preloadBangkok cityscape. Bangkok night view in the business district. at twilight

Where ancient temples sit next to gleaming shopping malls,  is a city of vibrant contrasts, home to open-air markets, rooftop bars and legendary street food. It’s Southeast Asia’s most enigmatic city, filled with non-stop action and a diverse range of unfamiliar smells, sights and sounds at every turn. The city’s range of plush hotels offer a respite from the urban jungle with world-renowned spas, sparkling infinity pools and luxury abodes.

With over 400 million annual visitors to HotelsCombined, we’ve  found the most popular hotels in Bangkok. We’ve also highlighted the top attractions in Bangkok’s best neighbourhoods, including Sukhumvit, Siam, Silom and Bangkok Riverside. Discover what area suits your travel needs best, whether you’re looking for easy access to the world’s biggest shopping malls, a buzzing nightlife or striking riverside views.

Staying in Sukhumvit

The famous Asok intersection along Sukhumvit road, the main road in downtown Bangkok, Thailand capital city at night
Photo| Asok intersection along Sukhumvit road| GETTYIMAGES – @DIDIER MARTI

Sukhumvit is the longest and most popular street in Bangkok, dotted with shopping, dining and nightlife. From buzzing rooftop venues like Octave Rooftop Bar to the neon-lit Soi Cowboy, staying along this lively 10-kilometre stretch of downtown Bangkok means you have the city’s nightlife at your fingertips. Its small “sois” (sub-streets) are also home to mega malls like Terminal 21 and pockets of lush greenery at Benjasiri Park. Connected by Bangkok’s Skytrain, it’s easy to hop from one attraction to the next when exploring Sukhumvit.

Hotels in Sukhumvit

AriyasomVilla Hotel

AriyasomVilla Hotel, stay in Bangkok
Photo| Ariyasom Villa Hotel| Provided by BOOKING.COM

An upscale boutique hotel, Ariyasom Villa’s 24 rooms feature teak floors, Thai decor and colourful textiles. Take a dip in the blue-tiled swimming pool surrounded by a lush garden, then enjoy a pampering massage at the on-site spa. This family-run hotel also features an on-site restaurant, Na Aroon, which serves up fresh seafood.

Unwind after a day of sightseeing in one of the Studios or Deluxe rooms, where you’ll find flat-screen TVs, mini fridges and rainfall showers. Upgrade to an Executive Room or Suite for more space in the separate living area and a terrace that overlooks the lush gardens.

Star Rating: 4*
Price:  ฿4,226  – ฿6,493
Guest Rating: 9.8
Address: 65 Sukhumvit Soi 1, Bangkok, Thailand

Adelphi Forty-Nine

Adelphi Forty-Nine
Photo| Adelphi Forty-Nine| Provided by BOOKING.COM

Adelphi Forty-Nine blends luxury and comfort in its range of one-bedroom suites. They feature fully-equipped kitchens and king-size beds in addition to down-duvets and en-suite bathrooms with Japanese toilets. There are a range of convenient perks , from the on-site fitness centre and swimming pool to a 24-hour doctor and shuttle service.

Need a new outfit to wear to Bangkok’s rooftop bars? You’re just minutes away from some of the best shopping in the city, including the EmQuartier and Siam Paragon malls. Fuel up with delectable Thai cuisine before a day of exploring Bangkok at the on-site Monsoon Cafe & Restaurant.

Star Rating: 4*
Price: ฿1,822 – ฿3,160
Guest Rating: 9.3
Address: 16 Soi Sukhumvit 49, Bangkok, Thailand

Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit A Luxury Collection Hotel

Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit A Luxury Collection Hotel, stay in Bangkok
Photo| Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit A Luxury Collection Hotel| Provided by LEONARDO

You’re spoilt with nearby activities when staying at Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit A Luxury Collection Hotel, which is near the Skytrain and Terminal 21 Mall. This hotel is packed with on-site facilities, including six award-winning restaurants and bars, a luxurious spa, swimming pool and fitness centre.

