Siam Square (สยามสแควร์) is a district of the city of Bangkok.
To know
Self Rattanakosin represents the history and culture of Thailand, Siam Square represents the new industrialized economy of the country. The first buildings in the area were built in the 70s of the last century on the land of theChulalongkorn University which was then rented as a concession to collect some extra money. They started with a few small shops and has since evolved into the shopping and entertainment mecca that offers everything that kids and students in the upper classes could ever want: malls full of branded stuff and clothes.
This square is built with a complex network of small Soi alleys full of small shops, restaurants, cafes, record and book shops, almost all aimed at wealthy Thai twenties, compulsive spending Malaysians and wealthy Western immigrants. If you don't feel like going to Gap or getting a Pink Martini, it's still worth a visit to get a feel for the Bangkok of the future. The area north of Rama I Road offers internal courtyards on the second floor that serve as an entry point to the shopping centers Siam Center, We are Discovery is Siam Paragon.
Going east on Rama I Road the shopping experience continues Ratchaprasong, the area that achieved international fame when in 2010 the Protestants in the red shirts set up their camp here where it is CentralWorld the largest shopping center in Thailand that was put to fire and sword during the protests and then restored in a few months. When eastwards Rama I Road changes its name to Phloen Chit Road becomes calmer. There are still shops and restaurants but the area is mainly home to foreign embassies and airline offices.
How to orient yourself
Siam Square: full screen map.How to get
If you are staying in Khao San Road, the ferry Saen Saep Express Boat is the best option to get to Siam Square. It is a short walk away from the Golden Mountain a Rattanakosin from where you can take the boat. The service operates every day from 05:30 to 20:30. The Golden Mount Line takes you to the pier of Sapan Hua Chang to Siam Square and ends at the pier of Pratunam for the Ratchaprasong intersection. You can change to the NIDA Line at Pratunam Pier to get to Chitlom, Wireless, to Sukhumvit is Ramkhamhaeng. A single ride from the pier of Panfa Leelard of the Golden Mountain towards Sapan Hua Chang takes about 25 minutes and costs about 9 baht.
On the train
From Suvarnabhumi Airport the easiest way is by train Airport Rail Link. Take the City Line to Phaya Thai Station, which takes 26 minutes, then change to the BTS Sukhumvit Line towards Bearing and get off at Siam Station. When switching between the two non-integrated systems, you need to purchase a new ticket.
By bus
Siam Square is among the busiest neighborhoods in the city. If you add to the complexity of the bus system, you immediately understand that it is better to use other means of transport. However, if you come from the area of the Grand Royal Palace to Rattanakosin, the bus is the only way to get there with a direct connection. The bus 15 starts from Phra Athit Road before arriving at the MBK Center shopping mall, then at Siam Square and finally at the Ratchaprasong intersection. This bus then continues for Silom Road, so useful even if you come from there.
An alternative is the bus 47 which starts from Rama IV Road in Khlong Toei and then heads towards Silom and Phaya Thai Road. Go down to the MBK center shopping mall. You can also take this bus from Tha Chang to Rattanakosin (near the Grand Palace) from there it crosses Ratchadamnoen Klang Road (for Khao San Road), Lan Luang Road, Chakkaphatdi Phong Road and Bamrung Muang Road. Get off at MBK Center because it won't continue further to Siam Square.
There is no easy connection from Suvarnabhumi Airport. You can take the bus 552 for the "On Nut" BTS station a Sukhumvit and continue with the skytrain. It is a long journey which, depending on traffic, can take 1-2 hours.
By subway
Siam Square is the most central district of the city and can be reached by both the Sukhumvit Line and the Silom Line of the BTS skytrain. The easiest entry point is the station Siam right above Siam Square and in the middle of the main area. It functions as an interchange station between the two lines so many commuters are part of the huge crowd that populate it during rush hour. The Sukhumvit Line continues east and passes by the station Chit Lom which is close to Ratchaprasong and Phloen Chit serving the street of the same name. One stop west of the Silom Line is the stadium National Stadium, also convenient for MBK shopping center, Siam Discovery, Jim Thompson's house and the budget guest houses of Soi Kasemsan 1.
The Sukhumvit Line and the Silom Line, in addition to directly connecting the districts of the same name, also connect with Phahonyothin and Chatuchak weekend market, taking the Sukhimvit Line north. If you come from Rattanakosin or Khao San Road you must first take the Chao Phraya Express Boat to the pier Sathorn and from there continue on the Silom Line to Siam station. The whole journey takes about 40 minutes.
