Where to Stay in Bangkok: The Best Hotels & Areas

Where to Stay in Bangkok: The Best Hotels & Areas

Our recommendations for the best places to stay in Bangkok from budget to luxury
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Staying in Thailand’s vibrant capital

Bangkok is a truly unique city that hits you with its abundance of heat, sound and pure energy from the moment you arrive.

We think it’s chaotic, exciting and endlessly fascinating.

We’ve stayed in several parts of Bangkok over the last two decades, from budget guesthouses near Khao San Road to modern hotels in Sukhumvit.

Each area really has its own charm and completely changes how you experience the city.

In this guide to where to stay in Bangkok, we share our favourite areas and hotel picks for every budget – from backpacker stays to elegant riverside escapes and modern hotels with rooftop pools.

Where to stay in Bangkok?

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  • Luxury: Mandarin Oriental Bangkok – One of Bangkok’s most luxurious hotels with a riverside pool and 10 restaurants (2 of which have Michelin stars).
  • Value for money: Grande Centre Point Surawong Bangkok – Airy rooms, a rooftop pool with skyline views and extra perks like a gym and gaming room – all without the luxury price tag.
  • Budget: Casa Nithra Bangkok – A lovely budget option offering comfortable (and beautiful!) double rooms plus a rooftop pool, close to Khao San Road and Old Town.

Search for the cheapest and best hotels in Bangkok here.

Bangkok temple with skyskrapers in the background
Few cities balance contrast like Bangkok, where futuristic towers meet quiet lanes and timeless temples.

Bangkok overview and orientation

Thailand’s capital, Bangkok, is located in central Thailand on the Chao Phraya River, just 25 kilometres from the coast in the northern part of the Gulf of Thailand.

The city is divided into 50 districts, of which 15 are on the west side of the river (also called the Thonburi side).

The remaining 35 are on the east side, where most of the tourist attractions are found. The majority of visitors also stay here, where you’ll find popular areas such as Sukhumvit, Silom, Siam, Old Town and Chinatown.

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How many nights to spend in Bangkok?

Bangkok is an enormous city with endless sights and neighbourhoods to experience, yet it doesn’t take long to get a real feel for it.

We’ve visited several times, usually staying up to four nights – plenty for a rewarding visit without feeling rushed.

If it’s your first time in Thailand’s capital, we’d recommend staying at least two or three nights. One night rarely does it justice, as travel time and traffic tend to eat into your plans.

How long to stay in Bangkok

  • One night offers a taste of the city, though most of your time will go to getting around rather than sightseeing.
  • Two nights lets you visit key temples and explore a few modern areas at a relaxed pace.
  • Three nights gives room for museums, markets or a night out without feeling rushed.
  • Four nights is enough to include a longer outing, such as the Chatuchak Weekend Market or even a day trip to Ayutthaya.
Wat Pho
Bangkok has more to offer than you could ever fit into one trip, though a few days are enough to experience its highlights.
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The best area to stay in Bangkok

Although Bangkok is a huge metropolis, most tourists tend to stay in just a handful of areas.

No matter where you stay, it’s worth considering transport options if you plan to rely on public transport.

Below, we’ll outline the most popular areas to stay in Bangkok and what type of traveller they suit best.

Which area to stay in Bangkok

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  • Khao San Road: Backpacker hub with budget stays, lively nightlife and easy access to historic temples.
  • Silom: Mix of business, nightlife and local life; green spaces near Lumpini Park and artsy spots near the river.
  • Sukhumvit: Cosmopolitan vibe with shopping, dining, nightlife and excellent BTS access.
  • Siam: An even more central shopping district, ideal for first-time visitors and anyone who loves malls and convenience.
  • Chao Phraya River area: Riverside comfort with scenic views, boat transport and a quieter base for couples or families.
  • Chinatown (Yaowarat): Bustling streets full of street food, local culture and affordable accommodation options.
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Khao San Road and the Old Town

Khao San Road is still the ultimate backpacker base, buzzing with budget hotels, street food and nightlife.

The surrounding Old Town (Rattanakosin) puts you steps from the Grand Palace, Wat Pho and other historic gems.

