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About Thailand

It’s hard to talk about a country with as much appeal as Thailand. For some people it has the world’s most perfect beaches, those white sandy idylls fringed by jungle, and dramatically sharp karst islands in turquoise seas; for some it’s a cuisine explosion, with flavours borrowed from everywhere and married with the Thai staples of lemongrass, chillies and fresh seafood; for some, it’s Bangkok and all it promises; while for others it’s the ancient, glittering temples and the magic of the modern Buddhist monasteries where people still live their lives to an ancient heartbeat. Our Guru’s list of recommendations for the best places to stay in Thailand has been carefully crafted with hotels chosen on their service, design, and location, from luxurious escapes and stunning beach resorts to quirky guesthouses. Indeed we have found a wide range of properties and definitely recommend something for every budget and taste (including plenty of affordable options) whether you're visiting for the beaches, temples or a frenetic city break.

Where to stay

Bangkok

Most people start their Thai odyssey in busy, bustling Bangkok, a city whose many smells and colours have the power to permeate almost everything - but seem to stop at a respectful distance from the shrines and temples, which are the other thing Bangkok is known for. A foodie destination like no other, so much life in Bangkok is conducted on the streets and just beside them that it’s a fantastically rewarding city to lose yourself in.

The Beaches

There are a few people who skip the city and head straight for the beach, with the Andaman Coast and its islands being the most common destination.

  • Krabi Province makes many a traveller’s eyes water with longing, with its knifelike shards of limestone karst jutting out of pristine turquoise waters home to bright fish and corals. The beaches are almost impossibly white, with fine, soft sand, and the local communities colourful, friendly and heavily reliant on visitors.
  • There are 150 or so islands off the 120 kms of shore - many of them uninhabited, but it’s a lot of territory to explore and enjoy, and you’ll probably want to do quite a bit of this. So sort yourself out some boat tours or a private hire.
  • Phuket Island is one of those daydreamy islands, with perfectly white, sandy beaches which stretch on and on until you reach sharp limestone cliffs, with lush tropical jungle on one side and the famously bright turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea on the other side. Relax, dive, snorkel, explore the jungle, island-hop, drink well, eat well and be well looked after. That’s the Andaman Sea for you.

Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is the other Thai destination most visitors consider unmissable. This is Thailand’s northern capital and it’s very different to Bangkok. People come here for the temple complexes, and one of the things which has kept Chiang Mai so special is its peaceful, remote location. Until the 1920s the only way you could get here was by trekking on the back of an elephant or up the river. Once you reach the walled city you come upon around thirty painstakingly decorated temples, dating from the founding of the kingdom. The old city is only about a mile square so it’s easy to get between them, and in between the temples are the houses and hotels which make this a very residential historic centre.

Rural Thailand

Then there’s Thailand’s rural heartland, with its rice paddies, villages and tropical forests - often bumping up against the silvery mountains or limestone cliffs of the coast, depending on how far south you travel. This is where you'll find some of the country’s sacred spaces, like the underground cave shrines at Kanchanaburi and Phetchaburi, or hilltop temples, or even one of the many wonderful festivals you can encounter just travelling through. It’s been well-travelled, but there’s still a lot of magic to Thailand!

Use our guide to the best places to stay in Thailand and start to plan your trip to this wonderful country, which is so full of contrasts. We have a property to suit everyone, from cheap family-friendly options to no-holds-barred luxury retreats.

The Best Places to Stay in Thailand

For Bangkok City Style

  • For the best the city has to offer stay at boutique treat The Siam. Expect palatial surroundings and impeccable service, and when it’s time to go out and explore the city you can do so via the hotel’s tropical gardens, which lead down to the river and your own private speed boat. It’s a nice touch.
  • Packed with antiques and colonial-inspired design, the Cabochon Hotel has just eight rooms, so is understandably intimate, and the service feels very personal. You’ll discover nooks and crannies perfect for a private drink, and a sun library/bar packed with books, magazines and comics. There’s a long, lean rooftop pool which feels peaceful despite the frenetic views (the property is nestled amongst the skyscrapers).
  • The Maduzi applies a zen-like approach to its take on luxury, which really works well in this busy, central Bangkok location. There are just 41 rooms, some with whirlpool bathtubs and complimentary mini-bars, there’s a great terrace bar, a 24 hour gym and a gourmet French-Japanese fusion restaurant.
  • So Sofitel is chic, modern and minimalist, with lots of glass and decor designed to frame the fantastic views over Lumpini Park and the rest of the city. There’s a rooftop infinity pool and a range of dining and drinking options, plus you’re moments from the green of Lumpini Park.
  • For something more unabashedly luxurious consider 137 Pillars House, Bangkok, which has a mere 34 vast and sumptuous suites. It also offers private butler services and has a fantastic rooftop infinity pool - which is really useful for your children.

