✅ Where to Stay in Bangkok: Best Areas and Hotels (2025)

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Updated: April 4, 2025

Bangkok, Thailand's capital, is a fascinating and expansive city, and choosing the right area to stay in can make a huge difference in your experience. In this guide, I’ll take you through the best areas to stay in Bangkok, from modern neighborhoods like Sukhumvit to more traditional ones like Chinatown.

Plus, I give you my top Bangkok hotel recommendations for different budgets and travel styles.

If you don’t have time to read the whole article, my top pick is the Amara Bangkok. If you’d rather stay near Khao San Road, the Wild Orchid is a great choice.

Table of Contents

Where to Stay in Bangkok

1. Sukhumvit: Modern and Great Connections

Sukhumvit is one of Bangkok’s most modern and cosmopolitan areas. You’ll find a wide range of hotels here, from luxury chains to more budget-friendly options.

It’s the best area to stay in Bangkok if you want easy access to public transportation, thanks to several BTS (Skytrain) stations that make getting around super convenient. While Sukhumvit tends to be a bit pricier, the variety of services and the overall comfort make it a safe and convenient choice.

Check out hotel deals in Sukhumvit here

Recommended Hotels in Sukhumvit

€€€€ Carlton Hotel: A luxurious hotel with an amazing pool, a great sauna and gym, and an outstanding breakfast.
€€€ The Landmark: Centrally located, with a lovely pool and incredible views.
€€ Citadines: Modern, spacious studios and apartments with kitchens.
€ S33 Compact: Stylish rooms and a fantastic breakfast buffet.

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2. Khao San Road: Youthful Vibes and Backpacker-Friendly

Khao San Road is perfect if you’re looking for cheap hotels in Bangkok. It’s packed with hostels that have a laid-back, youthful vibe and plenty of lively nightlife options.

To be honest, I’m not a huge fan of Khao San Road’s nightlife—it’s the least authentic part of Thailand. If you see locals here, they’re usually working, as it’s not where Thais typically go to have fun. That said, if you’re looking to meet other travelers and enjoy a fun, social atmosphere, this is a fantastic spot to stay.

One downside is the lack of nearby metro or train stations, but you can easily get to major temples and Chinatown by boat. Noise can also be an issue, but the hotels I recommend below are quiet enough for a good night’s sleep. If you’re on a budget and want to experience Bangkok’s youthful energy, Khao San Road won’t disappoint.

Check out hotel deals in Khao San Road here

Recommended Hotels in Khao San Road

€ Wild Orchid: Great location, a lovely pool, and luggage storage available after check-out.
€ Khao San Art Hotel: A simple, budget-friendly hostel, perfect for short stays and exploring the area.
€ BBHouse: Basic private rooms at unbeatable prices, with a nice terrace.
€ NapPark Hostel: A favorite among backpackers, offering a great atmosphere and affordable shared rooms.

3. Silom: Business and Nightlife

Silom is Bangkok’s financial hub, but it’s also home to a vibrant nightlife scene. During the day, the area is filled with office buildings and professionals, but at night, it transforms with lively bars and clubs.

For me, Silom is one of the best places to stay in Bangkok. It has a perfect balance between an urban atmosphere and exciting nightlife. Another advantage is the big range of accommodations, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly options, so there’s something for everyone.

Check out Silom hotel deals here

Recommended Hotels in Silom

€€€ SO Sofitel: A luxury hotel with stunning views of Lumpini Park and elegant design.
€€€ Amara Bangkok: Comfortable rooms, a rooftop pool with incredible views, and a delicious, varied breakfast. This is one of the best hotels in Bangkok with excellent value for money.
€€ ibis Silom: A modern hotel with affordable rates and a super convenient location.

4. Riverside: Peaceful Atmosphere and Stunning River Views

If you’re looking for a quieter area with beautiful views of the Chao Phraya River, Riverside is a fantastic choice. It has a relaxed vibe, far from the city center’s hustle and bustle. This area stretches along the riverbanks, from near Khao San Road to the Asiatique shopping center.

While most accommodations here lean toward mid-range and luxury options, they will give you a unique experience with breathtaking scenery. Riverside is perfect if you’re on a honeymoon or simply want a charming place to stay in Bangkok.

