For most travelers, it’s an essential stop on any Thailand itinerary, though some people don’t realize that you can also fly in or out via Phuket International Airport.
Bangkok is a sprawling metropolis—always buzzing, always hot. Getting around may seem intimidating, but thankfully, the city has two efficient rail systems: the BTS (SkyTrain) and the MRT (metro).
The BTS glides above major roads, getting you from A to B in minutes, while the MRT runs underground, reaching different corners of the city. Staying near a station is key to having a smooth and stress-free trip.
Now, let’s talk about what makes Bangkok so exciting.
Temples, palaces, night markets, food courts, rooftop bars, Muay Thai stadiums, day trips to floating markets and ancient ruins, street food, the world’s largest Chinatown, canal boat rides, Southeast Asia’s biggest shopping mall, street art tours—the list goes on and on.
I promise the kids will be amazed by everything Bangkok has to offer, but choosing a family-friendly area is just as important.
It’s no secret that parts of Bangkok have a well-known nightlife scene with adult entertainment. But don’t worry—we’ll cover everything you need to know in this guide.
Each area has its pros and cons, which we’ll summarize at the end.
At the bottom of this article, you’ll also find a map showing all our recommended family-friendly areas alongside Bangkok’s main attractions.
First, we’ll give you a quick overview so you can easily scan which area suits you best.
Now, let’s dive into our top recommendations!
The best areas to stay in Bangkok with kids are Sukhumvit, Riverside, Silom, and Rattanakosin.
While Riverside is often dubbed as the family area of Bangkok, Sukhumvit is a more convenient area if you stay in the right neighborhood.
It’s full of modern amenities, has superb access to public transportation and family-friendly parks, and offers the most kid-friendly dining options.
Now, Riverside is still an excellent option as it offers a far more relaxed atmosphere compared to the other areas, and it has great views, luxury hotels, and easy access to boat tours and historical landmarks.
Silom, an are often overlooked by tourists, combines a central location with access to Lumphini Park and public transport.
You’re located closer to the major sights compared to Sukhumvit while also having access to both the MRT and the BTS, the two most important and fastest public transportation systems.
Rattanakosin, the Old City, is perfect for exploring Bangkok’s iconic cultural sites like the Grand Palace and Wat Pho, as well being surrounded by history and authenticity.
But, it has the worst connection to public transport out of these four.
🚫 Where NOT to stay in Bangkok with kids:
Both areas are known for their nightlife, with Nana also being Bangkok’s main adult entertainment district.
Below, we’ll break down each of these recommended areas in more detail to help you decide which is the best fit for your family.
⚠️ Tip: Tap the area name to jump directly to that section of the article for more information!
Sukhumvit: When it comes to connectivity, it doesn’t get any better than this. With excellent access to both the MRT and BTS, getting around is effortless—something that’s absolutely essential in a city as chaotic as Bangkok. That’s why I consider this the most convenient area to stay in Bangkok with kids. Sukhumvit is also one of the city’s most modern districts, packed with shopping malls that feel like air-conditioned mini-cities. However, Sukhumvit is vast and consists of several distinct neighborhoods, each offering a very different experience.
Riverside: Riverside is a favorite among families. It’s close to several major attractions and offers a quieter atmosphere that makes Bangkok feel less overwhelming. Plus, many hotels in this area are designed with families in mind. It also has a more authentic feel compared to Sukhumvit. The only downside? Connectivity isn’t as seamless. Unlike Sukhumvit, you won’t have direct SkyTrain access, which can be a big help when traveling with kids—especially if you’re using a stroller. Just to be clear, it’s not that there isn’t any access to the SkyTrain, it’s just that Sukhumvit has direct access to the Sukhumvit Line.
Silom: If you do prioritize direct access to the SkyTrain and you want to stay near the river, Silom is the best option. Silom and Sukhumvit share many similarities. While Sukhumvit offers better connectivity, Silom provides easier access to major attractions. That said, most families tend to stay in Bangkok’s Riverside, which is right next to Silom. However, Silom has its own advantages that make it worth considering. You can basically enjoy the perks of Riverside while staying in an area with direct access to the MRT and the BTS, although Sukhumvit has slightly better connectivity.
Rattanakosin: Bangkok’s Old Town is rich in authentic architecture, local eateries, and some of the city’s most iconic attractions. If you prefer a boutique stay over a modern hotel, this is the perfect place to start your search. This area offers the most authentic Bangkok experience, but public transport access is limited. Thankfully, the recent metro line extension has improved connectivity, with Sam Yot MRT Station now providing a link to other parts of the city. I highly recommend staying as close as possible to this station to make getting around easier and avoid Bangkok’s notorious traffic.
Sukhumvit is one of Bangkok’s most vibrant areas, and certain parts of it are especially well-suited for families.
In particular, Asoke and Phrom Phong (Sukhumvit Sois 21–39) strike the perfect balance between convenience, entertainment, and family-friendly amenities.
