Bangkok is a Southeast Asian megalopolis of contrasts, where ancient (eclectic) Buddhist temples paint the perfect backdrop for swanky rooftop bars, and Michelin-starred fusion menus are served adjacent to venerated fiery street stalls. The city is a sprawling mosaic of experiences, each thriving within dedicated and diverse neighborhoods.
With a bustling population of over 10 million, a metropolitan area clocking in just under 20 million, and more than 30 million visitors per year, Bangkok stands out as one of the top destinations in Southeast Asia, and for good reason.
When planning your trip to the ‘City of Angels’, the toughest decision to make is usually “Where to stay in Bangkok?” as the city can be overwhelming with its countless choices, but don’t worry. Having lived in Thailand for over 13 years, I’ve broken down the best neighborhoods Bangkok has to offer, areas that suit anyone and everyone’s needs – from staying close to vibrant temples down to finding a peaceful retreat or indulging in the luxury side of the city.
Whether you are on a layover en route to a beach resort, a first-time visitor or a shopaholic, this Bangkok neighborhood guide has you covered, making sure you find the perfect fit for your trip to one of the most dynamic cities in Asia.
Sukhumvit: Best For First-Timers and Families
Sukhumvit lies in the heart of Bangkok and is also the name of the main road that stretches over 400 km long, even reaching the border of Cambodia. This area attracts locals, expats, and tourists alike who enjoy this cosmopolitan hub for its high-end shopping malls, international schools and delicious dining and drinking options.
As the city’s main artery, it’s a busy area with lots of traffic and diverse atmospheres that change with every block, offering a little something for everyone, especially first-timers – a perfect launching point for a breezy itinerary (even if you only have two days in Bangkok).
Why Stay in Sukhumvit
Don’t let the size of Sukhumvit deter you. Although lengthy, it’s actually broken down into smaller areas known as lower and upper Sukhumvit. The Nana area, considered part of the lower side, is known for its red-light district and rowdy nightlife.
It can get a bit lively in the evenings so if you are traveling with younger children, it’s best to head up to Asoke or Phrom Phong for a more family-friendly environment.
The BTS line runs along Sukhumvit Road and crosses with the MRT station at Asoke, with access to Suvarnabhumi Airport being a breeze, helping beat the traffic while also enjoying a clean, safe and air-conditioned ride for those hot and humid days.
In Sukhumvit, you will encounter all kinds of folk from office workers, gym crowds, expats running errands and one of the largest Japanese communities in the city. If you love Japanese food, make sure to stroll down Soi 39 for some great finds.
While there aren’t any major tourist attractions, you can find two great parks, Benchasiri and Benjakitti, offering green spaces perfect for sports enthusiasts or a fun playground for the kids. Plus, Sukhumvit is brimming with many cafes, excellent restaurants and modern coffee shops, making it the perfect area to enjoy local life.
Things to Do Nearby
- The mall trifecta of EmQuartier, Emporium and EmSphere are all connected to the sky train and skywalk with incredible food courts, offering everything from Michelin-rated street stalls to refined dining.
- Terminal 21 is a great airport-themed mall with each floor representing a different (major) city or country.
- Head to Benchasiri Park for a morning run or tour of the green spaces and the green lung that connects all the way to Lumphini.
- Don’t miss Chenin for all-day dining and international bites featuring a changing roster of chefs.
- The Srinakharinwirot University in Asoke hosts a local street market every Tuesday. and Thursday from 7 am-1 pm offering some of the best street food, fresh pressed juices, clothes and random tchotchkes that make great souvenirs and pictures.
Where Jetsetters Stay: Our Favorite Hotels in Sukhumvit
Sofitel Bangkok Sukhumvit
If luxury is your MO, we suggest Sofitel Bangkok Sukhumvit which sits right in the center of the city.
This upscale hotel epitomizes “French Luxury meets city life,” thanks to its 23-meter pool, a cherished spa with L’Occitane amenities and art deco vibes from the moment you walk in.
The Public House
For something a little edgier and younger, The Public House is a great place to settle, located in a very local neighborhood with cafes and restaurants at arms reach.
This is more like a social house where guests and locals convene at the bar, co-working space or throughout the industrial NewYork-style property, offering an electric vibe at affordable prices.