For An Island Escape

  • The Banyan Tree Ko Samui is a collection of stand-alone villas, separated by pockets of jungle, but all with sea views and access to a private beach. This is the kind of resort where nothing is too much fuss, and the added extras are impressive: we’re talking access to a complimentary private catamaran or a deep sea fishing trip.
  • The Four Seasons Ko Samui is an almost impossibly romantic collection of villas - complete with plunge pools, breathtaking views and a luxuriant amount of space. There are 70 rooms and villas in all, with impressive facilities to go with them: a private beach with a beachside infinity pool, a wellness spa and a choice of places to eat and drink.
  • The Como Point Yamu is a great value option if you want to treat yourself to a proper Phuket experience. With an enviable position overlooking the Andaman Sea, two excellent restaurants, an award-winning spa, rooftop infinity pool and daily menu of sporting and cultural activities, this is classic Phuket.

For a Cultural Adventure

  • If you’re looking for peace and elegance in Chiang Mai, Rachamankha might be a good choice. It has just 24 rooms, arranged around a series of shady courtyards, plenty of art and a wonderful fusion restaurant.
  • The North Hill City Resort is a smart property set within lush grounds just to the south of Chiang Mai town. The contemporary decor is sophisticated and functional and there’s a great spa and restaurant. A comfortable place to stay if you’re not quite ready to be within the visitor-bustle of town.
  • 137 Pillars House is a 30 room boutique hotel right on the river, yet feeling a world away from Chiang Mai’s busy streets. The facilities are first class and there’s an atmosphere of old world charm. The suites, with their big baths and huge beds are fantastic, but families will probably be more interested in their interconnecting rooms.
  • On the banks of the Chao Phraya river in Ayutthaya is Sala Ayutthaya, a modern, boutique hotel with white on white decor and plenty of glass. There are 26 rooms with boutique features like freestanding baths and chic detailing, as well as an art gallery and a courtyard pool.

Idyllic Beach Breaks

  • Ko Samui’s Vana Belle Resort sits just back from a stunning stretch of pristine beach, and its 80 rooms and suites offer views and peace. But, if you want it to be, this resort can be more than just a place to relax, it encourages guests to learn more about the local culture, and, as well as offering fitness classes, the resort also offers cultural activities.
  • Krabi’s Rayavadee is surrounded by nature’s most beautiful sights - lush foliage opening out onto a white, sandy beach or limestone cliffs. And this five-star hotel doesn’t disappoint when it gets to the indoors either. There are private villas or rooms and suites in the main hotel - most with large bath tubs and some with private pools. There’s plenty to entertain your kids if you have them, and an air of romance if you don’t - helped by the choice of four restaurants. The hotel’s boats will take you on outings and you can walk the local trails and not need to leave the immediate vicinity.
  • The Nai Harn is a Phuket stalwart which has recently undergone a renovation. Now the 130 room property has a Mediterranean feel with stylish rooms and open views. There are great family rooms and you’re just two minutes from the beach.
  • Kata Rocks is also well known on Phuket and has fantastic sea views from its luxurious rooms and villas, and chic, contemporary decor. Small and secluded there’s a Mediterranean restaurant on site and access to a chaser yacht.
  • Putahracsa, on Hua Hin Beach, is an oasis of airy rooms, private pools and chic suites just three hours out of Bangkok. The restaurant is lively at night and there’s an oceanside beach club.
  • The Casa de la Flora, right on Ban Niang Beach in Khao Lak, is a five star property with 36 individual villas with sea views, their own plunge pools and butler service. The restaurant is excellent and there’s a spa and cocktail bar. This is the perfect place to relax.

