Where to Stay in Bangkok for First Time Visitors?

Where to Stay in bangkok for first time visitors?

No matter what kind of traveler you are, it’s easy to decide on where to stay in Bangkok

Bangkok is a chaotic and it will feel overwhelming on your first visit. The city is massive, traffic can be a pain, and choosing the wrong area to stay in can easily turn a great trip into a stressful one, if you don’t know where to find the best street food or how to get around the city.

If you’re visiting Bangkok for the first time (check out my 5 Day Bangkok Itinerary), where you stay matters more than which hotel you choose. Some neighborhoods are perfect for sightseeing and food, while others are better suited for nightlife, shopping, or a quieter experience.

But no fear, I am here to help! In this blog post, I share with you my recommendations for where to stay in Bangkok for first time visitors, who each area is best for, and my recommended hotels, including stylish boutique options, mid-range stays, luxury hotels, and budget hostels.

Affiliate Disclaimer: This page contains affiliate links. By clicking on the links and purchasing the product, I will receive a partial commission at no cost to you. All of these products are ones that I fully trust and recommend with my heart. Thank you for your support!

Neighborhood Breakdown, Where to Stay in Bangkok?

Bangkok district map

Helpful Map of Bangkok’s major districts provided by Global Gallivanting

Before you book your hotel, it’s important to understand where to stay in Bangkok and which neighborhood best fits your travel style. Bangkok is made up of several distinct districts, and each area offers a very different experience, from food and nightlife to sightseeing and easy transportation. Choosing the right neighborhood can make getting around the city much easier, especially for first-time visitors. Below are three of the most popular districts for travelers and some of the best areas to stay in Bangkok depending on what you want to focus on during your trip.

Where to Stay in Bangkok: Old Town (Rattanakosin / Yaowarat / Riverside)

Bangkok Old Town Charoenkrung Rattanakosin Yaowarat Chao Phraya Riverside

Humble family owned restaurants like this is what makes the old town shine

The Old Town district of Bangkok, which includes the areas of Chareon Krung, Yaowarat (amazing street food there btw), Rattanakosin, and the Chao Phraya Riverside, is home most of the major landmarks and attractions in Bangkok, It’s the historical and cultural center of Bangkok. Among the many temples in Bangkok, the big 3, Wat Pho, Wat Arun, and Wat Phra Kaew (and Grand Palace) are the all located in the Rattanakosin area, and to explore I recommend this lovely tour I went on, the Three Temples Tour which also included a visit to the Grand Palace AND a heritage river cruise, and it was so convenient, especially if you’re a first time visitor to Bangkok.

And this charming old world aesthetic is one of the reasons why many travelers choose to stay in this area. This area has a lot of history and cultural significance, so if you’re the type of traveler who likes to really dig deep into exploring the rich culture, likes to take a lot of aesthetic photos, or want to immerse yourself in the true local culture, then the Old town is where you’ll want to stay. The Riverside area along the Chao Phraya River not only provides amazing views of the sun setting at Wat Arun, but it’s also quieter, full of art and culture (checkout the River City Bangkok mall), trendy cafes, and home to a lot of the best hotels in Bangkok like the iconic Lebua State Tower.

My favorite place to taste real Thai street food is at the largest Chinatown in the world, Yaowarat, which is just a short Tuk-tuk ride away. If you love to travel for food like I do then you’ll be able to eat some of the most life changing street food you’ll ever have. Fish Maw Soup, Stir Fried Noodles, Legendary Rice and Curry stalls, Crispy Pork Belly, among many other delicious eats.

To sum it up, the Old Town district is one of the best options for where to stay in Bangkok if you want to immerse yourself in Thai culture while enjoying the best hotels with vintage-style charm.

Where to Stay in Bangkok: Siam / Pathumwan Area

Bangkok Siam Pathumwan District

Being in my mid 20s, I feel too old to be at Siam Square, everyone here is so trendy

Guys, if your girl likes glamorous fashion and expensive Gucci handbags, and girls, if your guy likes the Lego Star Wars Venator-Class Republic Attack Cruiser™ then looking for hotels at Bangkok’s central shopping district is the right move for choosing where to stay in Bangkok.