The Khao San Road area is perfect if sightseeing and (backpacker) culture are your priorities, and you don’t mind being a little farther from the Skytrain and modern shopping areas.

This is where we stayed during our first few trips to Bangkok with friends – a fun introduction to the city, especially if you’re travelling solo or looking for a social scene.

  • Pros: Great for budget travellers, backpacker vibe, close to historic temples.
  • Cons: Far from BTS/MRT, can be noisy, not ideal for long-term comfort.

The best hotels near Khao San Road:

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  • Value for money: Priya Boutique House – A lovingly restored Thai house near Khao San Road, where Pang’s warm hospitality makes you feel right at home.
  • Budget: Casa Nithra Bangkok – Comfortable (and beautiful!) double rooms with a rooftop pool close to Khao San Road.

Find the cheapest and best hotels near Khao San Road here (adlink).

Khao San Road
This was Khao San Road (back in 2012!) – but we imagine it looks pretty similar today.
Grand Palace in Bangkok
Staying near Khao San Road, you’ll be close to some of the main attractions in Bangkok like the Grand Palace.
Priya Boutique House
Priya Boutique House is one of the best places to stay in this part of Bangkok with near perfect reviews. ©Priya Boutique House (adlink)

Silom

Silom is where business meets leisure – rooftop bars, night markets and street food galore.

Upper Silom near Lumpini Park is convenient, green and well-balanced, putting you close to the business district while still offering a bit of calm.

Lower Silom, closer to Charoen Krung and the river, is artsy, with small galleries, cafés and boutique hotels waiting to be discovered.

This area in Bangkok is ideal if you want a taste of both modern Bangkok and creative local life. Plus, it’s well connected by BTS and MRT, so getting around is easy.

  • Pros: Mix of modern and local, green spaces, nightlife options, BTS/MRT access.
  • Cons: Can feel busy and noisy, less scenic than the riverside.

The best hotel in Silom:

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  • Value for money: Grande Centre Point Surawong Bangkok – Airy rooms, a rooftop pool with skyline views and extra perks like a gym and gaming room – all without the luxury price tag.

Find the cheapest and best hotels in Silom here (adlink).

Lumpini Park
Lumpini Park in Silom is great place to catch some fresh air in Bangkok.
Grande Centre Point Surawong Bangkok
Silom has a bit of everything, and we think Grande Centre Point Surawong is a top choice for staying affordably and comfortable in the area. ©Grande Centre Point Surawong Bangkok

Sukhumvit

Sukhumvit stretches for miles with luxury hotels, malls, nightlife and endless dining options.

Lower Sukhumvit (Nana/Asok) is lively and central, while Upper Sukhumvit (Thong Lor/Ekkamai) is stylish and trendy, popular with expats.

We stayed near Phrom Phong with our son (kind of between the two) during our last visit and especially found the food and transport very convenient.

Further along Sukhumvit going east it quiets down but stays connected via BTS.

  • Pros: Lots of dining, nightlife, shopping, great BTS access.
  • Cons: Can feel busy or touristy, parts of Lower Sukhumvit are seedy.

The best hotel in Sukhumvit:

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  • Value for money: Novotel Bangkok Sukhumvit 20 – Modern city hotel with pool on the 9th floor, gym and rooftop bar in lively Sukhumvit.

Find the cheapest and best hotels in Sukhumvit here (adlink).

Phrom Phong station in Bangkok
During our last visit to Bangkok, we stayed near Phrom Phong on Sukhumvit, right by shopping centres and Benchasiri Park.
Novotel Bangkok Sukhumvit 20
We’ve actually stayed in Sukhumvit several times ourselves and could definitely consider checking in here the next time we’re in Bangkok. ©Novotel Bangkok Sukhumvit 20 (adlink)

Siam

Siam is the heart of modern Bangkok, home to huge shopping centres like Siam Paragon, MBK and CentralWorld.

It’s an ideal area for shoppers and first-time visitors who want things like malls, plenty of restaurants and transport nearby.

Siam is simply central, convenient and tourist-friendly.