How to get around
What see
- 1 Bangkok Art and Culture Center (หอ ศิลป วัฒนธรรม แห่ง กรุงเทพมหานคร), 939 Rama I Road (BTS skytrain stop, National Stadium), ☎ 66 2 214-6630.
free. 
Tue-Sun 10: 00-22: 00. Visitors can interact with various types of art in various ways: performing arts, music, painting and film. On display are more than 300 works by Thai and international artists. Some exhibits can be very beautiful.
free. 
Tue-Sun 10: 00-22: 00. Visitors can interact with various types of art in various ways: performing arts, music, painting and film. On display are more than 300 works by Thai and international artists. Some exhibits can be very beautiful.
- 2 Erawan Shrine (ศาล พระ พรหม), 494 Ratchadamri Road (BTS skytrain stop, Chit Lom), ☎ 66 2 254-1234. Free. Mon-Sun 06: 00-00: 00. A Hindu temple that contains the statue of Phra Phrom, the Thai representation of the creation god Brahma.
- 3 Jim Thompson House (พิพิธภัณฑ์ จิ ม ทอม ป์ สัน), 6 Soi Kasemsan 2 (BTS skytrain stop, National Stadium), ☎ 66 2 216-7368. 100 baht, 50 baht if under 25. Mon-Sun 09: 00-17: 00. Notorious CIA agent Jim Thompson revived the Thai silk industry after World War II and built his home by assembling it with six traditional Thai houses. It is worth taking the guided tour available in various languages. If you want to avoid the heat, it is advisable to arrive early.
- 4 Yelo House, 20/2 Rama I Road, Khwaeng Wang Mai, Khet Pathum Wan, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10330, (a few meters from Jim Thompson's house, it is advisable to use the walkway over the canal which is more direct and less chaotic.), ☎ 66 89 777 2322. Wed-Sun 11: 00-20: 00. This old warehouse has been converted into a multifunctional space for Thai creatives where they can showcase their work, creations and meet people and potential customers. There are often exhibitions and craft markets, the space is beautiful and gives an idea of the creative ferment of this country. Inside there is also a restaurant and a bar overlooking the internal canal. A great place both to visit and to rest in when the heat gets too exhausting.
- 5 Madame Tussaud's (พิพิธภัณฑ์ หุ่น ขี้ผึ้ง มาดาม ทุส โซ), 6F, Siam Discovery, 989 Rama I Road (BTS skytrain stop, Siam), ☎ 66 2 658-0060. 900 baht. Mon-Sun 10: 00-22: 00. A branch of the famous museum that showcases wax figures of famous people. Inside is the full-scale statue of His Royal Highness Prince Mahitala Thibed Adulyadej Vikrom Phra Baroma Rajajanok (the father prince), Her Royal Highness Princess Srinagarindra (the princess mother) and other famous Thai people as well as other Western characters. including former US President Obama in the Oval Office and British soccer player Steven Gerrard. The price for Thais is 350 baht but for foreigners it is 900.
- 6 Queen Savang Vadhana Museum (มูลนิธิ สมเด็จ พระ พัน วัส สา อัยยิกา เจ้า), Sra Pathum Palace, 195 Phaya Thai Road (BTS skytrain stop, Siam, near the Siam Kempinski hotel), ☎ 66 2 252-1965. 150 baht. Mon-Sat 10 am-4pm. The Sra Pathum Palace is an oasis of silence just behind Siam Paragon. It was the permanent residence of Her Majesty Queen Savang Vadhana from 1916 until 1955 and of Her Royal Highness Princess Sri Nagarindra. When the latter died, it became the residence of Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn. The latter transformed one of the buildings into a museum in honor of the Queen's grandmother showing her contribution to Thai society. The museum begins in the exhibition hall which displays the biography of Her Majesty Queen Savang Vadhana and then goes to her residence, the Phra Tamnak Yai building. Book in advance and request a guide in Italian, if available, at no additional cost.
- 7 Siam Ocean World (สยาม โอ เชี่ยน เวิลด์), 1-2F, Siam Paragon, 991 Rama 1 Road (BTS skytrain stop, Siam), ☎ 66 2 687-2000. 900 baht. Mon-Sun 09: 00-22: 00. The largest aquarium in Southeast Asia which displays more than 30,000 marine animals from around the world including rare and exotic species. The aquarium area spreads over 10,000 square meters, more than two football fields. There is also the "dive with sharks" offer where you can dive in the swimming pool with sharks and rays, or the "5D Cinema EXTREME" cinema with movable chairs to enhance the 3D cinema experience.
