honest, this is close to a perfect place to stay in Bangkok.

See more photos & book here.

LiT BANGKOK Hotel offers an impressive balance of style, comfort, and affordability.

This hotel is excellent for those wanting more than just the basics without breaking the bank.

It’s got a quirky, modern design that stands out, making your stay feel a bit more special.

Plus, its location is conveniently close to local attractions, adding to its appeal.

If you’re looking for a hotel that punches above its weight in terms of value, LiT BANGKOK is a good choice.

See more photos & book here.

2. Khao San Road – wild nightlife & backpacker vibes 🍹

Khao San Road is an iconic spot in Bangkok, particularly favored by backpackers and young travelers. So it was also the area I stayed in on my first trip to Bangkok when I was young.

This part of Bangkok is known for its lively atmosphere, and it’s a hub for those looking to socialize, party, and connect with like-minded adventurers from around the world.

See the best hotels near Khao San Road here.

Khao San Road is a street packed with affordable hostels, bars, and street vendors, making it a paradise for travelers on a budget.

The nightlife here is pretty wild, with an array of bars and clubs that stay open late, offering a taste of Bangkok’s lively party scene.

The street itself transforms at night, filled with music, impromptu dance parties, and travelers sharing stories.

For daytime exploration, Khao San Road is within walking distance of some key attractions like the Grand Palace and Wat Pho.

I also highly recommend the nearby Rambuttri Alley where the vibe is a lot more chilled and there are some great restaurants and bars without the loud music.

Botanic Backyard Bar & Restaurant is awesome, for example.

However, it’s important to note that Khao San Road might not be the perfect area to stay in Bangkok for everyone.

Families, in particular, may find the night scene a bit overwhelming and the area’s general hustle a bit much.

It’s more suited for those seeking a vibrant, energetic experience and who don’t mind a bit of noise and crowds.

Places to stay near Khao San Road

There are a lot of cheap hotels and hostels near Khao San Road.

There are even hostels on the road itself, but even if you’re a young backpacker, I’d recommend not staying right on the road as the music is incredibly loud all night long.

Here are some of the best places to stay near Khao San Road. There’s no point in me recommending a 5-star hotel here – if you want that kind of luxury, I’m sure you’re not looking to stay near Khao San Road anyway 😀

Villa De Khaosan by Chillax is one of the best hotels near Khao San Road.

It’s budget-friendly, but don’t let the price tag fool you – this place has a cool, laid-back vibe that’s perfect for those looking to meet fellow travelers.

The rooftop pool is a standout feature, offering a great spot to relax and soak up the Bangkok sun.

With its combination of affordability, a vibrant atmosphere, and an awesome pool, Villa De Khaosan is a top pick for a fun and easygoing stay in the heart of the city’s backpacker haven.

See more photos & book here.

Nouvo City Hotel is another option for those hanging around Khao San Road, especially if you’re watching your budget.

What’s impressive about this place is that despite the low prices, they don’t skimp on quality.

The rooms are nicely appointed, offering a comfortable and stylish retreat after a day out in the city.

But the real highlight is the rooftop pool – it’s like an urban oasis, perfect for a refreshing dip with a view.

I actually stayed here on my first-ever trip to Bangkok when I was a young traveler, and it was absolutely perfect.

See more photos & book here.

And now, the perfect party hostel in Bangkok 😀

Mad Monkey is a name that rings a bell for many young travelers heading to Bangkok.

It’s one of the city’s most famous hostels; it’s practically guaranteed you’ll meet other like-minded explorers here.

This place has a reputation for being a party hub, so if you’re looking to socialize and enjoy some lively evenings, you’re in the right spot.

But you can also book a private room, giving you that hotel-room privacy when you need a break from the buzz.

Whether you’re up for making new friends over a few drinks or want a cool, affordable place to crash, Mad Monkey Bangkok is a good option.

See more photos & book here.

Check out my Thailand travel guide, where I’m sharing the perfect itinerary for a 2-week trip to Thailand:

3. Silom – interesting area between the river & Lumpini Park 🦎

The next area on the list is a place where I stayed for a few nights on my 3rd trip to Thailand.

Silom is a road in the Bang Rak district that is known for its blend of business and leisure. It truly is a convenient and versatile area to stay in Bangkok.

I feel like it’s genuinely a nice mix of “everything,” – so you’ve both got a lot of tourist-friendly stuff, but you can also venture down the alleys and go where the locals go.