  • Pros: Central, huge malls, easy BTS access, family-friendly.
  • Cons: Less “Thai” atmosphere, very busy, not much nightlife.

The best hotels in Siam:

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  • Luxury: Sindhorn Kempinski Hotel Bangkok – A serene city resort in Siam with rooms bigger than many Bangkok apartments, a 25-metre pool, spa and several restaurants surrounded by greenery.
  • Luxury: Chatrium Grand Bangkok – Spacious rooms, a large pool and attentive service at a more affordable price.

Find the cheapest and best hotels in Siam here (adlink).

Siam Discovery walkway
Several of the shopping centres in Siam are linked by elevated walkways, which also provide convenient access to metro stations.
Sindhorn Kempinski shot of exterior including park
Sindhorn Kempinski offers a truly luxurious respite in Siam, right by Lumpini Park. ©Sindhorn Kempinski Hotel Bangkok (adlink)
Chatrium Grand Bangkok
Chatrium Grand Bangkok also offers a more than comfortable stay in Siam (without the high price of Sindhorn Kempinski and similar luxury hotels). ©Chatrium Grand Bangkok (adlink)

Chao Phraya River area

The Chao Phraya River area offers comfort and culture.

Riverside hotels come with stunning views and boat access to Wat Arun, Chinatown and other attractions.

A quieter choice, great for couples or families who want a relaxed base close to landmarks.

  • Pros: Scenic views, quiet and romantic, easy river transport.
  • Cons: Can be pricier, slightly away from BTS/MRT.

The best hotels near the Chao Phraya River:

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  • Luxury: Mandarin Oriental Bangkok – One of Bangkok’s most luxurious hotels with a riverside pool and 10 restaurants (2 of which have Michelin stars).
  • Value for money: Riva Arun – Nice mid-range hotel with a central location in Bangkok by the river and a perfect view of the epic Wat Arun.

Find the cheapest and best hotels along the Chao Phraya River here (adlink).

Mandarin Oriental Bangkok river views
The river views from Mandarin Oriental are hard to beat. ©Mandarin Oriental Bangkok (adlink)

Chinatown (Yaowarat)

Chinatown is one of Bangkok’s most atmospheric areas, full of narrow lanes, markets and some of the city’s best street food.

It’s perfect for food lovers and travellers curious about local culture.

Accommodation ranges from boutique hotels to budget stays, and the area is still easy to reach from elsewhere.

  • Pros: Amazing street food, rich culture, affordable stays with character.
  • Cons: Narrow, busy streets, less polished than central areas.

The best hotels near Chinatown (Yaowarat):

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  • Value for money: The Mustang Blu – Once a 19th-century bank, this ten suite boutique hotel is one of the most atmospheric stays in Chinatown.
  • Budget: Photohostel – A comfortable, creative hub in nearby Talat Noi, made for photographers.

Find the cheapest and best hotels in Chinatown (Yaowarat) here (adlink).

Chinatown Bangkok
Chinatown offers a different Bangkok experience, not to be missed.
Victoria in Talat Noi
Nearby Talat Noi is also a tourist favourite for its atmospheric streets and street art.
Flat-iron building in Chinatown
How cool is the flat-iron building that The Mustang Blu inhabits in Chinatown? ©The Mustang Blu

The best luxury hotels in Bangkok

Bangkok is filled to the brim with luxurious hotel offerings, each offering gorgeous facilities, beautiful rooms and service as only the Thais know best.

Here are our three favourites for a truly indulgent stay.

Our favourite luxury hotels in Bangkok:

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  • Luxury: Mandarin Oriental Bangkok – One of Bangkok’s most luxurious hotels with a riverside pool and 10 restaurants (2 of which have Michelin stars).
  • Luxury: Sindhorn Kempinski Hotel Bangkok – A serene city resort in Siam with rooms bigger than many Bangkok apartments, a 25-metre pool, spa and several restaurants surrounded by greenery.
  • Luxury: Chatrium Grand Bangkok – Spacious rooms, a large pool and attentive service at a more affordable price, also in Siam.

Search for the best luxury hotels in Bangkok here.