137 Pillars Suites Bangkok
For ultra-luxe, don’t miss 137 Pillars Suites Bangkok offering plush rooms, butler services, and a sky-high swimming pool all a stone’s throw from Phrom Phong BTS station.
Silom: Best For Business Travelers and Nightlife
Silom serves as the commercial and financial hub of Bangkok, running parallel to Sathorn. The area stretches from Lumphini Park down to the Bangkok riverside, lined with corporate skyscrapers, numerous hotels and lots of street food tucked in between.
Just as sunset hits, the area comes alive with its booming nightlife, offering a range of night-time fun from dive bars, night clubs and lots of pedestrians in search of something to eat, making this the place for solo travelers, couples and those seeking a nighttime adventure.
Why Stay in Silom
If you want to be in the thick of all the best things to do in Bangkok, Silom is the place for you. The fast-paced area is crowded day and night, blending everyday life with a little chaos. Office workers roam the area around noon searching for lunch, tourists pop in and out of small cafes and restaurants, and a whirl of tuk-tuks zoom by. Silom is always awake and welcoming, particularly for the LGBTQ+ community.
There are layers upon layers in discovering Silom, making it a diverse and centrally located spot with easy access to the BTS and MRT lines. The vibrant night scene is truly one of a kind, where you can find some of Asia’s best bars in small alleyways to some of the best drag venues, guaranteeing your stay will be pumping with energy and soul.
While the area is generally safe, it’s wise to keep an eye out for pickpockets while walking.
Things to Do Nearby
- Don’t miss tossing back a martini or two at Vesper Bar.
- Grab some street eats at Lalai Sap Market.
- Have dinner at Eat Me, a Bangkok institution for over 25 years.
- Visit Sri Maha Mariamman, a Hindu temple also known as Wat Keak.
Where Jetsetters Stay: Our Favorite Hotels in Silom
Dusit Thani Bangkok
The newly refurbished The Dusit Thani Bangkok has stood the test of time and is an icon that highlights Thai art and culture in a refined setting, offering upscale dining, luxury rooms and a stunning, Spire, rooftop bar overlooking the city.
Rose Residence Bangkok
For something a bit cozier, the The Rose Residence is a boutique hotel, set in a colonial-style building that is an urban retreat, fitted with a swimming pool and a famous Thai restaurant.
Mercure Surawong
If you want to be front and center, Mercure Surawong is the perfect spot for a modern and stylish atmosphere without breaking the bank. They offer everything from breakfast to a rooftop bar and gym.
Sathorn: Best For Sophisticated Stays and Luxury Escapes
Running parallel to Silom, the Sathorn neighborhood offers a distinctly different vibe and atmosphere. Here, it’s a touch more sophisticated with 5-star hotels on every block, mingling with affluent homes, locals and expats, as well as the business community.
Sathorn feels more like an urban escape, stretching long and wide, making it a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Why Stay in Sathorn
The Sathorn neighborhood is a perfect blend of convenience and upscale elegance for those seeking a touch of luxury and a bit of relaxation. Between the towering skyscrapers, embassies and office buildings, you’ll find a relatively calm atmosphere that is both enjoyable and rare in a city like Bangkok. It’s also home to some of the best spas in Bangkok.
While there isn’t much sightseeing to do and with limited access to public transportation aside from local buses, it’s a great area to explore by foot. You’ll encounter neighborhood cafes, an excellent restaurant scene and pockets of lush neighborhoods like Suan Phlu and Yenakart, home to many in the French community.
Sathorn is one of the best areas to stay in Bangkok for families and anyone looking for a well-rounded area that embodies sophistication and tranquility. Sathorn Sois 10 and 12 offer various fun bistros, a Florentine trattoria and low-key bars visited by the local community.
Things to Do Nearby
- Get a massage at Banyan Tree Hotel.
- Take a cooking class at the iconic Blue Elephant Bangkok cooking school.
- Grab a drink at Smalls Bar & Live Music.
- Roam Samyan Mitrtown for food and trinkets.
- Check out Suan Phlu and Yenakart’s green residential areas for various food options and a breath of fresh air.