- 8 Wat Pathum Wanaram Temple (วัด ปทุม วนาราม), Rama I Road (skytrain stop BTS, Siam), ☎ 66 2 251-6469. Free. Mon-Sun 07: 00-18: 00. This temple is between the two largest shopping malls in Thailand and is often overlooked. While not as beautiful as the temples found in Rattanakosin, it is a reminder of Thailand's spiritual history. The temple was founded in 1857 by King Mongkut (Rama IV) when the area was surrounded by canals and rice fields. It was built to function as a place of prayer near the Sra Pathum Palace. In the temple there is a reproduction of the Phra Meru Mas, the crematorium of the Princess Mother, the remains of which were moved here after the cremation in Sanam Luang. During the 2010 Red Shirt riots, the temple was a safe haven for protesting women and children.
What to do
- 1 Royal Bangkok Sports Club (ราชกรีฑา สโมสร), 1 Henri Dunant Road (BTS skytrain stop, Ratchadamri), ☎ 66 2 255-4158. 50-100 baht. Every two weeks, Sun 12: 30-18: 00. Here horse races are held with the royal patronage. Races are held every two weeks on Sunday.
Self-indulgence
- 2 Center Point Massage & Spa, 6th floor, Siam Square One, 388 Rama I Road (BTS skytrain stop, Siam, exit 4), ☎ 66 2 252-3014. 380-1,190 baht / hour. Mon-Sun 10: 00-23: 30. Recently moved from the Soi alleys of Siam Square to the Siam Square One shopping center, it is worth a visit as it offers Thai, herbal and oil massages as well as aroma therapy. They also have branches in Silom and Sukhumvit.
- 3 Sawan Residential Spa & Club, Grand Hyatt Erawan Hotel, 494 Ratchadamri Road (BTS skytrain stop, Ratchadamri), ☎ 66 2 254-1234. 2,600-3,200 baht / hour. The luxury and prices you would expect from a five star hotel. Most of their treatments take at least three hours and are reputed to be the best in Thailand.
Thai language courses
- 4 [link previously not working]Chulalongkorn University, @[email protected]. Intensive Thai courses emphasize academic Thai for undergraduate levels.
Shopping
It's a bit of a headache but if you want to save a few baht you can claim VAT back on large purchases. When making a purchase, just ask the shopkeeper to fill in the VAT application form VAT Refund Form (P.P10) and add the original invoice. The total value of the products for which a refund is requested must be over 5,000 baht with each individual product worth at least 2,000 baht. Products must be exported from Thailand by air within 60 days. At the airport, the products must be checked at the Customs Office before check-in and passport control. You will be provided with a receipt to show to theVAT Refunds Office (VAT Refund Office) after passport control. If the refund value is less than 30,000 baht it will be paid in cash, otherwise it will be paid to your bank account or credit card. For more information, please contact Revenue Department (90 Phahonyothin Soi 7, Phahonyothin, ☎ 66 2 272-9384 (-5)).
Siam Square
Siam Square is the place to shop in Bangkok, especially if you are looking for large malls and small fashion designer ateliers. The obvious entry point is the BTS skytrain station, surrounded by the shopping malls Siam Center, We are Discovery is Siam Paragon. Although technically not part of the neighborhood, the shopping center is also a few minutes' walk away MBK Center. Although they are not the newest, they are still the most famous because they are the cheapest ones. If you have to choose, at least go to MBK just to see where young people shop.
- 1 Bonanza Mall (โบ นั น ซ่า มอลล์), Phaya Thai Road (BTS skytrain stop, National Stadium). Mon-Sun 10: 00-22: 00. Opposite the MBK Center and connected to the walkway on the second floor, this mall is perpetually crowded. This maze of stalls offers more or less the same things as the MBK, so it's mostly popular with students and teenagers looking for clothes, accessories and cosmetics.