Mandarin Oriental Bangkok

Many of Bangkok’s luxury hotels are situated along the Chao Phraya River, and the Mandarin Oriental Bangkok is often considered one of the very best.

It may not be a boutique resort, but it offers an extensive range of facilities, ensuring a high level of comfort and service.

Its historic charm, with a legacy dating back over 140 years, adds a sense of timeless elegance that few other hotels in Bangkok can match.

See prices and availability at Mandarin Oriental Bangkok here (adlink).

Restaurant at Mandarin Oriental Bangkok
With 10 restaurants (including two with Michelin stars), there’s no risk of going to bed hungry here! ©Mandarin Oriental Bangkok (adlink)
Mandarin Oriental Bangkok room with a view
Almost every room in the hotel offers a view of the Chao Phraya River. ©Mandarin Oriental Bangkok (adlink)

Sindhorn Kempinski Hotel Bangkok

Tucked away in Siam close to Lumpini Park, Sindhorn Kempinski feels calm and spacious – more like a city resort than a hotel.

Most of the rooms are bigger than many Bangkok apartments, and the mix of soft tones, marble bathrooms and large windows creates a real sense of space and light.

(Of course) there’s a 25-metre pool, a great spa and several restaurants surrounded by greenery.

Tip: Check out the Sealife Family Suite if you’re travelling with ocean-interested little ones!

See prices and availability at Sindhorn Kempinski Hotel Bangkok here (adlink).

Sindhorn Kempinski Hotel Bangkok room
The rooms at Sindhorn Kempinski are among the most spacious in Bangkok. ©Sindhorn Kempinski Hotel Bangkok (adlink)
Sindhorn Kempinski Bangkok pool area
The peaceful garden and pool make it easy to unwind here. ©Sindhorn Kempinski Hotel Bangkok (adlink)

Chatrium Grand Bangkok

Also located in the Siam area, Chatrium Grand Bangkok is a great option if you’re after a touch of luxury but at a more affordable price than the above-mentioned Sindhorn Kempinski.

The hotel combines a modern design with warm details, and we like how the large rooms feel inviting rather than overdone. Siam Paragon, CentralWorld and the BTS are all within easy walking distance.

Just as importantly, there’s a spacious pool area, a good fitness centre and impressively attentive service.

See prices and availability at Chatrium Grand Bangkok here (adlink).

Chatrium Grand Bangkok pool and city view
The pool area is one of the hotel’s highlights, with calm surroundings and skyline views. ©Chatrium Grand Bangkok (adlink)
Chatrium Grand Bangkok room interior
The rooms also look like they’re plenty comfortable. ©Chatrium Grand Bangkok (adlink)

The best mid-range hotels in Bangkok

There’s no doubt that most Bangkok hotels offer plenty of bang for your baht at all price ranges.

These are our favourite mid-range options, where you’ll get more space, facilities and amenities than at the budget options – yet at a much more affordable price point.

The boutique hotels in this category also impress with impeccable service and unique designs.

In our opinion, they’re highly worth checking out if you’re into staying aesthetically, for example as a couple.

Our favourite value for money hotels in Bangkok:

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  • Value for money: The Mustang Blu – Once a 19th-century bank, this ten suite boutique hotel is one of the most atmospheric stays in Chinatown.
  • Value for money: Riva Arun – Nice mid-range hotel with a central location in Bangkok by the river and a perfect view of the epic Wat Arun.
  • Value for money: Novotel Bangkok Sukhumvit 20 – Modern city hotel with pool on the 9th floor, gym and rooftop bar in lively Sukhumvit.
  • Value for money: Priya Boutique House – A lovingly restored Thai house near Khao San Road, where Pang’s warm hospitality makes you feel right at home.
  • Value for money: Grande Centre Point Surawong Bangkok – Airy rooms, a rooftop pool with skyline views and extra perks like a gym and gaming room – all without the luxury price tag.

Search for the best value hotels in Bangkok here.

The Mustang Blu

Stepping into The Mustang Blu feels like walking into another era.