These neighborhoods allow you to explore Bangkok with ease while staying in a comfortable, well-connected area.
What truly sets Sukhumvit apart is its unmatched connectivity.
Asoke is home to both the BTS SkyTrain and MRT metro, making it effortless to reach every corner of the city.
Sukhumvit is also home to several major shopping malls, which are more than just places to shop.
In Southeast Asia, malls feel like self-contained mini-cities, with food courts, family-friendly restaurants, entertainment for kids, and—most importantly—blasting air-conditioning to escape the Bangkok heat.
There are two red-light districts in Sukhumvit: Nana (which families should avoid altogether) and Soi Cowboy, located near Asoke BTS.
Fortunately, Soi Cowboy is tucked away and won’t affect your stay unless you actively seek it out.
Unlike the Riverside area, Sukhumvit doesn’t offer scenic river views.
However, the rooftop bars along Sukhumvit Road provide breathtaking cityscapes—perfect for enjoying a sunset drink with the family.
I used to live near Asoke, and I can confidently say that it’s one of the most convenient areas to stay in Bangkok with kids.
With easy transport access, family-friendly amenities, and plenty to explore, Sukhumvit lets you experience Bangkok to the fullest without the usual hassles of traffic.
I would start looking for hotels in Asoke. This is by far the best base to explore the city.
If you’re a bit on a budget, the areas east of Asoke that have direct connection to the Sukhumvit-Line are solid options too.
But if you have a bit of a larger budget, consider staying at Chit Lom or Phloen Chit.
Although not part of Sukhumvit, they are connected to the Sukhumvit Line and are considered upscale areas.
Hotel prices in Southeast Asia aren’t as colossal as you might think, so you can easily indulge in some luxury in these upscale neighborhoods without paying the premium price.
Direct access to both the BTS SkyTrain and MRT metro, making it easy to explore Bangkok.
Plenty of shopping malls, parks, and kid-friendly dining options.
From affordable hotels to luxury stays, there’s something for everyone.
Avoid Nana, as it’s not family-friendly. Soi Cowboy is near Asoke but easily avoidable.
Peak hours can be overwhelming, especially around major BTS and MRT stations.
Unlike Riverside or Rattanakosin, Sukhumvit lacks historical landmarks and traditional Thai architecture.
If you’re looking for a family-friendly area in Bangkok, Riverside should definitely be at the top of your list.
This area offers stunning views of the Chao Phraya River, giving you a peaceful escape from the city’s typical chaos.
It’s the perfect spot for families, with easy access to iconic attractions like the Grand Palace, Wat Arun, and Asiatique The Riverfront—places everyone in the family will love.
Getting around is a breeze thanks to river taxis and hotel shuttle boats that connect to the BTS Skytrain, making it simple to explore the rest of the city.
Many of the hotels here are designed with families in mind, offering spacious rooms, pools, and play areas. Plus, dining along the river is a treat, with options ranging from casual spots to upscale restaurants with beautiful river views.
While Riverside is known for its luxury hotels, there are also more affordable options, so it’s a great choice for all types of budgets.
The only downside?
It doesn’t have direct access to the MRT or BTS, but most hotels offer free tuk-tuk rides to nearby stations.
And, getting from the airport takes about an hour by taxi, which can be a bit less convenient compared to places like Sukhumvit.
But even with those small drawbacks, Riverside offers an amazing base for exploring Bangkok’s highlights while providing a calm and relaxing atmosphere that’s hard to beat in such a busy city.
Rattanakosin, also known as Bangkok’s Old City, is a fantastic choice for families who want to dive deep into the city’s rich history and culture.
The area is steeped in old architecture, offering a unique vibe that no other neighborhood in Bangkok can match.
It’s home to iconic attractions like the Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha), and Wat Pho, all of which are must-visits for first-time travelers.
The area is incredibly walkable, with major sights close together, making it easier to explore with kids—though the heat in Bangkok can make walking a challenge.
For older children interested in history, the Bangkok National Museum is an educational stop.
Food lovers will enjoy the variety, from street food to riverside dining, and you can’t miss local favorites like Pad Thai Thip Samai and Jay Fai, the Michelin-starred eatery (though it will close in 2025).
For a cool treat, try the famous coconut ice cream at Nattaporn.
While the Old City offers tons of authenticity, it does come with a few downsides, like limited shopping malls and modern amenities, and less convenient public transport.
However, the recent metro extension has made Sam Yot Station nearby, so it’s not impossible to get around.
A local secret to avoid traffic is the boat taxi from Wat Saket, which takes you across the river to Siam, where you can connect to the BTS.
It’s not the fastest way to get around, but it’s definitely scenic and a fun experience for the whole family.
And, just a heads-up, while Khao San Road is close by, it’s best to avoid staying there due to its backpacker party vibe, especially if you’re traveling with kids.
