Heading to Bangkok and looking for a trendy central stay? Offering exceptional service, exquisite views, an array of dining options, and even a free river boat service to nearby locations, The Salil Hotel Riverside promises a memorable stay in the Thai capital.
While this stay was complimentary, all thoughts and opinions are our own.
The Salil Hotel Riverside review
Hotel snapshot
Hotel: The Salil Hotel Riverside – Bangkok
Location: Bangkok, Thailand
Neighbourhood: Charoen Krung / Bang Kho Laem
Address: 2052/7-9 Soi Charoen Krung 72/1, Bangkok 10120, Thailand
Rooms: 235 rooms and suites
Style: Contemporary, playful and design-led, with a residential feel
Family-friendly: Yes. Dedicated 48sqm Family Rooms with bunk beds and kitchenettes, a swimming pool with children’s area, The Playroom and family-friendly creative activities.
Wellness: Fitness centre and spa
Pool: Outdoor swimming pool overlooking the Chao Phraya River
Best for: Couples, families, design lovers and travellers wanting a riverside stay away from central Bangkok’s busiest areas
Approximate price: From around THB 7,000 per night, depending on room type and season.
The vibe
Nestled along the picturesque banks of the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok, The Salil Hotel Riverside is a hallmark of refinement and elegance. As I walk through its gilded doors, the lobby greets me with a welcoming embrace, its contemporary Thai artwork casting a spell of sophistication. Bathed in soft, natural light, it feels as though I’ve entered an opulent yet modern sanctuary of luxury.
The warmth of the staff’s smiles instantly puts me at ease. Each interaction feels personal, as if I’m a cherished visitor rather than just another random traveller passing through. Every detail has been meticulously curated to ensure my stay is nothing short of perfect. The Salil Hotel Riverside is more than just a place to rest my head—it’s a destination in itself.
The rooms
Rooms are fresh and elegant in design
The hotel boasts 235 rooms and suites in twelve configurations, catering to diverse needs and styles. Thoughtfully designed by Begraybangkok to maximise comfort and aesthetic appeal, these sanctuaries boast expansive windows that frame breathtaking views of the Chao Phraya River. From the cosy Deluxe Rooms with breathtaking pool or river views to the lavish Penthouse Suites, each accommodation type has its own personality.
My room, a Deluxe Room with a superlative view over the river, felt timeless in its definition of luxury. The interior decor was a fusion of traditional Thai elegance with modern design elements — heavy curtains for privacy with modern artworks hung on the walls, creating an ambience that was both luxuriant and inviting.
The cityscape glittered in the distance, forming a mesmerising backdrop. The attention to detail was evident, from the plush bedding to the curated selection of amenities. Smart TVs, a well-stocked minibar, and the signature Salil pyjamas enhanced the comfort of my stay, making it a true home away from home.
Bonus: the hotel even thoughtfully provided a specially curated bedtime Spotify playlist, perfect for winding down.
Food and drink
NAVA, with its four unique food-and-drink outlets, became my favoured destination for my daily breakfast. Amidst the bustling atmosphere, I was particularly drawn to the station offering traditional Thai-style noodles, where skilled chefs expertly prepared steaming bowls of fragrant broth, perfectly cooked noodles, topped with chicken or pork. Enhanced by the option to personalise my bowl with additional condiments like sugar, spice, garlic and vinegar, I was able to tailor my experience to my own taste preferences (I have a penchant for sweeter things).
Sample delectable Thai cuisine at NAVA
Adjacent to the noodle station was a rustic pot of homemade soya milk. The creamy soya bean milk was a most wholesome morning treat. I relished its velvety texture and delicate nutty taste, a refreshing way to begin my day.
Among the other gastronomic wonders, dinner at Jumbo Lobster at Riverside was another highlight for me. Notable mentions included the fresh mango salad with tiger prawn and the homemade crab roll. However, the true star of the culinary experience was the grilled rainbow lobster seasoned with garlic herb, its succulent flesh perfectly complemented by the fragrant herbs and charred smokiness. Equally scrumptious was the rainbow lobster baked with creamy cheese, adding richness to each bite.
For libations after dinner, the Pacific Cigar Divan is the perfect locale for a nightcap. Or perhaps opt for something sweet at Brix Dessert, a haven for confectionery enthusiasts. Each space presents its own culinary narratives while encouraging a sense of community.
The service and facilities
Be sure to schedule some relaxation time at The Rabbit Moon Aquatherapy
After a long day out exploring the city, it was time to unwind with a well-deserved relaxation session. As I ascended to the rooftop oasis, The Rabbit Moon Aquatherapy, a hidden gem unveiled itself — Bangkok’s first-ever rooftop aquatherapy pool. The space was nothing short of magical; it felt like stumbling upon a secret haven above the urban sprawl. This exclusive retreat provided a unique take on traditional spa experiences. While I indulged in the soothing warm waters that massaged my fatigued back, I quietly savoured the spectacle of the setting sun. With its breathtaking views and therapeutic waters, the experience offered more than just a banal spa treatment; it was a sensory journey that allowed me to disconnect.
