Travelers come to Bangkok for various reasons and with different preferences. Below, you’ll find an overview of the topics related to where to stay in Bangkok. Just click on any of the images to go directly to that specific topic.
Where to stay in Bangkok First Time 2025 - Best areas & hidden gems
Are you wondering where to stay in Bangkok first time?
We’ve got you covered with expert advice, backed by years of experience living in this one-of-a-kind city.
Bangkok is home to some of Thailand’s most renowned temples, including the stunning Wat Pho, known for the Reclining Buddha, and Wat Phra Kaew, which houses the Emerald Buddha.
The city is a haven for street food enthusiasts. Areas like Chinatown and bustling night markets such as Jodd Fairs are prime spots to indulge in delicious street food.
By day, Bangkok is alive with energy, offering countless activities. You can explore modern shopping centers like ICONSIAM, MBK, and Siam Paragon. On weekends, don’t miss Chatuchak, the world’s largest weekend market.
When the sun sets, the city’s nightlife truly comes alive. Backpackers and locals often flock to Khao San Road, while Thonglor and Ekkemai are popular for a more upscale night out. Other nightlife hotspots include RCA, Sukhumvit Soi 11, and Silom.
For a breathtaking view of the city, visit one of the many rooftop bars, such as Octave or Sky Bar. The Chao Phraya River runs through Bangkok, offering a unique vantage point of the city from the water.
A boat ride at dawn to see Wat Arun is a must-do, and exploring the city’s canals is another top recommendation.
After a day of exploring, treat yourself to a relaxing spa or massage at one of the city’s many wellness centers. Bangkok is known for providing luxury experiences at a fraction of the cost compared to other major cities. From world-class hotels and spas to exquisite dining, there are options to suit various budgets.
In this guide, we cover all the relevant areas to fully enjoy Bangkok. As this is quite a long article, it’s recommended to first read the summary in the next paragraph.
In summary, the best areas to stay in Bangkok first time are Sukhumvit, Riverside, Khao San Road, and Silom.
Sukhumvit is the most desired area to stay in Bangkok. That’s because it’s a central and modern area with great access to Bangkok’s public transport.
This area is also incredibly large and can be divided into many neighborhoods.
In my opinion, the following areas in Sukhumvit are the relevant ones.
Asoke is the transportation hub of Sukhumvit.
Nana is a nightlife area for foreigners.
Phloen Chit & Chit Lom are upscale areas with top-notch hotels and shopping malls.
Lower Sukhumvit is ideal for the budget-minded traveler, but in the evening, there is not much to do compared to the other areas in Sukhumvit.
But Bangkok is more than Sukhumvit.
Another great area is Riverside, where you can enjoy stunning riverside views in a much quieter environment compared to Sukhumvit. This makes it ideal for families.
Khao San Road is the backpacker’s epicenter of Southeast Asia, ideal for the younger traveler.
Silom has many similarities to Sukhumvit but is less modern. It does have a more convenient location closer to the major attractions.
Those seeking a somewhat alternative area with either fewer tourists or a more unique atmosphere should consider staying at Siam (shopping), Chinatown (street food), Pratunam (authenticity and shopping), and Khlong San (luxury)
You can also easily navigate to each recommended area by tapping the link. Or simply go straight to the overview of the best areas to stay in Bangkok at the bottom of this article.
Map of the best areas to stay in Bangkok first time:
Visiting Bangkok with a certain preference?
The best areas to stay in Bangkok first time are:
Sukhumvit
Without a doubt, Sukhumvit is the top choice for first-time visitors to Bangkok.
This area is largely modern and bustling with activity.
Sukhumvit Road is one of the most important streets in Bangkok, but it’s often congested with heavy traffic.
Thankfully, the SkyTrain runs above this road, connecting station to station, making it easy for tourists to navigate the city quickly.
Sukhumvit can be divided into various districts, and I’ll focus on the most relevant ones later in this section.
Sukhumvit is also known for its diverse nightlife scenes.
Around Nana and Asoke, you’ll find the more infamous nightlife spots, known for Go-Go bars and adult entertainment.
This is part of Bangkok’s reality.
However, the city offers much more beyond that.
For a different nightlife experience, RCA is a popular area with several large clubs.
If rooftop bars and trendy lounges are more your style, explore the side streets of Thonglor (Sukhumvit 55) and Ekkemai (Sukhumvit 63).
