Best places to stay in Bangkok

Bangkok is believed to be the jewel of Southeast Asia. This Thai city offers to tourists a tremendous variety of unique culinary experiences, world-class entertainment, and breathtaking history and architecture.

With so many things to go and explore, finding a comfortable place to stay is very important. However, this big and hustle city will make your decision so challenging. But don’t worry, we’re here to help!

In this post, Thai Unika will suggest you 8 of the best places to stay in Bangkok with hotel recommendations for all budgets – from cheap backpacker’s hostels to luxurious 5-star boutique hotels.

Table of Contents

Best places to stay in Bangkok

1. Sukhumvit – the newcomer’s best choice

Sukhumvit is the best area to stay in Bangkok for first-time travelers and those who are new to this city.

Sukhumvit is the longest road in Thailand, with a length of about 18km. It is one of the most convenient locations on the BTS Line and offers a wide range of tourist amenities. Because it is in the heart of Bangkok, you can find the top facilities in Bangkok such as luxury hotels, high-end clubs, and excellent restaurants.

It is a perfect staying area for those who like exciting nightlife or want to enjoy the luxury roof-top bars and restaurants. It is also convenient to access public transportation and all the delightful modern amenities. If it’s your first time traveling to Thailand or Bangkok and you don’t mind staying in a bustling zone, Sukhumvit might be a good choice.

Nearby attractions:

Terminal 21 (shopping mall), Benjasiri Park, Benjakitti Park, Khlong Saen Saeb, Soi Arab, Cheap Charlie’s, Kamthieng House Museum,…

2. Siam – the shopping heaven

Bangkok’s Siam neighborhood is a paradise for those who love to do shopping. It is located right in the center of the city where the two BTS lines cross and is home to some of Southeast Asia’s most impressive high-end shopping. There are countless malls here, including the big name that you may have heard about, such as Siam Center and Siam Paragon.

It is the commercial center of Bangkok and one of the city’s safest neighborhoods, making it one of the best areas to stay for families with little children. Choosing to stay in Siam will give you an experience of dining and shopping like a superstar.

Nearby attractions:

Jim Thompson House (The King of Thai silk’s House), Siam Paragon (underground aquariums)

MBK Shopping Mall, Central World, Siam Square (a must-see tourist attraction in Bangkok), Siam Discovery, Madame Tussauds Bangkok (wax museum),…

3. Riverside – the charm of history

It’s a brilliant idea to go to the side of the Chao Phraya River, stay there, and admire the city’s Riverside. This is one of the best areas to stay in Bangkok for sightseeing and visiting the most popular destinations because the riverside is close to many temples of the old town.

Unlike the other neighborhoods, this tranquil and lovely area is away from the hustle and bustle of Sukhumvit or Siam. You can wander alongside the river at night and sample a tasty array of local foods.

However, some hotels here might be far from the BTS station so you will have to take a taxi or tuk-tuk to travel.

Staying here, visitors can feel the old-time charm and explore Bangkok’s historic roots. If you want to have a quiet, relaxing time under the moon, unlike the nightlife in Siam and Sukhumvit, the hotels by the river will be your good choice.

Nearby attractions:

The Grand Palace (the home of the Siam King), Wat Phra Kaew (the Temple of the Emerald Buddha), Wat Arun (the temple of Dawn), Pak Khlong Talat (Flower Market), Asiatique Market (night market),…

4. Bangkok Old Town – the best place for sightseeing

Another historic area is the Old Town ( also known as Rattanakosin). This area is bordered by the Chao Phraya and canals which served as moats for the old city. Sightseers will love this place since it is home to Bangkok’s most magnificent historical attractions. The Old City neighborhood is relatively small and ideal for walking around to explore the area. Different from the Riverside area which is full of luxury amenities, the accommodation here is more affordable.

The Old City is packed with spots to check out, but it is harder to go to other parts of the city from here as it’s not close to public transport. But you can always call a taxi or tuk-tuk to get around the city.