Where Jetsetters Stay: Our Favorite Hotels in Sathorn
The Sukhothai Hotel
Undoubtedly one of the most beautiful hotels in the city with its Thai architectural design against the modern landscape. No stay at The Sukhothai Hotel would be complete without a visit to their recently renovated spa and lunch at their prized Celadon Thai restaurant.
The Standard, Bangkok Mahanakhon
If design and edge are more up your alley, it is the perfect choice. The Standard sits in the tallest building in Bangkok offering prime views, an array of international restaurants and a busy calendar of pool parties and events.
Riverside: Best For History Lovers and Romantic Holidays
Riverside is a buzzing area situated along the Chao Phraya, also known as the “River of Kings.” Local life flows on by just like the river, with traditional long-tail and water taxis making their way to glimmering temples.
This neighborhood offers a genuine taste of Bangkok life, showcasing the unique diversity of the kingdom through its art, food and religions.
Why Stay Along Riverside
Bangkok’s Riverside stands out for its distinct personality, blending culture, art and memorable views of the Chao Phraya River, making it an ideal stopover for any kind of traveler, especially those who want a romantic getaway.
Both the BTS and MRT lines have stops that connect to the car, while the local ferries and water taxis make it a breeze to travel by river. This accessibility leads to high-end shopping malls, local markets, temples and endless hotels.
Riverside is by far the best neighborhood in Bangkok for a mix of luxury high-rise hotels, colonial architecture, colorful shophouses and lively street food along every corner.
Riverside is teeming with life which can at times get hectic with pedestrian traffic and elevated noise levels, but it’s all part of the fun and adventure. There is a deep sense of community that flourishes thanks to its diverse enclave including the Thai-Chinese community, Thai Muslim and Catholic communities, living harmoniously alongside one another.
Riverside is a rich cultural area, mixed with a growing art scene that thrives along Charoenkrung, Bangkok’s first built road.
Things to Do Nearby
- Hit up BKK Social Bar at the Four Seasons Hotel for award-winning cocktails.
- Start your morning off at Hong Sieng Kong for coffee and Thai bites.
- Both the Thailand Creative & Design Center (TCDC) and Warehouse 30 are perfect for art lovers.
- The riverfront Icon Siam Shopping Mall for retail therapy plus a great Thai food court and local shops.
- Visit the first-ever Central shopping department store that houses a coffee shop, art exhibition space and a Michelin-star Thai restaurant, Aksorn, by David Thompson.
Where Jetsetters Stay: Our Favorite Hotels Along Riverside
The Mandarin Oriental Bangkok
What many consider the best hotel in Bangkok, The Mandarin Oriental, the grand dame of luxury as it’s, historically, the first hotel built in the city, catering to the world’s elite. The stunning property boasts 10 dining outlets, a pool overlooking the Chao Phraya and an award-winning jazz bar, Bamboo Bar.
Siam Hotel Bangkok
Just a bit further down the river, you’ll find The Siam Hotel Bangkok, a boutique hotel designed by Bill Bensley. It is a lush 38-room sanctuary, recently named one of the best hotels in the world.
The art deco design is mixed with traditional Thai heritage that feels timeless and like you’re staying in your very own art gallery.
Millenium Hilton Bangkok
If you want to be closer to the shopping, the Millennium Hilton Bangkok is a two-minute walk from IconSiam and just minutes from the BTS station.
Though it’s located across the Chao Phraya River from the main hustle and bustle, it still offers premium water views, a rooftop bar and a swimming pool for the entire family, with the temples just a boat ride away.
Chinatown (Yaowarat): Best For Food Lovers and Vibrant Nightlife
Chinatown is home to one of the oldest Chinese communities in Bangkok, dating back to the 17th century. Here you’ll come across old shophouses, Chinese temples and a sprawling food scene that serves both the community and visitors.
Chinatown is the best place to stay in Bangkok if you want to let loose and get lost through its winding alleyways and savor real-deal street food made by aunties and uncles who have lived in the area their entire lives.
Why Stay in Chinatown
Chinatown, particularly the latticework of Yaowarat’s buzzing streets, is electrifying as it is historical, perfect for adventurous travelers who don’t mind getting caught up in the organized chaos. The MRT is the closest public transportation to the area, requiring a bit of walking depending on what your plan is, but with all the sights and sounds the area has to offer, it truly adds to the experience.
