Where to stay in Bangkok

21.07.2023 - 08:18 / roughguides.com

Bangkok is vast. There’s a population of 11 million people within its 1500 square kilometres and towering high-rise buildings of up to 304m high. It’s a modern metropolis with frenetic markets, traditional temples and brilliant nightlife. But where should you base yourself? Whatever kind of trip you’re planning, here’s the lowdown on where to stay in Bangkok.

The information in this article is inspired by The Rough Guide to Bangkok , your essential guide for visiting Bangkok .

Ratanakosin is an area on the left bank of the Chao Phraya. Here a string of boutique hotels enjoys dreamy views across the river’s bustle and colour to the Temple of Dawn on the opposite shore, whose corncob towers are prettily floodlit at night. This area is where to stay in Bangkok for the capital’s three major sights – the Grand Palace, Wat Pho and the National Museum – are just a stroll away.

You can jump on a river bus to explore the rest of the city in a novel way, too. It’s a quiet, traditional neighbourhood where the shutters come down after dark. For something to eat and drink, you’re probably going to want to nip up to Banglamphu or down to Chinatown.

Ratanakosin area is where to stay in Bangkok for the Old Town charm © Mazur Travel/Shutterstock

Find more accommodation options to stay in Bangkok's old town

On this tailor-made trip to Bangkok Culture, you will visit Thailand’s urban capital for a fabulous cultural experience. Explore Bangkok’s wonderfully ornate wats, learn about history at the stunning Grand Palace, tour the eccentric floating market and get a taste of Siam Thai culture.

The former backpackers-only ghetto of Banglamphu has grown up a lot in recent years. The crash pads with paper-thin walls and shared bathrooms haven’t disappeared, but nowadays you can also choose stylish hotels with rooftop pools, elegantly converted traditional houses and smart, modern hostels.

And the buzz on the streets is still there. Fashion stalls, trendy bars and clubs bring out young Thais from all over the city, as well as world travellers. On top of all that, there’s a great neighbourhood of old-fashioned shophouse restaurants to the south of Democracy Monument. The big-ticket sights of Ratanakosin are within walking distance, too.

Visit Thailand’s must-see capital Bangkok with its evocative markets, glitzy malls, Buddhist philosophy and traditional reserve. Discover its fabulously rich culture, and great nightlife and have lashings of fun.

Phra Sumen Fort at the Phra Athit Road in Banglamphu © Shutterstock

Banglamphu’s primary attraction is the legendary Thanon Khao San, a tiny sliver of a road no more than 400m long, which was built over a canal in 1892 and is now established as a favourite place where to stay in Bangkok