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.

Some of our Thailand Collections:

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.
  • 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.

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The best hotels in Bangkok

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Prince Theatre Heritage Stay

Bangkok (SILOM, BANGRAK, )

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.

  • 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
from $17 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Villa de Pranakorn

Bangkok (Pranakorn District)

A boutique stay in Bangkok’s Old Town, just steps from temples, street eats, and culture. The look’s sleek and minimalist, with nods to Sino-Portuguese design. There’s a pool, fitness room, and refined restaurant serving Thai and international dishes. Quiet charm in the city’s historic core.

  • Other Activities - Cool off at the pool bar, then hop aboard a Chao Phraya riverboat for scenic temple tours toward Grand Palace and Wat Pho
  • Local exploring - Step outside to stroll ancient alleys, explore Wat Saket, and sip cocktails poolside after a day in Bangkok’s Old Town
  • Cycling - Cycle through the hidden alleys of Rattanakosin Island on a guided heritage tour past canals, shrines, and spirit houses
  • Local markets - Embark on a guided walk through Trok Mo’s vibrant wet market and ancient stalls, soaking in aromas and Old Town life
from $69 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

The best hotels in Phuket

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Angsana Laguna Phuket

Phuket (Cherngtalay)

A modern beachfront resort on Phuket’s Bang Tao Bay with a relaxed, family-friendly vibe. The decor blends sleek lines with Thai accents and bold art. Highlights include a large lagoon-style pool, spa, and multiple dining spots from seafood to Mediterranean. Big, easy-going and well-equipped.

  • Watersports - Paddle through serene lagoons or sail the Andaman Sea, embracing Phuket's aquatic charm right from your resort doorstep
  • Snorkelling - Embark on a private sail to hidden reefs, snorkelling amidst vibrant marine life in Phuket's crystal-clear waters
  • Local markets - Discover Phuket Old Town's vibrant streets, rich with Sino-Portuguese architecture and bustling local markets
  • Golf - Tee off at Laguna Golf Phuket, where lush fairways meet ocean breezes for an unforgettable golfing experience
from $129 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

COMO Point Yamu

Phuket (Talang)

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.

  • 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
from $190 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

The best hotels in Ko Samui

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Rocky's Boutique Resort

Ko Samui (Amphur Koh Samui )

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.

  • 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
from $134 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Zazen Boutique Resort & Spa

Ko Samui (Koh Samui,)

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.

  • 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
from $189 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

The best hotels in Krabi

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Green Pepper

Koh Lanta (Krabi)

A chilled-out family-run spot tucked inland on Koh Lanta, just a quick ride from Long Beach. Rooms have a cosy, natural feel with bamboo, rattan, and leafy touches. There’s a laid-back garden, yoga space, and tasty breakfast served in a sociable common area. A calm, easygoing base.

  • Yoga - Rise with dawn to a garden yoga session beneath rustling palms, breathing in tropical tranquillity just steps from your bungalow
  • Cooking classes - Swap stories over a sizzling Thai cooking class, chopping fresh herbs and mastering spicy curry in an island‑time kitchen
  • Snorkelling - Spend golden hours snorkelling azure waters around Koh Haa or Koh Rok, discovering vibrant coral reefs and tropical fish
  • Kayaking - Join a guided kayak tour through mangrove canals and sea‑cave cliffs, drifting past wildlife in a silent Andaman oasis
from $41 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on My Luxury Hotel

Avani + Koh Lanta

Koh Lanta (Krabi)

A contemporary island resort in Koh Lanta with knockout sea views and a peaceful peninsula setting. Clean lines and warm woods give it a cool, unfussy charm. Cliffside bars, a private beach, and a laid-back spa round it out. A solid spot to unplug and slow down.

  • Cooking classes - Immerse in Thai culinary culture with hands‑on cookery at Lanta Thai School, mastering fragrant curries in lush garden surrounds
  • Sights nearby - Wade into emerald‑cave magic: swim 80m through a shadowed tunnel to a sun‑lit secret lagoon beyond Koh Mook’s dramatic reef
  • Snorkelling - Climb aboard a speedboat for snorkelling amid vibrant coral gardens off Koh Rok and Koh Haa, teeming with tropical marine life
  • Other Activities - Hit the road on a rented scooter to explore deserted southern beaches, jungle‑fringed bays and secret waterfall havens
from $110 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on My Luxury Hotel

The best hotels in Chiang Mai

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North Hill City Resort

Chiang Mai (Baanwan, Hangdong)

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.

