I recently stayed at the Riva Arun Hotel , a lovely 25-room boutique property by the Chao Phraya River. It had been 10 years since I had booked a river side hotel and I quickly wondered why I had stayed away so long. I don’t think there is a better view to begin or end the day anywhere in Bangkok.
Below I share my experience of this riverside retreat and discover why it might just be the perfect base for your next adventure in Bangkok.
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Riva Arun Hotel: A Riverside Retreat in Bangkok
Before heading back to Bangkok this year, I was eager to see the city from a new perspective so I began looking at riverside hotels. The moment I walked in to Riva Arun, I was taken in by its bright and airy feel. With the sounds of the river gently echoing in the background. I instantly sensed that this would be a special stay.
Location
The hotel’s location is excellent. It’s a quick seven-minute walk to the Sanam Chai MRT (Blue Line) and Rajini Pier, perfect for ferry connections and the hop-on-hop-off boat.
When selecting a hotel, I always prioritize being near public transport. It adds so much ease to exploring Bangkok, saving time and allowing flexibility to venture far without hassle. Riva Arun’s proximity to both Sanam Chai MRT station and the Rajinee pier makes traversing Bangkok incredibly convenient.
You can easily walk to nearby attractions like Wat Pho, the Siam Museum, the vibrant Flower Market, and Tian Tan Market. I also walked to the Grand Palace, Chinatown, Ong Ang Canal, and several parks.
Local Tip: Don’t be afraid to ride the local buses. The 47 bus will get you to Khao San Road, and the National Gallery.
In the early mornings, the area around the hotel comes alive with the activity of nearby schools and government offices, with plenty of street food stalls to discover. Exploring these stalls offers a unique taste of local flavors and is a delightful way to start your day.
Arrival
Upon arrival at the hotel, you’re greeted by a beautifully designed lobby that perfectly merges modern minimalism with traditional Thai elements.
The space is a harmonious blend of clean lines, neutral tones and elegant accents, creating a peaceful yet luxurious atmosphere. We loved the welcome drinks and Thai biscuits offered on arrival, adding a personal and warm touch to our check-in experience.
We arrived in the late afternoon so check in was immediate.
Room Review
This modern hotel offers a variety of room options for different budgets starting with 22sq studio rooms.
I wanted to spoil myself this time, so I booked a Deluxe Room with a river view. As I entered, I was greeted with a stunning view of the Chao Phraya River.
The Deluxe Room offers between 25 to 27 sq m of space, combining comfort and style. These tranquil rooms feature a “mini” balcony that overlooks both the river and the iconic Wat Arun, just big enough really for a morning stretch or to capture a sunset photo.
From dawn until dusk, the river transforms into a bustling highway. In the morning, tugboats ply their trade while express boats zip up and down during daylight hours. As night falls, the river comes alive with illuminated river cruises, creating a magical sight from your balcony.
My room was cozy but well-planned, equipped with a comfy bed made up with 250-thread count linens, a small desk, and a flat-screen LCD TV. The tv was positioned to the side of the bed as the view is the main attraction here. Not a problem for me as I had no plans on watching it but if you do you may want to choose a studio without a view.
Other important features included fast, free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, a minibar, and a safety deposit box.
The bathroom, although extremely compact, had a shower, hairdryer, and other essential amenities, all of which ensured a comfortable stay.
There was not a lot of space to move around but it was perfectly comfortable for our 3 day stay.
For a honeymoon consider a Jacuzzi room, the most impressive has a terrace overlooking Wat Arun.
If you are someone who likes a bit more room the Grand Deluxe is double the size and has a sofa and separate entry space.
On site Dining
The Riva Arun offers two dining options to suit your mood. Downstairs, you’ll find a small cafe tucked into the lobby, perfect for a quick coffee or a light snack. Its cozy atmosphere provides a nice little retreat for some quiet time or casual coffee or juice before heading out.
The crown jewel, however, is Above Riva, a rooftop bar and restaurant that not only serves as the hotel’s breakfast venue but also offers a memorable dining experience.