Though the daytime may seem quieter, if you weave through the small alleyways, you’ll find Sampheng Lane Market, a shopper’s paradise where literally everything is sold from leather goods, amulets, and clothing in addition to random souvenirs. The real charm of Chinatown emerges at night when the street signs glow in neon bright red light and the area transforms into a foodie’s paradise.
Every corner is lined with food stalls, sizzling woks and busy chefs offering everything from dim sum to stir-fried noodles. The aromas wafting through the air alone can make a head spin and your stomach grumble with gusto.
Chinatown is generally safe but because of the chaotic streets filled with many people, it’s best to keep your personal belongings close to you at all times.
Things to Do Nearby
- Take a short walk to Baan Trok Tua Ngork, a 100-year-old renovated historic house fitted with a cafe/coworking space, a Mexican restaurant, a unique bar and a Shan-style restaurant called Namsu.
- Have dinner at Potong, a revered one-Michelin-star Thai-Chinese restaurant headed by Chef Pam, followed by drinks upstairs at Opium Bar.
- Visit Talat Noi, Bangkok’s charming and picture-perfect old neighborhood filled with cafes and street art.
- Stroll down historic Song Wat Road, one of the world’s hippest neighborhoods lined with hipster locales and sip on coffee at one of the picture-worthy cafes.
- Hit up Soi Nana after dinner to try some of Bangkok’s best bars like Asia Today and Teens of Thailand.
Where Jetsetters Stay: Our Favorite Hotels in Chinatown
ASAI Bangkok Hotel
The ASAI Bangkok Chinatown is a contemporary hotel smack-dab in the heart of Chinatown, located a two-minute walk from Wat Mangkok MRT station and offers comfort, local decor and a quiet escape.
Shanghai Mansion
Shanghai Mansion Bangkok is a colorful boutique hotel offering old Shanghai decor perfect for couples or families who want to be smack dab in the middle of Chinatown.
The Mustang Blu
A bit further away from the Chinatown energy, this 10-room boutique hotel is housed in a former bank that is not only a chic masterpiece in design with a European vibe, but it’s also affordable.
Siam: Best For Savvy Shoppers and Families
Siam is THE shopping mecca of Bangkok and a super cosmopolitan hub that pulses with life and constant energy. This is the best place to stay in Bangkok for those who want to prioritize shopping and have easy connections to various parts of the city.
Travelers of all kinds are drawn here by the rows of shopping centers, famous food courts and indoor kid-friendly activities, making it the perfect place to stay if you love big-city living.
Why Stay in Siam
Siam sits in central Bangkok, making it a heavy traffic zone for both pedestrians and traffic. The main road is lined with mall after mall, offering everything imaginable. The trio of Siam Paragon, Siam Center and Siam Discovery (which comprise Siam Square) stands side by side, each with its distinct style.
Siam Center focuses more on local brands, while Siam Paragon offers attractions like Madame Tussauds and Sea Life Bangkok Aquarium, making it ideal for families.
Just across the road lies Siam Square, a haven for students from nearby Chulalongkorn University, filled with trendy boutique shops, food stalls and streetwear.
If that’s not enough, centralwOrld is just down the street, along with the ultra-luxe Gaysorn Mall and the newly renovated Gaysorn Amarin, which houses LV The Place (by Louis Vuitton). The area is always buzzing, always busy and safe as can be, however, breaks can be taken at the Bangkok Art and Culture Center (BACC) or a local spa.
Things to Do Nearby
- Pay your respects at the Erawan shrine.
- Shop for days at any of the malls in Siam Square.
- Get a massage at PAÑPURI in Gaysorn Shopping Center.
- Visit the beautiful Jim Thompson House for a look into the history of Thailand’s silk king, and, of course, shop!
- Take a tour of the Bangkok Art and Culture Center.
Where Jetsetters Stay: Our Favorite Hotels in Siam
The Siam Kempinski Hotel Bangkok
Known as an urban oasis in the middle of the shopping district, this breathtaking luxury hotel is conveniently located behind Siam Paragon.
The Siam Kempinski is “5-star all the way” from the European-style rooms, soothing spa, a garden-style saltwater pool and the very best in fine dining Thai cuisine.