- 2 MBK Center (มาบุญครอง), 444 Phaya Thai Road (BTS skytrain stop, National Stadium), ☎ 66 2 620-9000. Mon-Sun 10: 00-22: 00. The MBK shopping center is huge and always packed beyond belief with a myriad of small shops and stalls (around 2,500) selling everything with a great emphasis on clothes, especially low-cost ones with a teenage fashion trend. The fourth floor, dedicated to consumer electronics, is the best place in Bangkok to buy telephones, cameras and audio systems. Before buying a phone, be sure to check on what frequencies it works and that it can work once at home in Italy. Not to be missed on this floor is the dried fruit and Chinese-style snacks at Champ, near the central elevator. The fifth floor is always dedicated to electronics and on the back to furniture. Items for sale include gold, furniture, food, and part of the sixth floor sells souvenirs and handcrafted items.
- The top floor has restaurants and cinemas and a Tokyu department store on the north side. It is possible to negotiate for better prices in some independent shops, especially if you are accompanied by Thai friends.
- 3 Siam Center (สยามเซ็นเตอร์), Siam Tower, Rama I Road (BTS skytrain stop, Siam), ☎ 66 2 687-5000. Mon-Sun 09: 00-21: 00. Built in 1976 this four-story mall was the first in the neighborhood. It looks a little dated in comparison to the Siam Paragon but constant renovations keep it trendy, modern and colorful. Most of the shops sell clothes, shoes and bags for teenagers and children from wealthy families. There is also a good variety of dining options and a fourth floor dining area. A bridge on the same floor connects with the Siam Discovery.
- 4 We are Discovery (สยาม ดิ ส คั ฟ เว อ รี่ เซ็นเตอร์), Rama I Road (BTS skytrain stop, Siam), ☎ 66 2 345-2345. Mon-Sun 10: 00-21: 00. New and more upscale for slightly more mature buyers. Like its sister mall, most of the shops are for the fashion enthusiast but for some reason the prices are higher. This is the only shopping mall in Thailand that has the Diesel store on the ground floor. It is worth a visit, there is Loft on the third floor, a Japanese home furnishings store. On the sixth floor there is an EGV cinema.
- 5 Siam Paragon (สยาม พารา ก อน), 991 Rama I Road (skytrain stop BTS, Siam), ☎ 66 2 610-8000. Mon-Sun 10: 00-22: 00. An incredibly huge shopping mall with at least ten floors where you can spend a whole day inside because it houses the Siam Ocean World, the Paragon Cineplex and a floor with restaurants and eateries. The Paragon is one of the highest-end shopping malls in Asia, where you can find the usual famous brands (Louis Vuitton, Gucci, etc.) but also BMW and Porche showing their new models. The fourth floor has a good selection of Thai arts and crafts, albeit expensive, and the Kinokuniya bookstore. There are great options for eating in the basement, a high quality supermarket, two food courts and a row of restaurants.
- 6 Tokyu (ทู ค ยู ดี พาร์ ท เม้น ท์ สโตร์), MBK Center, 444 Phaya Thai Road (BTS skytrain stop, National Stadium), ☎ 66 2 620-1000. Mon-Sun 10 am-9pm. A huge department store on four floors. There you will find everything you are looking for in a department store: clothes, luggage, shoes, cosmetics, stationery, appliances and even a supermarket. There is also a great selection of Thai, Japanese and Western cooking utensils.
Ratchaprasong
Going east you find it Ratchaprasong, a crossroads full of luxury shopping malls aimed at a richer clientele. The CentralWorld it was built in 2002 and expanded in 2006 to reach nearby Siam Paragon and be the largest shopping mall in Thailand and one of the largest in the world. Around there they are Gaysorn, Isetan, Narai Phand, Peninsula Plaza, ZEN and others that together constitute the largest shopping street in the city. But first, it's good to arm yourself with a full wallet.
- 7 Amarin Plaza (อัม ริน ท ร์ พลาซ่า), 496-502 Phloen Chit Road (BTS skytrain stop, Chit Lom), ☎ 66 2 256-9111. Mon-Sun 09: 00-21: 00. Notable colonial-style shopping mall that has 5 floors of high-end shops selling clothes, furniture, jewelry, electronics, books and crafts. The fourth floor has a food court, spa, beauty center, and yoga studio.
- 8 Central Chidlom (เซ็นทรัล ดี พาร์ ท เม้น ท์ สโตร์ - ชิดลม), 1027 Phloen Chit Road (BTS skytrain stop, Chit Lom), ☎ 66 2 793-7777. Mon-Sun 10: 00-22: 00. The flagship of Central warehouses, prices are consequently higher, aimed at wealthy Thais and Westerners living in the city. Lots of options for eating.
