Hotels in Bangkok

Staying in Bangkok

The river is the old spine of the city. On its east bank, the Rattanakosin district holds the royal palace, the main temples and the backpacker streets around Khao San. Downstream, Silom and Sathorn form the business district, with Chinatown between them and the old city. East of there, Sukhumvit is a long road of hotels, restaurants and bars running out toward the suburbs, with the elevated train above it. The Siam area, where the train lines cross, is the shopping centre. Suvarnabhumi Airport lies to the east of the city. Arrivals reach their hotel by rail to the eastern side of town, by taxi from the ranks on the lower floor, or by a private transfer booked through AI Concierge, which is worth it for late arrivals or anyone with luggage and children. Traffic is heavy at almost any time, so leave yourself slack rather than counting on the route. Decide by neighbourhood. Sukhumvit suits people who want to be on the train line and near nightlife. The riverside hotels suit sightseeing and boat trips to the temples. Silom and Sathorn are for business. Hotels near the old city are a longer taxi ride from the airport but closest to the palace and temples.