Where should travellers base themselves in Bangkok?
For a first Bangkok stay that mixes temples, food and evenings out, Silom around Sala Daeng BTS and Si Lom MRT is a strong all-round base. Asok suits travellers spending more time around Sukhumvit; the riverside and old town put the river and major temples first. Chinatown puts busy food streets on the doorstep. What matters most is the walk from the actual hotel to its station or pier, and how you will get back after dinner. A cheaper room far from those links can cost a surprising amount of holiday time.
Answer
Bangkok has no single centre. The Grand Palace and Wat Pho are in the older city by the river; much of the shopping, nightlife and modern restaurant scene stretches east along the train lines. On a two- or three-night visit, the journey back to the hotel can matter more than a small difference in room price.
Silom around Sala Daeng BTS and Si Lom MRT is the most useful compromise for a first visit that mixes old and new Bangkok. The MRT Blue Line reaches Sanam Chai for the historic sights and Wat Mangkon for Chinatown. The BTS runs towards Saphan Taksin, where you can pick up river transport. Silom feels busy and commercial rather than quaint, but being able to change plans without depending on taxis is a real advantage.
Asok, where the BTS and MRT meet, is a convenient base when Sukhumvit restaurants, shops and evenings will take up much of the trip. Phrom Phong has plenty nearby too, but its BTS stop is not the same rail interchange. Check the hotel’s actual walk to the station: Bangkok’s heat and long side streets can make a seemingly central bargain inconvenient.
The old town, particularly within practical reach of Sanam Chai MRT, makes more sense if the temples and historic streets are the main event. Khao San's backpacker atmosphere is a separate choice; it is not on the BTS. Chinatown near Wat Mangkon brings lively food streets and an MRT stop, though it will not suit everyone looking for quiet nights.
A riverside hotel near Sathorn pier and Saphan Taksin, or one with a reliable hotel boat, can make time on the Chao Phraya part of the holiday rather than just a transfer. But riverside hotels are scattered across both banks. Check the pier, access on foot and boat operating times before paying a premium for the view. A lovely location may be awkward when returning late.
For a short stay, keep one hotel and let the evenings settle the decision. Compare the exact route from the airport, the walk from the nearest station or pier, and how you will return after dinner. Bangkok rewards travellers who spend their limited time in the city, not crossing it repeatedly.