With breathtaking views of the river and Wat Arun, starting your morning with a hearty breakfast here is special. There is a modest buffet spread and an a la carte menu to order whatever you fancy.
The eclectic menu at Above Riva features a delightful blend of Thai and international cuisines, ensuring that there’s something for everyone. Mains start at 500 baht, and appetizers at 300 baht, which considering the incredible view is reasonable.
If you just want to take in the view but enjoy street food, have a pre-dinner cocktail before you head out like we did.
What’s nearby
There is plenty to do within a few minutes walk of the hotel.
- Wat Pho – the Temple of the Reclining Buddha
- Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew
- Museum Siam – a great place to learn about Thai culture
- Tha Tien Market – buy local snacks, dried seafood, and to catch a ferry across to Wat Arun.
- Wat Arun – Temple of Dawn – if you want a closer look
- Pak Khlong Talad, the Flower Market – is open 24/7 and brims with colorful blooms
Local Tip: Take an early morning stroll to Wat Pho and enjoy the serene atmosphere before the crowds arrive. It’s also the best time to take photos of the Reclining Buddha without too many people around.
The MRT will have you at Sukhumvit at one of Thailand’s popular malls, Terminal 21 in Asok in under 30 minutes.
Nightlife
There are waterfront restaurants and bars surrounding the hotel are lively from mid afternoon but these all seem to close by 10pm. Be sure to book a rooftop seat for a stunning sunset view.
By 9pm, the area around the hotel becomes quiet, so if you are looking to party you’ll need to consider transport elsewhere. For more vibrant nightlife, Khao San Road and Asiatique are a short taxi or tuk-tuk ride away.
Local Tip: The nearby flower market is open 24 hours a day and as night falls, street food stalls appear outside and along the nearby canal.
Who Should Stay Here
Riva Arun is perfect if you looking for a scenic and peaceful environment close to Bangkok’s historical highlights.
If you are planning to explore Bangkok’s cultural sites, this hotel’s prime location near Wat Pho and the Grand Palace is ideal. It’s also a great choice for those who love being close to the river and prefer a quieter atmosphere to recharge after a day of sightseeing.
If you are planning a romantic getaway will particularly love the deluxe rooms with jacuzzis on the balcony and the breathtaking views from the rooftop restaurant.
Solo travelers and small groups who prioritize a central location with good transport links will also find this a convenient base. However, those who are keen on shopping or looking for lively nightlife right outside their door might want to consider other neighborhoods.
Let’s break it down:
Pros
- Close to key attractions, so you can get ahead of the crowds when the gates open.
- Great public transport links with ferries and the Blue MRT.
- Plenty of local and affordable food options.
- Walkable area with good sidewalks.
- Friendly and helpful staff.
- Beautifully decorated and clean hotel.
- Comfortable beds with strong air conditioning.
- Bright and airy rooms, with a deluxe option featuring a jacuzzi on the balcony.
Cons
- Rooms are small. Space is used well, but I had trouble finding a place for my bag other than the floor; there are no drawers. Best for a short stay, three days is probably the maximum for comfort.
- Limited nightlife options close by.
- A bit far from other popular areas like Sukhumvit or Silom.
- Not a shopping hotspot, so if that’s important, consider staying in areas like Siam or Pratunam.
- Bathroom is small, but the shower is excellent.
Overall, as our Riva Arun Hotel review suggest we really enjoyed our time here. The hotel offers a perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and stunning views right in the heart of Bangkok’s old city. Whether you’re a history buff, a couple on a romantic trip, or simply looking for a serene spot to relax, this boutique hotel could be a great choice. While it’s not ideal for those seeking intense nightlife or extensive shopping, the unique charms of the Riva Arun and its proximity to significant landmarks make it a memorable stay. If you’re planning a trip to Bangkok, consider adding this riverside retreat to your itinerary.
Check the prices for your dates
*My stay was self-funded.
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