Almost every BTS station in Sukhumvit is paired with a large shopping mall.
For example, Asoke is home to Terminal 21, an affordable shopping destination, while Phrom Phong boasts EmQuartier, a luxury shopping mall featuring the world’s top brands.
If you want to visit the city’s historical sights, mostly located in the older parts of Bangkok, you can easily take the metro.
At Asoke BTS Station, you’ll find a metro connection that takes you directly to these areas.
Moreover, a BTS line runs from Suvarnabhumi Airport to the city center, meaning you can travel by train straight from the airport to Sukhumvit.
It’s no surprise that Sukhumvit is the most popular area in Bangkok.
1. Asoke & Nana
There are several reasons to stay in this area, with its convenient location being a major one.
However, it’s undeniable that many visitors, particularly single men, choose to stay around Asoke and Nana to fully immerse themselves in Bangkok’s infamous nightlife.
With popular spots like Nana Plaza, Sukhumvit Soi 11, Sukhumvit Soi 7 Beer Garden, and Soi Cowboy just a stone’s throw away, it’s hard to find a better location in Bangkok for those looking to party.
Despite this, Asoke remains an excellent choice for first-time visitors due to its direct access to both the MRT (Metro) and BTS (SkyTrain).
Navigating Bangkok can be challenging, but using these transit systems to their fullest can save you valuable time.
You can take the BTS to easily reach other popular areas along Sukhumvit Road, but you can also travel quite quickly to the major attractions of the city, although not all highlights have direct access to the BTS.
Night markets are easily reachable from this part of the city and there are many great restaurants, cafes, bars, and shopping malls to discover.
During the sunset, it’s highly recommended to grab a cocktail at one of the many rooftop bars here.
After a full day of sightseeing, you can also enjoy a relaxing massage at one of the many parlors nearby.
Additionally, this area offers plenty of good hotels.
Even Nana nowadays has great hotels that cater to regular tourists, and not per se the party-minded traveler. But at Nana, you do find Bangkok’s red light district, though
Out of all the areas along Sukhumvit, Asoke is the best option.
It’s, in my opinion, simply the best base to explore this large city while having all the modern comforts at your doorstep.
If you prefer a somewhat quieter and more family-friendly area, though, have a look at areas like Phoen Chit and Lower Sukhumvit.
2. Phloen Chit & Chit Lom
For high-end hotels and excellent public transport connections, Ploen Chit and Chit Lom are ideal areas for first-time visitors to Bangkok.
Situated in the city center, these neighborhoods are just steps away from Bangkok’s largest and most luxurious shopping malls and are relatively close to key city attractions, making them top-tier options that come with a higher price tag.
Positioned between Siam and Asoke, both major transportation hubs, this area is known as the luxury district of Bangkok, with many newly constructed skyscrapers.
While you won’t find the same authenticity here as in the older parts of Bangkok, you will experience unparalleled luxury.
Some of the world’s top hotel brands have branches in this area, offering exceptional service, comfortable rooms, and rooftop bars with 360-degree panoramic views.
You’ll also have direct access to the BTS, with just one or two stops west to reach Siam, where you can transfer to the Silom Line, and two or three stops east to Asoke, where you can connect to the MRT.
Choose this area if you seek comfort and wish to stay in the modern part of Bangkok, provided your budget allows it.
3. Lower Sukhumvit
There has always been a bit of a debate about what specific areas people refer to when talking about Lower Sukhumvit.
In this article, we refer to all relevant areas on the Sukhumvit BTS Line after Asoke, which include Phrom Phong, Thonglor, Ekkemai, Phra Khanong, and On Nut.
The further you stay from Asoke, the less convenient the area becomes and fewer things are there to discover.
So why do we still recommend Lower Sukhumvit?
Lower Sukhumvit has seen rapid development in recent years and offers some of the best value for money when it comes to hotels.
Accommodation here is often much cheaper than in other parts of the city, and many of the hotels are relatively new.
The only downside is that you’ll have to travel a bit further compared to other recommended areas.
How much further? If you’re staying in On Nut, for example, you might only add an extra ten to fifteen minutes to your BTS ride.
If you’re willing to travel a bit further, then this is a good option.