The area of Siam and Pathumwan is modern Bangkok at it’s commercial and capitalist peak, all of the most notable shopping malls are here, Siam Paragon, MBK, CentralWorld, (among many other shopping malls you can read about here), as well as the trendy walking street of Siam Square. From luxury brands to fast fashion, to thrift store finds, everything you can think of is located in this district. Not to mention they’re all within walking distance and accessible via the BTS skytrain.

In terms of attractions, you won’t find many temples or historical landmarks, aside from the world famous Jim Thompson House, home of the former CIA operative turned businessman who revolutionize the Thai silk industry. Instead you’ll find a plethora of modern entertainment like the Madame Toussaud’s wax figure museum, the massive SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World aquarium, and the dozens of escape rooms, art museums, VR game rooms, pop up art installations, among many other things.

Siam is also home to plenty of fancy cafes and restaurants. Especially just a few minutes walk away from Siam Square where you can find Ban Thad Thong street, due to the area being close Chulalongkorn University, many innovative and trendy food stalls and restaurants open here, catering to the university students as well as the tourists and locals alike.

So, like I said, if your man want’s to shop for a Lego Icons: The Lord of the Rings: Barad-dûr™, and your woman wants to snap photos at Instagram-able cafes, then Siam is a great place when choosing where to stay in Bangkok.

Where to Stay in Bangkok: Sukhumvit (Asoke / Phrom Phong / Thonglor)

Bangkok Sukhumvit Asoke Phrom Phong Thonglor

Asoke Montri Road is one of the most photographed roads in Bangkok, probably

Sukhumvit is one of Bangkok’s most vibrant and cosmopolitan districts, and it’s an area packed with fancy restaurants, cocktail bars, international cafes, and the shopping conglomerate that is the “Em District”. If you want western comforts, international restaurants, and nightlife then the areas of Thonglor, Ekkamai, Asoke, and Phrom Phong are great options for where to stay in Bangkok. Not to mention many of the best hotels in Bangkok are located here, often featuring rooftop pools, full service spas, and interiors that feel more like design studios rather than traditional hotel rooms.

Like I said, Sukhumvit is a more international area, so you can expect to find a lot of cafes and restaurants serving western snacks, pastries, and cuisines. The area of Asoke is especially ripe with these sorts of things, like the famous Terminal 21 Shopping Mall with its insanely cheap food court, A scattering of international restaurants like Italian (Pala Pizza Romana is my absolute favorite), and Indian (Amritsr is fabulous), and Westernized coffee shops like the Holey Artisan Bakery and Artis.

Over at Phrom Phong is where you’ll find a lot of Japanese influence along with nice green parks like the Benchasiri Park, and the trio of the shopping malls, Emporium, Emquartier, and Emsphere, hence the name of the aforementioned “Em District”. Though I would only recommend eating at Emsphere, shopping there is pretty lackluster, aside from the IKEA on the top floor. While shopping is nice, I think the Japanese influence is what gives Phrom Phong its identity. You’ll find a large Japanese community here so expect to find plenty of Izakayas, Karaoke Bars, Ramen shops, and Japanese supermarkets.

The Thonglor and Ekkamai areas are where you can find plenty of nightlife, jazz bars, rooftop bars, and more especially at Thonglor. Honestly I don’t visit these places often, with me being a massive introvert and all, but the option is there if you enjoy those things. But even if you’re not a partying type of person or if you want to surround yourself in the liberal modern vibes of the city then the Sukhumvit area is the best option for where to stay in Bangkok.

