Hotels Along Chao Phraya River
The river is the lifeblood of the city, the main route and the spirit of Thai people who love water. So when staying in the city of Bangkok it is always best to be beside the river. Here are some great options for staying near the River, from luxury heritage properties to modern riverside resorts that provide authentic Thai hospitality combined with world-class amenities.
🏨 Choosing Your Perfect River Location
Bangkok Side (East Bank): Closer to business districts, shopping, and BTS access
Thonburi Side (West Bank): More traditional atmosphere, temple views, quieter environment
Express Boat Access: Essential for convenient sightseeing and avoiding traffic
River View Rooms: Premium pricing but offer unique Bangkok skyline and temple views
Traditional
Bangphlat Resort - One block away from the river on the west side in Bangphlat District is this old fashioned resort that allows you to feel traditional Thai hospitality, but still within striking distance of the modern city center. Based around preserved traditional wooden Thai houses this resort occupies the space of an old durian orchard. Book on Booking.com
• Price Range: THB 2,500-4,500 per night
• Best For: Cultural immersion and authentic Thai architecture
• Pros: Unique traditional design, peaceful atmosphere
• Cons: Limited modern amenities, farther from main attractions
Riva Arun Bangkok - A boutique hotel showcasing traditional Thai design with modern comfort, located in the historic Thonburi district directly across from Wat Arun. The hotel features restored teak buildings and traditional Thai furnishings while providing contemporary amenities. Guests enjoy unobstructed views of the Temple of Dawn and easy access to cross-river ferry services.
Sala Rattanakosin - This heritage boutique property offers stunning river views and traditional Thai architecture combined with contemporary luxury. Located near the Grand Palace, the hotel features spacious rooms with private balconies overlooking the Chao Phraya River. The rooftop restaurant provides panoramic views of Bangkok's most famous landmarks.
Affordable Luxury
The Royal River Hotel - An international first class hotel, located right on the western bank of Chao Phraya River, the River of Kings. Standing in the old thai capital with many attractions nearby, which having 436 rooms and suites. The hotel is approximately 45 minutes away from the international airport. Immediately outside the hotel is the Sapan Krung Thon (Sang Hee) Express Boat Pier. www.royalriverhotel.com
Navalai River Resort - Located in the vicinity of Chao Phraya River, Phra Athit road, Navalai river resort is a definite choice for those who want both the serenity of a riverside hotel and the convenience of a city life. Phra Athit Express Boat Pier can take you from directly outside the resort into the city. http://www.navalai.com
• Price Range: THB 3,500-8,000 per night
• Best For: Comfort and convenience without premium pricing
• Booking Tip: Request river-facing rooms for best views
• Transport: All hotels have express boat pier access
Riva Surya Bangkok - A sophisticated 4-star riverside hotel offering excellent value for money with direct river access and stunning Chao Phraya views. The hotel features contemporary Thai design, spacious rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, and a rooftop infinity pool overlooking the river. Located near Saphan Phut Express Boat Pier for convenient transportation to major attractions.
Chatrium Hotel Riverside Bangkok - This modern riverside property provides extensive facilities including multiple restaurants, a large swimming pool, and comprehensive business services. All rooms feature river or city views, and the hotel operates its own complimentary shuttle boat service to Saphan Taksin BTS station, connecting guests seamlessly to Bangkok's transportation network.
Luxury
• Price Range: THB 8,000-25,000+ per night
• Best For: Ultimate comfort, world-class service, exclusive experiences
• Pros: Exceptional service, prime locations, premium amenities
• Cons: High cost, may require advance reservations
Mandarin Oriental Bangkok - Sister to the Mandarin Oriental in Hong Kong, this is a luxury hotel in Bangkok offering world class service, luxury spa treatments, dining and leisure facilities. Don't expect discounts, but do expect service unlike any you have ever experienced. The hotel's Oriental Spa is consistently rated among the world's best, and the Author's Lounge serves legendary afternoon tea in elegant colonial surroundings. http://www.mandarinoriental.com/bangkok/
• Book spa treatments well in advance - they're extremely popular
• Author's Lounge afternoon tea is a Bangkok institution
• River wing rooms offer the best Chao Phraya views
• Complimentary shuttle boat to Saphan Taksin BTS station
The Peninsula Bangkok - Located on the Thonburi side of the river with unobstructed views of Bangkok's skyline, The Peninsula offers ultra-luxury accommodations with impeccable service standards. All rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows with river views, and the hotel operates a fleet of Rolls-Royce vehicles and a helicopter for premium transfers. The rooftop bar provides stunning 360-degree views of the city.
Shangri-La Hotel Bangkok - This 5-star riverside landmark features the largest guest rooms in Bangkok, multiple award-winning restaurants, and the renowned CHI Spa. The hotel's prime location offers direct river access and operates complimentary shuttle boats to nearby shopping areas. The property's lush tropical gardens create an oasis of tranquility in bustling Bangkok.
Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort - Set on 11 acres of lush gardens along the Chao Phraya River, this resort-style hotel offers a peaceful retreat from city noise while maintaining convenient access to Bangkok's attractions. Features include multiple swimming pools, extensive spa facilities, and several restaurants including the famous Manohra cruise dining experience.