Choose from the hotel’s wide range of rooms, from the budget-friendly Grande Room to the opulent Presidential Suite, where you’ll find flat-screen TVs, walk-in closets and a work desk. You’ll feel like royalty with a 24-hour personal butler service when you upgrade to a suite.

Star Rating: 5*
Price: ฿3,306  – ฿23,284
Guest Rating: 9.1
Address: 250 Sukhumvit Road, Bangkok, Thailand

Sukhumvit Park Bangkok – Marriott Executive Apartments

Sukhumvit Park Bangkok - Marriott Executive Apartments
Photo| Sukhumvit Park Bangkok – Marriott Executive Apartments| Provided by BOOKING.COM

HotelsCombined guests rave about hospitality at Sukhumvit Park Bangkok – Marriott Executive Apartments. You’ll no doubt feel right at home at this five-star property, where you can enjoy pillow-top mattresses, fully-stocked kitchens and separate living areas in the contemporary one, two and three-bedroom apartments.

Start your day with breakfast at the on-site Bistro M restaurant or head right outside to Sukhumvit Road to pick up authentic street food. Work up a sweat at the tennis and squash courts, take a swing at the indoor driving range, then take advantage of the hotel’s sparkling 25-metre outdoor saltwater pool.

Star Rating: 5*
Price: ฿2,732  – ฿8,397
Guest Rating: 9.1
Address: 90 Sukhumvit Soi 24, Bangkok, Thailand

Hotel Location

Attractions in Sukhumvit

Terminal 21

Terminal 21 offers you the chance to explore world-famous cities under one roof, including Tokyo, London, Rome and Istanbul. These themed-sections are a haven for both shopping and food enthusiasts, with around 600 shops, 50 restaurants, a supermarket and market-style food vendors. From luxury brands to Western restaurants and Thai cuisine, you’ll find everything you need in this airport-inspired mall.

Soi Cowboy

A kaleidoscope of colours and flashing lights, Soi Cowboy is a popular neon-lit nightlife district in Bangkok. It was named after the cowboy hat-wearing African-American who opened the first bar here in the 1970s and features a lively street with go-go bars playing popular tunes until the wee hours of the morning.

Benjasiri Park

Benjasiri Park
Photo| Benjasiri Park| GETTYIMAGES – KITCHAKRON

Benjasiri Park was built in 1992 to celebrate the Queen’s 60th birthday and is often referred to as “Queen’s Park”. It’s one of the most beautiful green spaces in downtown Bangkok, with a central lake and lush foliage that offers enough shade for picnicking. There are modern art sculptures dotted around the park, in addition to a running track and children’s playground.

Octave Rooftop Lounge & Bar

Elevate your senses at Octave Rooftop Lounge & Bar, where you can sip on signature cocktails while capturing stunning 360-degree city views. Dine on Asian-style tapas in the first-floor lounge, then head to the top floor to discover its crown jewel, a buzzing party scene with live DJs and plush seating. They even offer special signature “sundowner” cocktails to enjoy at sunset.

Erawan Shrine

Erawan Shrine
Photo| Erawan Shrine| GETTYIMAGES – KEAT SOO LEE – EYEEM

Erawan Shrine is a Hindu shrine dating back to 1951 that houses Phra Phrom, the Thai representation of the Hindu god of creation. You’ll find people paying respects throughout the day with ceremonial offerings, from jasmine-scented floral garlands to fruits and teakwood elephants, in the hopes that their wishes will be fulfilled. You can even catch traditional Thai Classical Dance or Chinese Lion Dance troupes putting on a performance.

Staying in Siam

Siam Center and Siam Paragon with crowded people
Photo| Siam Center and Siam Paragon with crowded people| GETTYIMAGES – VISUTH.S

Siam is undoubtedly the centre of shopping in Bangkok, from the 500 stores at Central World to the impressive collection of luxury shops at Siam Paragon. Its compact streets create a pedestrian-friendly area, where families can bring the kids to attractions like SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World. If you want to gain insight into the vibrant culture of Thailand, the Jim Thompson House and Bangkok Art and Culture Centre showcase exhibitions highlighting Thai culture and traditions.