How to Choose the Best Hotel in Bangkok

where to stay in Bangkok hotels La Petite Salil

La Petit Salil is a very nice classic European style hotel in Bangkok

Choosing where to stay in Bangkok isn’t just about finding a nice hotel, it’s mainly about picking a location and stay that matches how you actually plan to experience the city. Bangkok is huge, and staying in the wrong area can mean long commutes, wasted time in traffic, and less energy for eating, exploring, and enjoying the city. From my experience, the best hotels in Bangkok for first-time visitors are the ones that balance location, comfort, and easy access to public transport. If your hotel is close to a BTS or MRT station, in a neighborhood that fits your travel style, and comfortable enough to relax after a long day out, you’ve already made a great choice.

Things to Look Out for When Deciding Where to Stay in Bangkok

  • Location & Neighborhood - Choose an area that fits your travel style, whether that’s food, shopping, sightseeing, or nightlife, see the section above.

  • Proximity to BTS or MRT - This is super important, staying near public transport makes getting around Bangkok much easier, especially for first-time visitors.

  • Hotel Comfort - After long days of walking and eating, a comfortable bed, good air-conditioning, and a quiet room matter more than flashy extras.

  • Walkability - Being able to walk to restaurants, cafes, malls, or street food saves time and energy.

  • Value for Money - Bangkok offers great hotels at many price points, so look for places that offer solid comfort and location without overpaying.

  • Guest Reviews - Recent reviews often reveal practical details like noise levels, cleanliness, and service quality.

A Note About Airbnb

Illegal. Well more specifically, short term apartment rentals (less than 30 days) are illegel because they do not have a hotel license, this law is actually enforced and not only apply to Airbnbs but residential condominiums and apartments throughout Thailand.

I had a cousin and his family traveling in from America who booked a stay at an Airbnb and he told me that the whole process was very sketchy, from actually finding the place to checking in, etc… Makes sense as the owners are operating against the law and thus want to keep quiet about it.

So just be aware… You won’t be in legal trouble (the operator will), but you will be evicted if caught.

Best Hotels in Bangkok Old Town

Hotel Once Bangkok

Hotel Once Bangkok

This is what I’m talking about with the bathtubs, I love this design!

If you’re deciding where to stay in Bangkok and want a comfortable hotel in a scenic riverside area, Hotel Once Bangkok is a solid option. The hotel is located near the Chao Phraya River and is just a short 5-minute walk from Asiatique The Riverfont, a lively riverside complex filled with restaurants, shops, and evening entertainment. It’s a great area if you enjoy being near the river while still having plenty of places to eat and explore nearby.

I stayed here in the Executive Jacuzzi Room, which features a spacious whirlpool tub positioned next to a large studio-style window inside the room. It’s a relaxing setup after a long day of walking around Bangkok. The bed was extremely comfortable, and small details like premium toiletries, fluffy robes, and plush slippers added to the overall stay.

In terms of facilities, Hotel Once Bangkok offers most of what you’d expect from a well-designed city hotel, though there’s no gym on-site. One highlight is the rooftop Top Knot Bar & Restaurant, where you can enjoy cocktails and meals with views of the Chao Phraya River. The service was consistently friendly, with thoughtful touches like complimentary welcome drinks, and breakfast-in-bed is also available if you prefer a slower start to your day.

Pros

  • Great location near the Chao Phraya River and Asiatique The Riverfront

  • Comfortable rooms with relaxing in-room jacuzzi options

  • Rooftop bar and restaurant with river views

  • Friendly and attentive service

Cons

  • No gym

  • Thin walls, with some noise from traffic or nearby activity


Google Maps Rating: 4.4 / 5 (1,040+ Reviews)

Phone: +66 02 688 2596

Location: 2074, 99 Charoen Krung 72/2 Alley, Wat Phraya Krai, Bang Kho Laem, Bangkok 10120

Book a room at Hotel Once Bangkok Now!

