PRAYA PALAZZO

The place: Just across the river from Phra Arthit Pier, this 1920’s Italian-style mansion, once a vacation home for nobility, was restored by architect Wichai Pitalworrarat into a stunning hotel.
The rooms: Only 17. Walk on century-old wooden floors, sleep in a classically decorated room (brand new bed, though, thankfully) and sit by a genuine vintage dressing table.
The food: The in-house restaurant, Praya Dining, does a wide selection of authentic Thai cuisine.
What else: Even the new infinity pool is designed to blend in with the original ambience.
Rates: B8,400-25,000
Verdict: Beautiful if you can afford it. We’d rather just go there for dinner.
757/1 Somdej Phra Pinklao Soi 2, Bangyeekhan, 02-883-2998, 02-322-9155. www.prayapalazzo.com

SALA ARUN

The place: Another riverside property, Sala Arun can be accessed by boat at Tha Tien Pier or by car at Maharaj Road. A sister of Arun Residence, the building is finished in a brick-red tones with a mixture of Asian and European furnishings, from a Chinese door to an English dining table.
The rooms: Four of the rooms have river views, while the other two have city views overlooking Wat Pho and the old school neighborhood. There’s also a suite.
The food: The Café and Bistro is like an Engish home, with only eight seats and a home kitchen.
What else: Stunning views of Wat Arun and the owner’s antique collection.
Rates: B3,500-6,500
Verdict: You are paying for the best view of the Temple of Dawn and we think it’s worth every satang.
47-49 Soi Ta-Tien, Maharat Rd., Phraborummaharajchawang, Phranakhon, 02-622-2933. www.arunresidence.com/contact.html

THE ASADANG

Overview: A three-story colonial building that, like its sister The Bhuthorn (see blow), is run as a bed and breakfast (no lunch or dinner provided). Thanks to the owners’ keen sense of design, the whole building evokes the 19th century with its elegant cream tones and numerous antiques.
Rooms: Nine rooms, each decorated differently.
F&B: Six small tables for breakfast and afternoon tea (included in the room rate).
What else: It’s a bed and breakfast, that’s it!
Rates: B2,700-5,500
Verdict: We love this place. You feel transported to another time. Worth the money.
94 Asadang Rd., Wang Burapapirom, Phra Nakhorn. 02-622-2339, 085-180-7100. www.theasadang.com

THE BHUTHORN

The place: A real boutique hotel with only three rooms. The space reflects the architect owners’ love of travel with their global collection of decorative items. Also a bed & breakfast, The Bhuthorn does serve afternoon tea. Luckily, you’re in a big street food hub.
Rooms: Three rooms: Salpasart, Bhuthorn and Nara. The Nara is a mezzanine duplex with the bed located in a small attic accessible by stairs.
F&B: A small area with a few tables and chairs for breakfast and afternoon tea.
What else: Next to The Bhuthorn is a delicious coconut ice cream store which provides its treat for afternoon tea.
Rates: B3,200-4,500
Verdict: The design is gorgeous, but for a similar price, you can stay at The Asadang, which is more spacious.
96-98 Phraeng Bhuthorn Rd., San Chao Phor Seua, Phra Nakhorn. 02-622-2270, 085-180-7100. www.thebhuthorn.com

If you just need a place to crash for a few nights, check out these budget options with character.

LUB D SIAM SQUARE

The place: After the success of its big sister on Silom, the owners of Lub D have redone this old, four-story building with a minimal industrial design (raw cement, glass walls, metal, bold red colors). Just opened late last year and right next to BTS National Stadium, the place is already getting crowded with young travelers.
Rooms: Five room types ranging from a ladies-only dorm rooms with shared bathrooms to a compact room with a double bed, basic amenities (TV, hair dryer) and washroom.
F&B: Right Bar, located on the first floor.
What else: A common room with beanbags is open all night on the second floor. Laundry room.
Rates: From B480 per bed for a dorm room to B840 for a double-bed room with private bathroom.
Verdict: Comfortable, friendly staff and affordable rates.
925/9 Rama 1 Rd., opposite National Stadium, 02-621-4999.
BTS National Stadium. www.Siamsquare.lubd.com

SAPHAI PAE

Overview: A family-run hostel, with shared rooms that have widely-spaced beds, so that guests can have a shred of privacy even on a budget. Saphai Pae even has some classy touches, like floor-to-ceiling windows in the lobby.
Rooms: 45 rooms; 6 superior, 9 deluxe, and 36 dormitory rooms with 230 beds and spacious lockers in each room.
F&B: Bangkok Dining for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Bangkok Bar for bakery, tea, and coffee.
What else: A smoking area, a TV room open 24 hours, a pool table and laundry room.
Rates: B300-1,500.
Verdict: A good option for a nice, clean room in the CBD as long as you don’t mind the walk to the nearest BTS station.
35 Surasak Rd., Silom, Bangrak, 02-238-2322. www.saphaipae.com