Set in a 19th-century former bank with a flat-iron shape, this small design hotel has retained every bit of its age and charm – from the faded walls and creaky staircases to the vintage furniture and striking art pieces.

The ten suites each have their own personality – think concrete walls, rattan details and deep soaking tubs. They’re also notoriously difficult to book.

Located in Chinatown, it’s close enough to the buzz of Yaowarat Road yet tucked away just enough to feel calm once you’re inside.

Be aware that there’s no lift, and the stairs can be steep.

See prices and availability at The Mustang Blu here (adlink).

The Mustang Blu interior double room
The mix of vintage furniture and raw architectural details makes The Mustang Blu one of Bangkok’s most unique boutique hotels. ©The Mustang Blu (adlink)
Mustang Blue bathroom with sun shining in
©The Mustang Blu (adlink)
Café at The Mustang Blu
Downstairs, the café is one of the area’s prettiest spots. ©The Mustang Blu (adlink)

Riva Arun

With a prime location between the stunning Wat Arun (just across the river), the Grand Palace, Wat Pho with its reclining Buddha, and Sanam Chai station on the Blue Line, it’s hard to find a better spot.

Rooms overlook the Chao Phraya River, giving you a front-row seat to Bangkok’s most iconic sights.

And the prices are surprisingly reasonable!

See prices and availability at Riva Arun here (adlink).

Wat Arun from Riva Arun
If your main goal in Bangkok is to visit the city’s most impressive temples, Riva Arun is a natural choice. ©Riva Arun (adlink)

Novotel Bangkok Sukhumvit 20

Novotel Bangkok Sukhumvit 20 offers an infinity pool on the 9th floor, a fitness centre and a rooftop bar overlooking the surrounding high-rises, making it an excellent option for experiencing Bangkok’s modern side in comfort.

The hotel is located centrally in the Sukhumvit area right by EmSphere, close to several shopping centres, the metro and the lovely Benjakitti Park.

See prices and availability at Novotel Bangkok Sukhumvit 20 here (adlink).

Novotel Bangkok Sukhumvit 20 pool
Who wouldn’t love starting or ending their day at this pool in the sky? ©Novotel Bangkok Sukhumvit 20

Priya Boutique House

If you’re after charm, kindness and real Thai warmth, Priya Boutique House is a little gem right by Khao San Road and the Old Town.

This lovingly restored wooden home feels more like staying with friends than at a hotel, with Pang and the small team always being around with smiles and spot-on local advice.

Rooms are spotless and comfortable, and the courtyard is just made for a quiet breakfast before heading out to see temples or wander through the nearby markets.

See prices and availability at Priya Boutique House here (adlink).

Staying at Priya Boutique House in Bangkok
Priya Boutique House is a beautifully restored Thai home with lots of character and warm hospitality. ©Priya Boutique House (adlink)
Priya Boutique House courtyard
Enjoy morning coffee surrounded by greenery in the peaceful little courtyard. ©Priya Boutique House (adlink)

Grande Centre Point Surawong Bangkok

In the lively Silom area, Grande Centre Point Surawong Bangkok offers comfort and style without the associated luxury price tag.

Rooms are bright, modern and surprisingly spacious.

The rooftop pool has wonderful city views, the gym is well-equipped, and there’s even a gaming room with air-hockey and pinball.

See prices and availability at Grande Centre Point Surawong Bangkok here (adlink).

Grande Centre Point Surawong Bangkok pool and city view
The rooftop pool is perfect for relaxing while taking in the skyline. ©Grande Centre Point Surawong Bangkok (adlink)
Grande Centre Point Surawong Bangkok room interior
Rooms are airy, stylish and surprisingly affordable. ©Grande Centre Point Surawong Bangkok (adlink)
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The best budget hotels in Bangkok

Mostly gone are the days of The Beach-style, cockroach-infested dorm rooms.

Today, Bangkok’s budget offerings often rival midrange hotels in other big cities in terms of comfort and value.

Even if you’re travelling on a shoestring, you can likely still afford a nice double room with a private bathroom and air conditioning (which is downright essential for many months of the year in this humid metropolis if you ask us).