Shanghai Mansion Bangkok

where to stay in bangkok shanghai mansion

Old world money kind of vibes at Shanghai Mansion

If you’re deciding where to stay in Bangkok and want to be right in the middle of the city’s most exciting food district, Shanghai Mansion Bangkok is one of the most distinctive hotels you’ll find in Chinatown. Located directly on Yaowarat Road, the hotel is styled after 1930s Shanghai, with rich velvet seating, carved four-poster beds, silk details, and a dramatic red bridge spanning an indoor koi pond. Stepping inside feels like entering a completely different era, and it fits perfectly with the energy of the surrounding neighborhood.

The rooms are heavily themed but well-equipped with all the essentials you’d expect from a city hotel. Some of the larger room categories, such as the Mu Dan Suite or Ying Hua Deluxe Room, stand out with features like indoor freestanding bathtubs and dedicated butler service, which is a rare perk in Bangkok. It’s a memorable stay if you enjoy character-driven hotels and don’t mind leaning into the atmosphere.

In terms of facilities, the hotel offers solid on-site dining options, including Red Rose Restaurant for modern Chinese cuisine and the Cotton Club, where you can enjoy live jazz performances with a cocktail. Guests also have access to Spa Burasari, which includes complimentary spa experiences such as a nightly one-hour Thai massage. And of course, staying here puts you right at the doorstep of Yaowarat’s famous street food scene, making it an excellent choice for food-focused travelers.

Pros

  • Located right in Chinatown with an immersive 1930s Shanghai decor to match

  • Free complimentary experiences: dim-sum high tea, Thai massage & tuk-tuk service

  • Good on site dining options plus easy access to Yaowarat street

  • You can have a butler, I mean come on.

Cons

  • No pool or rooftop terrace.

  • Some rooms are a bit dim as they lack natural light and external windows (opaque glass only).

  • Breakfast buffet is not included but can be purchased for an additional cost


Google Maps Rating: 4.4 / 5 (2,410+ Reviews)

Phone: +66 02 221 2121

Location: 479, 481 Yaowarat Rd, Samphanthawong, Bangkok 10100

Book a room at Shanghai Mansion Bangkok now!

Lebua at State Tower

where to stay in bangkok Lebua at State Tower

When looking for rooftop restaurants, the Lebua State Tower will always come up

If you’re researching where to stay in Bangkok and want a hotel that feels spacious, polished, and a little iconic, Lebua at State Tower is one of the city’s most recognizable luxury stays. The hotel is known for its oversized suites, ranging from Superior Suites to multi-bedroom Tower Club Rooms, and they genuinely feel more like serviced apartments than standard hotel rooms. Each suite comes with a private balcony, a full kitchenette, and access to dedicated butler and concierge services, which makes longer stays especially comfortable.

What really sets Lebua apart is its “tower” experience. The hotel is home to some of Bangkok’s most famous dining and cocktail venues, including Sky Bar, Sirocco, and Mezzaluna, a two-Michelin-star restaurant. These venues take full advantage of the building’s height, offering panoramic views over the Bangkok skyline that are especially impressive at sunset. Beyond the rooftop spots, Lebua also offers a full spa, a large outdoor pool deck, and a well-equipped gym, making it a good option if you want everything in one place without leaving the hotel.

Pros

  • Very spacious suites with private balconies, kitchenettes, and separate living areas

  • Iconic rooftop dining and bars with panoramic city views

  • Full wellness facilities including a spa, outdoor pool, and gym

  • Located in Riverside/Silom area close to MRT and BTS

Cons

  • The hotel is older, and the décor leans more classic than modern

  • Expensive compared to many other hotels in Bangkok


Google Maps Rating: 4.4 / 5 (8,460+ Reviews)

Phone: +66 02 624 9999

Location: 1055 Si Lom Rd, Si Lom, Bang Rak, Bangkok 10500

Book a Room at Lebua at State Tower Now!

Best Hotels in Siam/Pathumwan

Grande Centre Point Hotel Ratchadamri

where to stay in bangkok Grande Centre Point Hotel Ratchadamri

I quite like the classic decore at the Grande Centre Point Hotel

If you’re figuring out where to stay in Bangkok and want something that feels more like a comfortable home than a traditional hotel, Grande Centre Point Hotel Ratchadamri is a great option. The rooms here lean heavily into a condo-style setup, with many featuring full kitchenettes, washers and dryers, and separate living areas. It’s ideal if you like having extra space or plan to stay in Bangkok for more than just a few nights. Some room categories also include in-room jacuzzis if you’re willing to upgrade.

