Bangkok is often referred to as the city that never sleeps, evident from its vibrant nightlife and bustling city skylines, where endless street vendors offer delicious bites for foodies at any time of day. Across the city, the enchanting Bangkok riverside presents a mesmerising tapestry of sights that captivate the soul. The Chao Phraya River, often hailed as the heart and soul of Bangkok, winds its way through the city, adorned with magnificent temples, lively markets, and a juxtaposition of modern skyscrapers against historic landmarks.
This iconic waterway isn't just a river; it mirrors Bangkok's rich heritage and vibrant culture. Day or night, the skyline along the Chao Phraya River enchants, illuminating the waters with a myriad of colours, echoing the vivacity of Thailand's capital.
Planning your next escape to Bangkok? We’ve selected the best places for you to bask in the sun by the pool while immersing yourself in the elegance of riverside living. Each moment becomes a picturesque memory against the backdrop of Bangkok's dynamic riverscape.
RELATED: Bangkok's Best Riverside Restaurants
The sleek design of the Four Seasons in Bangkok. (© Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River)
Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River
Style: Modern designAtmosphere: Lively
Bangkok is renowned for its opulent hotels, and the Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River stands out among them. Architect Jean-Michel Gathy deliberately chose a mid-rise design, surrounded by lush gardens and pools, preserving the scenic riverside setting. The hotel's interior design embodies contemporary elegance, adorned with Thai art in public spaces. Rooms, starting at 50 square meters, boast minimalist luxury, with upgraded options offering stunning river views. This lavish experience extends with diverse dining options, including a fabulous Cantonese restaurant, ensuring a complete luxury hotel experience.
The iconic Mandarin Oriental Bangkok. (© Mandarin Oriental Bangkok)
Mandarin Oriental Bangkok
Style: Contemporary classicAtmosphere: Lively
Bangkok's Mandarin Oriental is contentious, labelled both overrated and exceptional worldwide. Revered for its colonial legacy, it hosted iconic writers and celebrities like Joseph Conrad, Graham Greene, and W Somerset Maugham, alongside Grace Kelly and Elizabeth Taylor. The original building exudes nostalgia, adorned with intricate details and scents of tropical flowers, near the scenic Chao Praya River.
The historic structure, smaller than the modern addition, offers standard rooms, overshadowed by a nearby commercial arcade, compromising the romantic atmosphere. Yet, the terrace breakfast remains a Bangkok essential. The Thai restaurant, accessed by ferry, evokes sentimentality with thoughtful touches and excellent service. The unhip piano bar, featuring writer-themed cocktails, enhances the literary experience amid the city's vivid nightlife.
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Care for a dip in the pool? (© The Peninsula Bangkok)
The Peninsula Bangkok
Style: Contemporary classicAtmosphere: Lively
The Peninsula stands as an exceptional hotel, elevated by its riverside locale along the river. Boasting panoramic river-to-skyline vistas from all 370 rooms, it offers respite amidst a chaotic city. Beyond prime real estate, it epitomises Southeast Asian luxury hospitality. Rooms blend contemporary tech, spacious layouts, and rich teak and silk accents. The spa, in a colonial-style building, features diverse therapies and en-suite jacuzzis. Three restaurants serve Thai delicacies and Cantonese cuisine, while the lobby hosts live music and afternoon tea. The hotel provides various transport options, including green tuk-tuks, Rolls Royces, and even rice barges.
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The Siam's pool designed by Bill Bensley. (© The Siam)
The Siam
Style: Contemporary classicAtmosphere: Quiet
Among Bangkok's impressive luxury hotels, the Siam Hotel stands out for its intimate, exclusive setting on the Chao Praya riverbank. This family-owned boutique, designed by the larger-than-life Bill Bensley, boasts 39 suites and villas, a venture by the musical Sukosol family with a deep-rooted history in hospitality. Embracing Bangkok's Art Deco era, the hotel showcases vintage furniture and colonial references, departing from minimalist trends for rich, textured interiors. The lavish suites, starting at 80 square meters, offer opulent amenities, including butler service. While slightly secluded, the hotel provides a serene riverside escape, accessible via their riverboat, featuring bars, restaurants, an Opium Spa, and even a Muay Thai gym.
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The modern design of Capella Bangkok. (© Capella Bangkok)
Capella Bangkok
Style: Modern designAtmosphere: Lively
Capella Bangkok defies the typical city hotel vibe by nestling riverside, offering a serene escape from urban bustle. Its 101 rooms, suites, and villas blend urban chic with resort comfort, some boasting stunning views overlooking the magnificent river of the Thai capital. The hotel's Auriga spa elevates Thai wellness, while dining options feature the local flavours of Phra Nakhon and a MICHELIN Star French Riviera concept crafted by acclaimed chef Mauro Colagreco.
For bookings, contact our team due to additional guest information requirements.
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