World's Best

The Top 5 Bangkok Hotels

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Published on September 8, 2021

This year's World's Best Awards survey was open for voting January 11 through May 10, 2021, as destinations around the world were lifting COVID-19 restrictions. Survey rules have always allowed readers to reflect on their travel experiences over a three-year period. We hope that this year's honorees will inspire your own travels as you get back out into the world.

The Thai capital pulses with a modern energy that visitors feel the moment they step onto its busy streets. Along with historic architecture and sites, it has mouthwatering food and a dynamic arts scene. That same heady mix can be found in the city's hotels, which range from major global brands to standout smaller properties. T+L readers' picks for the best hotels in Bangkok reflect everything that makes this city so appealing.

Every year for our World's Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Hotels were rated on their facilities, location, service, food, and overall value. Properties were classified as city or resort based on their locations and amenities.

The presidential villa at Capella Hotels & Resorts — Courtesy of Capella Hotels & Resorts

"A truly resort-style hotel in the heart of Bangkok" is how one reader described the Sukhothai (No. 4), an oasis in Sathon within walking distance of popular Lumphini Park. That resort feeling is especially strong thanks to facilities like the 25-meter infinity-edged swimming pool, set among plentiful greenery and rows of chaise longues — and the Spa Botanica, for lemongrass and ginger scrubs and traditional Thai massages.

As this year's runner-up, the Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok has made this list every year, thanks to its outstanding hospitality. "They have it down to a science," wrote one reader. "And they could be the training grounds for anybody interested in what proper service is all about."

But it was a fairly recent debut, Capella Bangkok, that took top honors. Read on for more about what made it the favorite and the full list of the best hotels in Bangkok.

1. Capella Bangkok

Winning the top spot is a big achievement for a newcomer, but Capella Bangkok, which opened in October 2020, accomplished the feat. "Fantastic service and facilities, amazing views of the Chao Phraya River, large rooms, and extraordinary food and beverage!" enthused one reader. The property is home to four restaurants, including Côte by Mauro Colagreco, who was formerly the chef at Michelin three-starred Mirazur in Menton, France. Côte seems to float above the river, and the food (trout confit, lobster with smoked broccoli mousseline) is similarly ethereal. Guest rooms, in calming shades of white and taupe with natural woods, have floor-to-ceiling windows for views of the water.

Score: 99.38
More information: capellahotels.com