In this post, I will help you to find Where to Stay in Bangkok Backpacker, the best areas to stay in bangkok for backpackers, and the best hotels in Bangkok (include the hotel where I stayed).
Bangkok offers an array of vibrant neighborhoods that cater to the needs of backpackers. From the bustling Khao San Road to the cultural charm of Old Town, here are the best areas to stay, offering affordable accommodation, street food, and a vibrant backpacker scene.
Where to Stay in Bangkok Backpacker?
The best areas to stay in Bangkok for backpackers are Khao San Road, Sukhumvit, Phaya Thai, Old Town, Silom, Chinatown, and Riverside. These areas offer different atmospheres and attractions, so consider your preferences when choosing the best base.
Where did I stay in Bangkok?
The last time I visited Bangkok, I stayed for 6 days in Sukhumvit at the Hotel Clover Asoke. The hotel has a great location, within a short distance from BTS/MRT station and Terminal 21. There is also a 7 Eleven just outside the hotel. I had a lovely breakfast and a clean room.
Here is an overview of recommended areas in Bangkok backpackers:
| Best areas in Bangkok for backpackers | Why should you stay in this area? |
|---|---|
| Khao San Road | is known as the backpacker hub of Bangkok. It offers budget accommodation, cheap street food, lively nightlife, and a vibrant atmosphere. It’s a great place to meet fellow travelers and enjoy a lively backpacker scene. |
| Sukhumvit | is a bustling area in central Bangkok with a wide range of accommodation options, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. It is well-connected by the BTS Skytrain, making it easy to explore the city. Sukhumvit also offers a vibrant nightlife, shopping malls, and international dining options. |
| Phaya Thai | is located near the city center and offers a mix of budget and mid-range accommodation options. It is well-connected to the airport by the Airport Rail Link, which makes it convenient for backpackers arriving or departing from Bangkok. |
| Old Town | is the historic heart of Bangkok, home to iconic landmarks like the Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew, and Wat Pho. It offers a glimpse into the city’s rich history and cultural heritage. Accommodation options in this area range from guesthouses to boutique hotels. |
| Silom | is a bustling business and entertainment district that offers a mix of budget and mid-range accommodation options. Silom is known for its vibrant nightlife, street food stalls, shopping centers, and the Patpong Night Market. It is also well-connected by public transportation. |
| Chinatown | is a vibrant and bustling neighborhood known for its rich Chinese heritage, street food, and lively markets. It offers a mix of budget and mid-range accommodation options. The narrow streets are lined with countless food stalls, traditional shops, and cultural attractions. |
| Riverside | is located along the Chao Phraya River and offers stunning views of the city’s skyline. It is known for its luxury hotels and resorts, but there are also some budget and mid-range options available. The Riverside is a great area to relax, take boat tours, visit temples, and enjoy riverfront dining. |
Map of the best areas in Bangkok for backpackers:
6 Best areas to Stay in Bangkok for Backpackers are:
1. Khao San Road
Khao San Road is a famous and vibrant street in Bangkok. It is particularly popular among backpackers and budget travelers due to its lively atmosphere, affordable accommodations, and variety of entertainment options.
Khao San Road is situated in the Banglamphu neighborhood, near the historic area of Rattanakosin Island. It offers easy access to Bangkok’s most iconic attractions including the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Wat Phra Kaew, Wat Saket, and the Chao Phraya River.
Additionally, the area is home to numerous cultural landmarks such as the Bangkok National Museum, Democracy Monument, National Gallery, Phra Sumen Fort, Wat Chana Songkhram, Wat Bowonniwet, and Wat Mahathat.
Khao San Road is known for its lively street market. You can find various vendors selling clothing, accessories, souvenirs, and local handicrafts. It’s a great place to pick up affordable items and unique trinkets.
The street comes alive at night with numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants catering to different tastes. You can enjoy live music, dance parties, and international cuisine. The nightlife on Khao San Road is vibrant and attracts both locals and tourists.
Khao San Road is also famous for its street food stalls. You can indulge in a variety of delicious Thai dishes, such as pad Thai, mango sticky rice, grilled skewers, and fresh fruit shakes. It’s an excellent opportunity to sample the local cuisine.
If you want a similar experience to Khao San Road but with a more relaxed and laid-back vibe, head to Rambutri Road, which is a pedestrian street running parallel to Khao San Road.
It’s worth noting that Khao San Road has undergone some changes and renovations in recent years, aimed at improving its infrastructure and catering to a wider range of travelers.
In addition to budget accommodations, there are also mid-range and boutique hotels in the Khao San Road area. If you prefer a quieter stay, you can find guesthouses and hotels in nearby streets that offer a more relaxed atmosphere.