Our favourite budget hotels in Bangkok:

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  • Budget: Casa Nithra Bangkok – Comfortable (and beautiful!) double rooms with a rooftop pool close to Khao San Road.
  • Budget: Photohostel – A comfortable, creative hub in Talat Noi, run by a Dutch photographer.
  • Budget: Casa Luna – This peaceful hideaway in Ratchathewi offers stylish rooms and service way above its price point.

Search for the best budget hotels in Bangkok here.

Casa Nithra Bangkok

The rooms at Casa Nithra are nicer than you’d expect for the low price.

And the rooftop pool is the perfect finishing touch.

Khao San Road is just a kilometre away, but an even closer river ferry stop offers easy access to the rest of the city.

See prices and availability at Casa Nithra Bangkok here (adlink).

Double room at Casa Nithra Bangkok
This could easily be a double room in one of Bangkok’s more luxurious hotels, but Casa Nithra offers it at a much more accessible price. ©Casa Nithra Bangkok (adlink)

Photohostel

Photohostel sits in the heart of Talat Noi, one of Bangkok’s most fascinating neighbourhoods perfectly balancing chaos and charm right by Chinatown.

It’s a place that naturally draws photographers, and staying here feels like being part of that creative pulse.

The hostel is run by Kars Tuinder, a Dutch photographer known for his documentary work and art photography.

His images line the walls, and the old Taiyuan building now doubles as a small creative hub with a café and gallery attached.

Rooms are kept in calming dark tones, and Kars is often around to share a few photography tips or point you towards the best light by the river.

See prices and availability at Photohostel here (adlink).

Private room at Photohostel
Despite the “hostel” moniker, each room at Photohostel comes with a private bathroom. ©Photohostel (adlink)
Photohostel building
The building itself is very much photo-worthy. ©Photohostel (adlink)

Casa Luna

Casa Luna is a quiet oasis in Ratchathewi with easy airport access, offering modern, spotless rooms and comfy beds at a great price.

Breakfast is fresh and varied. However, the real highlight is Pong – the warm and attentive host who goes out of her way helping guests with just about anything.

Just a short walk from Phetchaburi Road, the MRT and plenty of cafes and street food, it’s easy to explore Bangkok from Casa Luna while returning to a peaceful base at the end of the day.

See prices and availability at Casa Luna here (adlink).

Casa Luna Bangkok room
Rooms are bright, stylish and peaceful, a perfect retreat in central Bangkok. ©Casa Luna (adlink)
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So what is the best area to stay in Bangkok?

Truthfully, there isn’t one “best” area to stay in Bangkok – it really depends on what you’re after!

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  • Backpackers & solo travellers: Khao San Road – Budget stays, lively nightlife and close to the historic temples.
  • Shopping & modern city life: Siam – Huge malls, central location and easy transport.
  • Cosmopolitan vibe & nightlife: Sukhumvit – Restaurants, bars and BTS access for getting around fast.
  • Business meets leisure: Silom – Green spaces near Lumpini Park, rooftop bars and artsy corners by the river.
  • Romantic or quiet riverside stay: Chao Phraya River area – Scenic views, boat rides and calmer hotels.
  • Foodies & culture lovers: Chinatown (Yaowarat) – Bustling streets, amazing street food and affordable stays.

Basically, pick the area that fits your style and you can’t really go wrong.

The best things to do and see in Bangkok

Bangkok is bursting with sights, flavours, and energy. Temples, street food, malls and markets are never far away.

The city is massive, so it helps to pick a few highlights – but leave room for surprises along the way.

We’ve put together a big guide on the 17 best things to do and see in Bangkok to help you plan your trip.