For Resort Relaxation

  • Phuket’s Amanpuri, a typically luxurious Aman spa resort, offers a haven of tranquillity with private villas, private pools and a choice of five restaurants. This is a relaxingly low-tech resort with plenty of activities and spa treatments on offer if you need help filling your time.
  • Just around the island is the Paresa Resort, a secluded, jungle resort offering pared back luxury: villas with stunning views through floor to ceiling glass walls, and decorated with natural wood for example. Some also have a private pool, and all have spa baths.
  • If you want romance on Phuket consider Keemala’s ‘birds nest villas’ accommodation, arranged within the treetops. Each ‘nest’ has a canopied bed, a huge egg-like bathtub and a private pool. There are just 38 ‘nests’ and two restaurants serving food which is largely grown on site.
  • Chiang Mai’s Dhara Dhevi Chiang Mai is a magical, 60 acre sanctuary, complete with pools and spa and a timetable of activities which encourages you to experience this region’s cultural and architectural heritage as well as the resort’s charms. The 123 rooms and suites are decorated with a blend of colonial and Thai styles and there are some seriously luxurious features if you’re looking for a real treat.
  • Chiva-Som is a super-lux, super-healthy wellness retreat in Hua Hin. In addition to the seriously impressive array of world-class treatments aimed at refreshing and revitalising your mind, body and soul, there’s also beautiful surrounds and sympathetic architecture.
  • Khao Lak’s The Sarojin is a gorgeous resort, carefully, and beautifully, incorporated into the surrounding jungle. Their pool has won awards and is considered one of Asia’s Top Fifty - which is quite a feat - and their spa is suitably indulgent. They also have a private yacht and an excellent fine dining restaurant.

For Great Value

  • The Amari Watergate Bangkok is a giant of a five star hotel, with 570 rooms, a huge fitness centre, a luxurious spa and numerous dining and drinking options. And it’s in a great spot - especially if you’re looking for great value accommodation to increase your shopping spend.
  • You could also stay in the Como Metropolitan Bangkok, which has 169 generously proportioned and luxuriously minimalist rooms with state of the art bathrooms. The Thai restaurant is well known and well loved and there’s an inviting outdoor pool.

For a self-catering Apartment or Villa

  • If you’d prefer to stay in an apartment or private villa we recommend you visit our online partner, booking.com.

Travel Information

  • The majority of visitors arriving in Thailand land in Bangkok, which has two international airports. Suvarnabhumi Airport, which is the main airport and one of the busiest in Southeast Asia, is about 30kms to the east of the city and is linked by an Airport Rail Link - or taxis at an internationally competitive rate. And Don Muang Airport, which is 30kms north of the centre of town and was usurped as Bangkok’s main airport in 2006. The cheapest way to get into the city from Don Muang is by train, which takes about an hour, but you can also catch a cab. If you’re transferring straight on to another Thai destination make sure your connecting flight leaves from the same airport.
  • If you’re thinking about hiring a car we recommend checking what our online partners, Rentalcars have to offer.
  • Thailand is long and thin, rising upwards from the equator, so weather conditions are far from uniform through the country. But generally speaking, the best time to visit is during the cool, dry season, which, for most of the country is between November and the beginning of April. If you’re here to dive then the best conditions are probably between November and January.

Still not sure?

See all » 29 hotels in Bangkok

  • Prince Theatre Heritage Stay Bangkok (SILOM, BANGRAK,) 7 rooms from CA$22

    Groups  -  With single-sex dorms as well as suites, it is ideal for those travelling in groups
    Local markets  -  The area around the hotel is crammed with some of Bangkok’s best street food vendors as well as plenty of historical buildings
    Sights nearby  -  Main historic sites are a short ferry ride up river
    Quirky  -  A simple set-up with a young, arty vibe
    Air conditioningRestaurantNo pets

    Set in a quirky refurbished art-deco-inspired cinema, with the original cinema screen and equipment still in place in the lobby and bar area. Design has a classic heritage feel with quirky contemporary touches. Find something to suit all budgets with both dorms and spacious suites available. See More

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  • Amari Watergate Bangkok Bangkok (Thanon Phaya Thai) 569 rooms from CA$130

    Local exploring  -  With many of Bangkok's sights a short walk away you can easily wander around getting to know this vibrant city
    Value chic  -  Incredibly good value for a five star hotel
    Local markets  -  Take a stroll around the bustling Pratunam Wholesale Market which is practically right on your doorstep
    Sights nearby  -  The stunning Temple of the Golden Mount (Wat Saket) is only a couple of miles away-a must visit!
    RestaurantSwimming PoolGardenDisabled accessParking

    Shopaholics, rejoice – Amari Watergate Bangkok’s location is prime for mall-lovers. The five-star hotel also boasts an expansive fitness centre, a luxurious beauty spa and a huge range of dining options. An upmarket and absolutely top-notch choice for a city stay! See More

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See all » 17 hotels in Phuket

  • Como Point Yamu Paklok, Phuket 79 rooms from CA$253

    Sea Views  -  Located on the Cape Yamu overlooking the Andaman Sea and Phang Nga Bay.
    Sights nearby  -  Khao Phra Thaeo National Park within five miles.
    Swimming Pool  -  Pool with view, rooftop pool, infinity pool.
    Kids Club  -  Fully staffed.
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenParking

    This island resort fuses traditional Thai style with splashes of Mediterranean colour that reflects its enviable position overlooking the Andaman Sea. An award-winning spa, daily menu of sporting and cultural activities, and two outstanding on-site restaurants make it even harder to leave. See More

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  • The Slate Phuket 177 rooms from CA$236

    Beach Life  -  The Slate is just three minutes from the beach so you can spend your days lounging by the seaside
    Foodies  -  The property boasts eight exquisite eateries, all of which are definitely worth a visit!
    Total relaxation  -  Forget about all your worries as you unwind in their rainforest spa!
    Great walks  -  Hike through the stunning Sirinat National Park
    SpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenParkingNo pets
    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, Tablet

    The Slate is a stunning 5* hotel located just a stone's throw away from Phuket's coast. This peaceful oasis boasts gorgeous suites furnished in a chic manner and with plenty of wooden influences. Their truly unique Coqoon spa is a must visit! Utterly divine cuisine. A luxurious and magnificent stay! See More

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See all » 12 hotels in Ko Samui

  • Rocky's Boutique Resort Suratthani, Ko Samui 47 rooms from CA$176

    Total relaxation  -  Peace and harmony prevail around the pools, the music is subdued, and relaxing is the name of the game
    Romantic Break  -  Couples will love this romantic chill-out getaway beach property, close to the nightlife in Lamai
    Beach Life  -  Set directly on a beautiful stretch of white sand beach
    Restaurant  -  Rocky’s Fine Dining and Rocky’s Bistro offer a variety of Thai and international dishes by the pool or sea
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViewsParkingNo pets

    A tranquil and relaxed boutique resort set on a private beach with bungalows tumbling down the lush hill gardens. Rooms have a traditional feel with teak wood, local fabrics and rich hues. They also have lovely beach views from the expansive windows. A delightful spot for a romantic break. See More

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  • Zazen Boutique Resort & Spa Suratthani, Ko Samui 29 rooms from CA$251

    Romantic Break  -  An ideal escape for two, with an indulgent spa, excellent food, romantic suites with private balconies and silk dressing gowns
    Diving  -  Sail Rock, Koh Tao and Ang Thong are all within boating distance and the hotel will organise lessons for you
    Beach Life  -  Right on Bo Phut beach, with diving, snorkelling, deep sea fishing and plenty of seafood and sun loungers
    Hotel Entertainment  -  Enjoy a gourmet Thai fusion meal right by the water with excellent atmosphere and even better food
    SpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  I Escape

    A serene spot on its own private stretch of Bo Phut Beach. The villas and rooms are beautifully laid out and offer open air bathrooms and private balconies and terraces. The restaurant is phenomenal and the staff are hospitable and conscientious. A real beach-side haven. See More

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See all » 11 hotels in Chiang Mai

  • North Hill City Resort Chiang Mai (Baanwan, Hangdong) 42 rooms from CA$160

    Golf  -  Play a round on the 18-hole course with spectacular views of panoramic view of Doi Suthep.
    Local exploring  -  A luxury base to explore the temples and countryside of Chiang Mai and its surrounds.
    Spa  -  Traditional Thai massages, special facials and body treatments
    Cooking classes  -  Take a 'farm to table' cooking class.
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenParkingNo pets

    A sophisticated quiet retreat on the outskirts of Chiang Mai. Perfect for a couple or family looking to counter-balance their holiday with golf, archery, cooking classes and a trip to the spa! Contemporary rooms are as sophisticated as they are functional. See More

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  • Akyra Manor Chiang Mai Mueang Chiang Mai District, 30 rooms from CA$236

    Swimming Pool  -  Stylish rooftop pool
    Views  -  Great views from hotel
    Designer  -  Uniquely designed interiors.
    Romantic  -  Good for couples.
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets

    Deserving of its five-star rating for the bathtub feature alone, akyra Manor Chiang Mai brings edge to Chiang Mai’s hotel scene. Stylish suites decorated in moody tones feature all the mod cons. Plus there is a rooftop bar and pool with city views. Gourmet Italian dishes can be enjoyed at Italics. See More

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See all » 5 hotels in Krabi

  • The Houben Krabi, Koh Lanta 15 rooms from CA$231

    Romantic Break  -  An adult-only property offering just the right amount of seclusion.
    Diving  -  Explore the tropical seas on a scuba diving excursion.
    Swimming Pool  -  Outdoor pool
    Restrictions on children  -  Adult only
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Tablet