Its accessibility is a major draw, with excellent connections to the BTS Skytrain and the MRT (Metro).

See the best hotels in Silom here.

This makes exploring different parts of Bangkok from Silom incredibly straightforward, whether heading to historical sites or modern shopping centers in Siam.

A notable highlight of Silom is its proximity to the Chao Phraya River (especially if you stay in the western part of the area, near the river).

This location is perfect for those interested in river cruises, which is something I think everybody should experience when they’re in Bangkok, as it’s a nice way to see Bangkok’s landmarks from a different vantage point.

Another gem near Silom is the lovely Lumpini Park (on the area’s eastern side).

This green oasis in the midst of the city is a wonderful retreat for those looking to escape the urban bustle.

I love going near the lakes and seeing the monitor lizards – that’s pretty exotic to me as a guy from Denmark.

While Silom is a bustling business hub by day, it transforms into a lively area for dining and entertainment as evening falls. The area caters to all culinary tastes, from street food vendors to upscale restaurants.

However, it’s good to remember that Silom can be quite busy, especially during business hours, making it more suitable for those who enjoy an energetic atmosphere.

Places to stay in Silom

Silom is one of the best areas to stay in Bangkok and has been so for many years. So we’re spoilt for choice regarding hotels in this part of town.

Lebua at State Tower in Silom is not just any luxury hotel – it’s a place that’s gained fame from its appearance in the Hangover movie.

I stayed here in 2019, and despite high expectations, I wasn’t disappointed. And I was really surprised how huge the rooms are – they are bigger than my apartment at the time back in Copenhagen 😀

Think sweeping city views, spacious suites, and top-notch service that makes you feel like a VIP.

One of the highlights is the rooftop bar and restaurant, offering some of the most breathtaking views of Bangkok.

Their breakfast buffet is undoubtedly the best and most over-the-top breakfast I’ve ever had; they had everything.

Another excellent thing about the Lebua Hotel is that if you’ve got a late flight, you can use the gym and shower facilities even after you’ve checked out.

So you can get a shower and freshen up before heading to the airport – I really enjoyed that before my late-night flight back to Denmark.

See more photos & book here.

Centre Point Silom is a 4-star hotel in the Silom area, particularly interesting for those who appreciate a room with a view.

Many of its rooms offer stunning views of the Chao Phraya River, providing a serene backdrop to your stay in Bangkok.

Centre Point Silom strikes a nice balance, offering quality accommodation with those extra touches that make a stay memorable.

See more photos & book here.

Holiday Inn Bangkok Silom is a great choice for travelers seeking a more budget-friendly option in the Silom area without sacrificing quality.

This hotel is particularly family-friendly, offering spacious rooms and amenities that cater to guests of all ages.

The Holiday Inn Bangkok Silom delivers on providing an affordable yet comfortable and convenient stay for families and budget-conscious travelers alike.

See more photos & book here.

4. Sukhumvit & Thonglor – big city vibes close to everything 🙌

Sukhumvit, stretching along one of Bangkok’s main roads, is a top pick for visitors seeking convenience and variety.

It’s also one of the most popular areas for travelers, which means you’ll find many excellent hotels in all price ranges here.

This extensive area is served by both the BTS Skytrain and the MRT Metro, ensuring easy access to many parts of the city.

See the best hotels in Sukhumvit here.

Whether shopping at modern malls, exploring local markets, or visiting cultural attractions, Sukhumvit puts you in the heart of it all.

Just a short Skytrain ride from Sukhumvit is Thonglor, a trendy and hip neighborhood often frequented by Bangkok’s fashionable and young locals.

So if you want to stay in the hipster area of Bangkok, Thonglor is the place for you.

Thonglor is a hub for creative and contemporary culture, boasting a collection of chic cafes, boutique shops, and art spaces.

It’s an area of Bangkok where traditional Thai culture meets modern lifestyle, making it a fascinating area to explore.

This video from Terminal 21 in Sukhumvit is great:

The area’s bars and nightspots are stylish and often innovative, offering unique experiences that are a contrast to the more mainstream options in other parts of the city.

While Sukhumvit is ideal for those who want the convenience of being close to a bit of everything, Thonglor is perfect for visitors looking to experience a more youthful, hip side of Bangkok.

Places to stay in Sukhumvit

Sukhumvit stretches quite a long way, but the main thing is to be near the Sukhumvit road where the BTS Skytrain runs. Here are some of the best places to stay in that part of Bangkok.

