Where to stay in Bangkok: best areas and neighborhoods
Open IndexGetting accustomed to Bangkok can be challenging at first. The first major distinction is between the Old City and the New City: the former is where the oldest attractions are found, such as the Grand Palace and numerous temples, while the latter is the more modern part, with skyscrapers, commercial and financial districts, and the famous rooftop bars. Besides this main distinction, which is great for getting oriented, you should know that Bangkok is divided into 50 districts (called khet), further divided into 169 sub-districts (called khwaeng). The central district is Phra Nakhon, which includes the island of Rattanakosin, the heart of the Old City.
Here is everything you need to know about where to stay in Bangkok: all our advice on the best neighborhoods to stay in and which ones to avoid!
In a hurry? Here's our recommended accommodation
| Type | Recommended Accommodation |
|---|---|
| 👑 5-star / luxury | Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel and Towers |
| 🛎️ B&b & mid-range | Varmtel |
| 🎒 Hostel and low-cost | 196 Oldtown Chic Hostel |
| 🏡 Vacation rental / apartments | Oakwood Hotel & Residence Bangkok |
Useful tips: the best neighborhoods to stay
| Target | Area | Rates from |
|---|---|---|
| Stay on a budget | Khao San Road | €20,00 |
| Rattanakosin | €25,00 | |
| Chinatown | €20,00 | |
| Silom | €25,00 | |
| Families | Bangkok Riverside | €30,00 |
| Siam | €25,00 | |
| Young | Khao San Road | €20,00 |
| Rattanakosin | €25,00 | |
| Sukhumvit | €25,00 | |
| Silom | €25,00 |
Areas to avoid: While Bangkok is generally safe, it is best to avoid the very peripheral neighborhoods without any notable tourist attractions. Areas to avoid include Soi Lat Phrao, Soi Sukhumvit, Soi Phaholyothin, Soi Suphaphong, Soi On Nut, Soi Chalermprakiat, and Sanam Luang, all peripheral areas.
Bangkok is a city of two faces: one extremely modern, with sky bars and skyscrapers, and one traditional, where attractions such as the Grand Palace and numerous temples can be found. The area where you stay depends on the experience you want to have.
If you want a more authentic experience, we recommend Rattanakosin, the Old City of Bangkok, where the Grand Palace and Wat Pho are located. Khao San Road, the center of nightlife and the place chosen by backpackers, with very cheap accommodation, is also nearby! Another great area to stay is Chinatown.
If you seek fun and modernity, head to the new city. Here you will find the district of Sukhumvit, mainly frequented by Westerners living in Bangkok, the district of Siam, the most important commercial area of the city ideal for families, and Silom, an important financial area with some of Bangkok's most famous rooftop bars!
Finally, Riverside is one of the most exclusive areas of Bangkok. It stretches along the river, with wonderful views of the temples and luxury hotels!
Best accommodation: we have selected the best hotels, B&Bs, and hostels in Bangkok. Discover our recommendations and book on Booking
If you are in Bangkok for work or as a layover for a day on your way to other destinations, consider staying near the airport. Find the best options and selected hotels on booking.com
Bangkok Riverside, best for families and luxury seekers
Bangkok is divided into two parts by the Chao Phraya River, which also represents the point where the city was born. This is the most scenic area of the entire capital, with splendid views of the temples, such as the wonderful Wat Arun, and full of luxury hotels. The Riverside extends for several kilometers, but the best area to stay is definitely the one from the Sathorn Bridge in the south to the beginning of the Chinatown bend in the north.
Riverside is especially recommended for those who want a luxurious and comfortable experience, but also for families who want a quiet area with all services. Here you will find some of the most beautiful hotels in the Thai capital.
Finally, the location is excellent: you will be halfway between the Old City and the New City, and you can move quickly using the numerous hotel taxis or those that run through the nearby streets.
Average prices in the neighbourhood range from about €30,00 per night - compare the best accommodation on booking
Recommended Accommodation
| Accommodation | Description |
|---|---|
| Varmtel | 3-star hotel with 24-hour reception, airport transfers, shared kitchen, and free WiFi throughout. Ideal for couples and families |
| Oakwood Hotel & Residence Bangkok | Residence with hotel rooms and studios. Pool, gym, airport shuttle, restaurant. Ideal for couples and families |
| Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel and Towers | 5-star hotel with 4 dining options, 2 outdoor pools, 24-hour gym, and boat shuttle service to the BTS Skytrain station. Ideal for couples |
| Millennium Hilton Bangkok | 5-star hotel with spa and wellness center, pool, gym, 4 restaurants, 24-hour reception, tour desk, and 17 meeting rooms. Perfect for couples, families, and business travelers |
Rattanakosin, best for first-timers
Rattanakosin is the historic center of Bangkok. Bounded by the Chao Phraya River on one side and Maha Chai Road on the other, this area includes some of the most important attractions and landmarks of the capital: here you will find the Grand Palace and the temples Wat Phra Kaew and Wat Pho.
