Bangkok, often referred to as the “Venice of the East,” is a city where the Chao Phraya River serves as its lifeblood, winding through its heart and offering a unique vantage point to experience the city’s vibrant culture and history. Staying at one of the city’s riverside hotels not only provides stunning panoramic views but also immerses guests in the dynamic energy that flows along the riverbanks.
From the timeless elegance of the Shangri-La Bangkok to the modern sophistication of the Millennium Hilton, these hotels offer unparalleled access to Bangkok’s rich tapestry of sights and sounds. Whether you’re watching the sunset over the water from a rooftop bar or taking a leisurely boat ride to explore nearby attractions, these riverside accommodations blend luxury with authentic local experiences, making them ideal choices for travelers seeking both comfort and adventure.
A Note on Luxury Bookings
While many of these riverside hotels epitomize luxury, we’ve curated a separate list highlighting Bangkok’s premier luxury accommodations for those seeking a more indulgent experience. If you’re considering booking a luxury stay, it’s best to engage a Virtuoso travel advisor. They can provide exclusive VIP perks, upgrades, and personalized services that elevate your visit to exceptional heights.
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The Chao Phraya river lends itself to some amazing sightseeing in “the Venice of the East.” Here are 5 amazing Bangkok Hotels on the river.
Millenium Hilton Bangkok
While the Mandarin Oriental, Shangri-La and Peninsula might get most of the attention along the river’s edge, those properties have history in Bangkok but are not as new and modern as the Millenium Hilton Bangkok.
A 360-degree restaurant overlooks the city and provides an amazing view of the river. The hotel’s swimming pool offers even better views at night, and lounging chairs at the outdoor pool offer the perfect start to a balmy Bangkok morning.
The hotel is walking distance (just a few minutes next door) to the ICONSIAM, the city’s newest and largest mall. For further convenience, the hotel has a private water taxi that runs to the Grand Palace every 20 minutes. As a member of the Hilton Honors program, members can earn and burn Honors points for their stay at the Millenium Hilton.
Shangri-La Bangkok
On the banks of the Chao Phayra river, Shangri-La Bangkok is now opposite the newest and most significant shopping mall in a city filled with them. ICONSIAM across the river is just one added addition to this timeless property.
Luxury hotel accommodations with good access to public transport and a stunning river view are just some of the reasons this property is among Bangkok’s finest. The Shangri-la is adjacent to a dock for Bangkok’s water taxi metro system. It’s also near the BTS (Bangkok’s elevated metro system) and the MRT (subway) for maximum connectivity to anywhere and everywhere in the city.
Peninsula Bangkok
Known throughout the world for stunning luxury, the Peninsula Bangkok lives up to that reputation. From its terrace suites to the extravagant two-floor duplex suites, the Peninsula will wow and excite even the most discerning tastes.
On the edge of the river, it provides a connection to what makes Bangkok great, from river rides to street food, guests can take in the entire experience of “The Big Mango.” There’s no question that the Peninsula offers cultured seclusion in its refined and elegant environment.
The hotel is home to three exquisite restaurants, each with a different theme. Mei Jiang offers Cantonese-style Chinese dining, Thiptara serves traditional Thai food in an outdoor setting amongst pagodas. The River Cafe & Terrace focuses on international cuisine with stunning views of the Chao Phraya river.
Chakrabongse Villas & Residences
The rest of the hotels we have listed along the river are all huge properties from big brands. But the Chakrabongse Villas and Residences has something that no other property on this list can claim, a royal heritage. Originally, the boutique hotel was built as a royal retreat for Prince Chakrabongse away from the palace.
If a guest is looking for Bangkok as it was at the turn of the 20th century, this is the property to book. Hidden away by deep green foliage, this teak oasis gives guests the sense that they too are royalty taking in the temples and business of the river boats that pass. The hotel offers something no other property in Bangkok can, a sense of quiet and introspection in one of the busiest cities in the world.
Chakrabongse will leave something to be desired for those that are seeking a global hotel experience. It’s not part of a massive international chain, some creature comforts may be lacking from other hotels but what it lacks in global homogeneity it makes up for in exclusive personality.
Lebua at State Tower
One of the most iconic hotels in Bangkok is Lebua at State Tower. Climbing 68 stories above the river, the hotel has some of the best views of the city and one of the most iconic restaurants and bars in all of Bangkok. So much so, that it was featured in the movie, the Hangover 3.
The restaurant and cocktail bar, Sirocco, is open-air at 63 floors above the ground and home to the world’s highest New Year’s Eve ball drop – the rooftop bar is reason enough to stay at the hotel for priority reservations. Mezzaluna, the hotel’s rooftop restaurant holds two Michelin stars making it one of the best in the world.
Great views of Bangkok extend to guest rooms, each of which feature a balcony. Wat Pho, one the city’s essential temples is a short tuk tuk ride away.
The rooms are not the most luxurious in the city, but they do offer a guaranteed excellent view, and access to some of the most exclusive bars and restaurants in Southeast Asia.
5 Amazing Bangkok Hotels on the River
Focusing on just 5 amazing Bangkok hotels on the river is a significant challenge because there truly are so many exceptional properties. Many could have easily made this list, but didn’t for one reason or another.
What is your favorite on this list and if there’s one you prefer that’s not on this list – what property do you prefer?
You don’t list it but I’m a fan of the Royal Orchid Sheraton. It’s definitely faded from its best days but still has some glamour going on. The club lounge is solid. The two swimming pools are nice, particularly the one with the wandering peacocks. Upgrades are comparatively easy. Breakfast is impressive. And you can walk to cheap laundry and tasty street food.
Great pick! The Royal Orchid Sheraton definitely has a storied past. When it opened in the early 1980s, it helped set the standard for luxury along the Chao Phraya River. Interestingly, the peacocks are believed to originate from the neighboring Portuguese Embassy. They frequently venture into the hotel’s gardens