What are the best tourist areas to stay in Bangkok? Here is the complete 2024 guide to the 5 neighborhoods to choose for a tourist stay.
Bangkok, the sprawling capital of Thailand, is a popular destination for travelers from all over the world. However, to find accommodation, it is important to choose the right neighborhood (see which neighborhoods to avoid in Bangkok). And for the majority of travelers, the most interesting will be to stay in the most touristic areas of Bangkok.
But faced with the multitude of different and varied neighborhoods, it can be difficult to decide where to stay in Bangkok to make the most of your stay.
In this article, I present the 5 best tourist areas of Bangkok to help you choose the one that best suits your preferences:
- Rattanakosin : The most touristic district of Bangkok
- Siam : Best area to stay in Bangkok for shopping
- Riverside : High-end housing area
- Khao San Road : Tourist district where to stay cheaply
- Chinatown : Tourist district where to stay in Bangkok for entertainment
Tourist districts in Bangkok – the most visited Rattanakosin
Neighborhood Rattanakosin is the most touristy district of Bangkok. Located in the district Phra nakhon (old town of Bangkok), this small district is the most visited of all the Thai capital:
Advantages of staying in the Rattanakosin district of Bangkok
One of the main advantages of staying in Rattanakosin is its proximity to the majority of Bangkok's most famous tourist sites. Indeed, this district is home to the magnificent Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha) and Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha). These iconic landmarks are within walking distance of each other, which is very convenient for visit Bangkok on foot in 1 day but also if you have the chance to discover Bangkok in 2 days.
Imagine waking up in the morning, stepping out of your hotel and finding yourself within a few minutes walk in the middle of these incredible sites.
Transportation is another reason why Rattanakosin is the perfect place to stay in Bangkok. This tourist area is also perfect for getting around (BTS Skytrain and tuk tuk stations), making it easy to explore other parts of Bangkok.
Additionally, the Chao Phraya River runs through Rattanakosin, and riding a river taxi is a fantastic way to get around Bangkok and see the city from a different perspective.
Finally, what really sets Rattanakosin apart from other tourist areas in Bangkok is its authenticity. Unlike some more modern areas of the city, Rattanakosin has managed to retain its old world charm and cultural heritage. The narrow streets are lined with houses, traditional shops and street stalls where you can taste delicious local dishes or buy souvenirs.
The locals are friendly and welcoming, eager to share their traditions and way of life with visitors. By staying at Rattanakosin, you can immerse yourself in Thai culture and experience the real Bangkok.
Disadvantages of staying in the Rattanakosin district of Bangkok
This historic district does not have much entertainment at night. Indeed, I was able to see that from 18 p.m., all the shops close. In addition, the offer of bars and restaurants is not very large compared to other much more lively tourist areas of Bangkok. It is therefore not a district to be recommended for partygoers.
Where to stay in the best tourist area of Bangkok?
If you are looking for a cheap and very well located hotel in the heart of the most touristic district of Bangkok, then you can book like me the Feung Nakorn Balcony Rooms and Cafe. This is not a luxury hotel as it is a bit dated. But its location is ideal in old Bangkok and with a very good value for money. Note that it has an on-site restaurant and a very nice little swimming pool!
And if you are looking for a better hotel with a nice view, then I recommend the Riva Arun Bangkok – SHA Extra Plus
Tourist districts in Bangkok – Siam the best to stay for shopping
If you want to do shopping in Bangkok, the Siam district is best for you. Siam is a tourist district that is part of the district Pathum Wan in the center of Bangkok:
This area is home to some of Bangkok's largest shopping malls, such as MBK Center, Siam Paragon, and Central World. But it's not just shopping in Siam! There are many other things to discover. Indeed, the area is known for its lively nightlife, with bars, clubs and live music venues.
Transportation in the Siam district is also very easy. The area is well served by the BTS Skytrain and MRT subway. This makes it easy to explore other parts of Bangkok and visit popular attractions such as the Grand Palace and Wat Arun. Additionally, if you stay in Siam, you can easily access other shopping districts like Pratunam and Chatuchak Market.
When it comes to accommodation, Siam offers a wide range of options to suit all budgets and preferences. From luxurious five-star hotels to inexpensive guesthouses, there is something for everyone.
If you like luxury, here is one of the most beautiful 5-star hotels in Bangkok: Siam kempinski.
Otherwise, here is a very nice hotel, much less expensive, with a very nice rooftop, in the heart of Siam: Centara Grand At CentralWorld
Tourist districts in Bangkok – Upscale Riverside area
When it comes to sightseeing in Bangkok, the Riverside (Saphan Taksin Station) is a great place to stay. This area is located in the districts of Sathon and Bang Rak, on the banks of the Chao Phraya River. It is here that the most beautiful palaces of Bangkok are located, such as the Shangri-La Hotel or Mandarin Oriental.
One of the main advantages of staying in the Riverside area is that it is very well served by transport. The Chao Phraya River serves as a transport hub, with many ferry and taxi boat services. This gives visitors easy access to popular tourist sites such as the Grand Palace and Wat Arun.
The area is also well connected to other parts of the city by the BTS and MRT metro systems, which is convenient for those wishing to explore beyond the banks of the river.
In addition, the Riverside offers breathtaking views that have no equivalent in Bangkok. From the comfort of their hotel room or restaurant, visitors can take in the picturesque scenery of the Chao Phraya River and the sites that surround it. The sight of traditional long-tail boats cruising the water is juxtaposed against the backdrop of modern skyscrapers.
Additionally, the Riverside area offers a wide range of upscale hotels. Many of these establishments offer stunning river views from their rooms or rooftop bars, allowing guests to enjoy the beauty of Bangkok's skyline, day or night.
Where to stay in this tourist district of Bangkok?
Even though it is not directly facing the river, I recommend staying at Lebua at State Tower. Indeed, it is one of the most beautiful towers in Bangkok which has one of the best rooftops in Bangkok and the world!
Here are some photos that can convince you to live this experience:
Khao San Road – Cheap tourist district of Bangkok
This tourist district of Bangkok is famous for its market and for its lively atmosphere. With many hostels and budget hotels, this tourist area of Bangkok is an ideal choice for backpackers and budget travelers.
This Bangkok street has many bars, restaurants, souvenir shops and street stalls.
It is also a fairly close base (less than 2 km) to explore the sights of Bangkok's old town, such as the Grand Palace, Wat Saket or Wat Phra Kaew.
If you are looking for a festive atmosphere and a lively nightlife, then yes Khao San Road is the perfect tourist district of Bangkok for you!
Where to stay in the tourist district of Khao San?
Here is a good hotel that is 500 meters from Khao San Road: The Nouvo City Hotel
Tourist districts in Bangkok- Chinatown for entertainment
If you want to experience Chinese culture and immerse yourself in an authentic atmosphere, the tourist district of Chinatown is the ideal place.
Quite close to the unmissable historical sites of Bangkok, by staying in Chinatown, you can take a tuk tuk or a taxi to quickly visit them.
Here you will find bustling streets, colorful markets, Chinese temples and delicious cuisine. Chinatown is also a district known for its lively nightlife and trendy bars. On the other hand, if you are looking for peace and quiet, you will have to avoid this district to choose accommodation there. This will not prevent you from visiting it during the day or in the evening!
Where to stay in the tourist district of Chinatown Bangkok?
For those who want to experience lodging in Chinatown Bangkok, I recommend thegrand china hotel which has excellent value for money.
In addition, it has a rooftop swimming pool and a rotating restaurant (Sky View 360°) with a panoramic view of the entire city of Bangkok:
