Bangkok: Riva Arun – A boutique hotel by the river

// Sponsored post – In collaboration with Riva Arun //

If you’re looking for a quiet, beautiful place to stay right by the water in Bangkok, you’ll love Riva Arun. Tucked along the banks of the Chao Phraya River, this boutique hotel feels like a peaceful hideaway — the perfect place to come back to after a hectic day in the city.

Riva Arun opened in 2016 and quickly became a favorite, especially among American and European travelers who want something a little more local and a little less touristy. I had already stayed at their sister hotel, Riva Surya, which is one of my absolute favorite hotels in Bangkok, so I was excited to finally check out Riva Arun — and it didn’t disappoint.

The hotel is stylish and airy, with thoughtful little touches everywhere you look. (250 thread count bed linen? Yes, please. I felt like I was sleeping in a cloud.) The bathroom in white marble was super nice and since I always forget to pack my tooth brush, I was happy to find one among the complimentary amenities. There were 2 bottles of complimentary water in the room, as well as a well-stocked minibar, and every afternoon there was a fruit platter waiting for me in the room.

My room faced the river, and waking up to that view was pure magic. Part of my morning ritual quickly became waving at Wat Arun across the water before heading out for the day.

One of the things I really loved about Riva Arun was how secluded and quiet it felt, even though you’re right in the middle of the old part of Bangkok. The neighborhood has a local, lived-in feel, but in recent years, small hotels, cozy cafés, and charming little bars have popped up along the river, making it a really cool area to explore.

The hotel’s rooftop restaurant and bar, Above Riva, is a must-visit. Watching the sun go down with a cocktail in hand and the river shimmering below you? Absolute perfection.

Even though the old town is notorious for its chaotic traffic, getting around is easy from Riva Arun. The Sanam Chai metro station is just a short walk away, and if you’re heading somewhere along the river, hopping on a small ferry is both scenic and convenient. Uber and GrabTaxi are also good options for longer distances.

If you love sightseeing, you’ll appreciate that some of Bangkok’s biggest attractions are just a stroll away. Wat Pho and the Grand Palace are practically around the corner, and the Flower Market is not much further. Chinatown is only a little over a mile away, and there’s a ferry if you don’t feel like walking.

Who Should Stay at Riva Arun?

Riva Arun is perfect if you want a quiet, stylish place to recharge after a full day of sightseeing, shopping, or eating your way through Bangkok. It’s ideal for couples, solo travelers, or anyone looking for a boutique hotel experience with a local touch. If you love staying in charming neighborhoods close to major sights — but still want a peaceful, riverfront setting to come home to — this place is for you.

Beautiful boutique hotel

Riva Arun

Riva Arun is perfect if you want a quiet, stylish place to recharge after a full day of sightseeing, shopping, or eating your way through Bangkok. It’s ideal for couples, solo travelers, or anyone looking for a boutique hotel experience with a local touch. If you love staying in charming neighborhoods close to major sights — but still want a peaceful, riverfront setting to come home to — this place is for you.

Book your stay

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Riva Arun, 392, 25-28 Maha Rat Rd, Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand