The Best Resorts in Bangkok

Retreat from the flurry and excitement of Bangkok at this quiet property tucked away in upmarket Sathorn. It’s hard to believe you’re in the city at all thanks to the on-site expansive gardens, courtyard swimming pool and sweeping drive. Meanwhile, amenities such as an all-day breakfast and a Michelin-starred French restaurant make it easy to have no regrets about spending all your time close to the resort. If you do want to explore further, there’s a complimentary bike hire and a free half-day trip to the floating market at Bang Kra Chao every weekend.

Can’t decide between a city break or a resort holiday? This sprawling resort set amongst 11 acres of gardens on the west bank of the Chao Phraya river is the perfect mix of both, and features one of the largest pools in Bangkok, multiple tennis courts, six restaurants, as well as a kid’s club and fitness and cooking classes. Get your city fix with regular boat trips to Saphan Taksin Skytrain or take advantage of insider tours away from the big-name attractions with the expert in-house guide.

For an authentic Thai experience, this resort in Nonthaburi Province half an hour north of Bangkok City offers something completely unique. Guests stay in striking Thai wooden houses with ornate carvings and real teak wooden bathtubs and can choose to participate in activities including flower arranging and cooking ancient dishes. If you’d rather someone else did the hard work, the on-site restaurant also serves traditional Thai food based on royal recipes.

The imposing Shangri-La on the banks of the Chao Phraya river knows how to make a statement. From the ornate lobby dripping with chandeliers to the formal spa with ancient treatments and a riverside pool, the hotel goes all-out to impress. Dining options are particularly tempting and include a fine-dining Thai restaurant complete with traditional dance performance and a chocolate boutique for dessert disciples. For something a little off the beaten path, board the hotel’s very own dinner cruise ship and glide past riverside sights one evening.

Half-way between the Suvarnabhumi International Airport and the city centre, this five-star resort has an 18-hole championship golf course, intimate spa with salt water infinity pool and an airy fitness centre. Kids are especially spoilt with a Lego welcome gift, movie nights, soccer sessions and brightly-coloured kids club for the under 12s. Even the entry-level rooms are a treat, with private balconies overlooking the golf course, marble bathrooms and a freestanding tub.

Stay close to the city’s action at this resort on the Chao Phraya River. Historical sites including the Grand Palace, Emerald Buddha and Marble Temple are close by while the nearby Phra Athit pier facilitates easy boat transfers to Silom and Bangkok’s financial district. All rooms have large private balconies and the hotel has its own rooftop swimming pool and bar, plus a riverside restaurant, Acquatini, if you want to indulge in Thai-European dishes and killer cocktails.

For a more intimate city stay, this beautiful 24-room boutique hotel surpasses all expectations. Occupying an old family home built in the 1940s, the hotel is located just off the Sukhumvit Road in downtown Bangkok, making it ideal for tourists and shoppers alike. Delightful rooms have Thai silk drapes, recycled teak floors, colourful fabrics and carefully-placed antiques. Guests can also enjoy access to a shaded pool, a library and small spa with an open-sided Sala for Thai massage.

Business travellers, couples and those craving rest and relaxation will find everything they need at this hotel on Sukhumvit Road near the BTS Phrakhanong Station. There is a business centre, executive lounge, squash court and in-room kitchen for those staying for work, while couples will appreciate the Pool Residential Suite with an in-room plunge pool overlooking the city. Keen to make the most of the spa? Splash out on a spa suite with its own private jacuzzi and steam room.

Connected to a leading holistic facility, BDMS Wellness Clinic, this property near the BTS Ploenchit station encourages you to check out feeling like a new person. It’s all about healthy living here, with organic smoothies at the Sala Pool Bar, nutritious buffets for breakfast and a healthy bakery. Even the fitness centre is state-of-the-art with a suite of machines to help spinal and orthopaedic recovery. It’s not all virtuous though – the lobby bar holds a nightly chocolate hour where guests can indulge in free sweet treats.

Escape Bangkok’s sweltering streets with a trip half an hour north to Nonthaburi. This lakeside resort is perfect when the urge to get back to nature strikes, with vast leafy grounds and glittering lake views. There’s an outdoor swimming pool, bar, restaurant and free private parking while rooms have smart TVs, minibars and rainfall showers. Guests can also opt to stay in renovated caravans instead, for complete privacy.