In areas like Thonglor and Ekkemai, you can find a great nightlife scene that caters to mostly Thai.
Areas like Phra Khanong and On Nut can get a bit dull, though.
That makes it actually perfect for families.
If you’re traveling as a family or a couple and are comfortable using public transport in new cities, this might be the best option for you—saving you quite a bit of money.
Getting around Bangkok: Bangkok traffic is chaotic. Avoid a taxi, bus, or motorbike as much as possible.
Travel as much as possible by BTS (SkyTrain) or MRT (metro). That’s why it’s essential to book a hotel with good access to a station, which will save you a lot of time.
In the old part of Bangkok, the BTS or MRT are not always available to you. Always choose a metered taxi and never take the tuk-tuk.
Although tourists think this is a normal way to travel, you always get ripped off and it’s far from a comfortable ride compared to an air-conditioned taxi.
If you’re staying near the river or near Siam, take the taxi boat or ferry. This way of traveling is often overlooked by novice travelers, but it’s a pretty fun and comfortable way to travel from the modern part of Bangkok to the older part.
Finally, there’s a dedicated BTS line from Suvarnabhumi Airport to the city called the Airport Rail Link. In many cases, this is the quickest way to get to or from the airport.
4. Riverside
Riverside is often seen as the perfect area for families and couples who prefer a quieter stay in Bangkok.
This part of the city is known for its impressive high-rise buildings, with many hotels offering accommodations in these towering skyscrapers.
The elevation not only provides stunning views but also helps minimize the noise that typically characterizes Bangkok.
In terms of location, you’re closer to some of the city’s main attractions, but you may not have direct access to the BTS or MRT.
To compensate, many hotels offer complimentary tuk-tuk services to the nearest station.
Nightlife in Riverside is minimal, with only a few rooftop bars, which is part of its appeal.
After a day spent exploring the city’s highlights in the heat, returning to a peaceful, comfortable hotel is a real luxury.
Being near the river, I highly recommend using the ferry or boat taxis for transportation.
This allows you to easily reach the pier and cross the river, which is simpler than it might seem.
Wat Arun and ICONSIAM, Southeast Asia’s largest shopping mall, are two must-visit spots nearby.
You’re also just a short trip away from Chinatown, which is right around the corner.
One downside is that getting to Riverside from Suvarnabhumi Airport can be a bit challenging.
Unlike Sukhumvit, Riverside lacks a convenient airport connection, so you’ll likely need to take a taxi, with the potential for traffic jams.
That said, Riverside remains one of Bangkok’s most popular districts and offers a contrasting experience to the bustling Sukhumvit area.
5. Khao San Road & Rambutri Road
Simply put, most first-time travelers in their twenties choose this area in Bangkok for several reasons. Firstly, this popular street offers a wide range of affordable accommodations and is conveniently close to Khao San Road, the go-to spot for backpackers looking to party and meet fellow travelers.
Secondly, the area is situated in the historic part of Bangkok, where you can explore major attractions like The Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun.
Lastly, this part of the city is home to several renowned local eateries that have been serving authentic Thai dishes for decades, with recipes often passed down through generations.
While the area lacks direct access to public transport, which is an important consideration when deciding where to stay in Bangkok, the MRT Line extension in 2020 brought a station closer to the Grand Palace.
However, Rambutri Road itself still doesn’t have direct public transport links, aside from the iconic, though less convenient, boat services.
Being in this older part of Bangkok offers an unbeatable sense of authenticity.
Nearby areas like Chinatown (Yaowarat) and Talad Noi (the oldest part of Bangkok) are within easy reach, where you’ll find some of the city’s most authentic Thai restaurants, including the world-famous Pad Thai Thip Samai and the Michelin-starred Jay Fai—surprisingly, these two culinary hotspots are practically neighbors.
Khao San Road may not appeal to everyone, particularly those who prefer comfort and luxury.
However, it’s a great starting point for first-time visitors to Bangkok. If you fit the profile of a young traveler eager to experience vibrant nightlife, this area might be perfect for you.
If late-night parties aren’t your thing, don’t worry—there are plenty of other great options in Bangkok to suit your preferences.
6. Silom
While Silom may not offer the spectacular river views of the Riverside area and is far from quiet, it remains one of the top areas to stay in Bangkok for first-time visitors and many other types of travelers.