Hotels in Siam

Hansar Bangkok

Hansar Bangkok, stay in bangkok
Photo| Hansar Bangkok| Provided by BOOKING.COM

Designed for “boutique world travellers”, Hansar Bangkok features artfully patterned decor throughout its range of luxury suites. Spacious living spaces reveal king-size beds, sofas and mini fridges, while certain rooms also feature full kitchens, washers, dryers and balconies.

Foodies will delight at the seasonal and tasting menus at Eve restaurant, while those looking for an intimate dining experience can arrange an in-room five-course dinner. Treat yourself to a traditional herbal Thai treatment at Luxsa Spa or pick up a luxury souvenir at one of the designer stores at Siam Paragon, just 15 minutes away on foot.

Star Rating: 5*
Price: ฿3,368  – ฿8,213
Guest Rating: 9.2
Address: 3 Rajdamri Road, Bangkok, Thailand

Okura Prestige Bangkok Hotel

Okura Prestige Bangkok Hotel, stay in bangkok
Photo| Okura Prestige Bangkok Hotel| Provided by BOOKING.COM

For easy access to Bangkok’s best restaurants, stay at Okura Prestige Bangkok Hotel. Its on-site restaurant Elements is a Michelin-starred establishment that serves Japanese haute cuisine, while Yamazato serves fresh sashimi from Tokyo.

The hotel’s luxury rooms are the epitome of elegance, where you’ll find impressive views of Bangkok’s skyline, Egyptian cotton linens and stylish furnishings. You’ll be the envy of all your friends as you enjoy sunset views from the cantilevered infinity pool on the 25th floor. If that’s not enough to melt your worries away, head to Okura Spa for a signature massage.

Star Rating: 5*
Price: ฿4,677  – ฿10,723
Guest Rating: 9.2
Address: 57 Wireless Road, Bangkok, Thailand

Oriental Residence Bangkok

Oriental Residence Bangkok, stay in bangkok
Photo| Oriental Residence Bangkok| Provided by BOOKING.COM

The romantic, French-inspired decor at Oriental Residence Bangkok will lure you in from the moment you arrive. The rooms range from a Grand Deluxe studio to a large three-bedroom suite and feature fully-equipped kitchens, flat-screen TVs and soaking tubs.

For some peace and quiet, sit by the hotel’s poolside cabanas, lounge with a cocktail at Play Deck or walk 15 minutes to Lumpini Park to enjoy its lush greenery. You’ll feel like you’re in Europe at the Parisian-inspired Cafe Claire, which serves gourmet French cuisine and afternoon tea.

Star Rating: 5*
Price:  ฿2,771  – ฿19,411
Guest Rating: 9.2
Address: 110 Wireless Road Pathumwan, Bangkok, Thailand

Siam Kempinski Hotel Bangkok

Siam Kempinski Hotel Bangkok, stay in bangkok
Photo| Siam Kempinski Hotel Bangkok| Provided by LEONARDO

If you’re looking for over-the-top opulence, the five-star Siam Kempinski Hotel Bangkok and its resort-like facilities is the perfect choice. Offering a mix of contemporary and Thai design, the hotel’s 300 luxury rooms are set around a garden oasis and feature flat-screen TVs, kitchenettes and stocked mini bars. The Duplex Cabana rooms  even offer direct access to the saltwater swimming pools.

Visit the on-site Brasserie Europa restaurant for their sizzling seafood BBQ special or indulge in the culinary delights at the Sunday-morning Champagne Brunch. You’ll also have your own exclusive access to the luxury shops at Siam Paragon, while those looking for a quiet day in can try the unique offerings at the on-site Sra Bua by Kiin Kinn, which specialises in molecular Thai gastronomy.