  • 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.
from $121 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Baan Orapin

Chiang Mai (Wat Ket)

A charming B&B in Chiang Mai’s historic Wat Ket district, just a stroll from the Night Bazaar. The vibe is relaxed and homey, with vintage Thai decor and leafy gardens. Highlights include a saltwater pool, cosy cafe, and hearty homemade breakfasts. Quiet, cultural, and easy to explore from.

  • Local markets - Join a twilight street‑food tour around Night Bazaar, savouring smoky satays and spicy khao soi under lantern‑lit canopies
  • Local exploring - Step out to Warorot Market or stroll to Tha Pae Gate - culture, cafes, and Chiang Mai's buzz all within walking distance
  • Sights nearby - Cycle or hike up to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep at dawn, then soak in panoramic city views from its hilltop terraces
  • Total relaxation - Lounge by the saltwater pool or savour a Lanna breakfast in the peaceful, garden-filled heart of historic Wat Ket
from $107 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on My Luxury Hotel

The best hotels in Hua Hin

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The Standard Hua Hin

Hua Hin

A relaxed beachfront stay in Hua Hin, blending resort comfort with a playful, design-led edge. Mid-century interiors pop with colour against tropical gardens. Expect a lively pool scene, inventive spa, and standout dining from Thai classics to wood-fired pizza. Effortless cool by the sea.

  • Local markets - Stroll to Cicada Market on weekend evenings, where vibrant art stalls, live music and crafts flourish beneath lantern-lit skies
  • Sights nearby - Escape on a day trip to Khao Sam Roi Yot’s Phraya Nakhon Cave, hiking to the luminous Kuha Karuhas Pavilion
  • Cycling - Cycle to historic Hua Hin Railway Station and snap its charming Victorian-era pavilion and vintage steam train
  • Local exploring - Wander from a lush garden retreat to Cicada Market or the historic Hua Hin Railway Station in just minutes
from $127 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Putahracsa

Hua Hin

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.

  • 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
from $130 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

The best hotels in Koh Lanta

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Green Pepper

Koh Lanta (Krabi)

A chilled-out family-run spot tucked inland on Koh Lanta, just a quick ride from Long Beach. Rooms have a cosy, natural feel with bamboo, rattan, and leafy touches. There’s a laid-back garden, yoga space, and tasty breakfast served in a sociable common area. A calm, easygoing base.

  • Yoga - Rise with dawn to a garden yoga session beneath rustling palms, breathing in tropical tranquillity just steps from your bungalow
  • Cooking classes - Swap stories over a sizzling Thai cooking class, chopping fresh herbs and mastering spicy curry in an island‑time kitchen
  • Snorkelling - Spend golden hours snorkelling azure waters around Koh Haa or Koh Rok, discovering vibrant coral reefs and tropical fish
  • Kayaking - Join a guided kayak tour through mangrove canals and sea‑cave cliffs, drifting past wildlife in a silent Andaman oasis
from $41 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on My Luxury Hotel

Avani + Koh Lanta

Koh Lanta (Krabi)

A contemporary island resort in Koh Lanta with knockout sea views and a peaceful peninsula setting. Clean lines and warm woods give it a cool, unfussy charm. Cliffside bars, a private beach, and a laid-back spa round it out. A solid spot to unplug and slow down.

  • Cooking classes - Immerse in Thai culinary culture with hands‑on cookery at Lanta Thai School, mastering fragrant curries in lush garden surrounds
  • Sights nearby - Wade into emerald‑cave magic: swim 80m through a shadowed tunnel to a sun‑lit secret lagoon beyond Koh Mook’s dramatic reef
  • Snorkelling - Climb aboard a speedboat for snorkelling amid vibrant coral gardens off Koh Rok and Koh Haa, teeming with tropical marine life
  • Other Activities - Hit the road on a rented scooter to explore deserted southern beaches, jungle‑fringed bays and secret waterfall havens
from $110 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on My Luxury Hotel