Where to stay in Bangkok? The 6 best areas and places to stay and where to avoid! 🇹🇭

Bangkok is a huge city, and the area you stay in can have a significant impact on your experience.

So I’m glad you’re reading this article to find the best areas and places to stay in Bangkok.

This guide is based on my personal experiences, including my first visit in 2016 and subsequent trips (five and counting), and should help you find a place that suits your travel style and expectations.

I have a fondness for Bangkok as I have stayed here on every one of my visits to Thailand. The diverse character of the city and the hospitality of the people are just some of the reasons why I keep coming back.

In this travel guide, I present my favorite areas in Bangkok and recommend hotels in the individual districts.

Let’s get straight to the point: Where to stay in Bangkok?

Best areas in Bangkok

Here is an overview of the best areas in Bangkok if you want to get a quick overview:

• 👉 Siam – the best area for your first stay in Bangkok
• 👉 Khao San Road – Wild nightlife and backpacker vibes
• 👉 Silom – interesting area between the river and Lumpini Park
• 👉 Sukhumvit & Thonglor – Big city flair close to everything
• 👉 Pratunam – City center and easy access to the airport
• 👉 Chinatown – the most hectic and lively district

The guide to accommodation in Bangkok continues below with detailed information and my recommended hotels.

1. Siam – the best area for first-time visitors

The Siam area is the best place to stay if you are coming to Bangkok for the first time.

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

This central district skillfully combines modern features with traditional aspects and offers a perfect starting point for newcomers to the city.

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

• Important stations such as Siam and National Stadium allow you to travel far.

This network is a gateway to historical sites and modern attractions and provides easy access to the whole of Bangkok.

Find the best hotels in Siam here. 👈

Those who love shopping will not be disappointed with this area, as Siam is also the best area in Bangkok for shopping.

In shopping malls such as MBK Center and Siam Paragon, you can buy everything from quirky local products to high-end brands.

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

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

I also love eating at the food courts in the malls – it’s cheap and I’ve had some of my best meals in Thailand here.

In summary, Siam’s combination of convenient transportation, cultural richness and diverse food makes it a prime location 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 that there is a hotel for every budget.

👉 The Siam Kempinski Hotel Bangkok is a slice of luxury in the heart of the city.

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

What makes it special are the lush gardens and inviting pools – perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring. It is also located right next to the Siam Paragon shopping center.

View and book more photos here. 👈

This means that first-class shopping and entertainment options are just a few steps away and high-quality comfort is combined with the amenities of city life.

👉 The Sindhorn Midtown Hotel Bangkok is another great place to stay in the city center of Bangkok. I stayed here on a trip in spring 2023 and found it just about perfect.

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

There is also a large pool on the roof with a bar, which I really enjoy: sitting up there, overlooking the Bangkok skyline with a beer in my hand and then jumping into the pool.

The view is spectacular, especially when the city is lit up at dusk.

View more photos and book here. 👈

The Central World and Siam shopping centers as well as Lumpini Park and several Skytrain stations are within walking distance.

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

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

This hotel is perfect for those who want more than just the bare essentials without breaking the bank.

It is characterized by its quirky, modern design that will make your stay something special.

Weitere Fotos sehen und buchen Sie hier. 👈

The location in the immediate vicinity of the local sights also contributes to the attractiveness of the hotel.

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

2. Khao San Road – wild nightlife and backpacker vibes

Khao San Road is an icon in Bangkok, especially popular with backpackers and young travelers. It was also the area where I stayed on my first trip to Bangkok when I was young.

This part of Bangkok is known for its lively atmosphere and is a hub for those looking to socialize, party and meet like-minded adventurers from all over the world.

Find the best hotels near Khao San Road here. 👈

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

The nightlife here is pretty wild, with a number of bars and clubs open late into the night, offering a taste of Bangkok’s lively party scene.

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

During the day, Khao San Road is just a few minutes’ walk from some important sights such as the Grand Palace and Wat Pho.

I also recommend the nearby Rambuttri Alley, where the atmosphere is much more relaxed and there are some great restaurants and bars without loud music.

However, it is important to know that Khao San Road is not the perfect area for everyone to stay in Bangkok.

