Bangkok's Best Hostels and Guest Houses
If you ever want to get away and travel to an exotic country where no one looks like you or speaks your language, then head over to the Bangkok, Thailand.
Bangkok offers a unique way for travelers from all over the globe a chance to enjoy and interact with a culture and still save money. So if you're a student on a long break, or even someone fortunate enough to have a job in this dismal economy, this great city has plenty of affordable accommodations that offers both value and comfort. Bangkok's hostels offers excellent rates and have long been a staple for backpackers all over the world, young and old. What I find most interesting is that many seasoned travelers who only stay in hostels tell me that Bangkok's hostel's are higher quality and have better standards and comforts. I couldn't agree more.
After writing and reviewing hotels in Asia for so long I've developed a good sense of what most travelers of any discerning budget look for. And the bottom line is comfort and cleanliness.
And that's exactly what you'll find here. All of the accommodations listed below you'll find reviews from travelers just like you who've personally stayed in these hostels and guest houses. These reviews in my book are valued more than the ones you read from travel guides written by stuffy authors who may or may not return to revisit the places they've once reviewed.
I'll update this list of hostels and guest houses as often as I can. All of the accommodations are listed by price range from lowest to highest. I pulled the rates you see below from a reputable agency called Hostel World. They are a very popular company offering excellent rates and terrific customer service, which is why I recommend them.
Bangkok Map
Here's where you'll find great hostels and guest houses in Bangkok
There are many hostels in Bangkok and the ones you find listed here are highly praised by previous guests who've stayed there before. You can read their reviews as well as find out the current room rates and location by following the links to Hostel World's website.
If you would like to recommend a hostel or guest house email me at edwin.clark@ymail.com. I'll check out the property myself. If it's good enough you'll definitely see it listed here!
For getting the most travel experience I recommend 3 neighborhoods in Bangkok with some excellent budget accommodations. There are some advantages and disadvantages to staying in these popular areas and you'll find out about them below.
The first neighborhood is Banglamphu & Phra Nakhon, also known as the Old City or Dusit. The most popular place in Banglampoo is Khao San Road, a very well known strip, that attracts budget travelers with affordable prices for food and of course cheap beer and booze. Not far from there are the majestic sights of the Grand Palace (Thai Wat Praew Kaw) and Wat Po, where you'll find a huge reclining Buddha in peaceful atmosphere. There are many other historic sights and interests in the area for you to explore. The only drawback is it takes a bit longer to get to the center of Bangkok. The best way is to take a taxi to the MRT station at Hua Lumphong. MRT trains will take you to major centers in Bangkok as well as give you easy transfer access to the Sky Train.
Second neighborhood is Silom. Silom is a mix of commercial and entertainment zones. Patpong red light district has a strong mix of nightlife venues such as pubs, clubs and yes who can forget seedy go go bars. It has the least amount of hostels but plenty of budget hotels and very affordable guest houses. The advantage of staying in Silom are the nightlife areas of Patpong and Lumphini Night Bazaar (a.ka. Suan Luam Night Bazaar). And their are plenty of BTS Sky Train stations around too, so you can get around to the other commercial parts of Bangkok easily.
Finally there's Sukhumvit, another neighborhood sporting two red light districts and some of the finest international clubs and bars. Prices in this area are higher in most instances for food and drink but you'll be in the thick of everything. There are many BTS Sky Trains in the area as well to get you to other popular parts of Bangkok.
Great Hostels in Banglamphu & Phra Nakhon
Great Hostels in Old Bangkok
The parts of Banglamphu & Phra Nakhon neighborhoods are considered the old city in Bangkok and it is literally just that, quite old. Banglamphu is where you'll find Khao San Road, well known for to young backpackers all over the world. Today you'll see a lot of older faces in the crowd because Khao San is changing just like the entire city itself.Expenses in the area are slightly increasing but things are still cheap. Way cheap compared to traveling in the west or Japan. You'll still be able to enjoy a small meal for $1US dollar.
There are many historic sights not far from these areas such as Vimanmek Mansion, Grand Palace, Wat Po and a series of museums. This truly really a great area to experience and learn about a culture totally different then your own.
The only real drawback to staying in Banglamphu & Phra Nakhon is that you'll be a bit far from the hub of activity in Bangkok such as the commercial shopping districts. The only way to get there is by taking an underground train at the Hua Lumphong MRT station. I recommend taking a taxi to the station and the ride shouldn't cost more than 100 Baht.
Hostelling International Bangkok
Beds from 170 Baht
Hostelling International BangkokAddress: 25/2 Phitsanulok Road, Dusit, 10300, Bangkok
If you're goal is to immerse yourself into the authentic old city of Bangkok then Hostelling International Bangkok is a great choice for you. It's closes to Khao San road yet far enough to not hear the noise and see drunken backpackers make a fool of themselves. Though I have to admit it's quite fun to watch sometimes.
This property has two different room types, ensuite for privacy and dorm rooms for females and males. Only the male dorms don't have private bathrooms. I find that the rooms here are very clean and the staff does a very good job in maintaining the property. There's WiFi access throughout the hotel ground which is a nice touch.