Check out Riverside hotel deals here

Recommended Hotels in Riverside

€€€€€ Mandarin Oriental: An iconic luxury hotel known for its exceptional service and attention to detail. Perfect for a honeymoon or indulging in world-class Asian luxury.
€€€€ Chatrium Hotel Riverside: A modern hotel offering stunning river views and convenient boat access to the city center.
€€€ Riva Surya: A boutique hotel by the river with excellent value for money.

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5. Pratunam: Shopping and Budget-Friendly Stays

Pratunam is a vibrant area famous for its markets and shopping malls, making it ideal if you're a bargain hunters. It’s also great if you’re looking for cheap hostels or hotels in Bangkok.

bangkok at night — Photo from Baiyoke hotel 😍

The location is central, with nearby metro stations that connect you to many of Bangkok’s main attractions. Pratunam is also super convenient, it even has direct access to Suvarnabhumi Airport by train.

The only downside? The area can feel chaotic, with heavy traffic and a busy atmosphere.

Check out hotel deals in Pratunam here

Recommended Hotels in Pratunam

€€€ Baiyoke Sky Hotel: Famous for its amazing views, an observation deck, and an incredible breakfast.
€€ Glow Pratunam: A modern hotel situated above a shopping mall—perfect for shopaholics.
€ Marwin Space: Simple, comfortable rooms at very affordable prices.

6. Chinatown: Culture and Thai Cuisine

Chinatown is one of Bangkok’s most authentic neighborhoods, and I absolutely love it. It’s full of street markets, food stalls, and some of the best street food restaurants. If you want to dive into traditional Thai-Chinese culture and indulge in incredible flavors, this is the best area to stay.

The metro stations here make it easy to reach must-see spots like the Grand Palace and Wat Pho, two Bangkok must-sees. While there aren’t many luxury hotels, you’ll find plenty of charming and affordable places to stay.

Check out hotel deals in Chinatown here

Recommended Hotels in Chinatown

€€€€ Shanghai Mansion : A beautifully decorated hotel with a 1920s Chinese style. Staying here feels like stepping back in time.
€€€ W22 by Burasari: A simple yet modern hotel just steps from the market.
€ Norn Yaowarat Hotel: A cozy, modern spot with a hostel-like vibe, offering private and shared rooms right in the heart of Chinatown.

7. Siam: Shopping and Entertainment

Siam is Bangkok’s ultimate shopping destination, where you will find malls like MBK, Siam Paragon, and Central World. This bustling area has a modern and urban vibe.

If your plan includes exploring the malls and enjoying fun activities, Siam is a fantastic choice—just keep in mind it’s a bit pricier than other areas.

Check out hotel deals in Siam here

Recommended Hotels in Siam

€€ Novotel Bangkok: Centrally located with excellent facilities for the price.
€€ ibis Siam: A budget-friendly hotel in an unbeatable location.

Tips for Choosing Where to Stay in Bangkok

Consider transportation connections: Bangkok is a massive city, so staying near the BTS or MRT can save you tons of time. Siam and Silom are great choices with excellent access to public transport.
Pick the vibe that suits you:Each neighborhood has its own character: Khao San Road is ideal if you are looking for nightlife and a youthful energy, while Riverside gives you peace and gorgeous river views.
Plan ahead for high season: If you are visiting Bangkok between November and March, I recommend booking your hotel in early. The best value-for-money options tend to sell out fast.
Check the deposit policy: Many hotels in Thailand require a deposit at check-in. Mid-range and high-end hotels usually block it on your card, while budget ones might ask for cash. You will get your money back upon check-out.

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Map of Bangkok’s Best Areas to Stay

Final Thoughts

With so many great areas to stay in Bangkok, it’s easy to find a spot that fits your style and budget, making your trip even more enjoyable.

In this Bangkok travel guide you can check my other articles about the city and central Thailand. You’ll also find lots of helpful posts about accommodation in Thailand here.

If you have any questions, leave me a comment below and I'll help you as much as I can. If you found the article useful, share it with other travelers. Have a good trip! 😘