The Moxy
Marriott opened its first Moxy Bangkok in the heart of Siam, offering a communal-style hotel experience from morning to night keeping in tune with affordable luxury.
The design plays on Thai elements like an old movie theater to street market decor and has a sun deck, and communal game room and is also family-friendly.
Siam@Siam, Design Hotel
Just next to BACC, Siam@Siam Design Hotel is the perfect place to unwind and dine after a day of shopping.
The hotel offers three distinct restaurants serving international and Thai food, in addition to a rooftop pool and bar making it great value for money.
Ari: Best For Quiet Travel and Long-Term Visitors
Ari has come to be known as a trendy, hipster neighborhood popular with the city’s younger crowd. It offers charming eateries, cafes and dare we say, countless Instagram-worthy spots that have the crowds pouring in.
Ari is laid-back, green, and refreshingly quiet, providing a perfect balance to the liveliness of Bangkok. Ideal for solo travelers, digital nomads and families, Ari offers a relaxing stay while remaining pleasantly under the radar.
Why Stay in Ari
Ari is a gentrified area that has gained traction for those seeking a laid-back yet still interesting atmosphere. Staying in Ari allows visitors to enjoy a peaceful retreat while still being able to mingle in the various charming cafes and picture-perfect eateries.
It is also conveniently located near Asia’s largest and Bangkok’s most famous weekend market, Chatuchak, where you can shop til you drop (pictured above).
Access to the neighborhood is easy through the BTS, stopping right in the heart of it. The community in Ari feels welcoming, with an array of lovely art galleries like Pearl and Somewhere and super hip boutique shops like Club Luminaries and HIDE.
The new generation really transformed this area, making it perfect for solo travelers, digital nomads, families and couples who appreciate the quieter side of Bangkok but not far from the city’s best sights.
Things to Do Nearby
- Grab a cuppa at Nana Coffee Roasters or brunch “like you read about” at Fran’s Brunch & Greens (one of our favorite breakfasts in Bangkok).
- Have a bowl of some of the best Khao Soi outside of the North at Ong Tong.
- Hop on the BTS over the weekend and head to Asia’s largest open-air market, Chatuchak Weekend Market.
- Pop on over at Gump’s Ari Community space for vibrant photo-worthy shops.
- Sip on unique wines at No Bar Wine Bar which also hosts monthly collabs with chefs.
Where Jetsetters Stay: Our Favorite Hotels in Ari
The Josh Hotel
The Josh Hotel has a retro vibe and is a welcome retreat in the leafy and quiet area of Ari. It’s small but charming with two restaurants, a photogenic pool and a hidden bar called The Key Room No.72.
The Quarter Ari by UHG
About a ten-minute walk from Ari BTS station, The Quarter Ari offers a refined escape with its simple yet contemporary rooms that are pocket-friendly. You have all the amenities including a rooftop pool and panoramic views.
Craftsman Hotel
For a boutique hotel experience, Craftsman Hotel is the way to go in Ari. The design hotel is sleek in every corner and features Ikigai Spa, a wellness retreat with everything from massage to holistic treatments.
Old Town (Rattanakosin): Best For Culture and First-Time Visitors
Bangkok’s Old Town, also known as Rattanakosin Island, is situated along the river but offers a completely different experience. It is home to Bangkok’s most important landmarks, including The Grand Palace and Wat Pho (The Temple of the Reclining Buddha).
This Bangkok neighborhood is the perfect base for anyone looking to delve into the city’s history and gain a better understanding of Thailand’s Buddhist heritage. With its historical significance, this is the heart and soul of Bangkok.
Why Stay Here in Old Town
It goes without saying that the Bangkok Old Town is a must-visit for any traveler keen to grasp the rich history and culture of the Kingdom. While the area may seem quite spread out, it can easily be explored in just a day or two.
Despite Bangkok’s reputation for its humid weather, wandering through the neighborhood on foot and if you’re up to it, a knowledgeable guide, allows you to truly discover the hidden corners filled with old-school street vendors, small cafes and local markets like Naeng Loeng, each steeped in history.