- 9 CentralWorld (เซ็นทรัล เวิลด์), 999/9 Rama I Road (BTS skytrain stop, Chit Lom), ☎ 66 2 635-1111. Mon-Sun 10: 00-22: 00. A huge complex and the only mall in Bangkok that can challenge the Paragon in style and grandeur. It is the third largest shopping mall in the world by rentable space and the second largest building in the world, if you include the skyscraper stuck on top. It is on the mid-range with cheaper prices than the Siam Paragon. It has good restaurants which make it a good choice for lunch or dinner. The top floor has a supermarket and multiplex. Within the complex there are also the Isetan and ZEN department stores, as well as bookstores, photography and electronics stores.
- 10 Erawan Bangkok (เอราวัณ กรุงเทพ), 494 Phloen Chit Road (BTS skytrain stop, Chit Lom), ☎ 66 2 250-7777. Mon-Sun 10: 00-22: 00. Connected by elevated bridges to Amarin Palza and Gaysorn this is another luxury mall with fashion ateliers spread over all four floors. The second floor has an excellent coffee shop while the food is in the lower lobby.
- 11 Gaysorn (เก ษ ร พลาซ่า), 999 Phloen Chit Road (BTS skytrain stop, Chit Lom), ☎ 66 2 656-1149. Mon-Sun 10 am-8pm. Gaysorn promotes itself as the most luxurious mall in Bangkok where the various Armani, Gucci, Louis Vuitton and Tiffany are purchased. The upper floors have a good selection of high-quality Thai antiques and handicrafts, always at prices that most Thais can't afford.
- 12 Isetan (อิเซตัน ดี พาร์ ท เม้น ท์ สโตร์), CentralWorld, 4 / 1- 4/2 Ratchadamri Road (BTS skytrain stop, Chit Lom), ☎ 66 2 255-9898. Mon-Sun 10 am-9pm. In Japan it is an institution and the branch in Bangkok is of the same high standard as those in the motherland. There are also international brands like Louis Vuitton and Kinokuniya is one of the best bookstores. For children there is also a Lego area.
- 13 Narai Phand (นารายณ์ภัณฑ์), President Tower Arcade, 973 Phloen Chit Road (BTS skytrain stop, Chit Lom), ☎ 66 2 656-0398. Mon-Sun 10 am-9pm. A government-run Thai handicraft center offering a wide range of bronze, ceramic, lacquer, silk and wood products. The prices are quite high and not negotiable but well displayed which helps to understand if there are things on offer. Narai Phand used to be on Ratchadamri Road but this shop was demolished in 2008 and the new location is smaller and closer to the Intercontinental Hotel.
- 14 Peninsula Plaza (เพ นิ น ซู ล่า พลาซ่า), 153 Ratchadamri Road (BTS skytrain stop, Ratchadamri), ☎ 66 2 539-6723. Mon-Sun 10 am-9pm. Yet another exclusive shopping mall aimed at wealthy Thais, wealthy immigrants and people on business trips. The exterior has a European feel to it. For sale there are gems, diamonds, silverware, fabrics, antiques and art. On the fourth floor is the International Dance Academy.
- 15 ZEN (เซ็น ดี พาร์ ท เม้น ท์ สโตร์), CentralWorld, 4 Ratchadamri Road (BTS skytrain stop, Chit Lom), ☎ 66 2 100-9999. Mon-Sun 10: 00-22: 00. ZEN is Bangkok's premier high fashion department store. It is aimed at customers who don't mind paying more for the best lines. The shop is intriguing, colorful and well designed. Each of its six floors has a different theme and category of cosmetics, fashion and sports.
Phloen Chit
- 16 All Seasons Place (ออ ส ซี ซั่ น เพลส), 87 Witthayu Road (Wireless Road) (BTS skytrain stop, Phloen Chit), ☎ 66 2 654-3888. Mon-Sun 09: 00-18: 00. Another elegant and large shopping mall. Four floors of the usual clothing stores, department stores, jewelry and antiques. The dining area on the second floor is good.
- 17 The Promenade (ศูนย์การค้า นาย เลิศ), 11th floor, Nai Lert Tower, 2/4 Witthayu Road (BTS skytrain stop, Phloen Chit), ☎ 66 2 267-8850. Mon-Sun 09: 00-19: 00. The Promenade is one of the areas in Bangkok where you can buy everything. It is a three-story shopping mall with a modern and luxurious decor. The second floor has a walkway to the Swissotel Nai Lert Park Hotel.
