Credit: Milei Vencel | Wikimedia Commons
From Manila to Seoul, Hong Kong to Okinawa, Asia is packed full of tourists looking to experience the continent’s beautiful history, each of which is reflected in its modern architecture and traditions. However, of all Asian cities, Bangkok is perhaps the best example of the perfect example of when history meets contemporary… which is why it is a popular destination among holidaygoers.
Bangkok, the capital city of the Kingdom of Thailand, saw approximately 22.7 million international visitors before the COVID-19 pandemic. While current numbers are still not back to normal, they are increasing and with it the demand for more accommodation.
Fortunately, Bangkok is home to a wide variety of boutique hotels, all of which showcase the city’s diversity and gives travellers a much-needed respite from the hustle and bustle of the capital.
In this article, we’ll list down some of the best boutique hotels in Bangkok and what makes them one of the top choices for accommodation.
But first, let’s define “boutique hotel”…
The definition of boutique hotel is rather vague and subjective. According to the Oxford English Dictionary, a boutique hotel refers to a “small, stylish hotel, typically one situated in a fashionable urban location.” Others believe it refers to a design-led property that is distinguishable from larger chain hotels.
Either of the definitions are true. Boutique hotels are lodging facilities (accommodation facilities) that feature an aesthetically-pleasing atmosphere coupled with quirky or antique furniture and personalized services uncommon in larger hotels.
Apart from their design elements and personalized services, boutique hotels are also more intimate compared to chain establishments. In fact, boutique hotels often only offer between 10 to 100 sophisticated rooms. Some also offer luxurious suites in conjunction with regular rooms.
Finding a boutique hotel in Bangkok is extremely convenient. Here are our top choices:
- Kasayapi
Nestled in the heart of Bangkok, Kasayapi offers a serene and peaceful retreat from the chaos of the city. This charming boutique hotel is a passion project of two Thai sisters and combines traditional Thai architecture with modern comforts, creating a harmonious blend of old-world charm and contemporary luxury.
The hotel features 10 rooms across two storeys, each of which is individually designed to exude a sense of tranquility and is equipped with all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay. The rooms also overlook a garden, an outdoor pool, and a communal space where guests are encouraged to mingle and relax.
Located next to Itsaraphap Station, Kasayapo serves as a great jumping-off point for exploring Bangkok.
Find out more about Kasayapi here.
- Maduzi Hotel
The Maduzi, which markets itself as Bangkok’s best-kept secret, combines Japanese aesthetics and Californian comfort. The hotel is filled with furniture and decor made of honey-coloured maple that is offset by the minimal white setting.
The Maduzi’s design choice extends into its rooms, with large ofuro Japanese baths and filigree wood screens taking centre stage. Each room also features minimalist fitted work stations with mid-century leather Eames chairs.
The Maduzi Hotel is great for tourists hoping to score an accommodation close to the Skytrain station. The hotel is just off Sukhumvit Road where plenty of restaurants, street food stalls, and spas can be found. It is also near the Emporium Shopping Mall.
Find out more about the Maduzi Hotel here.
- 137 Pillar Suites and Residences
Originally from Chiang Mai, 137 Pillar Suites and Residences is a contemporary boutique hotel in the Soi Sukhumvit neighbourhood inspired by Thai culture and philosophy. The hotel redefines the concept of living, offering tourists chic spaces complemented by their use of silk, mood lighting, and floor-to-ceiling windows that give the suites an unmatched advantage over other similar options in Bangkok.
In addition to the hotel’s aesthetics, 137 Pillar Suites and Residences also feature an outdoor swimming pool (particularly an infinity pool) with a nearby rooftop bar, allowing guests to enjoy cocktails while appreciating the surrounding views of Bangkok’s skyline.
Find out more about 137 Pillar Suites and Residences here.
- The Siam
Located near the Chao Phraya River and north of the Grand Palace, The Siam features luxury accommodation with elements that exude modern Thailand. This luxury hotel offers spacious rooms and an in-house restaurant set within a cluster of three Thai teak wood houses and is surrounded by various amenities, including an outdoor pool and free private parking.
Guests who check in at the Siam are in for a treat. The choice of facilities includes a well-equipped fitness centre, spa, and a stocked library. They also offer services such as currency exchange and babysitting.
Find out more about The Siam here.
- Kloem Hostel
Kloem Hostel makes quite the impression from the outside. Remarkable for its black walls in juxtaposition with a striking blue tuk-tuk, Kloem Hostel is hard to miss. This trendy hostel features a classic yet fashionably dark interior, with rooms ranging from solos, doubles, triples, and dorm-like quarters for backpackers and budget travellers.
What differentiates Kloem from other Bangkok hotels in the area (and the capital) are its DIY decor options. Guests who check in are not only given the opportunity to choose the type of room they want but also the pieces they want to use to embellish their accommodation. Options range from clocks and books to fans and fishbowls—all of which are available from the reception.
Furthermore, Kloem features communal spaces where guests can relax and mingle with other holidaygoers. These include hammocks and board games in the lobby, a shared kitchenette where cooking classes are held, and a thriving garden.
Find out more about Kloem Hostel here.
- Shanghai Mansion
Travel back to the glitz, glamour, mystery, and romance of China in the 1930s when you book a room in the Shanghai Mansion, considered one of the most historic properties in Bangkok’s Chinatown.
Located on Yaowarat Road, the Shanghai Mansion is a popular Bangkok hotel built on a lot with a long history. The property initially served as a trading house in 1892 until it underwent a makeover in 1908, during which time it became a famous Chinese opera house in Bangkok. In the mid-20th century, the building became a department store with a center for stock exchange and textile trading but fell into disrepair by the late ’90s. It was saved by the Burasari Group in 2005 and renovated to become the Shanghai Mansion we know today.
The room reflects its long history in its decor, with elegantly furnished windowless rooms and opaque tinted glass giving it an ancient appearance and enchanting atmosphere.
Shanghai Mansion is centrally located in Chinatown and is surrounded by numerous gold shops and century-old coffee shops. It is also nearby stalls and restaurants serving tantalizing eats from street food to luxury Chinese cuisine.
Find out more about Shanghai Mansion here.
- Old Capital Bike Inn
Old Capital Bike Inn is a beloved boutique hotel in Bangkok that is inspired by the eclectic nature of vintage bikes. This unique accommodation features only 10 rooms, each of which is decorated with rich colors and lavish patterns coupled with mismatched furniture and lighting fixtures crafted from old bike parts.
The hotel offers amenities that other establishments do, including an outdoor swimming pool and a massage service. However, the hotel also excels in offering bike rentals and night bike tours (both complimentary) where guests are given a choice from a line of restored vintage bikes.
Find out more about Old Capital Bike Inn here.