Accessing the area is convenient via the MRT line, with Sanam Chai leaving you in the tree-lined area that feels like you’ve stepped back in time. It’s a relatively quiet area despite its proximity to all the main sights, but you’ll spot the crowds once at The Grand Palace. Keep in mind that the Palace is open every day, so don’t be swayed by roaming tour guides who say otherwise.
Overall, Old Town is generally safe but be cautious of potential scammers and make sure to dress appropriately for temple visits, meaning no exposed shoulders or knees.
Things to Do Nearby
- Wake up early to beat the crowds and heat for The Grand Palace where the Emerald Buddha can be found, before roaming around the area.
- Have lunch at Horsamut for prime views of Wat Arun and upscale Thai fare.
- Book a food tour with Culinary Backstreets for the best eats in the area.
- Book a massage in Wat Pho, where Bangkok’s best masseuses learn the tricks of the trade.
- Hope on a long-tail boat and cross the river to see one of the most beautiful temples, Wat Arun.
Where Jetsetters Stay: Our Favorite Hotels in the Old Town
Riva Arun Hotel
The Riva Arun Hotel is 25-room staple in Old Bangkok that sits along the Chao Phraya River and is just a stone’s throw from all the big landmarks. Though small in size, it offers minimalist luxury in a prime location.
Chakrabongse Villas
With only six villas sitting along the riverside, this boutique property dates back to 1908, built by HRH Prince Chakrabongse then later became the residence of HRH Prince Chula Chakrabongse before being transformed into a boutique hotel by his daughter Narisa.
Sala Rattanakosin
Stay here if you want to soak up the scenery in a luxury space. Once a prominent trading house, the Sala Rattanakosin offers unbeatable views of Wat Arun as well as a rooftop bar for unforgettable sunset views.
Thonglor + Ekkamai: Best For Cafe Hopping and an Upscale Bar Scene
Thonglor and Ekkamai are neighboring areas that offer an exciting array of cute cafes, bougie boutique shopping and an endless selection of trendy cocktail bars. Here the past meets the present, creating a playground for Bangkok’s elite.
This stylish area is where Thai families gather for leisurely lunches at old-school Thai eateries and upscale dinners while tourists pop in and out of small shops.
Why Stay in Thonglor + Ekkamai
If you’ve finished your sightseeing or perhaps on a return visit, the Thonglor and Ekkamai neighborhoods are a great way to enjoy the local good life. Often referred to as the Beverly Hills of Bangkok, these areas are where locals brunch, shop and sip on excellent cocktails.
There are plenty of boutique shops and cute cafes like Homeland Grocer who collaborate with organic farmers and incredible dining options like Baan Ice, known for its fiery Southern cuisine.
Getting to both areas is easy, thanks to the and BTS, and walking around the area is just as enjoyable if you don’t mind the sun. I love this area for its unbeatable bar scene, which has people traveling from all over the world eager to sip and savor. The choices are endless but no visit is complete without trying Thaipioka and Find The Locker Room.
Things to Do Nearby
- Take a break at Let’s Relax Onsen and Spa, offering over 6 pools with various temperatures for soothing those tired muscles.
- Get the best mango and sticky rice of your dreams at Mae Varee.
- Sip on innovative drinks at Dry Wave Cocktail Bar.
- Party the night away at the Tichuca Rooftop Bar.
- Grab coffee and breakfast at Kaizen Cafe.
Where Jetsetters Stay: Our Favorite Hotels in Thonglor and Ekkamai
Muu Hotel
Muu, a play on the Thai word for community and kinship, is a new brand that is part of SLH of the world. The Thonglor property is a comfortable luxe staple, featuring marble bathrooms, timber flooring, city views, a fitness center and a swimming pool.
Hotel Nikko
Masters in the art of Japanese hospitality, Hotel Nikko is a stunning, fully equipped hotel that exudes understated luxury, located in the heart of Thonglor.
The Ashley Hotel
The Ashley Hotel is a smaller property with just 45 simple rooms all designed for comfort that are equipped with a kitchen and washing machine while the rooftop has a swimming pool.
Ploenchit + Lumphini: Best For Luxury Hotel Lovers and Nature Seekers
Both Ploenchit and Lumphini areas, while technically distinct areas in Bangkok’s central business district (CBD), are interconnected through Witthayu Road, Lang Suan and Silom. As of late, these areas have evolved into a vibrant locale, where luxury hotels meet verdant nature.