Star Rating: 5*
Price: ฿2,541  – ฿26,315
Guest Rating: 9.2
Address: 991/9 Rama I Road, Bangkok, Thailand

Hotel Location

Attractions in Siam

Jim Thompson House

Jim Thompson's House in Bangkok Thailand
Photo| Jim Thompson’s House in Bangkok| GETTYIMAGES – BRYTTA

Housing six traditional Thai teakwood houses, the Jim Thompson House is a garden-enclosed complex that showcases Southeast Asian art and cultural heritage. Take a tour of the house to discover an East-meets-West style, from the Belgian chandelier and Italian marble tiles to a 17th-century standing Buddha. Admire the decorative wall hangings, ancient murals and porcelain ware before enjoying lunch on the outdoor terrace.

Bangkok Art and Culture Centre

The Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC) is an eclectic space that serves as a hub of the city’s art scene, showcasing a wide range of contemporary art, design, music, theatre and film. It features rotating exhibitions from local and international artists, with a mix of galleries, common areas and cafes. Browse the collection of photography displays to get a glimpse of modern Thai culture.

Central World

A shopper’s paradise, Central World is one of the largest malls in the world. Spend a day browsing over 500 shops selling brand-name clothing, high-tech gadgets and designer furniture, including Zara, Miss Sixty and Uniqlo. You’ll also find 100 eateries and an ice-skating rink, while the top floor is home to a 15-screen cinema.

Siam Paragon

You’ll have plenty of opportunities to give your credit card a workout at Siam Paragon, as this multi-level mega-mall is home to luxury brands, such as Hermes, Prada and Versace. Affordable brands, such as H&M and Gap, are on the first floor and an IMAX theatre sits on the fifth floor, while car enthusiasts will love the mall’s collection of supercars on display.

SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World

SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World shutterstock_72362389
Photo| Underwater tunnel| SHUTTERSTOCK – SONIA ALVES-POLIDORI

SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World is an aquatic wonderland with world-class exhibits and over 30,000 creatures from around the world. Take a walk in the 270-degree underwater tunnel, admire the colourful marine life from a glass-bottom boat tour or swim amongst sharks and stingrays. This educational facility is also home to Thailand’s first 4D theatre, a 25-minute virtual reality adventure with state-of-the-art technology.

Staying in Silom

The road car lights speed in city at night in the business street of Bangkok , Thailand.
Photo| Bangkok busy street at night| GETTYIMAGES – CRAVETIGER

A business district by day, Silom transforms at night into a lively nightlife scene where you’ll find a bustling street market, entertainment district and world-famous bars. Silom is also home to Lumpini Park, an oasis with lush foliage, as well as the Temple of the Golden Buddha with its 5.5-tonne, solid-gold Buddha statue. Come sunset, sip cocktails at Sky Bar, known as the highest open-air bar in the world.

Hotels in Silom

Mandarin Oriental Bangkok

Mandarin Oriental Bangkok, stay in bangkok
Photo| Mandarin Oriental Bangkok| Provided by BOOKING.COM

Often regarded as the most exquisite hotel in Bangkok, Mandarin Oriental Bangkok boasts a quiet setting on the banks of the Chao Phraya River. Its lavish Victorian architecture houses opulent rooms with goose down bedding, luxury toiletries and large windows that overlook the river.

Enjoy a sumptuous spread of French cuisine at Le Normandie or create authentic Thai meals at the hotel’s renowned Thai Cookery School. Want to feel like an A-list celebrity? Get pampered in the hotel’s world-famous Oriental Spa across the river, where you can enjoy Ayurvedic and anti-ageing treatments in an authentic teak wooden house.

Star Rating: 5*
Price: ฿7,654  – ฿51,121
Guest Rating: 9.8
Address: 48 Oriental Avenue, Bangkok, Thailand

Shangri-La Hotel Bangkok

Shangri-La Hotel Bangkok, stay in bangkok
Photo| Shangri-La Hotel Bangkok| Provided by ICE PORTAL

If spectacular views are a top priority, Shangri-La Hotel Bangkok is an excellent choice. The 802 luxurious rooms feature sweeping vistas of the Chao Phraya River in addition to executive writing desks, mini bars and flat-screen TVs, while upgraded rooms also include furnished balconies.