Here are the 17 best things to do and see in Bangkok:

  1. Grand Palace – Bangkok’s most iconic tourist attraction
  2. Wat Pho – The Reclining Buddha
  3. Wat Arun – The striking Temple of Dawn
  4. Khao San Road – Lively backpacker street
  5. Enjoy the sunset from a rooftop bar – See Bangkok’s glittering lights from above
  6. Chatuchak Weekend Market – Thailand’s largest market
  7. Bangkok’s shopping malls – Shopping for all budgets in cool air conditioning
  8. Wat Saket and Golden Mount – Temple with views over Bangkok
  9. Wat Ratchanatdaram – Bangkok’s Iron Palace
  10. Bangkok National Museum – Gain insight into Thailand’s history
  11. Wat Intharawihan – 32-metre high standing golden Buddha
  12. Benjakitti Forest Park and Lumpini Park – Walks in green surroundings
  13. Chinatown – Shopping and street food
  14. Talat Noi – Street art in a historic neighbourhood
  15. Wat Benchamabophit – Royal Temple with Italian marble
  16. Other things to see and do in Bangkok
  17. Day trips from Bangkok

How to get around Bangkok

Walk

Walking around Bangkok is undoubtedly the best way to see and experience the city.

However, if you want to visit several sights in different parts of the city, it’s not always practical (unless you have plenty of time and don’t mind the heat too much…).

It’s a big city, and getting around takes longer than you might think from simply looking at the map.

Sidewalk in Bangkok
Bangkok is very busy, but it actually has good sidewalks.
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Public transport

Although the metro network in Bangkok isn’t as extensive as, for example, in Singapore, it’s still a great way to get around the city.

The system consists of a total of 10 lines spread across different networks, with the BTS Skytrain (mainly above ground) and MRT (mainly underground) being the most commonly used.

While you can’t reach every destination in the city, the metro is still incredibly useful – especially when traffic in Bangkok comes to a standstill during rush hour.

Tickets can be purchased at all stations, and prices are reasonable.

BTS Skytrain in Bangkok
The BTS Skytrain is an ingenious way to avoid street traffic.
Map of Bangkok metro network
Map of Bangkok’s metro network. Click here or on the image to see it in full size. Photo: Zeddlex / CC BY

Taxi, tuk-tuks and river ferries

Bangkok’s traffic is notoriously bad, so if you find yourself on the wrong road at the wrong time, you might end up spending a significant portion of your time stuck in a traffic jam.

That said, taxis can still be a convenient option, especially if you’re not near a metro station.

Apps like Grab and Bolt (which function similarly to Uber) are usually cheaper than traditional taxis, but in Bangkok, we’ve had mixed experiences with them. Sometimes, we’ve had to wait quite a while for a ride, as the drivers often sit in traffic queues.

Interestingly, taking a tuk-tuk can often be more expensive than a taxi, but if you’re willing to embrace the traffic (and pollution), it can be a fun way to get around the city.

River ferry buses and other boats offer a great (and very scenic) way to get around Bangkok, especially if you’re near the water. Most boats travel up and down the Chao Phraya River, but you can also explore some of the smaller canals, giving you a unique perspective of the city.

Tuk-tuks in Bangkok
Although taxis may be more practical in many ways, tuk-tuks remain a charming and iconic part of Bangkok’s street scene.

When to visit Bangkok

With temperatures rarely dropping below 20°C (68°F) and sometimes reaching up to 40°C (104°F), Bangkok is a consistently warm metropolis.

However, there are distinct seasonal variations, which can be helpful to know if you’re planning a trip.

The cold season (high season)

The best weather in Bangkok, with relatively cooler temperatures, can be found from around November to February.

During the day, it’s comfortable for walking around, and in the evening and at night, temperatures may drop to just above 20°C (68°F).

The warm season (low season)

It starts to get hot on the Thai mainland in March, with temperatures typically peaking in April, when places like Bangkok can reach as high as 40°C (104°F).

During this time, it’s wise to seek shade (and air conditioning!) in the middle of the day.

If you visit Bangkok in April during the Songkran Festival, be prepared to be sprayed with water from cannons and water pistols. Tourists are often the main targets, but it’s all in good fun, with the Thais always offering a big smile.

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Rainy season (low season)

When the rains begin around May, it’s possible to venture outside during the day without feeling completely overwhelmed by the heat.

At the start of the rainy season, however, the weather remains warm, with high temperatures continuing until September, which is when the heaviest rainfall occurs.

