Bangkok‘s Chao Phraya River has some of the city’s most impressive accommodations. For travelers seeking a memorable stay, these riverside hotels offer a perfect blend of luxury, culture, and stunning views. Here’s a curated list of the 10 best hotels in Bangkok that promise an unforgettable experience.
1. Mandarin Oriental Bangkok
Photo from Mandarin Oriental Bangkok website
As you approach the Mandarin Oriental, one of the renowned 5-star hotels in Bangkok city, the colonial-style façade sets the stage for an unforgettable stay. For over 140 years, this esteemed establishment has welcomed royalty, celebrities, and travelers seeking the finest hospitality. As you dine at the two-Michelin-starred Le Normandie restaurant, the Chao Phraya River flows silently by, its waters reflecting the twinkling lights of passing boats. The hotel also provides convenient boat services for city exploration.
Nearby Attraction: Take a short walk to Wat Pho, home of the enormous Reclining Buddha and birthplace of traditional Thai massage.
2. The Peninsula Bangkok
Photo from the Peninsula Bangkok website
The Peninsula‘s distinctive W-shaped silhouette stands proudly on the western bank of the Chao Phraya. Cross the river on the hotel’s private ferry and be greeted by an army of immaculately dressed staff upon arrival, ready to cater to your every whim. Its three-tiered swimming pool offers varied perspectives of the river, while the River Bar is perfect for evening cocktails with a view. For a truly unique experience, consider their helicopter service for a bird’s-eye view of Bangkok.
Nearby Attraction: Visit the nearby Asiatique The Riverfront, a night market and mall housed in a former international trade port.
3. Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort
Photo from Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort website
Nestled in 11 acres of verdant tropical gardens, Anantara Riverside feels more like a secluded island resort than a city hotel. It features a large lagoon-style pool, with the sound of a waterfall nearby providing a soothing soundtrack to your sun-soaked afternoons. The Manohra Cruises offer a unique dinner experience on a beautifully restored rice barge, combining sightseeing with fine dining.
Nearby Attraction: Take a longtail boat to explore the nearby Klong Bang Luang Artist Village, where traditional wooden houses host art workshops and performances.
4. Capella Bangkok
Photo from Capella Bangkok website
Capella Bangkok combines modern design with Thai influences as one of the newer luxury hotels in Bangkok. Floor-to-ceiling windows in every room frame the timeless flow of the Chao Phraya, bringing the outside in. The Verandah, an intimate living room, hosts cultural activities like traditional Thai music performances and tea ceremonies. Here, you can learn the art of fruit carving or try your hand at making pandan leaf garlands. Additionally, Côte by Mauro Colagreco presents a riviera-inspired menu and is a culinary highlight.
Nearby Attraction: Visit the nearby Pak Khlong Talat, Bangkok’s largest flower market, for a riot of colors and fragrances.
5. Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River
Photo from Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok website
The Four Seasons stands out with its art-focused approach, featuring rotating exhibitions and an extensive art collection by Thai and international artists. Its cascading infinity pools create a mesmerizing illusion, appearing to flow directly into the Chao Phraya. At dusk, find a spot at BKK Social Club, where the mixologists craft cocktails inspired by Buenos Aires’ vibrant bar scene.
Nearby Attraction: Take a short boat ride to IconSiam, a luxury mall featuring a replica floating market and stunning river views from its rooftop park.
6. Shangri-La Hotel Bangkok
Photo from Shangri-La Hotel Bangkok website
Shangri-La Hotel is one of the most iconic riverside hotels in Bangkok, renowned for its Thai hospitality and lush indoor garden, setting the tone for the grandeur that awaits. Make your way to CHI, The Spa, and try the “Sense of Place” massage, which uses heated Thai herbal compresses to melt away your stress. For dining, Salathip presents authentic Thai cuisine in a serene setting of traditional teak pavilions. End the night with a glass of champagne at the Horizon Club Lounge with a view of the Chao Phraya.
Nearby Attraction: Take a short walk to the Pak Khlong Talat flower market, where the vibrant colors and fragrant blooms offer a sensory feast.
7. Avani+ Riverside Bangkok Hotel
Photo from Avani+ Riverside Bangkok website
Avani+ Riverside stands out as one of the best luxury stays in Bangkok with its contemporary design and panoramic views of the city skyline. Head to the rooftop infinity pool, where the boundary between water and sky seems to disappear. As evening approaches, grab a drink at SEEN Restaurant & Bar, known for its retro-glam décor and innovative cocktails. Indulge in the “Tom Yum on the Rocks,” a clever liquid interpretation of Thailand’s famous spicy and sour soup.
Nearby Attraction: Take the hotel’s complimentary shuttle boat to the Asiatique night market, where you can shop for local crafts and enjoy street performances.
8. The Siam Hotel
Photo from The Siam Hotel Bangkok website
Located in the royal Dusit district, The Siam feels more like a private estate than a hotel. This boutique hotel along the river features a mix of Art Deco design and Thai cultural elements, such as the black-and-white tiled hallway that takes you back to the 1920s. Unique amenities include a Muay Thai boxing ring and the Opium Spa, which offers traditional Sak Yant tattoos. For ultimate privacy, book one of the pool villas and listen to the gentle lapping of the Chao Phraya in the background.
Nearby Attraction: Visit the nearby Vimanmek Mansion, the world’s largest golden teak building and former royal residence, for a glimpse into Thai royal life.
9. Chatrium Hotel Riverside Bangkok
Photo from Chatrium Riverside Bangkok website
Chatrium Hotel is known for its generously sized rooms and suites with floor-to-ceiling windows, all offering river or city views. The 35th-floor infinity pool provides a stunning backdrop for relaxation with a mesmerizing tableau of ancient temples and modern skyscrapers unfolding before you. Dine at the Silver Waves on the 36th floor, order the Peking duck, expertly carved tableside, and watch the magnificent Bangkok sunset.
Nearby Attraction: Take a short taxi ride to the Sri Maha Mariamman Temple, a colorful Hindu temple that offers a glimpse into Bangkok’s diverse cultural tapestry.
10. Millennium Hilton Bangkok
Photo from Millennium Hotel Bangkok website
The Millennium Hilton stands impressively on the Chao Phraya’s western bank, its 32 stories stretching skyward. Its glass elevator offers spectacular views as guests ascend. To fully unwind, book a session at the hotel’s Eforea Spa and avail of the “Journey of the Senses” treatment, which takes place in a glass-walled room overlooking the river. Cap off the night at the ThreeSixty Lounge, a revolving restaurant on the 32nd floor that offers 360-degree views of the city and river, and sip on a “Siam Sunray” cocktail under the twinkling stars.
Nearby Attraction: Take the hotel’s shuttle boat to the IconSiam shopping center, where you can experience a floating market and enjoy a meal at one of the Michelin-starred restaurants.
Takeaway
Choosing one of these Chao Phraya River hotels allows you to enjoy Bangkok‘s unique perspective from the riverside. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, a base for exploring Bangkok’s wonders, or a luxurious escape, these Bangkok waterfront accommodations cater to all travelers.
Ready to experience the luxury and beauty of Bangkok’s riverside hotels? Make your dream Bangkok riverside hotel stay a reality with OneAir. Sign up for OneAir today and unlock special rates for your Bangkok adventure. From the iconic Mandarin Oriental to the modern Avani+ Riverside, easily find and book your perfect riverside retreat.
*Banner photo by ภาพของSAMART BOONYANG