🔍BEST HOTELS IN KHAO SAN ROAD2. Sukhumvit
Sukhumvit is an attractive choice for backpackers visiting Bangkok due to its central location, affordability, diverse entertainment options, and access to transportation.
Sukhumvit is one of the major boulevards in Bangkok, and also the name of the district that surrounds it. It is known for being a vibrant and cosmopolitan area with a wide range of attractions, including shopping malls, hotels, restaurants, nightlife venues, and residential areas.
Sukhumvit is well-connected to various parts of the city through the BTS Skytrain and MRT subway systems. This makes it convenient for backpackers to explore Bangkok’s major attractions, markets, nightlife, and other areas of interest.
Sukhumvit has a plethora of affordable accommodations, including guesthouses and backpacker hostels, especially the area in Lower Sukhumvit around Asok and Nana stations.
Sukhumvit is famous for its vibrant nightlife and extensive dining options. Along the main Sukhumvit Road and its side streets (sois), you’ll find an array of street food stalls, local eateries, and international restaurants.
Backpackers can also find plenty of bars, clubs, and night markets along Sukhumvit Road, particularly in the popular nightlife areas of Nana Plaza, Soi 11, and Soi Cowboy.
Sukhumvit boasts numerous shopping malls and markets where backpackers can indulge in retail therapy. Terminal 21, CentralWorld, Emporium, and EmQuartier are popular shopping destinations in the area, offering a mix of local and international brands.
Sukhumvit is home to various entertainment and cultural attractions. You can find cinemas, art galleries, muay Thai stadiums, and traditional Thai massage parlors.
While Sukhumvit is known for its modernity, it also offers access to cultural attractions such as the Jim Thompson House, Erawan Shrine, Lumpini Park, and Benjasiri Park where backpackers can experience Thai culture and history.
However, it’s important to note that Sukhumvit is a bustling area with heavy traffic, especially during peak hours. Some backpackers may prefer quieter neighborhoods or areas closer to specific attractions.
🔍BEST HOTELS IN SUKHUMVITSee more: Where to Stay in Sukhumvit
2. Phaya Thai
Phaya Thai is a popular area to stay in Bangkok for backpackers due to its combination of affordability, convenience, and access to transportation.
Phaya Thai is an important transportation hub in Bangkok. It is home to the Phaya Thai BTS Skytrain Station, which is a major interchange station connecting the Sukhumvit Line and the Airport Rail Link. This makes it convenient for backpackers arriving or departing from Bangkok.
The area has convenient access to the BTS Skytrain, which provides easy connectivity to various parts of the city. This makes it easier for backpackers to explore different neighborhoods and attractions.
The popular shopping mall, Siam Paragon, is just a few stations away from the Phaya Thai BTS Station. Additionally, the Platinum Fashion Mall, Pantip Plaza, MBK Center, and Chatuchak Weekend Market, are all within a short distance.
Phaya Thai offers a vibrant street food scene, with numerous food stalls and local eateries where backpackers can try a variety of delicious and inexpensive Thai dishes.
You can explore the Victory Monument, which is a major landmark and transportation hub. The monument itself commemorates the Thai military’s victory in the Franco-Thai War. The area around Victory Monument is home to many shops, street food stalls, and a large bus terminal connecting different parts of the country.
There is also Phaya Thai Palace, which was originally constructed as a residence for King Rama VI in the early 20th century. While the palace is not open to the public, it remains an important landmark and symbol of Thai history.
Phaya Thai has a wide range of budget-friendly accommodation options, including hostels, guesthouses, and budget hotels. Backpackers can find affordable places to stay, often with shared dormitory rooms, which are popular among travelers on a budget.
🔍BEST HOTELS IN PHAYA THAI3. Rattanakosin (Old Town)
Rattanakosin is the historic district of Bangkok and is home to many of the city’s iconic attractions, such as the Grand Palace, Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha), Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha), and Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn).
Staying in Rattanakosin allows backpackers to be in close proximity to these famous landmarks, making it convenient to explore them on foot.
The Chao Phraya River, which runs alongside Rattanakosin, offers boat transportation options, including river taxis and ferries, providing an alternative and scenic way to get around.
Khao San Road, located in the heart of Rattanakosin, is particularly famous among backpackers for its vibrant nightlife, cheap accommodations, and street food stalls.
The area has a charming atmosphere with narrow streets, traditional Thai architecture, and plenty of street food stalls and local markets. You’ll also find affordable guesthouses and budget accommodations in this area, catering to backpackers.
Rattanakosin can get crowded during peak season. However, if you’re interested in immersing yourself in Bangkok’s rich history and cultural heritage while staying on a budget, Rattanakosin is a great choice.
🔍BEST HOTELS IN OLD TOWN4. Silom
Silom is a vibrant neighborhood located in the central business district of Bangkok. It offers a great combination of affordable accommodation options, convenient transportation, and a lively atmosphere.
Silom is well-connected to various parts of Bangkok through the BTS Skytrain and MRT subway systems. This makes it easy for backpackers to explore other popular areas and attractions in the city without spending too much on transportation.
Silom is renowned for its vibrant nightlife scene with numerous bars, clubs, and street-side stalls offering drinks and entertainment options at reasonable prices. The famous Patpong Night Market is where you can find cheap shopping and street food.
Soi 2 and Soi 4 are popular areas known for their gay nightlife, while places like Maggie Choo’s or Glow Nightclub attract a diverse crowd.
Silom is close to several popular attractions in Bangkok, including Lumpini Park, Wat Hua Lamphong, and the Chao Phraya River. These attractions can be easily accessed from Silom, either by walking or using public transportation.
Silom has a wide range of accommodation options suitable for backpackers, including hostels, guesthouses, and budget hotels. You can find affordable places to stay that offer basic amenities and a comfortable environment.
🔍BEST HOTELS IN SILOM5. Chinatown (Yaowarat)
Chinatown, also known as Yaowarat, is a great choice for backpackers looking for an authentic cultural experience, affordable accommodation options, and easy access to popular attractions in Bangkok.
It has a vibrant and bustling atmosphere with a rich cultural heritage. Chinatown is renowned for its bustling markets, street food stalls, and traditional Chinese temples, making it an exciting place to explore.
Chinatown’s location provides easy access to many tourist attractions and transportation options. From here, you can easily visit popular sites like the Grand Palace, Wat Arun, and the backpacker hub of Khao San Road, which is just a short distance away.
Chinatown is known for its vibrant nightlife, with numerous bars and restaurants offering a lively atmosphere. The streets are illuminated by colorful neon signs, and the atmosphere is buzzing with energy.
The Yaowarat Road is a bustling street lined with Chinese shophouses, gold shops, street food vendors, and markets. It’s a sensory feast with vibrant sights, sounds, and aromas.
Some of the best attractions in and around the area are the Wat Mangkon Kamalawat, Wat Traimit, Sampeng Market, Khlong Thom Market (Thieves Market), and the Golden Mount (Wat Saket) .
Chinatown also offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different budgets, including budget guesthouses, hostels, and boutique hotels. Accommodations in Chinatown might be more basic compared to other tourist areas in Bangkok, but they can be quite affordable.
🔍BEST HOTELS IN CHINATOWN6. Riverside
Riverside offers beautiful views of the Chao Phraya River, with many hotels and hostels situated along its banks. It provides a more serene and laid-back atmosphere compared to the bustling city center.
The area is home to several cultural attractions, including the Grand Palace, Wat Arun, and Wat Pho. These landmarks are within walking distance or a short boat ride away.
Riverside provides convenient access to the city’s public transportation system, including river taxis and ferries. This makes it easy to explore other parts of Bangkok and visit popular tourist spots.
While the Riverside area may not offer as vibrant a nightlife scene as other parts of the city like Khao San Road or Sukhumvit, there are still plenty of bars, rooftop lounges, and riverside restaurants to enjoy.
Asiatique The Riverfront is a lively night market and entertainment complex situated along the river. Explore the numerous shops, indulge in Thai street food, enjoy cultural performances, and admire the views of the city skyline.
Accommodation prices in Riverside can vary significantly. While there are luxury hotels and upscale establishments, there are also budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses catering to backpackers.
🔍BEST HOTELS IN RIVERSIDESee more:
- Where to Stay in Bangkok First Time
- 6 Safest areas to stay in Bangkok for tourists
- Where to Stay in Bangkok for Couples
- Where to stay in Bangkok for 3 nights
- Where to Stay in Bangkok for Nightlife
- Where to Stay in Bangkok for Street Food
- How Many Days in Bangkok is Enough?
- 40 Best things to do in Bangkok, Thailand
- Where to Stay in Bangkok on a Budget
In conclusion, Bangkok offers a diverse range of neighborhoods for backpackers to choose from. Khao San Road is a vibrant hub for budget travelers, while Sukhumvit offers a mix of modern amenities and nightlife. Phaya Thai is ideal for easy airport access, and Old Town showcases Bangkok’s rich history.
Silom is perfect for shopping and entertainment, Chinatown immerses visitors in local culture, and Riverside provides scenic views. Each area has its unique charm, catering to different preferences and interests, making Bangkok an exciting destination for backpackers.