Best hotels in Bangkok

Hotel Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok

Sitting proudly on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, the Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok is Thailand's very first luxury hotel, officially opening its doors in 1876. It originally began as a simple rest house for foreign seafarers. When a spectacular new main building was commissioned in 1887, it featured a second floor—a massive architectural sensation at a time when Bangkok was largely a city of floating houses and single-story bungalows.

“More than 100 years old, the Mandrin Oriental’s Author’s Wing retains its magical aura with its picturesque parlors, each named for a scribe they once hosted, including the likes of Somerset Maugham, Joseph Conrad and Ernest Hemingway.”

Resort The Siam, Bangkok

The Siam is a stunning riverside escape that feels more like a private estate than a traditional hotel. It was dreamed up by Thai celebrity Krissada Sukosol Clapp, who wanted a worthy home for his massive, lifelong collection of antiques. Spread across just 39 rooms, the property treats guests to an incredibly intimate sanctuary right on the Chao Phraya River.

“The Siam, opened in 2013, is something very special, and though the rates are astronomical, the place is already the talk of the town. With just 38 suites and pool villas, the smallest of which is 860 square feet, it offers the height of luxury.”

Featured as Frommer’s Exceptional Choice in Bangkok.

The Peninsula, Bangkok

Opened in 1998 along the Chao Phraya River, The Peninsula Bangkok is an architectural standout on the city's skyline. The 37-story tower features a clever, wave-shaped design. This specific blueprint wasn't just for aesthetics; it ensures that every single one of its 370 rooms and suites gets an uninterrupted view of the "River of Kings."

“There are a handful of super luxurious hotels in Bangkok, and the Peninsula should be considered one of the finest of the group. Situated on the west side of the Chao Phraya River, the hotel defines quality with spacious river-view rooms, incredible drinking and dining options, and a world-class spa.”

Featured as Fodor’s Choice in Bangkok.

Cabochon Hotel & Residence, Bangkok

Tucked away in a quiet lane off Bangkok’s bustling Sukhumvit Road, the Cabochon Hotel & Residence is a masterclass in architectural time travel. Opened in 2012, this intimate oasis was designed and owned by the acclaimed Taiwanese interior designer Eugene Yeh. Driven by his passion for the romance of a bygone era, Yeh constructed the four-story "Walpole Building" entirely from scratch.

“The place is crammed with curios, ranging from the intriguing (retro typewriters) to the downright kooky (cheetah skulls). It’s got character to burn, not to mention a rooftop pool, a restaurant serving Isaan and Lao cuisine, and prime location just off of Sukhumvit Road.”

Hotel Lancaster, Bangkok

Located in the Makkasan District, the Lancaster Bangkok open its doors in 2017 under the Landmark Lancaster Hotel Group. The striking 18-story building features a unique design collaboration, boasting an impressive 50-meter (10-story) glass atrium envisioned by Thai architect Wichaidit Design, while August Design handled the sleek interiors.

“Opened in late 2017, the 231-room Lancaster Bangkok is a spacious and luxurious newcomer with a gym, spa, restaurant, rooftop pool and multiple bars.”

Featured in New York Times’ 36 Hours in Bangkok.

Hotel Park Hyatt, Bangkok

The Park Hyatt Bangkok sits on a piece of land with a rather classy history. Before the skyscraper went up, this prime downtown spot was actually where the British Ambassador used to host elegant garden parties. Today, it has swapped those manicured lawns for high-rise luxury, occupying the upper levels of the Central Embassy complex.

“The hotel’s personality is spelled out by the stores in the mall it’s connected to—all upscale, all chic. Park Hyatt Bangkok offers top-notch luxury in a prime spot connected to the exclusive Central Embassy mall and Ploen Chit BTS station.”

Featured in CN Traveler’s 2018 Hot List

Inn A Day Hotel, Bangkok

Inn A Day is a cozy, family-run boutique hotel hidden right in the vibrant heart of Bangkok’s historic Tha Tien neighborhood. Tucked seamlessly along the Chao Phraya River, this location puts you right next to iconic sights like Wat Pho, while offering a front-row seat to the local long-tail boats buzzing down the water.

“Signs of this riverside boutique’s previous existence as a coconut sugar factory are everywhere, from the original storage tins in the walls to the oversized wheels of jaggery that serve as tables in the restaurant.”

The Yard Hostel, Bangkok

Tucked away in Bangkok's hip Ari neighborhood, The Yard Hostel is a vibrant, eco-conscious oasis that completely reimagines communal travel. Interestingly, its name holds a brilliant double meaning: while it boasts a massive, leafy backyard space, the word “Yard” actually means “family” in Thai, reflecting the welcoming vibe cultivated by its founders, Som and Som, since 2015.

“The Yard Hostel is an attractive and funky collection of container dorms and rooms located in one of the backstreets of Ari, a hip residential quarter near the famous Chatuchak weekend market. The garden and common areas make this hostel a great place to socialise for solo travellers.”

Hom Hostel & Cooking Club, Bangkok

Hom Hostel & Cooking Club completely flips the script on traditional hospitality by focusing on connecting travelers through food. The hostel was brought to life by Toon, a former petroleum engineer who spent years traveling the world. Wanting to share the true heart of Thai culture, she teamed up with her civil engineer dad, Sangha, who personally designed and built the entire interior, packing the space with cozy, custom details.