How to have fun
- 1 APEX cinema, Siam Square Soi 1 (skytrain stop BTS, Siam), ☎ 66 2 252-6498. 100 baht. Mon-Sun 10 am-11pm. The halls of the Apex were built in the second half of the 60s of the last century and have changed little since then, so seeing a film here is a retro experience that is not repeated in other cinemas. The Lido Theater has three theaters that typically show Japanese and Korean films while the Scala Theater has a single screen with the latest Hollywood releases. Unfortunately the old 1960s cinema Siam Theater was destroyed in a fire during the red shirt demonstrations in 2010 and was replaced by the Siam Square One shopping mall.
- 2 [link previously not working]Krungsri Cinema IMAX Theater (กรุง ศรี ไอ แมก ซ์ พารา ก อน), 5th floor, Siam Paragon, 991/1 Rama I Road (BTS skytrain stop, Siam), ☎ 66 2 129-4631. 160 baht. Mon-Sun 10: 00-00: 00. Going to see a movie here is a good option for going out at night. You spend a few hours in a glitzy cinema with air conditioning, numbered seats and the latest technology (including IMAX and 3D glasses). Every night they screen all the Hollywood films but you can also choose Thai films that have English subtitles (ask at the cashier first, to be sure). Don't forget the obligatory ovation to the King before the film begins.
- 3 Paragon Cineplex cinema (พารา ก อน ซิ นี เพ ล็ ก ซ์), 5th floor, Siam Paragon, 991/1 Rama I Road (BTS skytrain stop, Siam), ☎ 66 2 129-4635. 140 baht. Mon-Sun 10: 00-00: 00. With around 4,000 seats and 25 screens it must be one of the largest cinemas in Asia. The complex has three different film companies: the “Siam Pavalai” is a hall with 1,200 seats and is the largest, in which concerts are also held; the six “Ultra Screen” cinemas have luxurious rooms with reclining seats; The “Enigma” is a members only cinema.
Cafeterias
Branches of Starbucks and the local chain Black Canyon Coffee they can be found in shopping malls or larger BTS skytrain stations.
- 4 Kaldi, 4th floor, MBK Center, 444 Phaya Thai Road (BTS skytrain stop, National Stadium), ☎ 66 2 626-0407, @[email protected]. 50 baht. Mon-Sun 10: 00-22: 00. This popular Japanese coffee chain has a branch within MBK and is an excellent way to unwind after shopping. In addition to the obvious coffee they serve tea, smoothies, fruit juices and soft drinks as well as small snacks. They have Wi-Fi.
Cafe
Siam Square is not very famous for its nightlife as shops tend to close around 10pm after which the area becomes quite deserted. Most visitors head to Sukhumvit or Silom but here too there are bars to relax.
During the winter, outdoor bars open in front of the CentralWorld serving cold beers, hot food and loud Thai pop music.
- 5 Hard Rock Cafe, 424 / 3-6 Siam Square Soi 11 (BTS skytrain stop, Siam), ☎ 66 2 251-0797. Mon-Sat 09: 00-19: 00. Everyone knows Hard Rock Cafe and this one is the same as everyone else around the world: rock music all night, typical souvenirs and live music every night. This however is the only one that has a tuk tuk that goes outside.
Nightclub
There are a couple of clubs in Rong Muang Soi 1 open late on the side streets of Siam Square (accessed from Rong Muang Soi 5, just off Rama I Road).
- 6 CM2 concept, Novotel Bangkok Building, 392/44 Siam Square Soi 6 (BTS skytrain stop, Siam), ☎ 66 2 209-8888. Mon-Sun 20: 00-02: 00. One of the few clubs in the area, it caters to foreigners with live pop music and dance performances. Open for more than fifteen years it has become a good reference for live music. There is also a nice dance floor.
- 7 Spicy, Rong Muang Soi 1 (at the intersection of Rong Muang Soi 1 and 5). 300 baht including the first drink. Mon-Sun 01: 00-06: 00. A typical seedy and desolate club that fills up after 02:00 and stays open until morning. Depending on the DJ the music changes. The people who frequent it are mixed and also includes elderly Westerners on the hunt rather poorly dressed, young tourists, prostitutes and katoey. Taxis take a fee to get you there, so knowing this in advance might get you a free ride. And if you want to continue having fun after closing, continue at the Swing, right next to it.