Families in particular might find the night-time scene and the general hustle and bustle of the area a little too overwhelming.

Khao San Road is more suited to those looking for a vibrant, energetic experience and who don’t mind a bit of noise and crowds.

Accommodation near Khao San Road

There are many cheap hotels and hostels near Khao San Road.

There are even hostels on the street itself, but even if you are a young backpacker, I would recommend not staying right on the street 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 recommending a 5-star hotel here – if you want that kind of luxury, you certainly won’t want to stay near Khao San Road.

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

It’s reasonably priced, 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 other travelers.

See more photos and book here. 👈

Particularly noteworthy is the pool on the roof terrace, which invites you to relax and enjoy the Bangkok sun.

With its combination of affordable prices, a lively atmosphere and a great pool, Villa De Khaosan is the best choice for a fun and relaxing stay in the heart of the city’s backpacker hotel.

👉 The Nouvo City Hotel is another option for those staying in Khao San Road, especially if you’re on a budget.

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

The rooms are beautifully furnished and offer a comfortable and stylish retreat after a day 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.

See more photos and book here. 👈

I stayed here on my very first trip to Bangkok when I was a young traveler and it was absolutely perfect.

And now, the perfect party hostel in Bangkok

👉 Mad Monkey is a name familiar to many young travelers in Bangkok.

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

The youth hostel has a reputation for being a party center. So if you’re looking for social contacts and lively evenings, you’ve come to the right place.

View more photos and book here. 👈

You can also book a private room that offers you the privacy of a hotel room if you need a break from the hustle and bustle.

Whether you want to meet new friends over a few drinks or are looking for a cool, affordable place to sleep, Mad Monkey Bangkok is a good choice.

3. Silom – interesting area between the river and Lumpini Park

The next area on the list is a place where I spent a few nights on my third trip to Thailand.

Silom is a street in the Bang Rak district, known for its mix of business and leisure. It really is a convenient and versatile area to stay in Bangkok.

I feel like it’s really a good mix of “everything” – so you have a lot of tourist-friendly stuff, but you can also go into the alleyways and go where the locals go.

A big plus point is the good connection to the BTS Skytrain and the MRT (metro).

Find the best hotels in Silom here. 👈

You can easily explore different parts of Bangkok from Silom, be it to historical sites or modern shopping centers in Siam.

A special feature of Silom is its proximity to the Chao Phraya River (especially if you live in the western part of the area near the river).

This place is perfect for those interested in river cruises, which I think everyone should experience when in Bangkok as it’s a nice way to see Bangkok’s landmarks from a different angle.

Another gem near Silom is the beautiful Lumpini Park (on the east side of the area).

This green oasis in the middle of the city is a wonderful retreat for anyone who wants to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

I love going to the lakes and seeing the monitor lizards – it’s quite exotic for me as a Dane.

While Silom is a busy business center during the day, at night it transforms into a lively neighborhood with restaurants and entertainment options. The area offers something for every culinary taste, from street vendors to upscale restaurants.

However, you should bear in mind that Silom can be busy, especially during business hours, which is why it is more suitable for those who like a lively atmosphere.

Places to stay in Silom

Silom is one of the best areas in Bangkok, and has been for many years. So we are spoiled for choice when it comes to hotels in this part of the city.

The 👉 Lebua at State Tower in Silom is not just any luxury hotel – it’s a place made famous by its appearance in the movie Hangover.

I was here in 2019, and despite high expectations, I was not disappointed. And I was really surprised at how big the rooms are – they’re bigger than my apartment in Copenhagen at the time

Look forward to breathtaking views of the city, spacious suites and first-class service that will make you feel like a VIP.

One of the highlights is the bar and restaurant on the roof terrace, which offers one of the most breathtaking views of Bangkok.

The breakfast buffet is without a doubt the best and most extensive breakfast I have ever eaten; there was everything.

Another plus point of the Lebua Hotel is that you can use the fitness room and showers even after checking out if you have a late flight.

See more photos & book here. 👈

You can take a shower and freshen up before heading to the airport – I really enjoyed this before my night flight back to Denmark.