Rattanakosin is especially recommended for those who want to experience the most authentic Bangkok, for those who are not interested in the wild nightlife of the New City. However, it is also ideal for young people, given the proximity to the famous and chaotic Khao San Road, and for those looking for cheap accommodation: here you can stay for as little as €15,00 per night!
Finally, staying here allows you to easily move around the area on foot. The attractions are not far from each other, and along the Chao Phraya River, there are a series of small piers that will allow you to cross the river by boat.
Average prices in the neighbourhood range from about €25,00 per night - compare the best accommodation on booking
Recommended Accommodation
| Accommodation | Description |
|---|---|
| Siri Heritage Bangkok Hotel | 3-star hotel with terrace, pool, free bike rental, 24-hour reception, and free WiFi. Ideal for couples and families |
| Tim Mansion | Guesthouse 2 km from the Grand Palace. 24-hour reception, laundry service, rooms with private bathroom. Free WiFi. Ideal for couples and young people |
| 196 Oldtown Chic Hostel | Hostel with express check-in and check-out, rooms with private bathroom, shared lounge, free WiFi throughout, and terrace. Ideal for young people |
| Sala Rattanakosin Bangkok | 4-star hotel on the riverbank, a 10-minute walk from the Grand Palace. Incredible views of the city, 24-hour reception, laundry/dry cleaning services, tour desk. Ideal for couples |
Khao San Road, perfect for young
The historic center of Bangkok also includes Khao San Road, which is the backpacker's paradise. Here it is possible to find hostels and accommodation at very low prices, the street is always very busy, and you will be a stone's throw from the city's main attractions.
It is, in fact, a recommended area especially for young people and those who want to spend little: accommodation here starts from €10,00 per night, there are many small restaurants with very low prices, and at night the street becomes a large night market where you can taste the famous Thai street food, spending an average of €5,00 per person. But, above all, Khao San Road is the nightlife center of the Old City: a zone absolutely not recommended if you want to sleep at night!
Finally, staying here will allow you to reach the main attractions on foot. Alternatively, you can take the fast and cheap tuk-tuks, or opt for a taxi.
Average prices in the neighbourhood range from about €20,00 per night - compare the best accommodation on booking
Recommended Accommodation
| Accommodation | Description |
|---|---|
| Khaosan Art Hotel | 2-star hotel with restaurant, 24-hour reception, room service, and free WiFi throughout. Shared lounge and luggage storage. Ideal for couples |
| Nappark Hostel @Khao San | Hostel with mixed or female-only dormitories. Shared bathrooms separated by gender. Terrace and shared lounge, 24-hour reception. Ideal for young people |
| Buddy Lodge | Hotel with pool access in the heart of the street. Irish pub, Thai restaurant, rooftop pool with a view, and gym. Ideal for couples |
| Bangkok Saran Poshtel | 3-star hotel a 5-minute walk from Khao San Road. WiFi, shared lounge, air-conditioned rooms. Ideal for couples and small groups |
Chinatown, to stay on a budget
Chinatown is one of the busiest neighborhoods in the city! The main street is Sampaeng Lane, entirely pedestrian, while the side streets are divided by category, and you can find small shops and stalls selling almost everything!
In many ways similar to Khao San Road, Chinatown is a recommended area for young people and those who want to save money! If you are looking for peace and quiet, we recommend avoiding this neighborhood! Here, prices are very competitive, the offer is very high, and there are many activities to do, both day and night.
Finally, staying in Chinatown will allow you to reach the historic center on foot. Alternatively, you can use the metro, taxis, or tuk-tuks!
Average prices in the neighbourhood range from about €20,00 per night - compare the best accommodation on booking
Recommended Accommodation
| Accommodation | Description |
|---|---|
| W22 by Burasari | 3-star hotel with 24-hour reception, shared lounge, restaurant, and family room options. Ideal for couples and families |
| Hostel Urby | 3-star hostel with luggage storage and ATM service. Rooms with balcony overlooking the river, seating area, and shared bathroom. Ideal for young people |
| Luk Hostel | Hostel with 24-hour reception, shared lounge, restaurant, free WiFi, and tour desk. Private rooms and dormitories. Ideal for young people |
| Hotel Royal Bangkok Chinatown | 4-star hotel with rooftop pool, gym, restaurant, 24-hour reception, and tour desk. Ideal for couples |
Siam, for families and shopping enthusiasts
One of the best areas in the New City is certainly Siam, the cosmopolitan and commercial soul of Bangkok. It develops around Siam Square, where some of the largest shopping centers, such as Central World, Siam Center, and MBK, are located. At the same time, there are many attractions for children and teenagers, such as the Sea Life Bangkok Ocean World Aquarium or the famous Madame Tussaud's Wax Museum.
It is an area recommended for both families and those who want to enjoy shopping and entertainment. The accommodation offer is also very wide, with small hostels and hotels up to large luxury chains. During the day, the area is very busy, thanks to the many activities to do!
Finally, here is one of the main Skytrain stops. This will allow you to move easily throughout the capital!
