Bangkok Riverside Area is one of the best places to stay in Bangkok. In this detailed guide to Bangkok Riverside you will find the essential information about the neighborhood by the river with the most popular attractions and things to do by the Chao Phraya River, transportation, and selection of hotels according to your budget.
Bangkok Riverside Area is found along the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok and the main part of the area for tourists is located roughly between the Rama VIII Bridge and the Krung Thep Bridge.
The Riverside area offers a relaxing atmosphere with spectacular views of the river and is becoming increasingly popular among tourists as it is close to most of the cultural-historical attractions including the iconic Grand Palace, the majestic Wat Phra Kaew, the famed Wat Pho and much more that are a must-see for Bangkok first-time visitors.
There are several luxury hotels, high-rise condominiums, and corporate buildings as well as the iconic shopping malls located on both sides of the river, many of them linked to BTS SkyTrain by private shuttle boat services.
Things to Do in Bangkok Riverside Area
Bangkok Riverside Area is offering many things to do by the Chao Phraya River with places of interest available from day to night, ensuring that you will always find something to do in Bangkok Riverside.
The Grand Palace: A must-visit tourist attraction that is the former royal residence with over 100 luxurious buildings, beautiful courtyards, and neatly kept gardens, built by King Rama 1 in 1782 in the heart of the old city of Bangkok, on the bank of the Chao Phraya River.
Wat Phra Kaew: A popular tourist spot in Bangkok, commonly known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. It is famous for its unique architecture and jade statue of Buddha.
Wat Pho: Often called the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, it houses a reclining Buddha statue, which is up to 47 meters long, 15 meters high, and gilded with gold. Wat Pho is also famous for its authentic traditional Thai massage.
Wat Arun: One of the most beautiful temples in Bangkok, located on the west side of the Chao Phraya River. It is famous for its 80-meter central pagoda, decorated with tiles made of colored Chinese porcelain and many decorative elements.
Chao Phraya River Dinner Cruise: Highly recommended experience to enjoy Bangkok city in a different way. You can spend the night on a dinner cruise and enjoy food and live entertainment on board while admiring views of several historic Bangkok landmarks on the Chao Phraya River. Some of the most popular Bangkok river cruises:
Asiatique the Riverfront: A large open-air mall in Bangkok on the bank of the Chao Phraya River. There are many shops selling souvenirs and decorative products, restaurants and bars, as well as Thailand's largest Ferris wheel, providing a great view of the river and the complex.
ICONSIAM: The famous shopping center next to the Chao Phraya River with hundreds of high-end shops and restaurants, and an indoor floating market, which is perfect for those who want to taste a variety of Thai dishes at affordable prices.
Pak Khlong Talat (Flower Market): The largest wholesale flower market in the city, where you can buy flowers at an inexpensive price, sits on the bank of the Chao Phraya River just south of Wat Pho, near Chinatown.
Muay Thai Fights at Rajadamnern Stadium: A must-try experience at least once when coming to Thailand. Witness exciting Muay Thai fights up close and skilled fighters in action and experience authentic Muay Thai heritage at the birthplace of Muay Thai, where 78 years of heroic battles and timeless legends unfold.
Calypso Cabaret Show: Enjoy a spectacular night of cabaret and get amazed by colorful, flamboyant burlesque performances by Bangkok's talented ladyboys.
The Royal Barges Museum: A museum where the royal barges from the Royal Barge Procession are kept. The most impressive and important boat is the King’s personal barge Suphanahong, which was built in 1911.
Church of Santa Cruz: Catholic church, also known as Kudi Chin, was built in 1770 during the reign of King Taksin, and is located on the bank of the Chao Phraya River on the Thonburi side, next to Wat Kalayanamit.
Holy Rosary Church: Roman Catholic church, also known as Kalawar Church, located on the eastern bank of the Chao Phraya River.
Bang Khun Phrom Palace: A ormer royal residence served as the residence of Prince Paribatra Sukhumbandhu until his forced exile following the Siamese revolution of 1932. The palace is located on Samsen Road, on the east bank of the Chao Phraya River.
Wat Kalayanamit: A second-class royal temple on the bank of the Chao Phraya River. Its main attraction is one of the largest Buddha statues in the country Luangpho To, later renamed Trai Rattanayok by King Rama 4, which measures 16 m high by 12 m wide.