Luxury Hotel Comparison & Booking Guide
🌟 Ultra-Luxury River Hotels at a Glance
| Hotel | Signature Feature | Price Range (THB) | Best For |
| Mandarin Oriental | World's top spa & afternoon tea | 15,000-35,000 | Romance & wellness |
| Peninsula Bangkok | Helicopter transfers & Rolls-Royce fleet | 12,000-28,000 | VIP experiences |
| Shangri-La Bangkok | Largest rooms in Bangkok | 8,000-25,000 | Spacious luxury |
| Anantara Riverside | 11-acre resort-style property | 6,000-18,000 | Peaceful retreat |
Premium Booking Strategies for River Hotels
💡 Insider Booking Tips for Maximum Value
Best Booking Timing:
• Low Season (May-September): Up to 40% savings, fewer crowds
• Shoulder Season (March-April, October): Best weather-price balance
• Peak Season (November-February): Book 60+ days ahead for river view rooms
Room Selection Strategy:
• River Wing vs. Garden Wing: River wing premium worth the cost for 2+ night stays
• High Floor (15+): Better views of temples and reduced street noise
• Corner Rooms: Often larger with panoramic views at minimal premium
Value-Added Services to Request:
• Airport Transfer: Many luxury hotels include or offer at competitive rates
• Dinner Cruise Credits: Some properties include complimentary cruise experiences
• Spa Package Deals: Book treatments with accommodation for better rates
Transportation & Location Advantages
Express Boat Integration: All featured riverside hotels provide convenient access to Chao Phraya Express Boat services, eliminating the need for taxi transportation to major attractions. Hotels with dedicated piers (Mandarin Oriental, Peninsula) offer the ultimate convenience, while others provide 2-5 minute walks to public piers.
BTS Connectivity: Most luxury riverside hotels operate complimentary shuttle services to Saphan Taksin BTS station, providing seamless connections to shopping districts, business areas, and airport links. This combination of river and rail access makes riverside hotels surprisingly convenient for exploring Bangkok comprehensively.
Long Stay
Riverine Place Serviced Apartments - Located north of the city proper at Nonthaburi this 27 storey tower block has rooms avialable for rent short or medium term. There is easy access to the city center by taking an Express Boat from Piboon Songkram Pier 2 which is just outside the building. http://www.riverineplace.com
• Monthly Rates: 30-50% savings compared to nightly rates
• Home Amenities: Full kitchens, washing facilities, living areas
• Local Integration: Experience Bangkok life like a resident
• Express Boat Access: Daily commute via scenic river route
The River Serviced Apartments - Modern serviced apartments offering spacious one and two-bedroom units with full kitchen facilities and river views. Located in the Thonburi district with easy access to BTS stations via hotel shuttle service. Ideal for families or business travelers requiring extended stays with home-like amenities.
Chatrium Residence Bangkok Riverside - Luxury serviced apartments with hotel services, featuring full kitchen facilities, separate living areas, and stunning river views. Monthly rates available for extended stays, with access to hotel facilities including restaurants, spa, and fitness center.
Budget & Backpacker Riverside Options
• Price Range: THB 800-2,500 per night
• Best For: Budget travelers, backpackers, short-term visitors
• Pros: Affordable prices, social atmosphere, good locations
• Cons: Shared facilities, basic amenities, may be noisy
Baan Dinso @ Ratchadamnoen - A charming guesthouse located walking distance from the river and major attractions like the Grand Palace and Wat Pho. Traditional Thai wooden house converted into comfortable budget accommodation with air-conditioned rooms and shared facilities. Excellent value for location and cultural atmosphere.
Villa Phra Sumen Bangkok - Budget hotel located near Phra Athit Express Boat Pier, offering basic but clean accommodations with easy river access. The location provides excellent access to both traditional canal-side communities and major tourist attractions via express boat services.
Practical Booking Tips for River Hotels
• River View vs. City View: River rooms cost 20-40% more but provide unique Bangkok experience
• Express Boat Access: Hotels with direct pier access eliminate taxi costs and traffic delays
• Seasonal Pricing: November-February peak season rates can be 50% higher
• Advance Booking: Luxury hotels often offer better rates and river room availability when booked early
When selecting riverside accommodation, consider the hotel's proximity to express boat piers for convenient sightseeing and transportation. Many hotels offer complimentary shuttle services to nearby BTS stations, providing seamless connections to Bangkok's comprehensive public transport network.
Seasonal Considerations & Special Packages
🗓️ Seasonal Rate Guide & Best Times to Book
Cool Season (November-February):
• Weather: Perfect 20-30°C temperatures, minimal humidity
• Rates: Peak pricing (50-100% premium)
• Crowds: Highest tourist volumes
• Booking: Reserve 60-90 days ahead for river view rooms
Hot Season (March-May):
• Weather: 30-40°C, clear skies, occasional afternoon showers
• Rates: Moderate pricing (20-40% below peak)
• Crowds: Fewer tourists, more authentic local experiences
• Booking: 30-45 days sufficient, good package deals available
Rainy Season (June-October):
• Weather: 25-35°C, afternoon rain showers, lush greenery
• Rates: Lowest pricing (40-60% below peak)
• Crowds: Minimal tourists, peaceful river experiences
• Booking: Last-minute deals common, upgrade opportunities
Special Hotel Packages & River Experiences
Romance & Honeymoon Packages: Most luxury riverside hotels offer special romance packages including private dinner cruises, couple's spa treatments, and river-view suites with champagne service. The Mandarin Oriental's "Romance on the River" package and Peninsula's "Royal Romance" experience are particularly noteworthy for special occasions.
Cultural Immersion Programs: Several properties provide authentic Thai cultural experiences including private temple tours with hotel historians, traditional Thai cooking classes, and exclusive access to Royal Barge Museum after hours. These experiences typically cost 2,000-5,000 THB additional but provide invaluable cultural insights.
Family River Adventures: Family-friendly riverside hotels offer specialized children's programs including junior chef classes featuring Thai cuisine, traditional dance lessons, and guided river exploration tours designed specifically for young travelers. Anantara Riverside's "Little Travelers" program and Shangri-La's "Adventure Zone" are excellent for families.
For comprehensive transportation information and river cruise options that complement your hotel stay, visit our complete Chao Phraya River guide.