One of the biggest highlights is the location. The hotel is just a 5-minute walk from Ratchadamri BTS station, making it easy to get around the city without dealing with traffic. You’re also within walking distance of Siam, CentralWorld, and other major shopping areas, which makes this a very convenient base for first-time visitors who want both comfort and connectivity.

The facilities feel more like a private residential complex than a standard city hotel. There’s a semi-circular outdoor pool surrounded by greenery, along with a spa, sauna, fitness center, indoor jacuzzi, and even extras like a game room and karaoke lounge. Dining options are available on-site, though they’re fairly average compared to the food scene just outside the hotel. Overall, this place stands out as a practical, comfortable choice if you want space, amenities, and a central location all in one.

Pros

  • Spacious condo-style rooms with kitchenettes, washers, and separate living areas

  • Excellent central location near Ratchadamri BTS and Siam shopping districts

  • Relaxing outdoor pool and full wellness facilities

  • Good option for longer stays or travelers who want more space

Cons

  • Some rooms feel dated, especially the kitchenettes

  • Lacks standout luxury touches compared to higher-end hotels

  • Occasional noise from air-conditioning units, hallways, or nearby traffic


Google Maps Rating: 4.5 / 5 (4,310+ Reviews)

Phone: +66 02 091 9000

Location: 153, 2 Ratchadamri Rd, Lumphini, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330

Book a Room at Grande Centre Point Hotel Ratchadamri now!

Arnoma Grand

where to stay in bangkok Arnoma Grand

A simple room but a reliable one

If you’re deciding where to stay in Bangkok and want a central location, spacious rooms, and good value without blowing your budget, Arnoma Grand Bangkok is a solid choice. The hotel sits right in the heart of Siam, directly across from CentralWorld, with easy access to Chit Lom BTS and nearby malls like Siam Paragon and Central Embassy. Location-wise, it’s hard to beat, especially if shopping, food, and easy transport are high on your list.

The rooms here are noticeably large by Bangkok standards and come with practical comforts like bathtubs, strong air-conditioning, blackout curtains, and even in-room washers in some categories. It’s not the newest hotel around, and the décor does feel a bit dated, but everything is clean and well maintained. The service stood out to me as genuinely warm, and small touches like complimentary minibar snacks made the stay feel like good value for money.

Facilities are another plus. The semi-indoor pool area has a jacuzzi and leafy décor that offers a nice break from the concrete-heavy surroundings of central Bangkok. There’s also a small gym, sauna, and spa on-site, which are great for winding down after a long day out. If you can, I’d recommend booking a room with breakfast included, the buffet isn’t massive, but the Thai dishes were solid and a convenient way to start the day before heading out.

Pros

  • Excellent central location next to CentralWorld and Chit Lom BTS

  • Spacious rooms with bathtubs, blackout curtains, and reliable Wi-Fi

  • Relaxing facilities including a semi-indoor pool, jacuzzi, sauna, and gym

Cons

  • The hotel feels dated in places, especially in terms of décor

  • Comfortable and reliable, but nothing particularly luxurious or flashy


Google Maps Rating: 4.1 / 5 (2,740+ Reviews)

Phone: +66 02 655 5555

Location: 99 Ratchadamri Rd, Lumphini, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330

Book a room at Arnoma Grand now!

Centara Grand at Central World Hotel

where to stay in bangkok Centara Grand at Central World Hotel

Part hotel, part shopping mall, what could be more peak commercialisation?

If you’re deciding where to stay in Bangkok and want a hotel that prioritizes convenience, space, and upscale comfort in the city center, I’d say that Centara Grand at CentralWorld is a strong option. Hotels in the Siam area tend to be large and commercial by nature, and while this one isn’t small or cozy, it makes up for it with an unbeatable location and a high level of comfort. Sitting directly above CentralWorld mall, the hotel offers direct access to shopping, dining, and a BTS skywalk connection, which is incredibly useful for first-time visitors.

The rooms are bright and spacious, with floor-to-ceiling windows, comfortable king-size beds, in-room safes, and deep bathtubs. If you want a more elevated experience, the Club Deluxe Rooms include access to the World Executive Lounge, which comes with private check-in, daily breakfast, afternoon tea, and complimentary evening drinks — a nice perk if you plan to spend some downtime at the hotel.

Facilities here are extensive. There’s an outdoor swimming pool with a jacuzzi and poolside juice bar, along with a full-service spa, a large fitness center, and even rooftop tennis courts. Dining is another highlight, with multiple on-site options including Red Sky Restaurant & Bar, UNO MAS for Spanish cuisine, and CRU Champagne Bar for skyline views. While the dining venues are on the pricier side, the overall experience feels polished and indulgent, making this a great choice if you want a comfortable, all-in-one base in central Bangkok.

Pros

  • Direct access to CentralWorld with BTS skywalk connectivity

  • Spacious rooms with great city views and solid in-room amenities

  • Wide range of dining, wellness, and fitness facilities on-site

Cons

  • On-site dining and bars are expensive

  • Large, business-style hotel that may feel impersonal to some travelers


Google Maps Rating: 4.6 / 5 (6,610+ Reviews)

Phone: +66 02 100 1234

Location: CentralWorld Shopping Mall, 999, 99 Rama I Rd, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330

Book a room at Centara Grand at Central World Hotel Now!

Best Hotels in Sukhumvit

Ambassador Hotel Bangkok

where to stay in bangkok Ambassador Hotel Bangkok

The Ambassador Hotel Pool looks nice

If you’re researching where to stay in Bangkok and want to be right in the middle of nightlife, food, and BTS access, Ambassador Hotel Bangkok on Sukhumvit Soi 11 is a solid, no-nonsense option. This is a large hotel with around 760 rooms split between the Main Wing and Sky Wing, so it’s not trying to be small or boutique — instead, it focuses on space, convenience, and location.

I stayed in a Deluxe Sky Wing room and really enjoyed the city views over Sukhumvit, along with the plush, comfortable bedding. Service here was consistently good and friendly, with a smooth late check-in experience, spotless housekeeping, and a front desk that was genuinely helpful with recommendations for nearby food spots and nightlife.

The facilities are well-rounded and cover most traveler needs. There’s an outdoor swimming pool, a Jacuzzi, a fitness center, and a spa with steam rooms, saunas, and a hot tub. Dining options are also varied, with Am Café serving international buffets, Hong Teh Chinese Restaurant for dim sum and Cantonese dishes, and Espresso 171 and Espresso 11 for coffee and pastries. There’s even a basement nightclub called Climax if you’re in the mood to keep the night going.

Location-wise, being in Nana means nightlife is everywhere. Bars, clubs, and late-night eateries are all within walking distance, along with Nana BTS. That said, Nana can feel a bit seedy due to its reputation and the presence of Nana Plaza. If you’re aware of your surroundings and use basic common sense, it’s generally fine, but it’s definitely not the quietest or most family-friendly area in Bangkok.

Pros

  • Spacious, modern Sky Wing rooms with minibars, kettles, and safes

  • Full range of facilities including pool, Jacuzzi, sauna, gym, and spa

  • Multiple on-site dining options covering buffets, Chinese cuisine, and cafés

  • Excellent location near Nana BTS, restaurants, bars, and nightlife

Cons

  • Large hotel, so it may feel impersonal for some travelers

  • Street noise and nightclub activity can be noticeable at night

  • Spa and gym access may cost extra depending on your room package


Google Maps Rating: 4 / 5 (11,330+ Reviews)

Phone: +66 02 254 0444

Location: 171 Soi Sukhumvit 11, Khlong Toei Nuea, Watthana, Bangkok 10110

Book a room at Ambassador Hotel Bangkok now!

Mövenpick Hotel Sukhumvit 15

where to stay in bangkok Mövenpick Hotel Sukhumvit 15

Movenpick is more green than some parks in Bangkok

If you’re deciding where to stay in Bangkok and want a central location without the chaos, Mövenpick Hotel Sukhumvit 15 is a great middle ground. It’s just a 7-minute walk from Asoke BTS and Terminal 21, tucked away down a surprisingly quiet side street. You’re close to everything, but far enough to actually sleep at night, which already earns it points in my book.

The hotel leans heavily into design and atmosphere, with lush rooftop greenery, a relaxed pool deck, and a moody rooftop bar that’s perfect for evening cocktails. Rooms are modern, spacious, and comfortable, with blackout curtains, rain showers, and seriously comfy beds. If you book a suite or executive room, you’ll also get access to the executive lounge, which includes complimentary breakfast and evening drinks, great value if you plan on spending some downtime at the hotel.

Facilities cover all the essentials: a gym, a rooftop pool, and the standout Rainforest Rooftop Bar, which feels more like a jungle hideout than a city bar. It’s a chill spot for couples or anyone who enjoys a slower evening vibe. Downstairs, the 24-hour Lelawadee Restaurant serves Thai and Mediterranean dishes, making late-night meals easy after a long day exploring Bangkok.

Overall, Mövenpick Sukhumvit 15 is an excellent option for first-time visitors to Bangkok who want convenience, comfort, and a bit of personality without staying right on a noisy main road.

Pros

  • Quiet side-street location with free tuk-tuk shuttle to Terminal 21

  • Stylish rooftop pool and Rainforest Rooftop Bar are major highlights

  • Executive Lounge access includes breakfast and evening cocktails

Cons

  • Rooftop and lounge areas can get crowded during peak evening hours


Google Maps Rating: 4.4 / 5 (5,430+ Reviews)

Phone: +66 02 119 3100

Location: 47 Sukhumvit Rd, Khwaeng Khlong Toei Nuea, Watthana, Bangkok 10110

Book a Room at Mövenpick Hotel Sukhumvit 15 Now!

La Petite Salil Sukhumvit 11

where to stay in bangkok La Petite Salil Sukhumvit 11

Look at that, so cozy, so vintage, so boutique!

If you’re wondering where to stay in Bangkok and want something intimate, stylish, and a little bit different, La Petite Salil is an absolute gem. Tucked away in Sukhumvit Soi 11 near Nana, this boutique hotel feels like a complete contrast to the party-heavy surroundings. Step inside and it’s all pastel French doors, floral details, and classic European elegance, honestly, it feels like a mini Emily in Paris moment right in the middle of Bangkok.

The rooms are on the smaller side, but that actually adds to the cozy, boutique feel rather than taking away from it. Where La Petite Salil really shines is in the thoughtful little extras. You’re greeted with a welcome drink on arrival, there are complimentary book and DVD rentals (perfect for a low-key couples’ night), and the in-room amenities feel personal and well-curated. Downstairs, the Cade de Salil Restaurant doubles as an open-air café and bar, serving the breakfast buffet along with Thai–international fusion dishes, and there’s even a live DJ on some evenings.

Among the many boutique hotels in Bangkok, La Petite Salil stands out for its personality and charm rather than luxury facilities. It’s ideal if you want a short, romantic stay or a stylish escape that feels more like a design-forward guesthouse than a traditional hotel. I genuinely think it’s worth staying at least one night here.

Pros

  • Intimate, stylish boutique vibe with floral, pastel, European-inspired design

  • Thoughtful amenities like welcome drinks, minibar, coffee station, and DVD rentals

  • Cade de Salil restaurant and café is a fun, social spot for food and drinks

Cons

  • Rooms are smaller compared to most boutique hotels in Bangkok

  • Lower-floor rooms can be noisy due to Nana’s nightlife

  • No pool, spa, or gym due to the hotel’s compact size


Google Maps Rating: 4.1 / 5 (1,230+ Reviews)

Phone: +66 02 651 3830

Location: 21/4 Soi Sukhumvit 11, Klongton Nua, Watthana, Bangkok 10110

Book a Room at La Petite Salil Sukhumvit 11 Now!

Final Thoughts: Where to Stay in Bangkok

where to stay in Bangkok

I bet you more than half of the buildings you see here are hotels

So as you can see, Bangkok has no shortage of great hotels, it’s one of the most visited cities in the world after all. But if you’re trying to figure out where to stay in Bangkok then my recommendations are good choices. Every hotel I’ve mentioned in this guide is somewhere I’ve either personally stayed or confidently recommend based on friends’ and fellow travelers’ experiences.

But to sum up, here are my best hotels in Bangkok depending on what kind of trip you’re planning:

For these hotels in Bangkok, to be honest every hotel I’ve mentioned, I recommend booking early especially during the peak travel seasons like Summer and Winter. Sites like Agoda or Booking.com will often have cheaper and discounted prices if you book long before your actual stay.

If you’re a solo traveler or are looking for cheaper accommodations, one where you could potentially meet some amazing people and make new friends, check out my recommendations for the best party hostels in Bangkok.

General Bangkok Travel Tips

Bangkok travel tips wat traimit

Wat Traimit in the Old Town areas of Bangkok

Here are some travel tips that might help you when traveling in Bangkok, or Thailand in general. For a more comprehensive list, you can read my 50 Things to Know Before Traveling to Thailand blog post.

Best Time to Visit Bangkok

I’d say the best time to visit Bangkok is during the cool and dry season, from November - February, when temperatures are more manageable (averaging 25–30°C) and the humidity is lower. This is the perfect window for couples to explore temples, take scenic boat rides along the Chao Phraya River, or enjoy rooftop dinners without melting in the heat.

March - May is another good option, It’s a bit quiter due to being an off-season for most travelers, and the weather is bright and sunny. Maybe too sunny, be prepared for sweltering hot weather.

How to Get Around Bangkok from Your Hotel

The BTS Skytrain and MRT subway are the most convenient options for if you’re staying at one of the boutique hotels in Bangkok. Traffic is known to be excrutiating, and the trains negate all of that pain. If you do wanna decide to suffer through traffic or the place your going is not easily accessible by train, then Grab or Bolt (ride-hailing apps) are my recommendations, Taxis are ok but they are known to be quite scummy to tourists... I wouldn’t recommend a tuk-tuk because they’re also scummy and very touristy, maybe just for the experience but don’t rely on it for transport unless it’s provided by the hotel.

If it’s your first time in Bangkok and you’d like a local guide then going on something like this Private and Customizable Bangkok Day Tour will make exploring and getting around Bangkok much easier

Packing Tips for Bangkok

Lightweight and breathable clothing! Umbrellas! Portable Fans! Anything to keep your body cool because believe me Bangkok is hellishly hot, and if you’re here during the humid rainy months? Good Luck…

Other Thailand packing list essentials should include comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, and the all important mosquito repellent (must have). Another thing unique to Thailand is that you should a bring a set of modest clothing, because every temple throughout Thailand will refuse you entry if you are wearing revealing or inappropriate clothes. So bring a pair of long legged pants and a proper t-shirt, this goes for both men and women!

As for plug sockets, Thailand uses Type A, B, and C plugs, be sure to have adapters ready.

Looking for Things to Do in Bangkok?

Useful Resources for Traveling in Thailand

Check Out My Other Thailand Blog Posts!


CHECK OUT OUR OTHER ARTICLES!

Previous
Previous

Best Temple Tours in Bangkok For First Time Visitors!

Next
Next

Penang Road Famous Teochew Chendul - Trying the Legendary Shaved Ice Dessert