Bangkok Marriott Hotel Sukhumvit is a real hit for anyone looking to stay in the Thonglor area, especially if you’re into the trendy bar and café scene.

This hotel is all about luxury with a cool, modern twist. It’s in the middle of some of Bangkok’s hottest spots, so you’re never far from the action.

The rooftop bar is a standout – it’s a great place to hang out, offering incredible city views.

It’s especially perfect for trendy couples or anyone who wants to be close to where the cool stuff is happening.

See more photos & book here.

Carlton Hotel Bangkok Sukhumvit is spot on for anyone who loves a bit of luxury and needs plenty of space.

Location-wise, you couldn’t ask for better – it’s right on Sukhumvit Road, so you’re smack in the middle of everything.

Whether you’re in Bangkok for shopping, food, or just soaking up the city vibes, this hotel puts you where you need to be.

It’s perfect if you’re looking for a comfy, upscale place to crash after a day of exploring the bustling streets of Bangkok.

See more photos & book here.

Tastoria Collection Sukhumvit hits the sweet spot for trendy travelers looking for great vibes without a hefty price tag.

It’s one of those places where you get more than you pay for – think cool, stylish interiors and a laid-back atmosphere.

The hotel has this unique charm that makes you feel right at home yet wholly immersed in Bangkok’s vibrant lifestyle.

It’s an ideal pick for anyone who wants to stay somewhere with character and a bit of an edge, but still keep an eye on their budget.

See more photos & book here.

5. Pratunam – city center & easy airport access ✈️

I stayed in Pratunam on my 2nd trip to Bangkok and thought it was excellent, mainly because it’s so convenient.

Pratunam is located right in the heart of Bangkok, and it offers excellent access from Suvarnabhumi Airport.

The Airport Rail Link provides a quick and efficient direct connection to this area, making it a convenient choice for visitors just arriving in the city or if you need to get to Suvarnabhumi to fly down to Phuket or Krabi.

See the best hotels in Pratunam here.

This easy accessibility is a major advantage for those looking to quickly immerse themselves in the city’s energy after a flight.

Pratunam is renowned for its active market scene, making it a dream destination for shoppers.

The famous Pratunam Market, one of the city’s largest, is a treasure trove of clothing, accessories, and various items at affordable prices.

Beyond shopping, the streets of Pratunam offer a taste of local life with many vendors selling Thai street food.

I thought it was cool to see so many small, local restaurants and street food vendors even though we’re in the absolute heart of the modern city.

In addition to its shopping and food scenes, Pratunam’s close proximity to key city landmarks and the convenience of public transport connections to other parts of Bangkok make exploring the city easy.

Places to stay in Pratunam

Pratunam is in the heart of Bangkok, near the Siam area I discussed earlier. So there’s no lack of excellent hotels in different price ranges here. Let’s start from the top.

Amari Watergate Bangkok is a fantastic choice in the Pratunam area, especially if you’re after a bit of luxury without a huge price tag.

The hotel strikes an outstanding balance – it’s got all the plush comforts you’d expect from a high-end place, but the rates are surprisingly reasonable.

The rooms are spacious and well-appointed, making your stay comfortable and relaxing.

Amari Watergate Bangkok is a smart pick for anyone who wants to treat themselves to a bit of luxury in Bangkok without going over budget.

See more photos & book here.

Pure Eleven Hotel Bangkok stands out in the Pratunam area if you’re looking for a place to stay that won’t break the bank.

The rooms here have a fresh, contemporary feel – perfect for when you’re looking for a stylish yet comfortable place to stay.

What’s super handy is their free shuttle service. It’s a nice touch that makes getting around a bit easier, saving you time and hassle.

See more photos & book here.

Hotel Ordinary is a real winner if you’re on a tight budget but still want all the essentials done right.

This hotel is one of the best places to stay in Bangkok’s city center if you’re on a budget.

Despite the super affordable rates, they’ve included a small pool – a nice spot to chill out after a day in the city.

The rooms might be basic, but they have everything you need and keep everything clean and tidy. Plus, the staff here are super friendly and go out of their way to make your stay comfortable.

It’s a solid choice if you’re looking to save some cash but still want a pleasant, hassle-free place to crash in Bangkok.

See more photos & book here.

6. Chinatown – the most hectic & buzzing area ⛩️

I think Chinatown is one of the most interesting areas in Bangkok.