Santichaiprakarn Park: a famous park in Bangkok that overlooks Phra Sumen Fort and the Chao Phraya River, built during the era of King Rama I.
Transportation in Bangkok Riverside Area
The Chao Phraya River flows through Bangkok Riverside, so taking a boat is an easy way for getting around the area and sightseeing. There are different types of boats that can be used for traveling along the river, from Chao Phraya Express Boats, Cross River Ferries to chartered boats. The most important piers to remember are Tha Chang (for the Grand Palace), Tha Tien (for Wat Pho) and Ratchawong (for Chinatown).
Chao Phraya Hop-On-Hop-Off Boat is a convenient and cheap way to explore the places of interest along the magnificent Chao Phraya River. You can choose to board the boat at any of the 9 different piers available and hop on and hop off the boat at whatever pier you desire.
Reaching other Bangkok areas is also not a problem as you can take a boat to the central pier (Sathorn Pier) and transfer to BTS SkyTrain at the nearby Saphan Taksin BTS Station for continuing your trip to the city. Gold Line connects with BTS SkyTrain at Krung Thon Buri station and lets you reach the station that is located directly outside ICONSIAM.
Alternatively, there is MRT Metro Sanam Chai Station in the old town area, close to many attractions such as Pak Khlong Talat (Flower Market), Wat Phra Kaew, Wat Pho, and Museum Siam.
Getting around Bangkok Riverside Area by Bangkok taxi or tuk-tuk is possible and they are available 24/7 but beware of taxi and tuk-tuk drivers in the area as they usually operate on their flat rate and will hardly miss a chance to rip you off.
How to get from Suvarnabhumi Airport to Riverside
By Airport Bus: A direct airport bus S1 from Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) stops at a few places in and around old town close to the Chao Phraya River and costs only 60 THB.
By Train: Airport Rail Link train connects the airport with Phaya Thai station in the city center, where you can transfer to BTS SkyTrain and then take a boat to your destination.
By Private Transfer: Enjoy a premium and hassle-free experience going from Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) to Bangkok Riverside Area with private transfer service. All-inclusive price includes a ride with comfortable seating and ample luggage space.
By Taxi: Taxi ride to the Riverside area, somewhere near Sathorn Pier, takes approximately 1 hour.
Explore Bangkok right away by booking Bangkok Airport luggage delivery to send your luggage from the airport to your accommodation within the city.
How to get from Don Muang Airport to Riverside
By Airport Bus: A direct bus A4 from Don Mueang Airport (DMK) stops close to the Riverside area at Sanam Luang, north of Grand Palace. Bus costs only 50 THB.
By Private Transfer: Travel in style and comfort with a convenient airport transfer from Don Mueang Airport to Bangkok Riverside Area.
By Taxi: Taxi ride to the Riverside area, somewhere near Sathorn Pier, takes approximately 45 minutes – 1 hour, depending on the traffic.
Places to Stay in Bangkok Riverside Area
When it comes to finding a place to stay in Bangkok Riverside Area, you will have quite a limited number of accommodations to choose from, mostly high-end hotels with stunning views of the river. Most of luxury hotels have a private dock offering its own shuttle boat.
Some of the best Bangkok Riverside hotels are listed below.
Budget-Friendly Hotels in Bangkok Riverside
Ibis Bangkok Riverside: Vibrant 3-star Bangkok Riverside hotel, located next to the Chao Phraya River and close to the lifestyle venue, Asiatique. Guests are just a short shuttle ride away from BTS SkyTrain and river taxis to Asiatique, Wat Arun and Grand Palace.
Kaloang home: Real traditional Thai living lifestyle place, which has been preserved until the present day on the Chao Phraya River. There is a well-known Kaloang riverside restaurant that is popular among Thais and foreigners for more than 30 years.
Amdaeng Bangkok Riverside Hotel: Beautiful boutique hotel, created to worship the beauty of the past. With its location in the most beautiful curve of the Chao Phraya River, the hotel ensures that all guests can enjoy stunning river views.
Mid-Range Hotels in Bangkok Riverside
Riva Surya Bangkok: Luxurious 4-star urban oasis along the bank of the Chao Phraya River, which offers a touch of style and charm. This modern boutique hotel in Bangkok provides a lavish experience and true Thai hospitality, along with 68 beautifully designed rooms, elegant dining options, riverside swimming pool and leisure facilities.
