Bangkok is Thailand’s lively capital, known for its colourful temples, bustling markets and vibrant street life. The city blends ancient traditions with modern skyscrapers, offering a diverse experience in culture, shopping and dining. Golden palaces, riverside views and tropical gardens create a unique atmosphere. Let’s explore the best areas to stay in Bangkok and enjoy this fascinating city.
Best Places to Stay in Bangkok
Central and convenient for first-time visitors, with great shopping and BTS access.
- Siam Kempinski Hotel Bangkok: Price from £215. Family-friendly luxury hotel near top malls, with excellent service, pools, spa, and great dining.
- Novotel Bangkok on Siam Square: Price from £82. Centrally located near top malls, with spa, pool, delicious breakfast, and friendly staff.
Vibrant nightlife, modern vibe, and excellent transport links.
- Carlton Hotel Bangkok Sukhumvit: Price from £104. Central Sukhumvit location with spa, pool, spacious rooms, great dining, and exceptional, attentive service.
- Sofitel Bangkok Sukhumvit: Price from £115. Prime Sukhumvit location with elegant rooms, rooftop dining, luxury spa, and exceptional personalised service.
Quiet area with stunning river views and historical sites nearby.
- Shangri-La Bangkok: Price from £125. Riverside location with spacious rooms, fantastic views, diverse dining, luxury spa, and exceptional service.
- Rembrandt Hotel Bangkok: Price from £48. Central location near BTS and MRT, spacious rooms, friendly staff, and excellent breakfast with diverse choices.
Getting to and Around Bangkok
The Grand Palace
Bangkok is well connected to the world, with two main airports welcoming international travellers. Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) handles most long-haul flights, while Don Mueang International Airport (DMK) serves many regional and budget airlines.
- Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK): Located about 21 miles (34 km) east of the city centre, this is Bangkok’s largest and busiest airport. It handles most international long-haul flights and many regional connections. The airport is well connected to the city via the Airport Rail Link, taxis, and buses.
- Don Mueang International Airport (DMK): Situated about 15 miles (24 km) north of central Bangkok, this is one of the world’s oldest operating airports. It mainly serves low-cost carriers and regional flights, particularly within Asia. Transport options include taxis, buses, and train services to the city.
Want to start your trip to Bangkok with ease? Booking a hotel near the airport with a shuttle service can make all the difference. It’s perfect for late-night arrivals or early flights, giving you more time and energy to enjoy the city’s vibrant sights, markets, and cuisine.
Hotel Name | Estimated Price | Distance from Airport (BKK) | Shuttle Service Info |
Hyatt Regency Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport | From £92 | 1.2 miles | Free airport transfers: No reservation required |
Divalux Resort & Spa Bangkok | From £35 | 12.1 miles | Business hours: [Mon - Sun] 06:00-22:00 Free airport shuttle: Reservations required Contact the hotel at least 1 Day(s) in advance to make a reservation. |
>> Find more hotels near Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport.
Once in the city, getting around is easy thanks to an extensive public transport network. Bangkok offers a wide variety of transport options for exploring the city. Visitors can choose from modern rail systems like the BTS Skytrain and MRT, water-based transport along the Chao Phraya River, and traditional vehicles such as tuk-tuks. Taxis, ride-hailing apps, buses, and motorbike taxis also provide convenient ways to get around.
Main transport in Bangkok:
- BTS Skytrain: Elevated rail network covering key city areas, fast and reliable.
- MRT (Mass Rapid Transit): Underground rail system connecting central and outer districts.
- Airport Rail Link: Direct train service from Suvarnabhumi Airport to central Bangkok.
- Taxis: Widely available and metered, but can be delayed by traffic.
- Ride-Hailing Apps: Services like Grab and Bolt for car or motorbike rides.
- Motorbike Taxis: Quick option for short trips, especially during rush hour.
- Chao Phraya Express Boat: Scenic travel along the Chao Phraya River.
- Khlong Boats: Canal boats offering a local travel experience.
- Buses: Budget-friendly but slower due to traffic.
- Tuk-Tuks: Iconic three-wheeled vehicles for short, local journeys.
Find More to Match Your Travel Style
Riverside Tranquillity & Scenic Views
- Elegant riverside resort with superb restaurants and bars → Mandarin Oriental Bangkok (Price from £360)
- Luxury stay with river views & convenient location → The Peninsula Bangkok (Price from £164)
Shopping & City Buzz
- Central location near Siam’s top malls → Siam Kempinski Hotel Bangkok (Price from £215)
- Modern comfort steps from Terminal 21 → Carlton Hotel Bangkok Sukhumvit (Price from £104)
Chic Rooftop & Nightlife Vibes
- Stylish stay with rooftop bar in Sukhumvit → Sofitel Bangkok Sukhumvit (Price from £115)
- Art Deco hotel near nightlife & BTS → Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok (Price from £147)
Wat Arun
Bangkok Hotels Booking Tips
- Book early (3–6 months ahead) for peak seasons like Songkran (April), Christmas, New Year, or Chinese New Year.
- Check event dates: Big festivals (e.g. Loy Krathong, International Motor Expo) can cause higher prices and limited availability.
- Save with deals: New Trip.com users can enjoy up to 8% off hotel bookings.
- Stay smart: Consider areas like Riverside or Sukhumvit for great transport links and better value than Siam or Silom.