By the end of November, the weather typically becomes much drier again, and there’s still some time before the tourist crowds arrive around Christmas.

Quiet street with plants in Bangkok
In short, the best time to visit Bangkok is during the winter months, when temperatures are more moderate compared to the rest of the year. However, if you’re prepared to seek air conditioning or shelter from the rain, the city is still very much accessible year-round.
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Our best tips for staying in Bangkok

  • Add extra time to your plan for transport. Especially in the mornings and afternoons/evenings, it can take quite a long time to get around the gigantic city.
  • Bangkok is an exciting and incredibly photogenic city. Make sure to bring a good camera! Here’s our guide to lightweight photography gear for high-quality travel content.
  • Transportation with Grab or Bolt is often cheaper than the local taxis. It works just like Uber. Simply download both apps, compare prices for your route, and make sure you have data on your phone to use them.
  • Be cautious in traffic. It can be hectic, and drivers either tend to go fast, or you’ll find yourself stuck in long, chaotic traffic queues.
  • The electrical outlets in Bangkok generally feature two round prongs, fitting both most European and Asian appliances, as well as the flat prongs of USA and Japan. The standard voltage is 220 volts.
  • How long to spend in Bangkok really depends on your interests. You can explore the main attractions in just a few days, but if you’re a digital nomad or looking to immerse yourself more deeply in the city’s culture, you could easily spend weeks here.
  • Dress respectfully at the temples. Make sure your shoulders and knees are covered in religious surroundings.
  • Book accommodation well in advance if you’re travelling during the high season (July and August + December to March). While there will always be rooms available in Thailand’s capital, many of the best hotels get fully booked months ahead of time.
  • Wifi is widely available in hotels and cafes, and it’s usually very fast. If you need internet access elsewhere for services like Grab and Bolt, consider buying a local SIM card or eSIM with data. It’s affordable and easy to obtain. We’ve previously used Airalo (adlink) with great success.
  • The sun is strong. Remember your sun protection and stay in the shade during the hottest hours in the middle of the day.
  • Credit cards are accepted in most higher-end establishments, but cash is more commonly used in local restaurants and smaller shops.
  • ATMs and currency exchange spots are easy to find in Bangkok. It’s usually most cost-effective to withdraw money in baht, and to minimise extra fees, it’s a good idea to take out the maximum allowed amount at once.
  • With several first-class hospitals, clinics and dental practices in Bangkok, medical care is readily available if you need treatment or assistance during your stay.
  • Bring your own water bottle and refill it at cafes and restaurants.
  • Remember travel insurance! We compare the best travel insurance for digital nomads and long-term travellers here.
Traffic in Bangkok
Bangkok is a large city, and with attractions spread out, it’s important to allow plenty of time for travel between sights.
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Sustainable travel tips

To travel as sustainably as possible, we recommend the following:

  • Book eco-friendly accommodation such as hotels with a sustainability focus or owned by locals.
  • Minimise the use of air conditioning and turn it off when you are not in the room.
  • Buy handmade souvenirs directly from the artist instead of mass-produced items in larger stores.
  • Respect local traditions and follow the temple dress code.
  • Eat as plant-based, local and organic as possible.
  • Bring your own drinking water in a refillable bottle.
  • Avoid disposable plastics as much as possible.
  • Sort your waste correctly and do not throw it on the ground.
  • Take only photos and leave only footprints. Avoid taking things from nature with you.

Planning a trip to Thailand?

Don’t miss our guide with tips for visiting Thailand packed with must-know travel advice, local customs and important things to avoid for a lovely vacation and a respectful visit.

Park in Bangkok with a view of skyscrapers
Bangkok may be hectic, but it also has its share of green spaces.
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Thank you for reading our Bangkok guide

Thank you for reading our travel guide on where to stay in Bangkok. We hope it has been helpful!

What do you think of the different areas and hotels?

Don’t hesitate to ask us anything in the comments if you haven’t been to Thailand’s capital yet. We are happy to help.

If you’ve already been there, it would be great to hear your best tips and tricks on where to stay.

Golden Mountain Bangkok
We hope you’ll have an amazing time staying in Bangkok!

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