Hop on the hotel’s Horizon Cruise and admire the impressive views while you indulge in international cuisines. Dine on award-winning Italian fare at the on-site restaurant, Angelini, grab sweet treats at the Chocolate Boutique or enjoy cocktails at Sky Bar at Lebua State Tower, only a five-minute walk away.

Star Rating: 5*
Price: ฿3,462  – ฿11,758
Guest Rating: 9.2
Address: 89 Soi Wat Suan Plu, New Road, Bangkok, Thailand

U Sathorn Bangkok

U Sathorn Bangkok, stay in bangkok
Photo| U Sathorn Bangkok| Provided by ICE PORTAL

HotelsCombined visitors love the on-site swimming pool at U Sathorn Bangkok, which has swaying palm trees and plush lounge chairs. Pick from Superior, Deluxe Garden and Suite accommodation to find king-size beds, flat-screen TVs, deep-soaking tubs and furnished terraces overlooking the pool.

Delight your palate with innovative French cuisine at the Michelin-star J’AIME by Jean-Michel Lorain or kick back with a book and light snacks at The Library. For a dose of culture, walk 10 minutes to Bangkok City Gallery to browse contemporary art from local artists.

Star Rating: 5*
Price: ฿1,983  – ฿5,043
Guest Rating: 9.2
Address: 105 105 1 Soi Ngam Duphli, Thailand

Eastin Grand Hotel Sathorn

Eastin Grand Hotel Sathorn, stay in bangkok
Photo| Eastin Grand Hotel Sathorn| Provided by BOOKING.COM

A striking 33-storey glass skyscraper, Eastin Grand Hotel Sathorn is conveniently connected to a Skytrain station. Its 390 rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows with views of Bangkok’s glittering skyline, while the Executive Deluxe and Junior Suites boast corner building rooms for ultimate privacy. They also feature separate living rooms, fully-stocked mini bars and complimentary snacks throughout the day.

See a different view of Bangkok from the 14th-floor infinity pool or head to the poolside Blunos restaurant for classic comfort food. If you’re looking for somewhere to unwind, visit Swizzles for tapas and international wines while listening to classic jazz.

Star Rating: 5*
Price: ฿1,442  – ฿10,403
Guest Rating: 9.1
Address: 33/1 South Sathorn Road, Yannawa, Bangkok, Thailand

Hotel Location

Attractions in Silom

Lumpini Park

Lumpini Park
Photo| Lumpini Park in Bangkok| SHUTTERSTOCK – CHAYATAT.NAMSTYLE

An inner-city oasis, Lumpini Park is perfect for escaping the city bustle and connecting to nature. It’s a mecca for outdoor leisure, with locals practising tai chi, couples strolling around the lake and nature enthusiasts admiring the lush foliage. Meander through the maze of scenic pathways, then indulge in tasty variations of pad thai at the market stalls.

Patpong

Patpong
Photo| Patpong| GETTYIMAGES – MASSIMO BORCHI – ATLANTIDE PHOTOTRAVEL

Patpong is one of the world’s most famous red-light districts and is where Thailand’s go-go culture began. These days you’ll find a bustling entertainment district with neon-lit go-go bars, stylish late-night dance venues and laid-back watering holes. It’s also home to the bargain-laden Patpong Night Market, where you can haggle for a wide range of goods.

Sky Bar at Lebua State Tower

rooftop bar in Bangkok
Photo| Lebua State Tower Sky Bar| GETTYIMAGES – NIKADA

Featured in “The Hangover Part II”, Sky Bar at Lebua State Tower bills itself as the highest open-air bar in the world. The heart-stopping views from the 64th-floor rooftop are certainly impressive, particularly at sunset, where you can soak up panoramic views of Bangkok and its towering skyscrapers, notable landmarks and the picturesque Chao Phraya River winding through the city.

Temple of the Golden Buddha

Wat Traimit, Bangkok
Photo| Wat Traimit – Temple of the Golden Buddha in Bangkok| GETTYIMAGES – SAIKO3P

Officially named Wat Traimit, the Temple of the Golden Buddha features a monumental, solid-gold Buddha statue that stands at three metres tall and weighs 5.5 tonnes. It’s the world’s largest gold sitting Buddha, discovered by accident when it was dropped while being moved, revealing its gleaming gold Sukhothai style underneath a layer of plaster. Visit the on-site museum to learn about its history.

