7 Best Hotels in The Old City, Bangkok

On the riverbank close to Wat Pho, Chakrabongse Villas offers four Thai-themed luxury suites in reconstructed traditional Thai homes, along with four luxury studio apartments, on the grounds of Chakrabongse House, which was built in 1908 for Prince Chakrabongse. Run by his granddaughter, the urban resort is one of the city's most coveted addresses, so book well in advance. 

This century-old shophouse in the historic Samphraeng neighborhood has been lovingly restored by an artistic Thai couple and has three guest rooms. It’s an easy walk to the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and other prime Bangkok sights.

Ideal for travelers seeking an artsy off-the-beaten-track experience, this cute boutique guesthouse is in the old Phra Nakhon district. The owner is an artist and it shows in the colorful hall spaces, the retro-casual rooms' individually painted murals, and the soap-carving, cooking, and sewing classes held for guests. 

This luxurious boutique hotel overlooking the Chao Phraya River is all about elegant modern furnishings, perfect for couples seeking a romantic escape. The two suites with outdoor Jacuzzis are in high demand, and most rooms offer floor-to-ceiling windows and little balconies against the water. There is also a rooftop restaurant with a wide list of cocktails and fancy Thai dishes.

This hotel with four restaurants of its own is situated for exploring Dusit, the Old City, and Chinatown, and it's a short taxi ride from riverside eateries. Gardens flank the tranquil lobby. The rooms are tastefully decorated in subdued colors setting off the dark-wood furnishings, but the bathrooms are on the small side. The main downsides are that the restaurants are merely okay, the hotel is far from Skytrain and subway stations, and come evening the neighborhood is virtually deserted.

Hidden down an alley filled with shophouses, this upcycled building features lovely rooms in modern minimalist style with views of Wat Arun across the river. A rooftop eatery serves a buffet breakfast as well as cocktails and light bites later in the day, making for an excellent breezy reprieve after sightseeing.