The Quarter Chaophraya: 4-star hotel offering modern accommodation in the heart of Chao Phraya River and Klong San district. A few steps away from BTS Gold Line Khlong San station, the hotel is only one stop from an award-wining mall, ICONSIAM.
Aurum The River Place: Compact-sized boutique hotel on the bank of the Chao Phraya River, within a short walking distance to Grand Palace and Wat Pho. It has all the conveniences and comforts you can expect.
Praya Palazzo Hotel: Boutique hotel formerly an Italian-style mansion providing tailor-made holiday experiences. The hotel is only accessible by own private barge, taking you from the pier to Phra Arthit Pier, across the Chao Phraya River.
Sala Rattanakosin Bangkok: 4-star boutique riverside hotel overseeing the beautiful Bangkok old city, located just 4-minute walk from the reclining Buddha of Wat Pho and a 7-minute walk from the Grand Palace.
Luxury Hotels in Bangkok Riverside
Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River: Luxury hotel offering luxe accommodations, inventive cuisine and sweeping views of the Chao Phraya River. The hotel ranked #3 on The World’s 50 Best Hotels List 2023.
The Peninsula Bangkok: Luxurious riverside hotel near shopping districts, with every 5-star room featuring sweeping views of the Chao Phraya River. There are 3 chic restaurants, 2 bars, a luxe spa and a gym, plus a 3-tiered outdoor pool with river views.
Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel: Luxurious 5-star hotel located along the Chao Phraya River, offering the finest contemporary Thai style decoration with stunning river views of the Chao Phraya River. Free shuttle boat to ICONSIAM and Sathorn pier is available.
Shangri-La Hotel Bangkok: Luxury 5-star hotel, nestled along the largest riverfront setting. The hotel's spacious lobby, luxurious rooms and suites, which offer a mix of traditional Thai style and modern comfort, and spacious balconies create a memorable “home away from home” experience.
Chakrabongse Villas: Former royal residence located by the Chao Phraya River offering stunning views of Wat Arun from luxurious Thai-style suites. This luxury boutique hotel is a short walk to the Grand Palace.
Other Bangkok Riverside Accommodations
For more of the best Bangkok Riverside accommodations check 25 Best Riverside Hotels in Bangkok.
Other great accommodations on the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok can be found here: Best Hotels near Chao Phraya River.
Tips for a stay in Bangkok Riverside Area
Bangkok Riverside area is perfect for first-time travelers coming to Bangkok as you will be near multiple temples and historical sites.
The riverside is undoubtedly the most charming and romantic area of Bangkok so it is also ideal for couples who are looking for peace and quiet from the hustle and bustle of the city to enjoy the leisure time in an extra special way with panoramic river views.
For families with kids, there are more options in Siam, Silom, or Sukhumvit. These areas are more modern with family-friendly atmosphere and definitely a lot more kid-friendly attractions than you can find at the Riverside.
Stay connect with your loved one during a stay in Thailand, get the Tourist SIM Card which is offering generous data with affordable packages.
Popular Day Tours in Bangkok Riverside Area
Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun Guided Tour: Discover Bangkok’s history and culture as you explore the world-famous Grand Palace complex and the Wat Phra Kaew, as well as Wat Pho and Wat Arun with a professional guide.
Bangkok's Best Eats Midnight Food Tour by Tuk Tuk: Immerse yourself in Thailand's unique culinary heritage by joining the four-hour food tour in Bangkok. You will visit famous local food places such as a North Eastern Thai restaurant, a Michelin-recommended restaurant, Pak Klong Talad, and "Secret Bar" on a rooftop via the iconic Tuk Tuk.
Thai Bus Food Tour Experience in Bangkok: Experience a Michelin-starred dining experience on the first food bus in Thailand. You will enjoy 4 exclusive menu choices and see Bangkok city’s iconic landmarks around Rattanakosin area without having to leave your seat.
Other Bangkok Areas
Planning a trip to Thailand and wondering where to stay in Bangkok? To make your visit in the capital city easier, find the guide to the best Bangkok areas and choose accommodation according to your preferences and trip plan.
Detailed guides to other popular Bangkok areas:
