Nestled in the vibrant heart of Bangkok’s Ratchaprasong district, the Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel is a luxurious urban oasis that blends Thai elegance with modern comfort. As a traveler seeking both convenience and indulgence, my recent stay at this iconic hotel was a delightful mix of opulent surroundings, exceptional service, and culinary delights. From the grand lobby to the serene gardens, every moment felt like a carefully crafted experience. Here’s my detailed review of the Anantara Siam Bangkok, written from the perspective of a traveler enchanted by its charm, with tips to make your stay unforgettable.
Arrival: A Grand Welcome
The journey to Anantara Siam began with a smooth 45-minute drive from Suvarnabhumi Airport, arranged through the hotel’s limousine service (around 2,000 THB, or $60 USD). Located just steps from the BTS Ratchadamri Skytrain station, the hotel’s prime spot in Bangkok’s shopping and entertainment hub made it easy to reach. As I pulled up, the colonial-style facade and lush greenery hinted at the elegance within. The lobby, with its soaring ceilings, hand-painted silk murals, and a dazzling chandelier, felt like stepping into a Thai palace. A warm welcome from the staff, complete with a jasmine garland and a refreshing lemongrass drink, set the tone for the stay.
Check-in was seamless at the front desk, where Ms. Jane, a staff member, greeted me with a smile and efficiently handled the process. As a loyalty program member, I was upgraded to a Premier Room, a perk that added to the excitement. The staff’s attentiveness, often praised in reviews, was evident from the start—they opened doors, carried my bags, and made me feel like a VIP. One minor hiccup was a faint cigarette smoke smell in the lobby, an issue noted by some guests, but it didn’t linger in my room.
The Room: A Blend of Comfort and Thai Charm
My Premier Room was spacious (around 40 m²), with floor-to-ceiling windows offering views of the Royal Bangkok Sports Club’s golf course. The decor struck a perfect balance—contemporary with teak furniture, Jim Thompson silk accents, and traditional Thai murals above the bed. The king-sized bed was incredibly comfortable, with crisp linens that promised a great night’s sleep. The marble-clad bathroom featured a deep soaking tub, a walk-in shower, and L’Occitane toiletries, adding a touch of luxury. Bathrobes, slippers, and a well-stocked minibar were thoughtful touches.
While the room felt modern and spotless, some online reviews mention that certain rooms can seem slightly dated compared to newer Bangkok hotels like the Four Seasons. I didn’t find this to be an issue—the traditional Thai elements gave it character, and everything was impeccably maintained. The Wi-Fi, however, came with a fee (around 300 THB/day), which felt outdated for a five-star property, though complimentary for loyalty members. The room was quiet, despite the urban setting, though one guest noted occasional noise from nearby traffic.
Dining: A Culinary Journey
Anantara Siam’s dining options are a major draw, with eight venues catering to every craving. I started my day at the famous Sunday brunch, often voted one of Bangkok’s best. Held across multiple restaurants, it featured live cooking stations, lobster, caviar, and an overwhelming dessert spread, all set to live jazz. The breakfast buffet, included in my rate, was equally impressive, with everything from fresh sushi to Thai khao tom and made-to-order omelets. The variety was “almost overwhelming,” as one guest put it, and I couldn’t agree more.
Dinner at Spice Market, the hotel’s renowned Thai restaurant, was a highlight. Designed like an old Thai spice shop, it served authentic dishes like satay ruam with peanut sauce and phad Thai khai kor that burst with flavor. The mango sticky rice dessert, paired with a jasmine-coconut crème caramel, was divine. My meal at Biscotti, the Italian restaurant, was equally memorable, with a burrata pizza and tagliolini with royal crab that rivaled fine dining in Italy. The staff, including servers Nong and Hasna at Guilty, the South American-inspired venue, were attentive and knowledgeable, making every meal feel special. Dining isn’t cheap—expect 1,000-2,000 THB per person for dinner—but the quality justified the cost.
Amenities: Relaxation and Indulgence
The hotel’s amenities are a standout. The outdoor pool, surrounded by tropical gardens and lotus ponds, was a tranquil escape from Bangkok’s hustle. I spent an afternoon lounging by the pool, sipping a cocktail from the Aqua Bar (around 300 THB). The Anantara Spa was another highlight, with dimly lit treatment rooms and a Thai massage (2,500 THB) that melted away my travel fatigue. The 24-hour gym was spacious, with modern equipment and morning yoga classes in nearby Lumpini Park, a 10-minute walk away.