Mariamman Temple

Mariamman Temple in Silom Road.
Photo| Sri Mariamman Temple| GETTYIMAGES – SYLVIAN SONNET

The Mariamman Temple was built in the 1860s and is dedicated to the Goddess Mariamman. You’ll find an elaborate display of deities, including Brahma, Indra and Vishnu, on its outer towers, while the central shrine holds a sacred image of Maha Mariamman. Special ceremonies are held throughout the year, including colourful festivals that spill out into the streets.

Staying in Bangkok Riverside

Bangkok city with Chao Phraya river
Photo| Bangkok city with Chao Phraya river| GETTYIMAGES – LITTLEWORMY

For picturesque river views and access to the city’s most iconic attractions, stay in Bangkok Riverside. This historic neighbourhood offers a landscape of water taxis, glittering temples and heritage landmarks. The hotels are nestled on the banks of the Chao Phraya River and are within arm’s reach of The Grand Palace, Wat Arun and Wat Pho. Exploring the Thonburi Canals is an atmospheric way to see the city, while Khao San Road features a lively collection of budget-friendly bars.

Hotels in Bangkok Riverside

Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort

Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort, stay in bangkok
Photo| Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort| Provided by BOOKING.COM

Nestled on four hectares of verdant gardens, Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort is a tranquil respite from the bustle of the city. This riverside hotel offers a range of spacious, sun-filled rooms with king-size beds, marble bathrooms and private balconies that offer city, garden and river views.

The hotel boasts nine restaurants and bars, so you can dine on Polynesian cuisine at Trader Vic’s or fill up with Japanese Teppanyaki at Benihana. There’s even a restored wooden rice barge that offers dinner cruises. Watch the sun set over the Chao Phraya River from Longtail Bar or unwind with a full body massage at Anantara Spa.

Star Rating: 5*
Price: ฿2,025  – ฿22,946
Guest Rating: 9.1
Address: 257/1-3 Charoennakorn Road, Bangkok, Thailand

Ibis Bangkok Riverside

Ibis Bangkok Riverside, stay in bangkok
Photo| Ibis Bangkok Riverside| Provided by ICE PORTAL

Ibis Bangkok Riverside is not only an eco-friendly hotel, but also lets you to bring your furry four-legged friend. Couples will enjoy the cosy Standard Double River View room, while those travelling with kids will find the spacious Family Room more suitable. All rooms come equipped with flat-screen TVs, mini fridges and work desks.

Make a splash at the outdoor pool or nibble on tapas at the on-site restaurant, Taste. Its Chao Phraya River location means you are a river taxi away from Asiatique, a combination night bazaar and mall, or a short drive from The Grand Palace.

Star Rating: 3*
Price: ฿821 –  ฿2,656
Guest Rating: 8.1
Address: 27 Soi Charoen Nakhon 17 Charoen Nakhon Rd Banglamphulang, Bangkok, Thailand

Millennium Hilton Bangkok

Millennium Hilton Bangkok, stay in bangkok
Photo| Millennium Hilton Bangkok| Provided by ICE PORTAL

The 32-storey Millennium Hilton Bangkok towers over the mighty Chao Phraya River, which can be seen from all 533 rooms and suites that also feature flat-screen TVs, separate living areas and work desks.  Upgrade to a King Executive River View for 24th-floor vistas of the Bangkok skyline and Chao Phraya River.

Lounge with a cocktail at the infinity pool, get a pedicure at the spa or indulge in sushi specialties at Flow Restaurant, but don’t miss the impressive 360-degrees views at Three Sixty Lounge on the 32nd floor. The hotel even operates its own shuttle boats, which whisk you to cultural attractions like Wat Arun, one of the most beautiful Buddhist temples in Thailand.