Silom is primarily a business district, but its excellent public transport connections make it a highly convenient location.
The area is also close to key attractions like Lumphini Park, Chinatown, and now more recently, The Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Wat Arun, Skywalk Mahanakhorn, and many others.
This is a significant advantage that it has over Sukhumvit.
Additionally, Silom boasts several of Bangkok’s best rooftop bars, making it a great spot for couples. However, most of the city’s nightlife is centered in other areas.
For this reason, Silom is generally more suited to families and couples.
While the famous Patpong area is located here, it has lost much of its former appeal and now mainly caters to LGBT nightlife, attracting a different crowd.
The only major drawback is that Silom is quite far from Suvarnabhumi Airport.
Getting to Silom is a bit of a hassle when you compare that to Sukhumvit.
Also, Sukhumvit is more modern and comes with more comfort, while Silom feels a bit more outdated yet authentic.
If you prioritize a great location over comfort – Silom is far from being inconvenient and uncomfortable – then this is an excellent option.
It’s just that Sukhumvit is a more bustling area compared to Silom.
Some things you need to know about Bangkok:
- You won’t find street food everywhere like you used to. Nowadays you can find street food mostly at night markets like Jodd Fairs and Srinakarin.
- While most of the sights can be found in the old part of Bangkok, the modern parts of the city are much more fun to explore at night.
- It’s fun to visit neighborhoods like Chinatown at night, but the chaos in the neighborhood makes spending the night there for a few days hell.
- Shopping mall restaurants are usually the best option in terms of hygiene. Local restaurants offer more authentic food, but it can also make you sick quickly.
- Visit rooftop bars like Octave during sunset. They often have good deals during this Happy Hour and you get a fantastic view.
- Buying a one-day ticket for the BTS is the cheapest option. This card doesn’t work for the MRT because they are different companies.
- Visit popular places like the Grand Palace as early as possible to avoid the crowds.
7. Siam
8. Chinatown
Chinatown is a distinctive and historic area in Bangkok, situated in the city’s oldest quarters.
Its merchants were among the first settlers in Bangkok, and Thai-Chinese citizens continued to play a significant role in the city’s cultural fabric.
This area is renowned for its vibrant street food scene and rich cultural and historical heritage. Even if you don’t choose to stay in Chinatown, it’s likely you’ll visit at least once to experience its lively atmosphere and diverse food offerings.
However, be prepared for the chaos, fumes, and noise typical of Yaowarat, Bangkok’s Chinatown. Not all travelers will enjoy this bustling environment.
If you’re an experienced traveler in Southeast Asia, you’ll likely appreciate the unique charm of Chinatown. Its narrow alleys are home to hidden bars and cafes that offer a distinctive experience unmatched by other areas.
Chinatown also boasts its own unique nightlife scene. However, if you prefer comfort, and luxury accommodations, or are traveling with family, Chinatown might not be the ideal choice.
In recent years, Chinatown has gained its own MRT Station, providing convenient access to important parts of the city. It’s worth noting, though, that it lacks a direct BTS connection.
Located near the river, Chinatown is also close to major attractions like The Grand Palace and Wat Arun. Additionally, you can catch a boat taxi from the pier to popular spots like Khao San Road.
If you’re looking for a unique experience and are up for a street food adventure, Chinatown could be the perfect choice for you!
9. Pratunam
Pratunam, located near Phaya Thai BTS Station and Siam, deserves special mention in this article.
Home to the iconic Baiyoke Tower, Pratunam also features Ratchaprarop BTS Station, which is part of the Airport Rail Link connecting Suvarnabhumi Airport with the city center.
Known for its vibrant shopping scene, Pratunam offers excellent access to several major shopping malls and the popular Pratunam Night Market.
In contrast to the modernity of Siam, Pratunam provides a more authentic experience while remaining centrally located.
You also have direct access to water taxis, allowing you to explore Bangkok’s canals and visit older parts of the city, including Wat Saket.
From Pratunam, you can easily reach popular attractions like Wat Pho and the Grand Palace.
Although there’s no significant nightlife area in Pratunam, you can take the BTS to vibrant spots such as Nana, Asoke, and Thonglor. Pratunam offers an authentic alternative to the modern vibe of Siam, making it a great choice for those looking to blend shopping with a more traditional experience.
Both areas are highly popular among shopaholics.