- 8 Swing, Rong Muang Soi 1 (at the intersection of Rong Muang Soi 1 and 5). Free admission, drinks for 200 baht. Mon-Sun 05:00 until late. Club open during the day with free admission. It opens at 05:00 and fills up right away. You enter from inside a restaurant past the bathrooms and take the lift to the second floor. In addition to the bar and dance floor with house music there is also a quiet area with pool tables. Same people as Spicy.
Where to eat
For Thai food with variations, Siam Square is the best place to look. Malls generally have a wide choice of chains where you can eat for good prices. If you have little to spend, every self-respecting mall has a food court. Soi Ton Son a road that branches off from Phloen Chit Road is known as the Little Italy in Bangkok where there are many Italian restaurants and the best are very good with affordable prices, by Western standards.
Moderate prices
- 1 Hongkong Noodle, Siam Square Soi 10 (sytrain stop BTS, Siam), ☎ 66 2 658 4154. 50/100 baht. Mon-Sun 09: 00-22: 00. They make noodles with wonton good and cheap, a selection of dim sum and other Cantonese specialties in a modern setting with air conditioning and table service.
- 2 Ka-nom, 266/8 Siam Square Soi 3 (farmata skytrain BTS, Siam), ☎ 66 2 252 8520. 40 baht. Mon-Sun 10 am-8pm. Egg patties in style Portuguese of Macau as well as cakes, quiches, bread and croissants.
- 3 Pisces, 36/6 Soi Kasemsan 1 (BTS skytrain stop, National Stadium). 60 baht. Mon-Sun 08: 00-13: 00 and 17: 00-22: 30. A very basic vegetarian Thai restaurant that is popular with backpackers in nearby guesthouses for breakfast. The interior is beautiful and colorful and the lady who runs it is very nice. The service can be a bit slow.
Average prices
- 4 Greyhound Café, 4th floor, Central Chidlom, 1027 Phloen Chit Road (farmata skytrain BTS, Chit Lom), ☎ 66 2 225 6964, 66 2 225 6965. 300 baht. Mon-Sun 10: 00-22: 00. Minimalistic restaurant built in concrete and patinated steel. The menu is varied and ranges from authentic Thai to pasta to the Elvis burger. Main courses are around 300 baht although ready-made menus are cheaper. There is also a branch at the Siam Center.
- 5 Kabuki, 1st floor, Siam Paragon, 99/1 Rama I Road (BTS skytrain stop, Siam), ☎ 66 2 129 4351, 66 2 129 4356. 450 baht. Mon-Sun 11: 00-22: 00. This Kabuki-themed Japanese restaurant chain was the first of its kind in Bangkok. It is more upscale than competitor Uta-Andon but still reasonably priced in comparison to upscale Japanese restaurants.
- 6 The Monita Taqueria, Mahatun Plaza, 888/26 Phloen Chit Road (farmata skytrain BTS, Phloen Chit), ☎ 66 2 650 9581. 150 baht. Wed-Sat 11: 30-22: 00. One of the best Mexican restaurants in the city especially after Taco and Salsa have closed. The sauces are very good as well as the fries. Reservations are recommended as the place is quite small and often full. The tables and chairs are also small you will expect to feel very cramped even though it has a good atmosphere.
- 7 No. 43 Italian Bistro, 43 Soi Lang Suan (BTS skytrain stop, Chit Lom), ☎ 66 2 658 7444. 150-300 baht. 06:00-00:00. An Italian diner serving breakfast, lunch and dinner menus. With white wooden floors, black and gold walls, a well-lit bar, the dishes are well priced considering the elegance of the place. Quiet and intimate. They also prepare Thai food upon request.
- 8 Som Tam Nua (Som Tam Paradise or Papaya Salad Restaurant), 392/14 Siam Square Soi 5 (skytrain stop BTS, Siam), ☎ 66 2 251 4880. 200 baht. Mon-Sun 11: 00-21: 00. If Thai food wasn't spicy enough or you've never tried it som tam (raw papaya salad) then this restaurant specializing in Isaan cuisine is worth a try. For the full experience we recommend ordering the raw mango salad (ตำ มะม่วง, tam ma-muang), spicy pork salad (ลาบ หมู, laap muu), grilled chicken (ไก่ ย่าง, kai yang) and sticky rice (ข้าวเหนียว, khao niaw) for a cost of less than 200 baht per person. They have the menu in English on two floors.
- Beware that as an Isann food, it is very spicy.