“Created to connect people through cooking, the well-run Hom Hostel sits incongruously on the edge of one of Bangkok’s nightlife areas. But with clean dorms, simple rooms, a huge kitchen, a rooftop garden and cooking demos and classes, it’s a great option for travellers curious about Thai cuisine.”

Hotel Riva Arun, Bangkok

Tucked away on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, Riva Arun is an intimate 25-room boutique hotel that opened in 2016. Rather than building a generic modern high-rise, developers beautifully restored a historic commercial building, transforming it into a peaceful sanctuary that feels worlds away from Bangkok's relentless energy.

“With floor-to-ceiling windows in its 25 rooms and a lively rooftop restaurant with river views, the new Riva Arun makes for a great spot to soak in the scenery.”

St. Regis Hotel, Bangkok

The St. Regis Bangkok is a total vibe if you love absolute luxury with a view. Opened in April 2011 on the prestigious Rajadamri Road, it marked the legendary brand’s grand entrance into Thailand. The building itself is a striking 47-story glass tower, with the hotel cleverly occupying floors 12 through 24.

“With an ideal central location, every amenity imaginable, and an attention to service that’s above and beyond, the hotel is the perfect spot for the discerning high-end traveler.”

Featured as Fodor’s Choice in Bangkok.

The Sukhothai Hotel, Bangkok

Tucked away in the middle of Bangkok's chaotic Sathorn district, The Sukhothai feels like a secret garden. Instead of building another flashy skyscraper when it opened in 1991, the creators laid out a low-rise sanctuary spread across six acres of lush greenery, lily ponds, and absolute quiet.

“Those who wish to experience Bangkok in regal splendour should try The Sukhothai Bangkok, which has old-world charm, an excellent choice of restaurants and a great location.”

Featured in The Telegraph’s 36 Hours in Bangkok.

Hostel Lub d Siam, Bangkok

Tucked right next to the National Stadium BTS Skytrain station, Lub d Siam originally opened its doors in 2010. It quickly carved out a reputation as one of Bangkok's pioneering "poshtels"—a trend blending the budget-friendly setup of a hostel with the stylish, clean aesthetics of a boutique hotel.

“Lub D proves that being on a budget doesn’t have to mean losing out on style or location. There are two Lub D “hostels” in Bangkok, both rocking an industrial chic design. The original is on Decho Road, off Silom. The newer Siam location is opposite National Stadium, close to the BTS SkyTrain and a short walk to Siam Square and the malls of Rajaprasong.”

Villa Hotel, Bangkok

Nestled in the core of historical Bangkok is the Villa Bangkok Hotel, positioned on Phra Sumen Road. This road was historically significant as it traced along the old city's boundaries, linking Phra Sumen and Maha Kan Forts over two centuries ago. Of the 14 bastions constructed to shield the city from invasions in the late 1600s, only Phra Sumen and Maha Kan Forts remain erect today.

“Villa Bangkok Hotel, formerly Villa Phra Sumen, is a great budget choice with modern rooms edging the Rop Krung canal in the heart of the historic Phra Nakhon district.”

Featured in New York Times’ 36 Hours in Bangkok.

W Hotel, Bangkok

W Bangkok is a masterclass in visual storytelling, where hyper-modern design crashes straight into 19th-century history. Designed by P&T Group with bold interiors by S.O.D.A. and AvroKO, the 31-story tower acts as a massive "black box theater." The vibe is unashamedly cinematic, sporting a signature film-noir aesthetic complete with high-contrast monochrome tones and glowing magenta accents.

“The stylish W concept remains intact at this 407-room hotel (“chili-hot nightlife” is advertised) located on Bangkok’s Embassy Row near a vibrant commercial district.”

Hotel Mode Sathorn, Bangkok

Rising 38 stories above North Sathorn Road, Mode Sathorn Hotel has been a prominent fixture of Bangkok’s bustling business district since it was built in 2011. Positioned right next to the Surasak BTS Skytrain station, this fashion-inspired property was conceptualized specifically to cater to modern cosmopolitan travelers.

“Mode Sathorn has 201 rooms and suites in five categories, each featuring a different design concept, plus a presidential suite on the 36th floor. F&B offerings come in the form of three restaurants and three bars.”

Siam@Siam Design Hotel, Bangkok

If you're tired of beige, predictable hotel lobbies, Siam@Siam Design Hotel in Bangkok’s central Siam district is a massive breath of fresh air. Opened in 2008, this bold boutique property doesn't try to blend into the background. Instead, it leans heavily into functional creativity, mirroring the electric, kinetic pace of the city itself with vibrant colors and striking geometric lines.

“For a luxe stay, this is the place. Six years in the making, this Bill Bensley-designed passion project of local celebrity Krissada Sukosol Clapp is chockablock with antiques. The resulting property is remarkably atmospheric, especially on the serene verandah overlooking the Chao Phraya.”

Hotel Galleria 10 Sukhumvit, Bangkok

Tucked away in the bustling heart of Sukhumvit Soi 10, Galleria 10 Hotel Bangkok stands out as a unique 4-star boutique retreat that officially opened its doors in 2011. While many city hotels opt for uniform, clinical corporate styles, this building embraces a distinct personality by blending ultra-modern architecture with nostalgic, retro-chic interior accents.

“The Galleria 10 is a 188-room, chrome-and-glass hotel with modern furnishings. It’s geared toward “always-on-the-go” business travelers, with high-speed Internet access included in the room rate.”