8 Best Hotels in Around Bangkok, Thailand

This hotel's contemporary fittings are in contrast to Ayutthaya’s ancient vibes, but the rooms are clean and comfortable with firm beds and nice bathrooms. The Tower Wing has the best rooms, so ask for one there. The suites are really just higher-end versions of the double rooms in the tower. The hotel is not far from Wat Yai Chaimongkhon.

Just a short walk from the temples, this upbeat boutique hotel is another compelling reason to overnight in the ancient capital. While the redbrick exterior mimics the surrounding architecture, things are much more contemporary inside. Guest rooms are decked out in white with polished concrete floors. Try to score one with a river view. Other highlights of the property include an outdoor pool and a riverside deck with stunning views of Wat Phutthai Sawan across the water. 

It's all about nature at this splendid floating resort, near Sai Yok National Park. The buildings are made of teakwood and bamboo, with wooden furniture, though there are modern amenities like fluffy bathrobes and wide-screen televisions. Direct access to the river means that guests can swim, raft, or kayak or just kick back with a book on a private sundeck. 

A refreshingly cool and spacious marble-floor lobby distinguishes this luxury hotel. Newly renovated rooms may not have much local flavor, but they are filled with comfortable modern furnishings. For the best views, choose a room overlooking the river. Because Ayutthaya has few overnight visitors, it is often worthwhile to request a discounted rate, especially for a weekday stay. Rates include a buffet breakfast (a Thai interpretation of an "American breakfast"). The hotel also operates river cruises.

This monkey-themed retreat is the best value in Lopburi, with stylish rooms decorated in a modern Thai style, a generous buffet breakfast, and a good range of facilities including a pleasant pool. One drawback is the inn's distance from the Old City—10 km (6 miles)—but samlors to the sights there are easy enough to arrange.

This warren of six snug teak rooms is one of the most popular lodgings in town, so booking well ahead is essential. The accommodations are so cozily compact that there's no space for en suite bathrooms, although each room has a private one on a lower level. There are nooks everywhere, good for chilling out after you return from touring the temple ruins.

About 3 km (2 miles) northwest of town, the Royal Diamond is one of Phetchaburi's few choices for those seeking a hotel instead of a guesthouse. Many of the nicely furnished rooms overlook Phra Nakhon Khiri Historical Park. The rooms are big and functional, but lack a little character. There are a few decent cafés within walking distance.

There's a lot to love about this humble gem: Ideally located near the Mon Bridge, the lodgings are within easy striking distance of all the top sights in Sangkhlaburi. Rooms are spotless with comfortable beds and little outdoor terraces. Friendly service seals an extraordinarily good value deal.