After the session, I headed down to the HARNN Heritage Spa Riverside. The ambience was one of understated elegance, with soft lighting and perfumed aromas enveloping me as I entered. Once I settled into the plush seating area, I was warmly greeted by the spa’s convivial staff, who guided me through their menu of rejuvenating treatments.
From the moment my The Heritage of Siam massage began, I was transported to a state of pure bliss. Blending traditional Thai stretching techniques with acupressure, the therapist’s expert touch worked magic on my tired muscles, easing away my tension with each fluid movement. I felt myself sinking deeper into relaxation with every stroke as I drifted into a light slumber. By the end of the massage, I emerged from the treatment room feeling invigorated and renewed.
The neighbourhood
During my stay at The Salil Hotel Riverside, one standout feature that elevated the experience was the complimentary riverboat service to IconSiam. This thoughtful touch offered me the convenience to explore the renowned shopping and entertainment destination situated along the Chao Phraya River.
Adding to the hotel’s allure was its proximity to Asiatique The Riverfront Night Market, a mere stone’s throw away. This vibrant and bustling market became my go-to destination every evening for shopping, entertainment, and delectable street food.
Getting there and around
The Salil Hotel Riverside is approximately 35km from Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK). By taxi or private transfer, allow around 35–60 minutes, depending heavily on Bangkok traffic. From Don Mueang Airport (DMK), the journey is generally around 30–50 minutes, again depending on traffic. A taxi or pre-booked private transfer is the easiest option when travelling with luggage.
One of the hotel’s advantages is its access to the Chao Phraya River. The nearby Sathorn/central river piers connect with Bangkok’s public boat network, providing a scenic alternative to travelling by road. From the river, you can reach areas around Wat Arun, Wat Pho, the Grand Palace and the historic centre.
For the rest of Bangkok, taxis and ride-hailing services such as Grab are useful, although traffic can be heavy. The nearest BTS connections are further away than at hotels in Sukhumvit, so the river and taxis are often the most practical ways to get around from the hotel. If you’re heading into central Bangkok, combining a boat with the BTS can be considerably quicker than travelling entirely by road.
If you’re planning to explore the area on foot, Charoen Krung is an interesting neighbourhood in its own right, with old shophouses, galleries, cafés and restaurants. The hotel is also a convenient base for visiting Asiatique The Riverfront, particularly in the evening.
Frequently asked questions: The Salil Hotel Riverside, Bangkok
Overall
Beyond being a physical place to stay, The Salil Hotel Riverside feels like an evocative experience. Here, a refreshing calm prevails, and you are momentarily taken away from the buzz of Bangkok. The riverside gardens, adorned with sculptures and lush greenery, invite guests to wander and seek inspiration. This commitment to engaging the senses is evident throughout the hotel; carefully selected scents and textures further enhance the overall experience. For those seeking an unforgettable sojourn in Bangkok, this riverside gem promises a discreet and intimate escape.
Find out more about The Salil Hotel Riverside or Book through Booking.com Book through Expedia
But wait, there’s more…
- Discover a local’s guide to the best things to do in Buenos Aires
- Find out why we loved our stay at Corinthia Lisbon in Portugal’s capital
- And these are the very best boutique hotels in Paris
The hotel is in Charoen Krung in Bang Kho Laem, on Bangkok’s eastern bank of the Chao Phraya River. It is close to Asiatique and within reach of the city’s historic riverside attractions.
It depends on the type of trip you want. Charoen Krung and the riverside are excellent for travellers interested in Bangkok’s historic neighbourhoods, river views, temples and a slower pace. If your priorities are shopping, nightlife and easy access to Bangkok’s business districts, Sukhumvit or Siam may be more convenient.
It is well positioned for exploring the riverside temples, although you’ll generally need to use a boat or taxi rather than walk. Wat Arun, Wat Pho and the Grand Palace are all accessible via the Chao Phraya river network.
Two to four nights works well for most visitors. Two nights is enough to experience the hotel and explore the riverside, while three or four nights gives you time to combine the area with Bangkok’s temples, markets and other neighbourhoods.
Yes, particularly if you want to experience a more atmospheric side of Bangkok. First-time visitors should bear in mind that the hotel is not beside the BTS or MRT, so reaching some of Bangkok’s other neighbourhoods takes a little more planning. The river makes getting to several major attractions straightforward, however.
The best time to visit Bangkok is generally November to February, when the weather is cooler and drier, making it more comfortable for sightseeing, temple visits and exploring the city on foot. December and January are particularly popular, so hotel prices and visitor numbers can be higher. March to May is hotter, while the rainy season typically runs from around May to October. The rain often comes in short, heavy showers rather than lasting all day, so the wet season can still be a good time to visit if you’re looking for better hotel rates and fewer crowds.