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

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

See and book more photos here. 👈

Centre Point Silom offers a balance between quality accommodation and that little bit extra that makes a stay unforgettable.

👉 The Holiday Inn Bangkok Silom is a great choice for travelers looking for a budget option in the Silom area without sacrificing quality.

This hotel is particularly family-friendly and offers spacious rooms and amenities for guests of all ages.

See more photos and book here. 👈

Holiday Inn Bangkok Silom offers an affordable yet comfortable and convenient stay for both families and budget-conscious travelers.

4. Sukhumvit & Thonglor – Big city flair close to everything

Sukhumvit, which stretches along one of Bangkok’s main streets, is the top address for visitors looking for comfort and variety.

It is also one of the most popular areas for travelers, which means that you will find many excellent hotels in all price ranges.

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

Find the best hotels in Sukhumvit here. 👈

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

Just a short skytrain ride from Sukhumvit is Thonglor, a trendy and hip neighborhood frequently visited by Bangkok’s fashionable and young residents.

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

Thonglor is a center for creative and contemporary culture and offers a range of chic cafés, boutiques and art spaces.

Traditional Thai culture meets modern lifestyle in this area of Bangkok – a fascinating area to explore.

This video of Terminal 21 in Sukhumvit is great:

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

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

Places to stay in Sukhumvit

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

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

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

See and book more photos here. 👈

Particularly noteworthy is the bar on the roof terrace – a great place to linger with an incredible view of the city.

It is particularly suitable for trendy couples or anyone who wants to be close to the action.

The 👉 Carlton Hotel Bangkok Sukhumvit is just the thing for anyone who loves a little luxury and needs plenty of space.

The location couldn’t be better – it’s right on Sukhumvit Road, so you’re right in the middle of the action.

See and book more photos here. 👈

Whether you are in Bangkok for shopping or dining or simply want to soak up the atmosphere of the city, this hotel is the right place for you.

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

👉 The Tastoria Collection Sukhumvit is just right for trend-conscious travelers who are looking for a great atmosphere without having to pay a high price.

It’s one of those places where you get more than you pay for – just think of the cool, stylish interior and relaxed atmosphere.

The hotel has that unique charm that makes you feel at home while still immersing you in Bangkok’s vibrant lifestyle.

View more photos and book here. 👈

It is the ideal choice for anyone looking for accommodation with character and something special, but who still wants to keep an eye on their budget.

5. Pratunam – City center and easy access to the airport

I stayed in Pratunam on my second trip to Bangkok and thought it was excellent, especially because it was so conveniently located.

Pratunam is located in the heart of Bangkok and is easily accessible from Suvarnabhumi Airport.

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

Find the best hotels in Pratunam. 👈

This easy accessibility is a great advantage for those who want to quickly immerse themselves in the energy of the city after a flight.

Pratunam is known for its active market scene, which makes it a dream destination for shoppers.

The famous Pratunam Market, one of the largest markets in the city, is a treasure trove of clothing, accessories and other items at affordable prices.

Besides shopping, the streets of Pratunam also 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 vendors, even though we are in the absolute heart of the modern city.

Apart from the shopping and dining scene, the proximity to the city’s main landmarks and good public transport links make it easy to explore the city.

Places to stay in Pratunam

Pratunam is located in the heart of Bangkok, close to the aforementioned Siam district. So there is no shortage of excellent hotels in various price categories here. Let’s start from the top.

👉 The Amari Watergate Bangkok is a fantastic choice in the Pratunam area, especially if you’re looking for a bit of luxury without a big price tag.

The hotel offers an excellent balance – it has all the amenities you would expect from an upscale hotel, but the prices are surprisingly reasonable.

See and book more photos here. 👈

The spacious and well-equipped rooms ensure a pleasant and relaxing stay.

The Amari Watergate Bangkok is a good choice for anyone who wants to treat themselves to a little luxury in Bangkok without breaking the bank.

👉 The Pure Eleven Hotel Bangkok stands out in the Pratunam area if you’re looking for accommodation that won’t break the budget.

The rooms here have a fresh, modern flair – perfect if you are looking for stylish yet comfortable accommodation.

View more photos and book here. 👈

The free shuttle service is particularly practical. This is a nice service that makes getting around easier and saves you time and hassle.

