
Exhausted your list of Bangkok hotels? We beg to differ – we experienced a stay that’s fit for royals at The Athenee Hotel.
Bangkok is a buzzing city that’s brimming with hotels for every type of traveller. But let’s be real – The Athenee Hotel probably isn’t the first one to pop into your head. Well, I’m here to say: don’t deny it before you try it. Nestled in the heart of central Bangkok Sukhumvit and just steps from Phloen Chit BTS skytrain station, The Athenee is often seen as a business hotel. But with seven restaurants, luxurious suites, a serene spa, a state-of-the-art fitness centre, and a beautifully landscaped garden, it ticks most of the things on your list.
I won’t lie: my trip to Bangkok didn’t exactly start on a high note. I missed my flight (a first for me), and The Athenee wasn’t even my original pick. After hours of stressing, rebooking, boarding the next flight, and enduring a taxi ride down a dimly lit road with a driver who didn’t speak a word of English, I was running on empty. But the moment I stepped into The Athenee’s grand, brightly lit lobby, it felt like a giant sigh of relief. It was the welcome I didn’t know I needed.
I was swiftly escorted to the Royal King Guest Room – fitting, given the hotel’s fascinating history. It stands on the grounds of Kandhavas, the former royal residence of Princess Valaya Alongkorn, daughter of King Chulalongkorn and grand-aunt of the current monarch, King Maha Vajiralongkorn. Stepping into the room felt like stepping into a piece of Thai royal heritage. Can someone hand me my crown already?
The Athenee Hotel, Bangkok review: A royal affair

Classic furniture complemented a calming palette of white, grey, and maroon, while delicate Thai motifs adorned the curtains and upholstery. It all came together to create an atmosphere of understated luxury. But it was the thoughtful details that truly made the experience special. A pair of plush slippers was neatly placed by the bed, as though the staff somehow knew just how exhausting my day had been. Safe to say I was knocked out in a jiffy.
I kicked off my morning bright and early with a refreshing swim, and let me tell you, it was the perfect start to the day. One of the things I love about The Athenee is that it doesn’t scream “family hotel.” Sure, they’ve got activities for kids, but the vibe is serene and sophisticated.

The free-form, lagoon-style pool is a dream. It’s surrounded by lush greenery that makes you forget you’re in the heart of a bustling city. That is, until you glance up and spot the skyscrapers peeking through the treetops.
There’s no need to travel far for scrumptious delights
Breakfast at The Athenee Hotel was no-frills: a straightforward Continental spread with bread, cold cuts, and a decent variety of Thai, Indian, and Chinese options. It was enough to start the day but nothing that particularly wowed me. That said, don’t let the breakfast buffet fool you – the hotel’s restaurants are a whole different ball game.
With choices like The House of Smooth Curry for authentic Thai cuisine, The Silk Road for Cantonese delicacies, Hashiri for modern Japanese fare, and Glaz Bar for cocktails and tapas-style bites, you’re spoiled for options. I had the pleasure of dining at The House of Smooth Curry to eat like how the royals do, and safe to say, it’s one of the best culinary experiences I’ve had this year.
Restaurants with sustainability in the spotlight

The House of Smooth Curry focuses on authentic Thai recipes passed down from royal palaces and residences, highlighting curries from all four regions of Thailand. The team’s commitment to sustainability and local sourcing is impressive, with everything from vegetables to spices coming from organic farms and local suppliers. They even have a spice garden tucked away on the third-floor podium deck!
As much as the food blew me away, the setting was equally unforgettable. The decor transports you straight to the private quarters of Kandhavas Palace, with its 1920s-1930s charm brought to life through modern splashes. Every piece of fabric and artwork in the space is locally sourced, paying tribute to Princess Valaya Alongkorn’s love of Thai art and crafts.
Alright, now on to the dishes. The Seang Wa Goong (spicy organic prawn salad) may sound straightforward, but its dainty, colourful plating stole the show. Topped with ginger, lemongrass, mint leaves, and edible flowers, it was a feast for my eyes, camera and palate. The Sri Klong Moo Yang Tann, chargrilled pork spareribs marinated in spicy I-Sarn sauce, delivered tender, smoky bites of perfection. If only I had multiple stomachs to try the rest of the menu…
As much as I didn’t want to leave the hotel, I spent the rest of the day doing a little sightseeing ‘cos what’s a trip to Bangkok without exploring and shopping? Fast-forward to late afternoon, I was invited to check out The Athenee Spa.
A queen deserves a relaxing spa

The Athenee Spa spans the entire 5th floor, and let me tell you, they’re serious about pampering here. With over 40 treatments to choose from (think everything from massages to full-on spa journeys) and chemical-free, locally sourced products, I felt like I was in for something truly special.
Walking in, the space immediately set the tone: soft golden hues, floral scents, and an air of calm that made me forget I was in the middle of Bangkok. The design pays homage to a genteel Siamese era, with intricate details like stencilled brasswork and royal lotus blooms everywhere you look. It’s beautiful, but also surprisingly unpretentious.
I started with a welcome drink, a butterfly pea tea that changes from blue to purple (it’s a whole moment). Next came the oil selection, where I got to sample a few and pick the one that matched my mood. My therapist knew exactly what she was doing, working out every knot and tension with the perfect pressure. I felt like I melted into the massage table.
As my quick stay came to an end, I bid farewell to my Cinderella moment. From its royal heritage-inspired suites to unforgettable meals and tranquil spa treatments truly defines travelling in style. Whether you’re here for business or leisure, The Athenee Hotel, Bangkok is a sanctuary worth exploring.
The Athenee Hotel, Bangkok from $9,214THB/night, 61 Witthayu Road, Lumphini, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330