Star Rating: 5*
Price: ฿2,042  – ฿9,407
Guest Rating: 8.8
Address: 123 Charoennakorn Road, Bangkok, Thailand

Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel & Towers

Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel & Towers, stay in bangkok
Photo| Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel & Towers| Provided by BOOKING.COM

Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel & Towers is a Bangkok oasis, home to two swimming pools encircled by tropical foliage. Here you can recharge with a lap in the saltwater terrace pool, admire the river views or join one of the poolside yoga classes.

You’ll also find floor-to-ceiling windows in the rooms and suites, in addition to flat-screen TVs, writing desks and mini bars. Upgrade to a higher-floor suite for separate living rooms. Dine on international cuisine at the hotel’s four on-site restaurants, from Italian fare at Georgio’s to Thai delicacies at Thara Thong.

Star Rating: 5*
Price: ฿2,004  – ฿6,549
Guest Rating: 8.9
Address: 2, Soi Charoen Krung 30, Bangkok, Thailand

Hotel Location

Attractions in Bangkok Riverside

The Grand Palace

The Grand Palace
Photo| The Grand Palace| GETTYIMAGES – CHALERMKIAT SEEDOKMAI

You’ll be dazzled by the spectacular Grand Palace, as this former home of the King and his court was also the entire administrative seat of government. The palace complex is Bangkok’s most famous landmark, where you can marvel at the detailed facades of these structures that showcase traditional Thai architecture then take a guided tour to explore its exquisite throne hall.

Wat Arun

Wat Arun and cruise ship in twilight time
Photo| Wat Arun and cruise ship| GETTYIMAGES – PAKIN SONGMOR

Wat Arun is one of the most stunning temples in Bangkok, known locally as “Wat Chaeng”, and is adorned with colourfully decorated spires that sit majestically over the water. Admire the temple’s Khmer architecture and 80-metre-tall “prang” tower decorated with millions of pieces of colourful Chinese porcelain, then step inside to see a Buddha image designed by King Rama II.

Wat Pho

Wat Pho
Photo| Wat Pho| SHUTTERSTOCK – DMITRY RUKHLENKO

Famed for its 46-metre-long reclining Buddha statue, Wat Pho is one of the largest temple complexes in Bangkok. Purchase a bowl of coins at the entrance and drop them in the 108 bronze bowls for good luck, then meander through the complex and admire over 1,000 Buddha images, more than any other temple in Thailand.

Khao San Road

tourist at Khao San road in Bangkok, Thailand
Photo| Khao San road in Bangkok| GETTYIMAGES – ALEXANDER SPATARI

A haven for backpackers made famous by the movie “The Beach”, Khao San Road is a one-kilometre-long strip lined with bars, street vendors and market stalls selling anything from edible insects to trendy clothes. This festival-like street is home to a colourful landscape of neon lights, tuk-tuks and exotic fruits being sold next to pad thai frying on a hotplate.

Thonburi Canals

A Floating Market
Photo| Floating Market in Bangkok| GETTYIMAGES – GABRIEL PEREZ

Hire a colourful painted long-tail boat to explore the Thonburi Canals and experience Thai life along the river banks, where you can purchase fruit from floating vendors and travel past notable temples such as Wat Arun. You can also make stops along the way to see places like the Royal Barge National Museum, which contains decorated teak boats reserved for special ceremonies.

Experience The City of Contrasts

A blend of old-world charm and modern entertainment, Bangkok captivates travellers with its labyrinth of markets and mega-malls. Its bustling streets are home to sparkling temples, street-side food vendors and picturesque  canals that sit alongside five-star hotels and upscale eateries.

Make the most of your Bangkok holiday with a stay at one of these luxurious accommodations. HotelsCombined visitors rate these hotels above others, because of their dazzling skyline views, tranquil infinity pools and excellent on-site restaurants.

What part of Bangkok do you prefer to stay? Let us know in the comments below.

About the author

Charity De Souza Born and raised in Orlando, Florida, I have been travelling with my battered backpack full-time for over a decade. My favourite travel memories include skydiving in Switzerland, wine tasting in Portugal, road tripping through Iceland, snorkelling in Indonesia and watching a sunset in the Sahara Desert.

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