It’s an area full of life and activity, offering a deep dive into the city’s cultural richness. Chinatown showcases Bangkok’s authentic side, with its bustling streets, a diverse range of shops, food stalls, and markets.

However, for first-time visitors to Bangkok, especially those from Western countries who are new to Asia, Chinatown might be quite intense. I’m putting it out there so you don’t get overwhelmed if you stay in Chinatown.

The area is known for its dynamic atmosphere and busy streets, which can be a bit much for those not used to such environments.

See the best hotels in Chinatown here.

When it comes to accommodations, Chinatown offers numerous budget-friendly options.

There’s a variety of affordable hotels and guesthouses, making it an excellent choice for travelers who want to experience the heart of Bangkok without a hefty price tag.

It’s important to note that Chinatown doesn’t have the best public transport links compared to other parts of Bangkok.

While the BTS (Skytrain) and MRT (metro) lines aren’t as accessible here, there’s a good availability of taxis, which can be a convenient alternative.

And you do have the Wat Mangkon metro station, so it’s not like you can’t get anywhere from Chinatown by public transport.

Places to stay in Chinatown

You don’t stay in Chinatown for a 5-star luxury hotel with a rooftop pool, so check out the previous areas if that’s what you’re after.

However, one of the good things about staying in Chinatown is that the rates here are usually cheaper than in the other famous areas of Bangkok.

Shanghai Mansion Bangkok is not your ordinary hotel – it’s a unique boutique experience that takes you back to 1930s China.

The moment you step inside, you’re greeted with vibrant colors, vintage decor, and a whole lot of character.

Staying here feels like you’re part of a classic Chinese movie with all the modern comforts you’d want.

If you’re looking for something more than just a place to sleep, something that adds to your travel story, Shanghai Mansion is one of the best hotels in Chinatown.

See more photos & book here.

ASAI Bangkok Chinatown is a spot-on choice for anyone wanting to be right in the heart of Chinatown.

Its location is perfect – you’re steps away from all the action, including those cozy side streets full of surprises.

The hotel itself is pretty sleek and modern, offering a refreshing contrast to the traditional vibes of the neighborhood.

Whether you’re there to explore the food, the markets, or just the general buzz of the area, ASAI Bangkok Chinatown puts you right where you need to be.

See more photos & book here.

W22 by Burasari is the ideal place to stay for travelers looking for something cool and unique without having to spend a lot.

The design of this hotel really stands out – it’s got a great blend of contemporary and quirky elements that make your stay memorable.

What’s more, they offer a variety of room types, so it doesn’t matter if you’re a couple, a group of friends, or a family with kids – there’s something for everyone.

It’s an excellent place to stay in Bangkok for those who want a bit of character in their accommodation and the flexibility to fit different travel needs and budgets.

See more photos & book here.

Where not to stay? 3 Areas to Avoid in Bangkok!

Unfortunately, Thailand attracts some of the worst people in the world, and there are seedy areas of Bangkok that you should avoid.

Nana Plaza is a specific area that caters predominantly to sex tourism.

Known for its adult entertainment, including go-go bars and nightlife spots, it presents an atmosphere unsuitable for most travelers, particularly families or those seeking a culturally rich experience of Bangkok.

The environment in Nana Plaza is intensely focused on adult activities, making it a place to avoid for visitors not interested in this particular aspect of nightlife.

Soi Cowboy is another area in Bangkok known for its adult-oriented entertainment.

Characterized by its neon-lit bars and nightclubs, it primarily caters to an adult audience, with a strong focus on the sex tourism industry.

The atmosphere here is geared towards nightlife entertainment, which might not align with the preferences of many visitors.

Patpong, once notorious for its seediness and alignment with the sex tourism industry, has undergone significant changes in recent years.

Efforts have been made to clean up the area, making it less seedy than it used to be.

Despite these improvements, Patpong retains elements of its adult-oriented nightlife, with bars and entertainment spots catering to this specific audience.

So be aware that Patpong’s nightlife legacy still influences the area’s atmosphere.

These were my favorite areas and some of the best places to stay in Bangkok, covering various areas and hotels to suit different tastes and budgets.

Bangkok has something for everyone, whether you’re after the buzz of city life, a touch of luxury, or just a comfy spot that won’t break the bank.

If you have any questions about Bangkok or any of the areas and hotels mentioned, feel free to drop a comment below. I’m always happy to help fellow travelers make the most of their Bangkok adventures.

Read more Thailand travel guides here.

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Travel ressources & websites I use all the time 👇

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