Stay in Old City if you love sightseeing and enjoy staying close to historical attractions such as temples, museums, and palaces.

Nearby attractions:

The Grand Palace (the home of Siam King), Wat Phra Kaew (the Temple of the Emerald Buddha), Wat Arun (the temple of Dawn), Wat Pho (the Giant Reclining Buddha), and Khao San road (the central of backpacking),…

5. Khao San – the festive nightlife

Located in the Banglamphu district, to the West of Bangkok, Khao San is a short road with a length of less than 1 km.

Khao San Road and Banglamphu district are filled with great food, good drinks, and an undeniably vibrant atmosphere. This walking street is where many exciting activities take place. It could be seen as an international neighborhood, where visitors from all over the world gather, blend in, and feel the festive vibe together.

You won’t find many luxurious five stars hotels here, but there are plenty of affordable guesthouses and mid-range hotels. For this reason, most young backpackers and low-budget travelers stay around Khao San Road.

Choose Khao San Road if you don’t need the luxury hotel and prefer taking place in the endless fun nightlife of the town.

Nearby attractions:

Democracy Monument (world-class street food and tasty Thai dessert), Golden Mount Temple, Giant Swing, Jay Fai Restaurant (Michelin star street food), Bangkok National Museum,…

6. Silom – the peaceful modern center

In contrast to Khao San, Silom is the most suitable area in Bangkok for you if you’re looking for peace.

Silom is considered the financial center of Bangkok. It is busy with business during the day but at night, you can come to Patpong, the most notable red-light district, as well as Patpong’s night market. Here you can also find Bangkok’s largest and most beautiful green park – Lumphini Park, a great place to enjoy the fresh air and have a peaceful relaxing time.

It has several Skytrain and Subway (MRT) stations, making it an excellent base from which you can quickly go and explore the city.

Some people find this particular area doesn’t have enough authenticity and culture. However, for a modern choice, as well as families, business travelers, and higher-end travelers, this is a nice area to stay for a few days.

Nearby attractions:

Lalai Sap Market, Sri Mahamariamman Temple (Wat Khaek), Soi 20 Street Food & Market and Charoen Krung Road (authentic Thai food), Wat Hua Lamphong, Patpong night market, Bangkokian Museum (Folk Museum), Sky Bar on the 63rd floor of the Lebua State Tower,…

7. Chinatown – the photographer’s perfect choice

This is the oldest district in Bangkok since Chinese merchants came to this area in the early 1780s when the city was founded.

Thanks to the mix of Chinese and Thai cultures, this part of town is unique and fascinating. Visitors will find stunning temples, exotic street food, and everyday street scenes which will make an amazing picture. So don’t forget to prepare a good camera or a smartphone to capture all the wonderful moments.

Chinatown is always bursting with positive energy, sounds, smells, and colorful neon signs. Most of the action takes place around Yaowarat Road. This neighborhood comes alive in the evenings when thousands of people come here to feast on world-class street food. Here you can find everything from mouth-wateringly fresh seafood to roasted duck, dim sum, and even traditional desserts.

Travelers will find great cheap places to stay here, and it’s a very vibrant and very colorful place to base yourself. If you like a mix of the culture and enjoy taking photos, stay in Chinatown.

Nearby attractions:

Yaowarat Road (street food), Bangkok Railway Station (Hua Lamphong), Wat Traimit (Temple of Golden Buddha), Sampeng Market, Little India (also known as Phahurat Market – home to the largest Indian communities in Bangkok), Chinatown Gate (Odean Gate),…

8. Pratunam – the bargains opportunity

Pratunam is a cosmopolitan area with a good mix of tourists, locals, and business people. This area is chaotic, crowded, vibrant, and packed with shopping opportunities. However, unlike Siam which is famous for its high-end shopping, Pratunam is more of a bargain shopping location. In the street, visitors can find various vendors where you can make some great bargains at unexpectedly low prices.