For families, the kids’ club (open 10 AM-8 PM) offers supervised activities, pint-sized robes, and bedtime cookies, which younger guests love. The Kasara Executive Lounge, exclusive to suite and club room guests, provided complimentary hors d’oeuvres, premium drinks, and express check-in. My visit to the lounge, where Khun Mo explained Titanium member benefits like early check-in (1 PM) and late check-out (4 PM), felt like a VIP experience. One downside: the pool and fitness center will undergo renovations from June to September 2025, but guests can use facilities at the nearby St. Regis Bangkok during this time.
Location: In the Heart of It All
Anantara Siam’s location is unbeatable. Just 150 meters from Ratchadamri BTS station, it’s a short ride to Siam Paragon, CentralWorld, and the Erawan Shrine. Lumpini Park, perfect for a morning jog, is a 10-minute walk, and the Chao Phraya River is a quick taxi ride away. The hotel’s concierge arranged a tuk-tuk tour to nearby temples (1,200 THB for a half-day), which was a fun way to explore. The only minor drawback is that Bangkok’s traffic can make some destinations feel farther than they are, but the Skytrain’s proximity solves this.
Service: Thai Hospitality at Its Finest
The staff’s warmth and professionalism were exceptional. From the doormen to the concierge, everyone greeted me with a smile and genuine care. When I needed help booking a river cruise, the concierge team arranged everything seamlessly, even suggesting a sunset departure for the best views. Reviews consistently praise the staff, with one guest calling them “the heart of the hotel.” My only critique, echoed by a few online, is the cigarette smoke issue in some public areas, which the hotel could manage better.
Practical Tips for Your Stay
Best Time to Visit: November to February for cooler weather (20-30°C/68-86°F). March to May is hot, and June to October is rainy, though indoor amenities shine year-round.
- Getting There: Use the BTS Skytrain (Ratchadamri station) or the hotel’s airport limo. Grab taxis are cheap (100-200 THB within the city).
- What to Bring: Light clothing, comfortable shoes for exploring, and a hat for poolside lounging. Cash for nearby markets, as some vendors don’t take cards.
- Dining Tip: Book Spice Market or Biscotti in advance, especially for dinner, as they’re popular with locals. Sunday brunch reservations are a must.
- Renovation Alert: From June to November 2025, expect upgrades to the pool, fitness center, and Kasara Lounge. Plan around these dates for full access to facilities.
- Budget: Rooms start at $200-$300 USD/night. Meals range from 500 THB (breakfast buffet) to 2,000 THB (fine dining). Wi-Fi may cost extra unless you’re a loyalty member.
- Respect the Culture: Dress modestly for temple tours arranged by the concierge. Tipping isn’t mandatory but appreciated (50-100 THB for exceptional service).
Things to Consider
While Anantara Siam is a five-star gem, some guests note the rooms, though elegant, can feel slightly dated compared to newer competitors like Capella Bangkok. The Wi-Fi fee and occasional smoke in public areas were minor drawbacks. Dining and spa treatments are pricey, but the quality matches the cost. If you’re seeking cutting-edge modernity, you might prefer newer hotels, but for classic Thai luxury, this is hard to beat.
Final Thoughts
Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel is a masterclass in blending tradition with luxury. The grand lobby, world-class dining, and attentive service made my stay feel like a royal retreat in the heart of a bustling city. Whether lounging by the pool, savoring Thai flavors at Spice Market, or exploring nearby malls, every moment was infused with elegance and warmth. Compared to other Chiang Mai and northern Thailand experiences like Mae Ya Waterfall, Anantara Siam offers a different kind of magic—urban sophistication with a Thai soul.
If you’re visiting Bangkok, this hotel is a must for travelers craving luxury with character. I left with memories of exquisite meals, a rejuvenating spa session, and the feeling of being truly pampered. I’m already looking forward to returning, perhaps to try the river cruise next time. Book your stay, embrace the Thai hospitality, and let Anantara Siam make your Bangkok adventure unforgettable.
