Where to Stay in Bangkok: A First-Timer’s Guide to the Best Neighborhoods

Bangkok is one of the most popular tourist centers in the world, with a rich culture that caters to this. Everyone has always wanted to visit this city at least once, and with our guide, you’ll know just where to stay in Bangkok. This guide will detail the best locations to visit for a good time and the most family-friendly areas, while also showing you how to have fun on a budget.

Our Top Picks for the Best Areas to Stay in Bangkok

Below is a list of the best areas to stay in Bangkok. All these locations can be reached from Suvarnabhumi Airport and Don Mueang Airport. As you go through the list, you will discover all the interesting places to see in Bangkok.

1. Sukhumvit

Sukhumvit Road, Bangkok. Credit: Getty Images

Sukhumvit is one of the best neighborhoods to stay in Bangkok and also provides some of the best places to eat in Bangkok. This Bangkok neighborhood is quite popular among expats, so you will find restaurants catering to every cuisine.

Why stay in Sukhumvit?

Easy access to the Terminal 21 shopping mall in Asok
Wide variety of mid-range, high-end, and budget hotels
Upscale red-light district
Connected to most areas in the city center via the BTS Skytrain and MRT
Easy access to five-star hotels like Siam Kempinski and wellness spot Hana Plaza
Access to the old town and close to the Siam Square and Siam Paragon

Best Hotels to Stay in Sukhumvit, Bangkok (Value-for-Money Hotels)

If you’re looking for a great place to stay in Sukhumvit, we’ve prepared some of the best hotels in the Bangkok Sukhumvit area.

Hotel Clover Asoke

This four-star hub of comfort sits at the city center, beside Terminal 21, and it’s a five-minute walk to BTS Asok and MRT Sukhumvit. For these reasons, travel guides mark this hotel as one of the most convenient places to stay in Bangkok.

Quick facts:

Hours: 24-hour reception.
Nearest transportation: BTS Skytrain Station, MRT Station
Room type and cost per night: Clover Style King (THB 2,143), Clover Style Twin (THB 4,200), Lady Room (THB 4,725), Deluxe Family Room (THB 5,075).
Attractions: Terminal 21, Benjakitti Park

S Box Sukhumvit Hotel

This is a location that provides luxury at budget prices, and it’s one of the best hotels in Sukhumvit, Bangkok. It's five minutes from the BTS Phrom Phong, making it perfect for backpackers. There’s free Wi-Fi here, free parking, an LCD TV, 24-hour access to food and drinks, and some rooms offer free accommodation for children under four.

Quick facts:

Hours: 24-hour reception.
Nearest transportation: BTS Phrom Phong Station
Room type and cost per night: S Capsule (THB 1,293), Box 5.0 (THB 1,513), Box 5.5 (THB 1,591).
Attractions: Emporium, EmQuartier malls, and Benjasiri Park.

Arte Hotel

If you’re new to Bangkok, Thailand, and looking for where to stay, Arte Hotel has all you need. This four-star hotel is located downtown in Sukhumvit and is a three-minute walk to BTS Asok.

Quick facts:

Hours: 24-hour reception.
Nearest transportation: Skytrain, MRT.
Room type and cost per night: Deluxe (THB 2,400), Premier (THB 2,600), Jacuzzi Suite (THB 5,500).
Attractions: Soi Cowboy, Terminal 21.

Citadines Sukhumvit 11

This is a collection of serviced apartments for tourists who want that home-away-from-home experience. Citadines Sukhumvit 11 is a seven-minute walk to BTS Nana, which is within walking distance of Nana Plaza and its many nightclubs.

Quick facts:

Hours: 24-hour front desk.
Nearest transportation: Nana Skytrain, BTS, MRT.
Room type and cost per night: Studio Executive (THB 1,901), 1-Bedroom Deluxe (THB 2,701), 2-Bedroom Deluxe (THB 5,085).
Attractions: Nana nightlife, Sukhumvit Soi 11 bars.

2. Silom: The Business Hub

Bangkok Silom skyline. Credit: Getty Images

If you’re looking for where to stay in Bangkok, why not give the business district a try? Silom provides access to Lumpini Park, and as one of the best localities to stay in Bangkok, it is home to some authentic Thai food spots.

Why stay in Silom?

Located in central Bangkok, it provides easy access to tourist attractions (near Lumpini Park).
Easy access to offices, embassies, and financial institutions
The night entertainment district of Patpong

Best Hotels to Stay in Silom, Bangkok

When you’re in Silom, the best hotels to stay at in Bangkok are:

Amara Bangkok

This is a five-star hotel with 250 rooms to choose from. It’s located at an 8-10 minute walk to BTS Chong Nonsi and the Sala Daeng areas.

Quick facts:

Hours: 24-hour front desk.
Nearest transportation: BTS Skytrain, MRT.
Room type and cost per night: Deluxe Twin (THB 3,168), Executive Double (THB 4,449), Club Double (THB 5,562).
Attractions: Patpong Night Market, Mahanakhon Skywalk.

Red Planet Bangkok Surawong

If you’re on a budget but are still interested in top-tier service, then Red Planet Bangkok Surawong is for you. Located just 10 minutes away from BTS Sala Daeng, it's at a good spot for accessing other areas in the city.

Quick facts:

Hours: Check-in from 14:00 and check-out by 12:00.
Nearest transportation: BTS Sala Daeng, MRT Sam Yan.
Room type and cost per night: Standard (THB 1,150), Standard Double (THB 1,283).
Attractions: Silom nightlife, Lumpini Park.

Silom Serene Boutique Hotel

Silom Serene is a four-star boutique hotel that is located just seven minutes away from BTS Sala Daeng. Despite being in the center of town, this Bangkok hotel provides a quiet retreat for everyone.

Quick facts:

Hours: Check-in from 14:00 and check-out by 12:00.
Nearest transportation: BTS Sala Daeng, BTS Chong Nonsi.
Room type and cost per night: Deluxe Double (THB 1,758), 1-Bedroom Suite (THB 3,600).
Attractions: Silom Road, Patpong Market.

Holiday Inn Express Bangkok Sathorn

This three-star hotel is a modern chain hotel, so it’s a great location for when you’re looking for where to stay in Bangkok with family. The BTS Chong Nonsi is within three minutes walking distance of this property.

Quick facts:

Hours: Check-in from 15:00 and check-out by 12:00.
Nearest transportation: BTS Station, Sam Yam MRT.
Room type and cost per night: Standard (THB 2,223), Queen (THB 2,588).
Attractions: Sathorn business district, Sky Bar (rooftop bar) at Lebua.

3. Siam: The Shopping Hub

Siam is the best place to stay in Bangkok, as it encompasses Siam Discovery, Siam Paragon, Central Chidlom, MBK, and other top shopping malls.

Why stay in Siam?

Largest shopping hub
Great place to meet young locals

Best Hotels to Stay in Siam District, Bangkok

If you’re in the area, these are the best hotels to visit:

Mercure Bangkok Siam

Just a few steps away from the BTS National Stadium, this hotel has you in a good spot to visit major shopping malls.

Quick facts:

Hours: Check-in from 14:00 and check-out by 12:00.
Nearest transportation: BTS Skytrain, MRT.
Room type and cost per night: Superior (THB 3,100), Deluxe (THB 3,600), Deluxe Suite (THB 5,000).
Attractions: MBK Center, Jim Thompson House, BACC.

ibis Bangkok Siam

This is another hotel that’s close to the BTS National Stadium, but it caters to travelers on a smaller budget.

Quick facts:

Hours: Check-in from 14:00 and check-out by 12:00.
Nearest transportation: BTS Skytrain, Hua Lamphong.
Room type and cost per night: Standard (THB 2,200), Standard Double (THB 2,700).
Attractions: MBK, Siam Discovery.

Novotel Bangkok on Siam Square

This four-star hotel features 425 rooms and is located just two minutes away from the BTS Siam Interchange.

Quick facts:

Hours: Check-in from 14:00 and check-out by 12:00.
Nearest transportation: BTS Station.
Room type and cost per night: Superior (THB 2,854), Deluxe (THB 4,139).
Attractions: Siam Paragon, CentralWorld, Erawan Shrine.

Hua Chang Heritage Hotel

This is a four-star luxury hotel that is located within five minutes of the BTS National Stadium, and it offers top-class facilities and amenities.

Quick facts:

Hours: Check-in from 14:00 and check-out by 12:00.
Nearest transportation: BTS Station.
Room type and cost per night: Deluxe (THB 2,216), Premium Deluxe (THB 6,133), Suite (THB 12,778).
Attractions: MBK, Jim Thompson House.

4. Riverside (Rattanakosin / Old City)

Riverside Hotel in Bangkok. Credit: Unsplash

Riverside is one of the most scenic spots in Bangkok, with the river in view and the many historical landmarks surrounding it. As one of the top places to stay in Bangkok, you will find the ICONSIAM luxury shopping mall, top cafés, tourist boats, and other riverfront entertainment.

Why stay in Riverside?

Close to major attractions
Easy transportation via boat
A quiet part of town
Family-friendly fun

Best Hotels to Stay Near Chao Phraya River, Bangkok

As one of the best parts of Bangkok to stay in, Riverside offers many good hotels, such as:

Riva Surya Bangkok

Situated along the banks of the Chao Phraya River, this four-star hotel provides 68 luxurious rooms.

Quick facts:

Hours: 24-hour reception.
Nearest transportation: Skytrain, MRT, Chao Phraya Express boat
Room type and cost per night: Urban (THB 2,971), Deluxe Riva (THB 3,811), Premium Riva (THB 4,005).
Attractions: Khao San Road, the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun (via boat).

Villa Phra Sumen Bangkok

If you’re looking for where to stay in Bangkok Riverside, you can try this three-star hotel that is a 10-minute walk from Khao San. It’s a nice place to stay in Bangkok, as it’s located in the historical district of the big city, with most sites within walking distance.

Quick facts:

Hours: Check-in from 14:00 and check-out by 12:00.
Nearest transportation: Hua Lamphong Train Station, Phra Athit Pier.
Room type and cost per night: Standard King Bed (THB 1,256), Standard Twin Bed (THB 1,625), Standard Garden View King Bed (THB 1,890).
Attractions: Democracy Monument, Old City temples, Wat Bowonniwet, Phra Sumen Fort, and Wat Saket.

Chillax Resort

This resort is meant to be the romantic getaway for couples who are looking for a good place to stay in Bangkok.

Quick facts:

Hours: Check-in from 14:00 and check-out by 12:00.
Nearest transportation: Sanam Chai, Yommarat Train Station, Phra Arthit Pier, and Rama VIII Bridge Pier.
Room type and cost per night: Premier (THB 3,854), Deluxe (THB 3,206), Superior (THB 2,558).
Attractions: Rambuttri Village, nightlife, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun.

Casa Nithra Bangkok

Inspired by Thai culture, this four-star hotel offers spacious rooms that are decorated with traditional Siam wall art. This is one of the best areas to stay in Bangkok for first-time visitors, and it's just a 15-minute walk from Khao San.

Quick facts:

Hours: 24-hour reception.
Nearest transportation: Skytrain, MRT, Chao Phraya Express boat
Room type and cost per night: Superior (THB 2,420), Double (THB 2,618), Suite (THB 3,179).
Attractions: Wat Bowonniwet, Old City temples, Wat Po, and Museum Siam.

5. Ari: The Bohemian Oasis with a Local Vibe

Tourists who desire a balance between the relaxation that a guesthouse can provide and accessibility will love it in Ari.

Why stay in Ari?

Strong café culture
Easy access to public transport
Cheap accommodation for longer stays

Best Hotels to Stay Near Ari, Bangkok

Some of the best hotels you can visit when in Ari include:

The Quarter Ari by UHG

This is a great value-for-money location with modern amenities, making it suitable for tourists with mid-range budgets. It’s also within a 10-minute walking distance of BTS Ari, making transportation easy.

Quick facts:

Hours: 24-hour reception
Nearest transportation: BTS Ari.
Room type and cost per night: Superior (THB 1,769), Deluxe (THB 2,577), Premium Suite (THB 3,333).
Attractions: La Villa Ari, hip cafés.

Josh Hotel

If you’re an old soul, you’ll love the retro design in Josh Hotel, along with its hip cafés and restaurants. This four-star property is just seven minutes away from BTS Ari.

Quick facts:

Hours: Check-in from 14:00 and check-out by 12:00.
Nearest transportation: BTS Ari.
Room type and cost per night: Deluxe (THB 1,895), Superior (THB 1,904), and Family (THB 2,406).
Attractions: Ari neighborhood.

6. Chatuchak Weekend Market

This is another famous shopping hotspot, and you can get a bargain on anything if you can haggle.

Why stay near the Chatuchak Weekend Market?

Affordable prices for goods
Numerous local food stalls

Where to Stay Near Chatuchak Weekend Market

You can rest your head when visiting this shopping hub at locations like:

Centara Grand at Central Plaza Ladprao

This is a five-star luxury accommodation where you get to enjoy modern housing amenities and shopping all in one. It is connected by a walkway to MRT Phahon Yothin and by shuttle to Chatuchak Market.

Quick facts:

Hours: Check-in from 15:00 and check-out by 12:00.
Nearest transportation: BTS Station, MRT.
Room type and cost per night: Deluxe (THB 3,243), Premium Deluxe (THB 4,330), and Deluxe Suite (THB 4,801).
Attractions: Chatuchak Park, Union Mall.

Livotel Hotel Kaset Nawamin Bangkok

This is the accommodation to visit when you’re on a budget but still want to stay within a short distance of Chatuchak Market. Livotel Hotel is just a short taxi ride away from the market.

Quick facts:

Hours: Check-in from 14:00 and check-out by 12:00.
Nearest transportation: BTS Station.
Room type and cost per night: Standard (THB 804), Deluxe (THB 1,105), Family (THB 1,275).
Attractions: Kasetsart University, Chatuchak Park.

The Quarter Ladprao by UHG

The Quarter Ladprao is the place to be when you want to experience Bangkok beyond the tourist hotspot. It's a two-minute walk from MRT Phahon Yothin.

Quick facts:

Hours: Check-in from 14:00 and check-out by 12:00.
Nearest transportation: BTS Station, MRT Phahon Yothin.
Room type and cost per night: Superior (THB 1,996), Deluxe (THB 3,136).
Attractions: Union Mall, Chatuchak Market

7. Khao San Road

This is the best location to stay in Bangkok if you’re a backpacker or you just love to party. The accommodation in the area is affordable, the street food is cheap, and the nightlife is ever-present, with clubs, bars, and pubs everywhere. Your baht can go a very long way here.
This is also a good location to stay in Bangkok because young Thais visit in the evening, so you can socialize and make new friends.

Why stay near Khao San Road?

Budget-friendly accommodations.
Central location that is close to the Grand Palace and Wat Pho.
Street food stalls are everywhere.

Hotels Near Khao San Road Bangkok

While you won’t find any five-star hotels in this location, there are quite a few great hotels near Khao San Road in Bangkok, and they include:

D\&D Inn

This hotel is located right on Khao San Road, with a decor that lets you experience modern Bangkok. The rooms of this property feature tiled flooring and partially wooden interiors, and there’s free Wi-Fi and an outdoor pool on the rooftop.

Quick facts:

Hours: Check-in from 14:00 and check-out by 12:00.
Nearest transportation: Hua Lamphong station.
Room type and cost per night: Classic Queen (THB 700-800), Classic Triple (THB 1,300-1,400), Superior Triple (THB 1,900+).
Attractions: Khao San nightlife, backpacker hub, Tha Pra Chan Pier, Emerald Buddha Temple.

Buddy Lodge Hotel

Buddy Lodge Hotel is located on Central Khao San, with 62 superior rooms and 14 deluxe rooms. You get a rooftop pool, a private balcony, and complete bath amenities when you book a room here.

Quick facts:

Hours: Check-in from 14:00 and check-out by 12:00.
Nearest transportation: Public transport.
Room type and cost per night: Standard/Superior (THB 1,650), Standard Triple (THB 2,100), Deluxe (THB 2,250).
Attractions: Rambuttri Village, Phra Sumen Fort, Wat Pho, Emerald Buddha Temple, Democracy Monument, and Bangkok National Museum.

Villa Cha Cha Banglumphu

Located on Rambuttri Road, Villa Cha Cha is the best location for anyone who wants some peace and quiet in Bangkok’s nightlife area.