    A small adult only retreat located atop a cliff overlooking the Andaman Sea. Contemporary rooms are spacious and well-designed with modern art, clean lines and simple furnishings. A red infinity pool and spoiling spa covers all elements of relaxation and the beach is just a short walk away. See More

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  • Layana Resort & Spa Ko Lanta, Koh Lanta 57 rooms from CA$311

    Hideaway  -  Nestled within tropical vegetation on a lesser-visited Thai island, this hotel makes an ideal hideaway holiday destination
    Spa breaks  -  With a full-service spa onsite offering a range of pampering treatments, book this resort for your next spa break
    Beach Life  -  Set on a beautiful sandy beach on Koh Lanta's coast, this hotel is perfect for a luxury beach break
    Restrictions on children  -  Adults-only resort
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets

    Nestled among lush, tropical vegetation, this five-star resort and spa faces the Ko Lanta coast. Traditional Thai architecture meets modern interior design here; unwind in the minimalist suites' sunken bath before sleeping in a floating bed. Book into the Linger Longer Spa; a chic island escape. See More

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See all » 4 hotels in Hua Hin

  • Putahracsa Hua Hin 67 rooms from CA$171

    Romantic Break  -  Private pools, beach location and chic suites make Putahracsa Hua Hin Resort popular with couples
    Total relaxation  -  Away from Thailand's hustle and bustle - sea views, fine dining and a spa
    Local markets  -  Hua Hin Night Market is just a five minute drive
    Private Hot Tub  -  Oceanbed suites come with hot tub baths
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets
    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith

    This weekend oasis, three hours from Bangkok, soothes the soul. The airy rooms, lush grounds and beachfront location aptly showcase Thailand’s tropical beauty while the Oceanside beach club and restaurant keep things lively at night. Spacious suites with private pools are a welcome luxury. See More

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  • Anantara Hua Hin Hua Hin 90 rooms from CA$184

    Beach Life  -  On the beach and set amidst 14 acres of landscaped gardens, ideal for those seeking a tranquil coastal retreat
    Traditional  -  Modelled on a traditional Thai village, low-rise gabled pavilions are set in lush grounds with lotus-filled lagoons
    Sights nearby  -  Maruekhathaiyawan Palace is a wonderful beach palace and really worth a day trip
    Tennis  -  Play a game on the in-house tennis court (equipment provided)
    Air conditioningTennisSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets

    A tranquil resort modelled on a traditional Thai village surrounded by lush tropical gardens. Luxurious rooms are impressively spacious with high ceilings, antique furniture and lovely views. Boasting a private beach, two pools and no less than seven eateries. An ideal haven to simply unwind. See More

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See all » 3 hotels in Koh Lanta

  • The Houben Krabi, Koh Lanta 15 rooms from CA$231

    Romantic Break  -  An adult-only property offering just the right amount of seclusion.
    Diving  -  Explore the tropical seas on a scuba diving excursion.
    Swimming Pool  -  Outdoor pool
    Restrictions on children  -  Adult only
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Tablet

    A small adult only retreat located atop a cliff overlooking the Andaman Sea. Contemporary rooms are spacious and well-designed with modern art, clean lines and simple furnishings. A red infinity pool and spoiling spa covers all elements of relaxation and the beach is just a short walk away. See More

    Check Availability
  • Layana Resort & Spa Ko Lanta, Koh Lanta 57 rooms from CA$311

    Hideaway  -  Nestled within tropical vegetation on a lesser-visited Thai island, this hotel makes an ideal hideaway holiday destination
    Spa breaks  -  With a full-service spa onsite offering a range of pampering treatments, book this resort for your next spa break
    Beach Life  -  Set on a beautiful sandy beach on Koh Lanta's coast, this hotel is perfect for a luxury beach break
    Restrictions on children  -  Adults-only resort
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets

    Nestled among lush, tropical vegetation, this five-star resort and spa faces the Ko Lanta coast. Traditional Thai architecture meets modern interior design here; unwind in the minimalist suites' sunken bath before sleeping in a floating bed. Book into the Linger Longer Spa; a chic island escape. See More

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See all » Other hotels in Thailand

  • The Birder's Lodge Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand 5 rooms from CA$99

    Back to Nature  -  Located in the heart of the Khao Yai National Park you are ensconced by nature.
    Local markets  -  An idiosynchratic visit Palio is modelled after a Tuscan village.
    Views  -  Great views from hotel
    Quirky  -  An experience!
    RestaurantViewsParkingNo pets

    An ideal weekend retreat from Bangkok, these five chic cabins serve up a dollop of European-inspired style just kilometres from Thailand’s largest national park. See More

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