You can check rates, exact location and current reviews at Hostelling International Bangkok
Shambara Boutique Hostel
Beds from 250 Baht
Shambara Boutique Hostel138 Tanao Road, Talad Yod, Phanakorn, Bangkok
Your first impression of the Shambara Boutique Hostel will definitely be one of upscale hostel accommodations. Most of our own reviewers swore they thought they were at the wrong address and ended up at some sort of private residence.
Whatever your first thoughts may be, this hostel is quite nice and very near the action of Khao San road. There's even a nice cozy restaurant serving fine fare. All of the rooms are located on the second floor and quite cozy with a home feel. There are only 9 rooms available and bathrooms are shared, so make sure you book in advance.
There's even a washer/dryer for guest use, which is really good to have if you're staying for awhile.
You can check rates, exact location and current reviews at Shambara Boutique Hostel
Chada Hostel
Beds from 280 Baht
Chada Hostel216/6 Khao san road, Phra Nakhon, 10200, Bangkok
Chada Hostel is also very near Khao San road, literally a few minutes walk to the entrance. A group of my nephew's friends stayed just a few months ago and enjoyed the nice clean beds and friendly atmosphere. There are several room types that can accommodate many guests. Bathrooms are available inside the rooms too so no need for sharing.
There is a nice cafe opened 24 hrs. with a well stocked lobby for entertainment. It's really a great place to hang out, have a few beers and just people watch. Also with free WiFi access for guests, you'll be able to research your days travel itinerary.
You can check rates, exact location and current reviews at Chada Hostel Bangkok
Niras Bankoc Boutique Hostel
Beds from 480 Baht
204-206 Mahachai Rd. Samranrach, Phra Nakhon, 1200, Bangkok
Niras Bankoc is a very nice hostel in a secluded locale. You'll have to walk a bit to Khao San road and the historical sights though. But for most, the serene and tranquil setting of Niras Bankoc has endeared guest to come back year after year.
The Niras was deemed as one of the most popular hostel in Thailand by a popular UK news website. And many guests agree as well and the price reflects it. The rates aren't really considered "Backpacker rates", however most folks who want to spend a bit more for reasonable quality will fall in love with this property.
There are only 7 rooms available and only two have private baths. So make sure you book ahead of time. All the rooms are air-conditioned, with free WiFi access, include clean linen, security box, clothes hanger and enough space for your luggage. There are other little perks that make this hostel worth staying in such as washer/dryer, bicycle rental and storage lockers.
You can check rates, exact location and current reviews at Niras Bankoc Boutique Hostel
Baan Dinso Hostel Bangkok
Beds from 600 Baht
Baan Dinso Hostel Bangkok113 Soi Silp, Phra Nakhon, 10200, Bangkok
Chances are you wouldn't really find backpackers with dreadlocks at the Baan Dinso Hostel. You'll most likely find older travelers who want that little extra comfort with style instead. It's an old style colonial building that has been recently renovated to accommodate travelers and every year Baan Dinso is gaining popularity.
It's not too far from the noise and sights of Khao San road, about a 10 minute walk. And you will be near most of the historical sights and attractions in the surrounding area.
Baan Dinso's rooms are more comfortable then a backpacker would be use to and has a certain homely feel that most travelers will enjoy. There are modern amenities in the rooms and deluxe style room types have private baths.
My personal opinion is if you have the money to spend it here you should go for it. Otherwise if your budget is really tight you might want to give this hostel a pass.
You can check rates, exact location and current reviews at Baan Dinso Hostel Bangkok
Hostels in Silom & Sukhumvit
This is where to stay for the modern neighborhoods of Bangkok
Staying in Silom & Sukhumvit will put you right into the commercial and entertainment zones of Bangkok. There are so many restaurants and bars to check out in these areas. You'll find the fewest amounts of hostels in these areas and mostly budget to luxury style hotels.You're definitely going to be saving money on taxis if you're planning on staying in these areas. Silom & Sukhumvit have MRT and BTS train stations located throughout and you should make good use of them because they're affordable, air conditioned and most importantly fast
Silom is most well known it's red light district called Patpong. It's basically two small lanes that run between Silom and Surawongse road. But these lanes are packed full of go go bars, sex shows and regular bars and clubs. In the surrounding area are international pubs and restaurants filled with foreigners and locals. There's also a famous night market that runs along Patpong 1 side by side with go go bars. You should also visit Lumphini Night Bazaar and it's 3 beer gardens with friends.
Sukhumvit is a slightly more upscale neighborhood where expats Thai citizens who make a decent living. You'll find lots of high end department stores, luxury hotels and offices. So expenses here do cost a bit more then staying in Banglamphu but it's still quite affordable. Some of the most popular spots in Sukhumvit are the red light districts of Nana and Soi Cowboy.
HQ Hostel Bangkok
Beds from 380 Baht
HQ Hostel Bangkok5/3-4, Silom Soi 3, Silom Road, 10500, Bangkok
HQ Hostel Bangkok is another newish property in the heart of Silom with easy access to Patpong red light district and the surrounding nightlife. There's also a Sky Train station about a 10 minute walk that will take you to other popular parts of Bangkok easily.
There are many room configurations at HQ Hostel but only the private suite has in room bathroom. But otherwise the shared bathrooms are very well kept by the hard working and always smiling housekeeping. There are many perks for staying here such as free WiFi and breakfast.
HQ Hostel is really close to Lub d Hostel, which you'll read about below. Both are competing heavily against each other so you know they'll work hard to keep you happy. One thing you should know about HQ Hostel is that their rates don't include 7% VAT taxes. Why? I have no clue, but when you add it all up HQ Hostel is still quite a good value.
You can check rates, exact location and current reviews at HQ Hostel Bangkok
Lub d Bangkok Hostel
Beds from 550 Baht
Lub d Bangkok HostelDecho Road, Bangrak, 10500, Bangkok
This is by far one of the best hostels in the area. Not just in my book but from many hostel reservation companies and previous guests as well. It's in a great location, you're near the hub of activity in Bangkok, there's a Sky Train station not too far for easy travel.
The biggest benefit of staying in Silom is that you'll be near two really great nightlife hot spot. Patpong red light district, whether you love it or hate it is just a 15 minute walk east. Lumphini Night Bazaar is a 10 minute taxi ride away. Both are great places to eat and drink with reasonable rates.
Lub d Bangkok has a very modern and clean feel and the management really take care of their guests. It's best to watch a video below and you'll get a better idea about how cool Lub d really is.
You can check rates, exact location and current reviews at Lub d Bangkok Hostel
Lub d Bangkok Hostel
Here's a video commercial on Lub d
This video gives a good introduction to the room and services of this hostel.
HI-Sukhumvit Bangkok
Beds from 250 Baht
HI-Sukhumvit BangkokSukhumvit Road Soi 38, 10110, Bangkok
This is one of the most popular hostels in Sukhumvit. Yes your bed may be cheap but this neighborhood compared to life in Khao San road is expensive. Not too far is Thong Lo, an up and coming neighborhood with trendy hip shops. Many foreigners live in the area as well as Thai folks with money. There's a BTS Sky Train station just minutes away so if you stay at HI-Sukhumvit you're in a good area.
There's a bus station near here that can take you to Pattaya for about 100 Baht. Pattaya is a beach resort just a few hours away.
HI-Sukhumvit Bangkok has several room configurations that can accommodate small groups to couples. Standards here are very high and the mangaging staff makes sure of it. All in all this is a really good value because of the neighborhood.
You can check rates, exact location and current reviews at HI-Sukhumvit Bangkok
Sukhumvit Soi 1 Backpackers Hostel
Beds from 350 Baht
Sukhumvit Soi 1 Backpackers Hostel 220/7 Sukhumvit Soi 1, 10110, Bangkok
I get a lot of emails from guests who've stayed at this hostel, insisting that I list this hostel on this website. Before we did so we went and checked out the property ourselves. To make a long story short we were very impressed. The staff here really stress a wonderful hostel community experience and it shows by seeing the many faces of happy backpackers.
There are a good mix of room types such as private rooms, women's and men's only dorm rooms along with mixed. It's a very well kept property with many perks to keep guests happy.
You'll find loads of places to drink beer and eat nearby. Not too far is Nana Entertainment Plaza, a red light zone crammed full of go go bars. The best thing is if you ever get sick there is a well known international hospital just up the soi.
You can check rates, exact location and current reviews at Sukhumvit Soi 1 Backpackers Hostel
Reader Comments and Reviews
If you have any travel tips for fellow travelers go ahead and post them here!
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- Brandy W. Brandy W. Dec 10, 2009 @ 4:15 am
- Stayed at Lub d for 4 nights last week and now we're in Phuket. Lub was a cool hotel in silom. The area is quiet but within a 10 minute walk you can get to Patpong. A 10 minute walk the other way and you're near the river. Plus the train is also another 5 minute walk. OVerall Lub d is still convienent and we'll definitley come back again.
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- Ella Jorgen Ella Jorgen Nov 26, 2009 @ 10:58 am
- Sukhumvit Soi 1 is our favorite. We went to Hi 5 and it was good too.
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- Gretta Harmon Gretta Harmon Nov 2, 2009 @ 11:13 pm
- Baan Dinso was beautiful and lovely. Thank you for recommendation!
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- Sarah Indi Sarah Indi Oct 12, 2009 @ 7:57 am
- Yeah I like Hi 5 too. I booked a week there after reading the reviews. It was a little pricier for then what we wanted to spend, but the location can't be beat.
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- Ben Vikofsky Ben Vikofsky Sep 21, 2009 @ 10:44 pm
- Personally I like Hi 5 Sukhumvit for location especially, it's in a popular area with some excellent restaurants and clubs. People working here are friendly too and it's a great hostel atmosphere with travelers from all over, young and old.
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by Edwin_Clark
Edwin Clark has been working for a decade as an independent travel consultant for mid to large corporations. Currently he resides in Asia where he w... (more)
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