Average prices in the neighbourhood range from about €25,00 per night - compare the best accommodation on booking
Recommended Accommodation
| Accommodation | Description |
|---|---|
| Ibis Bangkok Siam Hotel | 3-star hotel next to the Skytrain station. 24-hour reception, tour desk, WiFi, pets allowed. Ideal for couples |
| Patumwan House | Hotel with 24-hour reception, Thai restaurant, laundry service, and family room options. Ideal for couples and families |
| Kritthai Residence | Residence with easy access to shopping centers, 24-hour reception, luggage storage, laundry and tour services. Ideal for families |
| Siam Design Hotel Bangkok | 5-star hotel a 5-minute walk from the Skytrain station. Pool, gym, restaurant, and rooftop bar with city views. Ideal for couples |
Sukhumvit, best for nightlife and expats
Sukhumvit is one of the most important avenues in all of Bangkok, as well as being one of the four main roads in Thailand. Here you will find luxury hotels, restaurants, bars, and some of the most famous rooftop bars in the city. There are also plenty of shopping centers for shopping sprees and nightclubs. This avenue is very long, covering about 12.5 km in the city. The best area to stay is between Nana station in the west and Phra Khanong station in the east.
Sukhumvit is the area where mainly expats live, Westerners who have moved to Bangkok. There is very little Thai tradition: instead, it is the heart of nightlife and shopping! An unmissable spot is Soi Cowboy, a street completely illuminated by neon lights and very busy and chaotic. This area is therefore recommended especially for young people and those seeking fun.
Finally, staying here you will necessarily have to move with the Skytrain. There are several stations and stops along the street, which will allow you to easily reach every area of Bangkok!
Average prices in the neighbourhood range from about €25,00 per night - compare the best accommodation on booking
Recommended Accommodation
| Accommodation | Description |
|---|---|
| Ibis Styles Bangkok Sukhumvit 4 | 3-star hotel located among numerous nightlife spots. Red Square Rooftop Bar on the 24th floor, pool, gym, and restaurant. Ideal for couples and young people |
| 3howw Hostel @ Sukhumvit 21 | Hostel a 5-minute walk from the Skytrain. 24-hour reception, coin-operated washers, cinema room, private rooms, and dormitories with free WiFi. Ideal for young people |
| Centre Point Hotel Sukhumvit 10 | 4-star hotel with saltwater pool, gym, and restaurant. Mini club for the little ones. Ideal for couples and families |
| Grande Centre Point Hotel Terminal21 | 5-star hotel with direct access to MRT Sukhumvit and BTS Asoke stations. Spa and wellness center, two pools, gym, restaurants, room service. Ideal for couples |
Silom, for business travelers and nightlife
Finally, the Silom district, business area by day, nightlife center by night. The district develops along the eponymous road, Silom Road, which runs from the Chao Phraya River in the west to Lumphini Park in the east. It is a cosmopolitan area, full of skyscrapers, luxury restaurants, offices, and shopping malls. Here you will find some of the most famous rooftop bars, such as the Sky Bar Lebua, where scenes from the film "The Hangover" were filmed, the Vertigo & Moon Bar, or the Sky Bar Bangkok.
It is a recommended area especially for young people and those who want to stay up late. In addition to the many rooftop bars with spectacular views of the city (note the required dress code to enter), this is also where the Patpong red-light district is located, which hosts the famous night market.
Finally, staying here you can easily move around with the skytrain. The main stop is Silom MRT Station, well connected to the entire city!
Average prices in the neighbourhood range from about €25,00 per night - compare the best accommodation on booking
Recommended accommodation
| Accommodation | Description |
|---|---|
| Oriental Heritage Residence | 3-star hotel with family rooms, bar and restaurant, 24-hour reception, room service, and free WiFi throughout the building. Ideal for couples and families |
| Kinnon Deluxe Hostel Coworking Cafe | Hostel with 24-hour reception, Cozy Roof Top Bar, business center, and restaurant. Rooms and dormitories with shared bathrooms. Ideal for young people |
| Holiday Inn Bangkok Silom | 4-star hotel with pool, gym, restaurant, and bar. Room service, Orchid Lounge open 24h, free WiFi. Ideal for couples |
| Tower Club at Lebua | 5-star hotel with the famous rooftop bar. Luxurious suites with river views, 2-star Michelin restaurant, pool, gym, spa, and wellness center. Ideal for couples or groups up to 6 people |
Places to stay near Bangkok
Bangkok is a very extensive city, with many completely different neighborhoods and a unique atmosphere. The best solution is always to stay in the city, whether it is your first time visiting the city or if you have several days available. In the latter case, the best option is to use Bangkok as a base and then move around during the day to visit the surroundings, such as Ayutthaya!
The choice to stay in Bangkok, and not in the surrounding areas, is mainly due to convenience and organization: in the city, you can easily move around by metro, taxi, or tuk-tuk, whereas outside the city, you would always have to move by taxi, ensuring you take official ones and negotiate the price. This would also significantly extend travel times, taking essential time away from visiting the Thai capital!