Bangkok hotel with rooftop bar
Bangkok, a city renowned for its vibrant street life, ornate temples, and bustling markets, also boasts a sophisticated skyline dotted with luxurious hotels. Among these, hotels with rooftop bars offer an unparalleled experience, combining opulent accommodation with breathtaking panoramic views. Imagine sipping a meticulously crafted cocktail as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the cityscape in hues of orange and purple. This is the magic of a Bangkok hotel with a rooftop bar, a destination in itself, offering a sensory feast that transcends mere accommodation.
The Allure of Bangkok Rooftop Bars
The allure of Bangkok rooftop bars is multifaceted. Firstly, the altitude provides respite from the city’s humidity and offers a refreshing breeze. Secondly, the views are simply stunning. Whether you’re gazing at the Chao Phraya River snaking through the city, admiring the glittering temples illuminated at night, or simply watching the city’s vibrant energy unfold below, the perspective is captivating. Thirdly, rooftop bars in Bangkok are often designed with meticulous attention to detail, featuring stylish décor, sophisticated lighting, and comfortable seating arrangements. Finally, the drinks themselves are a draw, with skilled mixologists crafting innovative cocktails using fresh, local ingredients.
Choosing the Right Hotel: Factors to Consider
Selecting the right Bangkok hotel with a rooftop bar requires careful consideration. Several factors come into play, influencing the overall experience. Here are some key aspects to keep in mind:
Location, Location, Location
The location of the hotel is paramount. Consider your itinerary and preferred activities. Are you interested in exploring the historical sites of Old City, or do you prefer the modern shopping malls and nightlife of Sukhumvit? A hotel in Riverside offers stunning views of the Chao Phraya River, while a hotel in Sathorn provides easy access to business districts and upscale dining. Proximity to public transportation, such as the BTS Skytrain or MRT subway, is also crucial for convenient exploration of the city.
Rooftop Bar Ambiance and Style
Rooftop bars in Bangkok cater to diverse tastes. Some exude a chic and sophisticated atmosphere, perfect for a romantic evening or a business meeting. Others offer a more relaxed and casual vibe, ideal for socializing with friends. Consider the dress code, music style, and overall ambiance to ensure it aligns with your preferences. Research the specific rooftop bar’s reputation and reviews to get a sense of the crowd it attracts and the type of experience it offers.
Hotel Amenities and Services
Beyond the rooftop bar, consider the hotel’s overall amenities and services. Does it have a swimming pool, spa, fitness center, and multiple dining options? Are the rooms spacious and well-appointed? Does the hotel offer concierge services to assist with bookings and recommendations? A hotel that provides a comprehensive range of amenities can enhance your overall stay and provide a more seamless and enjoyable experience.
Price and Value
Bangkok offers a wide range of hotel options, from budget-friendly to ultra-luxurious. Determine your budget and look for a hotel that offers the best value for your money. Consider the cost of accommodation, food and beverages, and any additional services you may require. Read reviews and compare prices from different booking platforms to ensure you’re getting a competitive deal. Keep in mind that peak season, such as holidays and festivals, may result in higher prices.
Reviews and Ratings
Before making a reservation, carefully read reviews and ratings from previous guests. Websites like TripAdvisor, Booking.com, and Expedia provide valuable insights into the experiences of other travelers. Pay attention to comments about the rooftop bar, the quality of service, the cleanliness of the rooms, and the overall atmosphere of the hotel. Look for patterns in the reviews to identify potential strengths and weaknesses. Be mindful of both positive and negative feedback to make an informed decision.
Top Bangkok Hotels with Rooftop Bars: A Curated Selection
To assist you in your search, here is a curated selection of some of the top Bangkok hotels with rooftop bars, each offering a unique and unforgettable experience:
The Okura Prestige Bangkok
The Okura Prestige Bangkok, perched high above the city in the iconic Park Ventures Ecoplex, offers unparalleled luxury and sophistication. Its rooftop bar, Up & Above, boasts breathtaking panoramic views of the Bangkok skyline. With its chic and contemporary design, Up & Above provides a refined setting for enjoying handcrafted cocktails and premium spirits. The hotel itself features elegantly appointed rooms, a tranquil infinity pool, and exceptional dining options, ensuring a truly memorable stay.
Lebua at State Tower
Lebua at State Tower is perhaps best known for its Sky Bar, featured in the movie “The Hangover Part II.” Perched on the 64th floor, Sky Bar offers breathtaking views of the city and the Chao Phraya River. The bar is renowned for its innovative cocktails and vibrant atmosphere. The hotel also features several other restaurants and bars, including Sirocco, an award-winning open-air Mediterranean restaurant. The spacious suites offer stunning city views and luxurious amenities.
Banyan Tree Bangkok
The Banyan Tree Bangkok is a haven of tranquility in the heart of the city. Its rooftop bar, Vertigo and Moon Bar, offers a unique dining and drinking experience. Vertigo, an open-air grill and bar, serves delectable seafood and premium cuts of meat. Moon Bar, located just above Vertigo, provides a relaxed setting for enjoying cocktails and soaking in the stunning city views. The hotel also features a renowned spa and a variety of dining options.
Siam Kempinski Hotel Bangkok
While not having a traditional “rooftop” bar, the Siam Kempinski Hotel Bangkok offers a stunning outdoor setting with its Hanuman Bar. Surrounded by lush gardens and reflecting pools, Hanuman Bar provides a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. The bar serves a wide selection of cocktails, wines, and light snacks. The hotel itself is a luxurious oasis, featuring spacious rooms, a beautiful swimming pool, and world-class dining options.
