Where to stay around Khao San Road 2024 - A local's guide
If you’re already considering Khao San Road (KSR) as the best area to stay, you probably know why it’s such a magnet for young travelers. It’s the ultimate hotspot for backpackers and party-goers, attracting not just international visitors but also young locals who flock here to enjoy the lively nightlife.
Given its popularity, Khao San Road is packed with accommodation options in every style and budget, and the surrounding areas offer even more choices, each with its own distinct benefits. That’s what this guide aims to cover—a complete overview of the best areas to stay around Khao San Road.
One crucial point to consider is transportation. While Khao San Road is a popular destination, it’s not as convenient as other parts of the city when it comes to public transport. However, there are ways to get around efficiently, and by making the most of Bangkok’s often-overlooked water transport, you can save both time and money. I will dive into that along the recommendations.
In summary: The best areas to stay at Khao San Road are Khao San Road & Ram Buttri Road, Khao San Road’s Riverside, Thanon Samsen, Rattanakosin, and ThaThien area.
When deciding where to stay near Khao San Road, you have several options, each with its own vibe and benefits:
Khao San Road & Ram Buttri Road – These are at the heart of the action. The streets are bustling with energy, offering plenty of cheap accommodations. However, expect noise late into the night from the parties, which can be a downside if you’re looking for peace and quiet.
Khao San Road’s Riverside – A quieter and more upscale alternative that’s still close to the lively Khao San Road scene. You can enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere while being just steps away from the action.
Thanon Samsen – Just a ten-minute walk from Khao San Road, this area offers a quieter stay with many affordable hostels. It’s perfect for budget travelers who want to avoid the noise of the party streets.
Rattanakosin (Bangkok’s Old Town) – Known for its historic charm, Rattanakosin is home to royal buildings, temples, and canals. There’s no nightlife here, making it ideal for couples seeking a boutique hotel and an authentic Bangkok experience.
Tha Tien Area – Situated near Wat Pho, this peaceful area offers easy access to the pier, allowing you to quickly reach Khao San Road, Wat Arun, and Chinatown. It’s great for couples who want to stay in a quieter, older part of the city while still having access to Khao San Road for a night out.
As you can see, each area offers something different, so your choice will depend on whether you prioritize being in the middle of the action, budget accommodations, or a quieter, more scenic stay.
You can easily navigate to each neighborhood by tapping the link. Or go straight to the overview of the best areas to stay in Khao San Road.
1. Khao San Road & Ram Buttri Road
Getting around Bangkok from Khao San Road: Getting around Bangkok from Khao San Road can be a bit challenging due to the limited public transport options directly in the area. Here’s a practical guide on how to navigate the city efficiently:
MRT at Wat Pho: The nearest MRT station to Khao San Road is near Wat Pho, but it’s not within walking distance. You can take a taxi or tuk-tuk to get there, or use a local bus to cover the distance.
BTS at Phaya Thai: The BTS SkyTrain doesn’t reach Khao San Road directly. The closest station is Phaya Thai, which is also not within walking distance. You’ll need a taxi or bus to get there. Once at Phaya Thai, you can use the SkyTrain to explore the city.
Ferries and Water Taxis: Utilize the Chao Phraya Express Boat for a scenic and effective way to travel:
– Phra Arthit Pier: This is the closest pier to Khao San Road and connects you to major spots like Wat Pho, Chinatown, Wat Arun, and Saphan Taksin.
– Wat Saket Pier: Offers connections to Siam, where you can transfer to the BTS SkyTrain.
By using these options, you can efficiently explore Bangkok while staying near the vibrant Khao San Road area. I cannot stress this enough, but using the waterways is a very convenient way to explore Bangkok, and is always overlooked by tourists.
2. Khao San Road's Riverside
This area extends from Phra Sumen Fort to Tha Phra Chan, offering a more upscale and serene alternative to staying directly on Khao San Road.
For Who: Ideal for those seeking a bit more comfort and tranquility, such as couples or travelers who prefer a quieter environment while still being close to the action.
Advantages:
- Comfortable Accommodation: The hotels here tend to be more upscale, providing a more comfortable and pleasant stay compared to the noise and chaos of Khao San Road.
- Proximity to Khao San Road: Still within walking distance, so you can easily access the vibrant nightlife and attractions of Khao San Road without being overwhelmed by its noise.
- Direct Access to Water Transport: Convenient access to ferries, water taxis, and the Chao Praya Express Boat, which makes exploring other parts of the city and traveling along the river very easy.
Disadvantages:
- Higher Prices: Generally more expensive than other areas closer to Khao San Road.
- Lack of BTS/MRT Access: No direct access to the BTS SkyTrain or MRT Metro, so you’ll need to rely on water transport, taxis, or tuk-tuks for getting around.
Overall, Khao San Road’s Riverside offers a good balance of comfort and convenience, especially if you want to be near Khao San Road but prefer a quieter and more upscale environment.
3. Thanon Samsen
4. Rattanakosin
Rattanakosin, Bangkok’s Old Town, is renowned for its historical significance and vibrant food scene. The area features stunning historical buildings and is close to some of the city’s most famous eateries. From here, it’s super easy to visit Bangkok’s major attractions.
For Who: Food enthusiasts and couples who love to explore Bangkok’s rich culinary scene and enjoy historical attractions while being close to Khao San Road for nightlife.
Advantages:
- Historical Charm: The area is rich in history with many beautiful buildings and landmarks to explore. Walking around is a delightful experience.
- Exceptional Food Scene: Rattanakosin is home to legendary restaurants like Thip Samai (famous for Pad Thai), Jay Fai (Michelin-starred), Tee Yen Ta Fo, Nattapon Coconut Ice Cream, and Krua Apsorn. It offers arguably the best food scene in Bangkok.
- Proximity to Wat Saket: Near the famous temple on a hill, offering panoramic views, especially at sunset. Good access to water transport is also available from here.
Disadvantages:
- Evening Atmosphere: The area can be quite dull in the evening. For nightlife and evening activities, you’ll need to venture to nearby Khao San Road.
5. Tha Tien Area
For Who: those looking to prioritize sightseeing, with easy access to key cultural landmarks and transportation options, rather than staying close to nightlife and social scenes.
Overview of the best areas to stay in Khao San Road
Khao San Road & Ram Buttri Road: Perfect for those who want to immerse themselves in the vibrant nightlife. Ram Buttri is slightly quieter, so it’s a good alternative if you want to avoid the noise while still being close to the action.
Khao San Road’s Riverside: A more comfortable and calm area, ideal for travelers seeking a bit of luxury. However, it’s generally more expensive compared to other nearby areas.
Thanon Samsen: Located north of Khao San Road, this area offers budget-friendly accommodations without the noise of the nightlife. You’ll find many hostels and budget hotels, along with plenty of fellow travelers.
Rattanakosin: Bangkok’s Old Town, rich in history with several key attractions nearby. It’s a foodie’s paradise but lacks nightlife. For an evening out, you’ll need to head over to Khao San Road.
Tha Thien Area: Situated near the Grand Palace and Wat Pho, this riverside area offers easy access to both ferries and an MRT station, making it perfect for exploring the city while staying a bit further from the Khao San Road chaos.
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