👉 The Hotel Ordinary is a real winner if you’re on a budget but still want everything you need.

This hotel is one of the best addresses in the city center of Bangkok if you are on a budget.

Despite the low prices, there is a small pool here – a nice place to relax after a day in the city.

See and book more photos here. 👈

The rooms are basic, but they have everything you need and everything is clean and tidy. The staff are also very friendly and make every effort to make your stay as pleasant as possible.

It’s a good choice if you want to save some money but are still looking for a pleasant, uncomplicated place to stay in Bangkok.

6. Chinatown – the most hectic and lively area

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

It is an area full of life and activity that offers a deep insight into the cultural richness of the city. Chinatown shows Bangkok from its authentic side, with its bustling streets, a variety of stores, food stalls and markets.

However, for first-time visitors to Bangkok, especially visitors from Western countries who are new to Asia, Chinatown could be quite overwhelming. I’m just saying this so that you don’t get overwhelmed when 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.

Find the best hotels in Chinatown here. 👈

When it comes to accommodation, Chinatown offers numerous affordable options.

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

It is important to know that Chinatown does not have the best public transport connections compared to other parts of Bangkok.

The BTS (Skytrain) and MRT (Metro) lines are not as accessible here, but there is a good availability of cabs, which can be a convenient alternative.

There is also the subway station Wat Mangkon, so it’s not as if you can’t get anywhere from Chinatown by public transport.

Places to stay in Chinatown

You’re not staying in Chinatown to have a 5-star luxury hotel with a rooftop pool, so check out the previous neighborhoods if that’s what you want.

However, one of the advantages of staying in Chinatown is that the prices here are generally cheaper than in the other famous districts of Bangkok.

👉 The Shanghai Mansion Bangkok is no ordinary hotel – it’s a unique boutique experience that transports you back to 1930s China.

As soon as you enter the house, you are greeted by bright colors, vintage decor and a lot of character.

Here you feel like you’re in a classic Chinese movie, with all the modern comforts you could wish for.

See and book more photos here. 👈

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

👉 The ASAI Bangkok Chinatown is a great choice for those who want to stay right in the heart of Chinatown.

The location is perfect – you are just a few steps away from the action, including the cozy side streets that are full of surprises.

The hotel itself is quite chic and modern and offers a refreshing contrast to the traditional flair of the neighborhood.

View more photos and book here. 👈

Whether you want to explore the food, the markets or just the general hustle and bustle of the area, ASAI Bangkok Chinatown is the place to be.

👉 The W22 by Burasari is the ideal accommodation for travelers looking for something cool and unique without having to spend a lot of money.

The design of this hotel really stands out – it offers a great mix of modern and quirky elements that make the stay unforgettable.

There are also different room types on offer, so there is something for everyone, whether you are a couple, a group of friends or a family with children.

See and book more photos here. 👈

It is an excellent accommodation in Bangkok for those who want a little character in their accommodation and the flexibility to fit different travel needs and budgets.

Where shouldn’t you 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 is primarily geared towards sex tourism.

Known for its adult entertainment, including go-go bars and nightspots, it offers an atmosphere unsuitable for most travelers, especially families or those looking to experience Bangkok on a cultural level.

The environment at Nana Plaza is heavily geared towards adult activities, so visitors who are not interested in this particular aspect of nightlife should avoid this location.

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

The city is characterized by neon-lit bars and nightclubs and is primarily aimed at an adult audience, with a focus on sex tourism.

The atmosphere here is geared towards nightlife and entertainment, which may not suit the preferences of many visitors.

Patpong, once notorious for its seediness and its focus on the sex tourism industry, has changed a lot in recent years.

Efforts have been made to clean up the area so that it is no longer as shabby as it was in the past.

Despite these improvements, the nightlife in Patpong is still geared towards adults, with bars and entertainment options for this specific audience.

So be aware that the nightlife of Patpong still influences the atmosphere of the district.

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

Bangkok has something for everyone, whether you’re looking for vibrant city life, a touch of luxury or just a cozy 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 leave a comment below. I’m always happy to help other travelers make the most of their Bangkok adventures.

Read more Thailand travel guides here.

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