Park Hyatt Bangkok
The Park Hyatt Bangkok, located in the upscale Central Embassy shopping mall, boasts a stylish rooftop bar called Penthouse Bar + Grill. The bar features multiple levels, each offering a unique ambiance and stunning city views. Penthouse Bar + Grill serves a delectable selection of grilled dishes and handcrafted cocktails. The hotel also features a luxurious spa, a fitness center, and several dining options.
SO/ Bangkok
SO/ Bangkok is a design-led hotel that offers a unique and stylish experience. Its rooftop bar, HI-SO Rooftop Bar, provides stunning views of Lumpini Park and the city skyline. The bar features a chic and contemporary design, with comfortable seating and a vibrant atmosphere. HI-SO Rooftop Bar serves a wide selection of cocktails, wines, and light snacks. The hotel also features a rooftop infinity pool and several dining options.
The Peninsula Bangkok
The Peninsula Bangkok, located on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, offers a luxurious and elegant experience. While not directly a “rooftop” bar, its River Bar offers a stunning open-air setting with breathtaking views of the river and the city skyline. The bar serves a wide selection of cocktails, wines, and light snacks. The hotel also features a renowned spa, a fitness center, and several dining options.
Avani+ Riverside Bangkok Hotel
The Avani+ Riverside Bangkok Hotel offers stunning views of the Chao Phraya River and the city skyline. Its rooftop bar, SEEN Restaurant & Bar Bangkok, is a stylish and vibrant destination. SEEN Restaurant & Bar Bangkok serves a delectable selection of international cuisine and handcrafted cocktails. The hotel also features a rooftop infinity pool and a fitness center.
Millennium Hilton Bangkok
The Millennium Hilton Bangkok, located on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, offers stunning views of the city skyline. Its rooftop bar, ThreeSixty, provides a unique and unforgettable experience. ThreeSixty is a revolving rooftop bar that offers panoramic views of the city. The bar serves a wide selection of cocktails, wines, and light snacks. The hotel also features a renowned spa, a fitness center, and several dining options.
Carlton Hotel Bangkok Sukhumvit
The Carlton Hotel Bangkok Sukhumvit offers a sophisticated and modern experience in the heart of Sukhumvit. Its rooftop bar, Cooling Tower Rooftop Bar, provides stunning views of the city skyline. The bar features a chic and contemporary design, with comfortable seating and a relaxed atmosphere. Cooling Tower Rooftop Bar serves a wide selection of cocktails, wines, and light snacks. The hotel also features a rooftop swimming pool and a fitness center.
Beyond the Bars: Exploring Bangkok
While the rooftop bars offer an incredible experience, Bangkok has much more to offer. Take the time to explore the city’s rich culture, history, and cuisine. Here are some must-see attractions:
Temples (Wats)
Bangkok is home to numerous stunning temples, each with its own unique architecture and history. Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn), located on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, is a must-see. Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha) is another popular attraction, home to a massive reclining Buddha statue. Wat Saket (Golden Mount) offers panoramic views of the city from its hilltop location.
Grand Palace
The Grand Palace is a complex of buildings that served as the official residence of the Kings of Siam (and later Thailand) since 1782. The palace is a stunning example of Thai architecture and is a must-see for any visitor to Bangkok. Within the Grand Palace complex is Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha), which houses the most sacred Buddha image in Thailand.
Markets
Bangkok is a shopper’s paradise, with a wide variety of markets offering everything from souvenirs to street food. Chatuchak Weekend Market is one of the largest markets in the world, with over 8,000 stalls. Damnoen Saduak Floating Market offers a unique glimpse into traditional Thai life. Asiatique The Riverfront is a modern night market with a wide variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.
Chao Phraya River
The Chao Phraya River is the lifeblood of Bangkok. Take a river cruise to see the city from a different perspective. Visit the iconic landmarks along the riverbanks, such as Wat Arun and the Grand Palace. Enjoy a delicious dinner cruise and watch the city lights twinkle at night.
Lumpini Park
Lumpini Park is a green oasis in the heart of Bangkok. Escape the city’s hustle and bustle and enjoy a relaxing stroll through the park. Rent a paddleboat on the lake or join a tai chi class. Lumpini Park is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
Tips for Enjoying Bangkok Rooftop Bars
To make the most of your Bangkok rooftop bar experience, consider these tips:
Dress Code
Most rooftop bars in Bangkok have a smart casual dress code. Avoid wearing shorts, sandals, or tank tops. Some bars may require closed-toe shoes for men. Check the specific dress code of the bar before you go.
Reservations
Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak season or on weekends. Some bars may require a minimum spending amount for reservations.
Happy Hour
Many rooftop bars offer happy hour specials, with discounted drinks and appetizers. Take advantage of these deals to save money.
Sunset
The best time to visit a rooftop bar is during sunset. Arrive early to secure a good spot and watch the city transform as the sun goes down.
Transportation
Consider taking the BTS Skytrain or MRT subway to avoid traffic congestion. Taxis and tuk-tuks are also available, but be sure to negotiate the price beforehand.
Stay Hydrated
Bangkok can be very hot and humid. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially if you’re consuming alcohol.
Be Respectful
Be respectful of the local culture and customs. Avoid loud or disruptive behavior.
Conclusion
A Bangkok hotel with a rooftop bar offers a unique and unforgettable experience, combining luxurious accommodation with breathtaking panoramic views. Whether you’re seeking a romantic evening, a sophisticated gathering, or simply a relaxing escape, a rooftop bar in Bangkok is the perfect destination. By considering the factors outlined in this article and following the tips provided, you can choose the right hotel and rooftop bar to create memories that will last a lifetime. So, pack your bags, book your flight, and prepare to be captivated by the magic of Bangkok’s skyline.