Quick facts:

Hours: Check-in from 14:00 and check-out by 12:00.
Nearest transportation: Yommarat Railway Station, Sam Yot MRT station, and Hua Lamphong Train Station.
Room type and cost per night: Standard Double (THB 1,200), Superior Double (THB 1,800), Deluxe Double (THB 2,100), Family Room (THB 3,200).
Attractions: Banglamphu, Khao San, Wat Pho, the Grand Palace, Wat Arun, and Wat Saket.

Lamphu Tree House Boutique Hotel

Just a 10-minute walk from Khao San, Lamphu Tree House is located on the Bang-Lamphu Canal, in the old town area. Each room here is fitted with wooden walls, a bar fridge, an ensuite bathroom, and a digital safe.

Quick facts:

Hours: Check-in from 13:00 and check-out by 11:00.
Nearest transportation: Dinso bus stop.
Room type and cost per night: Standard (THB 1,450 for main building and THB 1,650 for second building), Deluxe (THB 1,650 for main building and THB 1,850 for second building), Suite (THB 2,400 for main building and THB 3,500 for second building).
Attractions: Old City, Democracy Monument, Wat Pho, the Grand Palace, and Wat Saket.

Beyond the Big Names: Other Neighborhoods Worth a Look

Apart from our top recommendations, there are other upscale locations that are worth a look, and they include:

Thonglor/Ekkamai: Trendy Upscale

This is another high-end area for tourists, with many bars, restaurants, and lounges to choose from. There is also a wide variety of dining choices and a nightlife to look forward to.

Chinatown (Yaowarat): A Feast for the Senses

This is the location for history lovers and foodies. Chinatown has many historically preserved locations, so you can immerse yourself in the culture of the city. If you can visit during the Lunar New Year or the vegetarian festivals, Chinatown will be awash with decorations and parades.

Getting Around Bangkok Like a Pro

If you’re going to be moving around Bangkok, you need to know the best transportation channels, and they are:

BTS Skytrain & MRT Subway

The BTS Skytrain runs above ground and connects key tourist hotspots, like Siam, Chatuchak, and Silom. The MRT Subway is a subway train that moves through underground lines and connects with the BTS at numerous places. This transportation runs from 5:30am to midnight and is great for avoiding traffic.

Tuk Tuks & Taxis

You will find taxis and tuk tuks (tricycles) in nearly every part of town, and they are great for navigating side streets. While they are cheap, they can be restricted by heavy traffic in rush hours. Always keep a small change of 20 to 60 baht on hand to pay the fare.

Grab: The Ride-Hailing Lifesaver

These applications are a transparent pricing medium for tourists, as they allow them to avoid being scammed. Some of them include inDrive, Grab, and Bolt. When using these apps, ensure the taxi driver uses their meter.

Boats & Ferries

These boats take advantage of water transportation channels like the Chao Phraya River. They allow you to easily reach the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Wat Arun, and ICONSIAM.

Making Your Final Decision

Before choosing your final location in this city, there are some factors that you should consider, such as:

What's Your Travel Style?

Backpackers should consider Khao San Road, while luxury travelers should head to the Riverside area. The trendy tourist should visit Thonglor.

Budget Considerations

Tourists who don’t have much to spend on their holiday should consider the backpacker hubs in Khao San.

Proximity to Attractions

If you’re in town to appreciate the landmarks of Bangkok, you should choose a location that gives you easy access to sightseeing spots, like Riverside and Sukhumvit.

Nightlife or Quiet Evenings?

If you come alive when the sun goes down, then areas with an active nightlife, like Khao San Road and Riverside, are best.

Foodie Desires

Foodies should visit Chinatown, the street food heaven; Ladprao for traditional Thai food; and Riverside for luxury dining. You can also find food markets throughout the city.

Access to Public Transportation

For easy access to boats, Riverside is a good choice. But if you want to move easily through the city, then Sukhumvit or Siam would be a better choice.

Day Trips From Bangkok

Short excursions that last a day are best through Riverside if you’re visiting the floating markets. If you’re planning a shopping day trip, locations with good access to BTS or MRT are best.

You can plan the perfect day trips from Bangkok using the information below:

Our Last Piece of Advice: Embrace the Adventure!

This article compiles the best hotels in Bangkok and the best neighborhoods to visit. If you’re planning on exploring Bangkok with your family, we’ve provided the best districts to stay in Bangkok. Above all, when you’re looking for where to stay in Bangkok for the first time, follow our guide and you’ll turn out just fine.