10. Khlong San
Khlong San is situated on the west side of the Chao Phraya River, home to several high-end hotels and the iconic shopping mall, ICONSIAM.
While this area is across the river from the Riverside neighborhood, it offers equally stunning riverside views and a more authentic atmosphere.
On this side of the river, you’ll also find the renowned Wat Arun.
Khlong San is served by Krung Thon Buri BTS Station, which provides access to the city center. However, the most convenient way to explore popular parts of Bangkok is by taking the ferry.
A ferry ride to Rajinee will bring you close to Sanam Chai MRT Station, which connects you to various city corners. However, staying near the BTS line itself, such as in Sukhumvit or Silom, offers more direct access to transit.
So why consider staying in Khlong San?
It offers a unique riverside experience with impressive, luxury accommodations. Taking the ferry allows easy access to Bangkok’s historic areas and major attractions.
While Khlong San lacks a vibrant nightlife scene, many hotels here feature rooftop bars with spectacular riverside views, making it a serene yet stylish option for your stay.
Overview of the best areas to stay in Bangkok
- Asoke & Nana: Asoke is a major transportation hub in the heart of the city, making it incredibly easy to move around and visit the highlights of the city as well as several bustling areas. Nana is a nightlife area and is home to a red-light district. If you want to avoid this part of Bangkok, simply choose a hotel at Asoke instead of Nana. Nowadays, many new hotels open up along Nana and cater to a different crowd than the red light district’s clientele, though.
- Phloen Chit & Chit Lom: This is the upscale part of Sukhumvit, ideal for those seeking a special experience. You have great access to the BTS as well as several upscale shopping malls. Some of the top brands in the hotel industry are located here. If your budget allows it, it’s one of the best options you have.
- Lower Sukhumvit: Lower Sukhumvit offers hotels that offer value for money. You can easily find a family-friendly room that doesn’t cost an arm and a leg. The downside is that you’re located further away from the bustling heart of the city and in the evening, this area is quite dull. You always need to take the BTS to reach the highlights, as well as more interesting areas.
- Riverside: If you’re traveling as a family and you want to stay in a quieter area with convenient access to the city’s highlights, this is the best option you have. Keep in mind that you don’t have direct access to the BTS or the MRT, but most hotels offer free tuk-tuk rides to the nearest station. Many hotels are located in high-rise buildings, meaning that it’s easily possible to have a hotel room with spectacular riverside views.
- Khao San Road & Rambutri Road: Khao San Road is the backpacker’s epicenter of Southeast Asia and if you’re a young traveler, you want to stay as close as possible to this legendary road. Every evening, the road transforms into one giant street party. If you want to stay close to Khao San Road, but in a quieter area, look for accommodation along Rambutri Road.
- Silom: There are many similarities between Silom and Sukhumvit. Sukhumvit is more modern and offers a better nightlife experience. Silom has a better location to visit the major attractions of the city. Both have excellent access to both the MRT and the BTS.
- Siam: This is the shopping epicenter of Bangkok with many shopping malls to discover. It’s also the area where you have access to both BTS Lines. That means this area does get crowded during the day. It’s definitely not an authentic area and it feels quite commercialized. But it’s sure very convenient!
- Chinatown: Chinatown is one of the main attractions of the city and this chaotic area offers some of the best street food in the city. It’s definitely not an area for every type of traveller but if you seek a unique urban experience, consider staying here. You can find plenty of hidden gems: not only restaurants but also bars and hotels that are creatively unique.
- Pratunam: This area feels authentic and has good access to both Siam and Sukhumvit. It’s not a first choice for most tourists, but if you want to stay a bit away from mass tourism while still having good access to the important areas of Bangkok, Pratunam is a solid option.
- Khlong San: This area is located on “the opposite side” of the river and you can find a few five-star hotels and apartment complexes here. If you seek a luxury experience away from the masses, have a look at this area.
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About the author
My name is Joost, a travel enthusiast and a true foodie with a deep passion for exploring new places and cultures. Since 2017, I’ve been living abroad, immersing myself in diverse communities and cuisines. I spent four unforgettable years in Southeast Asia, where I fell in love with its vibrant street food, unique history, and beautiful landscapes. Since 2021, I’ve been calling South America home, continuing my journey of discovery and sharing tips to help fellow travelers make the most of their adventures.