Riverside

Located along the banks of the Chao Phraya River, the Riverside neighborhood in Bangkok offers a unique blend of scenic beauty, historic charm and modern luxury.

Riverside is renowned for its stunning views of the Chao Phraya River, especially at sunset when the sky is painted with hues of orange and pink. The neighborhood is home to some of Bangkok's most luxurious hotels, including the Mandarin Oriental, Shangri-La, and The Peninsula. These iconic establishments provide world-class amenities and services, making Riverside a favored destination for both tourists and locals looking for a lavish stay.

One of the main attractions in Riverside is the magnificent Wat Arun, also known as the Temple of Dawn. This historic temple, with its towering spires and intricate design, is a must-visit for anyone exploring Bangkok. Just across the river is the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew, housing the revered Emerald Buddha, adding to the area's rich cultural heritage.

Riverside is also a shopper's paradise. The recently opened Iconsiam mall is a landmark in itself, offering a mix of high-end brands, local boutiques and diverse dining options. Asiatique the Riverfront, another popular destination, combines shopping, dining and entertainment in a vibrant open-air setting. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, browse through unique shops, and savor delicious meals at riverside restaurants.

For those looking for a more serene experience, Riverside provides numerous opportunities for relaxation. Many hotels and restaurants offer river cruises, allowing guests to enjoy the picturesque scenery while dining or sipping on cocktails. The tranquil ambiance of the river, combined with the gentle breeze, creates a perfect setting for a romantic evening or a peaceful getaway.

Best Features of Riverside

Scenic Views: Riverside offers stunning views of the Chao Phraya River, with picturesque landscapes and beautiful sunsets. The riverside setting provides a serene and scenic backdrop, ideal for relaxation and sightseeing.

Luxury Hotels and Resorts: The area is known for its upscale accommodations, including luxury hotels and resorts. Many of these establishments offer riverfront views, high-end amenities, and exclusive services.

Cultural and Historical Attractions: Riverside is home to several significant cultural and historical landmarks, including the Grand Palace, Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn), and Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha). These attractions are easily accessible from the riverside area.

Boat Tours and Cruises: The Chao Phraya River is a major transportation route, and the Riverside area offers various boat tours and dinner cruises. These provide a unique perspective of the city’s landmarks and a relaxing way to explore Bangkok.

Riverfront Dining: Riverside features a range of dining options with beautiful river views, from high-end restaurants and fine dining establishments to casual eateries and street food vendors. The riverfront dining experience is a highlight of the area.

Green Spaces and Parks: The Riverside area includes several parks and green spaces, such as the King Rama IX Park, offering areas for outdoor activities, jogging, and relaxation. These spaces contribute to the area’s tranquil atmosphere.

Cultural Events and Festivals: The Riverside area often hosts cultural events and festivals, including traditional Thai celebrations and river festivals. These events offer visitors a chance to experience local culture and festivities.

Historical Architecture: Riverside features a mix of historic and modern architecture, including colonial-era buildings and contemporary developments. The architectural diversity adds to the area’s charm and character.

Shopping Opportunities: While primarily known for its cultural and scenic attractions, Riverside also offers shopping options, including local markets and boutiques. Icon Siam, a luxury shopping mall, is a notable destination in the area.

Relaxed Atmosphere: Compared to the bustling city center, Riverside offers a more relaxed and peaceful environment. The riverside setting and green spaces provide a calm escape from the urban hustle and bustle.

These features make Riverside a captivating and multifaceted area in Bangkok, offering a blend of scenic beauty, cultural richness, and luxurious amenities.

Positive Reviews

Scenic Views: The Riverside area offers stunning views of the Chao Phraya River, providing picturesque backdrops for both residents and visitors. The riverfront setting adds a serene and scenic quality to the neighborhood.

Luxury Hotels and Resorts: Riverside is known for its high-end hotels and resorts, offering luxurious accommodations with river views. These establishments provide world-class amenities and services, making the area a popular choice for tourists and travelers.

Cultural Attractions: The area is home to several significant cultural and historical landmarks, including the Grand Palace, Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn), and Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha). These attractions contribute to the neighborhood’s cultural appeal.

Dining Options: Riverside features a variety of dining options, from upscale restaurants with river views to local eateries and street food stalls. The area’s dining scene offers diverse culinary experiences.

Green Spaces: The neighborhood includes green spaces such as the nearby Lumpini Park and the Queen Sirikit Park, providing areas for outdoor activities and relaxation amidst the urban environment.

River Cruises: The Chao Phraya River offers opportunities for scenic boat cruises, providing a unique way to explore Bangkok’s landmarks and enjoy the river’s beauty. River cruises are a popular activity in the Riverside area.

Cultural Events and Festivals: Riverside hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year, including traditional celebrations and riverfront activities. These events enhance the area’s vibrant and dynamic atmosphere.

Areas for Improvement

Traffic Congestion: Riverside can experience traffic congestion, particularly near popular tourist attractions and during peak hours. This can lead to longer travel times and difficulties with parking.

Higher Cost of Living: Due to its status as a popular tourist area with luxury hotels and resorts, the cost of living in Riverside can be relatively high. This includes higher prices for dining, accommodations, and services.

Crowded Tourist Spots: Popular attractions and landmarks can become crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons and holidays. This may affect the overall experience for some visitors.

Limited Local Amenities: While Riverside offers luxury and cultural attractions, it may lack some of the everyday conveniences and local amenities found in more residential neighborhoods, such as supermarkets and local markets.

Noise Levels: The bustling nature of the area, particularly near major attractions and entertainment venues, can result in higher noise levels. This may be a concern for those seeking a quieter living environment.

Overall review

Riverside is a picturesque and culturally rich neighborhood in Bangkok, offering stunning river views, luxurious accommodations, and a range of dining and cultural experiences. The area is known for its high-end hotels, historic landmarks, and scenic river cruises, making it a popular destination for tourists and travelers. However, Riverside does face challenges such as traffic congestion, higher living costs, and crowded tourist spots. Despite these issues, Riverside remains a charming and attractive part of Bangkok, providing a unique and enjoyable experience with its scenic beauty and cultural significance.