Each blends urban and business life with seamless sophistication, culminating in the serene area of Lumphini’s lush green park, ideal for any type of traveler ready to spend.
Why Stay Here in Lumphini or Ploenchit
Staying in the beautiful Ploenchit and Lumphini areas, settled between Siam, lower Sukhumvit and Silom is really a unique experience that offers the perfect blend of luxury and quiet.
With the recent openings of The Ritz Carlton Hotel and Dusit Thani Bangkok, alongside the upcoming Andaz hotel, the hotel scene has elevated tremendously, all offering spectacular park views reminiscent of New York’s Central Park.
Beyond the opulent hotels, the newly-opened One Bangkok Mall adds to Bangkok’s ever-growing shopping scene, offering a plethora of shops and some of the hottest restaurants in town. Lumphini Park is a massive oasis, perfect for a morning jog, people-watching or simply finding some shade.
As you make your way to Ploenchit, you’ll find yourself surrounded by the impressive Park Hyatt Hotel connected to the Central Embassy Shopping Mall, and the brand-new Aman Hotel, making this the best place to stay in Bangkok for luxury.
Things to Do Nearby
- Rent a swan boat at Lumphini Park and paddle away (keep an eye out for the monitor lizards and cats!).
- Book a massage at PAÑPURI Organic Spa at the Park Hyatt.
- Head down to theCommons in Saladaeng for hot bites like Crackhouse and drinks at The Barrel Sake Bar.
- Try all the new restaurants at Velaa Sindhorn Village.
- Try all the various regions of Thai food in one place at Eat Thai in the Central Embassy.
Where Jetsetters Stay: Our Favorite Hotels in Lumphini and Ploenchit
Kimpton Maa-Lai
The Kimpton Maa-Lai is a lifestyle hotel beloved by locals and tourists alike for its relaxed atmosphere, pet-friendly lobby and lush green spaces. Take a dip in the infinity pool or book a session with the gym trainer before making your way to the rooftop bar.
The Ritz Carlton
This regal property opened to critical acclaim for its floor-to-ceiling windows at every corner. Rooms are sleek and elegant with top amenities while the dining outlets alone are each unique and delicious.
Hotel Muse Bangkok, Autograph Collection
Hotel Muse Bangkok, Autograph Collection is a skyscraper hotel and more of a boutique-style property that is inspired by 1920s glamor with dimly lit, spacious rooms fitted with art-deco style. The rooftop bar is a constant favorite for pre-or post drinks while the pool is refreshing and comes with great views of the area.
What to Know Before Booking Your Bangkok Stay
Is Sukhumvit a Safe to Stay in?
Sukhumvit is a very safe area where people of all ages walk around day and night. I always recommend Sukhumvit whenever someone asks where to stay in Bangkok.
It is a very local area where you’ll run into office workers, students, expats and gym enthusiasts. Avoid Nana Plaza and Soi Cowboy late at night when crowds are a little rowdier from visiting the red-light districts.
What’s the Best Area For Nightlife in Bangkok?
The best area for nightlife is Thonglor, which includes a mix of both upscale and vice-satiating experiences. From low-key bars to great dance clubs, Thonglor has a lot to offer in a safe environment.
Where Do Most Tourists Stay in Bangkok?
The bulk of Bangkok tourists stay in Sukhumvit or by the Riverside. Both neighborhoods have innumerable choices for food, activities, culture, and everything in between, and are connected by easily accessible public transportation to get around.
Where Should I Stay in Bangkok If It’s My First Time?
The Siam area is a great start for new visitors as it is in the heart of the city (downtown Bangkok) with direct access to public transportation, leading to many of the city’s best neighborhoods and sights.
It’s indeed a busy area, so if that’s not your thing, Ploenchit offers a more balanced and relaxed environment.
Where Should I Avoid Staying in Bangkok?
Avoid staying in the Nana area and near the Klong Toei slums. While neither is considered particularly dangerous to foreigners, these areas are generally not the best places to stay in Bangkok.
Khaosan Road is another area to steer clear of unless you are a backpacker or party animal.