- 9 Uta-Andon, 6th floor, Isetan, 4 / 1-4 / 2 Ratchadamri Road (BTS skytrain stop, Chit Lom), ☎ 66 2 255 9800. Mon-Sun 11: 00-21: 00. Owned by the same owners as Kabuki, it is still a restaurant chain that has a branch in Isetan. Simple ambiance and decor.
- 10 [link not working]Wanara Eatery, 81 Soi Ruam Rudi 2 (fermata skytrain BTS, Phloen Chit), ☎ 66 2 695 4242. Lun-Dom 06:00-23:00. In thailandese 'wana' significa foresta, la sorgente principale degli ingredienti della cucina tradizionale. Qui preparano una cucina fusion che mescola i sapori tradizionali con quelli occidentali.
Aree di ristorazione
Se si desidera del buon cibo e aria condizionata è consigliabile dirigersi verso le aree ristorazione di ogni centro commerciale; sono molto varie ed offrono dagli spuntini molto basici alla cucina molto eclettica. La maggior parte usa un sistema di "buoni pasto" e quello che non viene utilizzato è rimborsato. Alcune delle migliori sono:
- 11 Area ristorazione del Big C, 5º piano, Big C, 97/11 Ratchadamri Road (fermata skytrain BTS, Chit Lom), ☎ 66 2 250 4888. 50 baht. Mon-Sun 10: 00-22: 00. Nuova, ariosa, luminosa e molto economica con una scelta principale di piatti thailandesi che possono costare anche solo 20 baht. Il pagamento viene effettuato con una carta prepagata.
- 12 Central Food Hall, 1º piano, Central Chidlom, 1027 Phloen Chit Road (fermata skytrain BTS, Chit Lom, nascosto dietro il supermercato TOPS nello stesso edificio conosciuto come FoodLoft), ☎ 66 2 655 7648, 66 2 655 7652. 50 baht. Mon-Sun 10: 00-22: 00. Offre piatti thailandesi, con menu in inglese, a prezzi più economici del FoodLoft.
- 13 FoodLoft, 7º piano, Central Chidlom, 1027 Phloen Chit Road (fermata skytrain BTS, Chit Lom), ☎ 66 2 793 7070. 150 baht. Mon-Sun 10: 00-22: 00. Posto molto elegante con un tema a colori nero, rosso e metallizzato, è molto famoso tra i visitatori del centro. Questa è une delle aree ristorazione più di alto livello e potrebbe essere descritta come un'esperienza culinaria a sé: otto cucine ad isola rappresentano i ristoranti di alta qualità che servono differenti offerte: thailandese, giapponese, coreano, italiano, malese e vietnamita. Per il dessert c'è un'isola separata. È piuttosto caro con gran parte dei piatti attorno ai 100 baht. Il venerdì è aperto a cena e il Sabato fanno musica dal vivo. Quando si entra si riceve un buono pasto di 1.000 baht e si paga quello che si è consumato all'uscita.
- 14 Area ristorazione del MBK, 5º e 6º piano, MBK Center, 444 Phaya Thai Road (fermata skytrain BTS, National Stadium), ☎ 66 2 620 9000. 50 baht. Mon-Sun 10: 00-22: 00. Si può mangiare più o meno ad ogni piano. L'area ristorazione "The Fifth" sta ovviamente al quinto piano ed è stata recentemente rifatta: ha un paio di isole ristorante che offrono cibo di vari paesi: indiano, indonesiano, italiano, giapponese, messicano e thailandese. Piatti dai 50 baht in su e si paga con un sistema a carta elettronica che viene saldato quando si esce. L'area ristorazione al sesto piano è molto economica con piatti al di sotto dei 50 baht. È popolata. rumorosa e serve buoni piatti thailandesi, alcuni dei quali pressoché sconosciuti. Si paga con una carta ricaricabile che va acquistata all'inizio per poi essere rimborsati all'uscita per il rimanente.
- 15 Area ristorazione del Siam Paragon, 1º piano, Siam Paragon, 991/1 Rama I Road (fermata skytrain BTS, Siam), ☎ 66 2 610-8000. 50-100 baht. Mon-Sun 10: 00-22: 00. Distribuita su gran parte del piano terra e divisa in tre sezioni: un'area ristorazione generale che si paga con buoni pasto, un'area ristorazione di più alto livello che si paga con una carta elettronica e un bancone per il cibo a portar via. L'area è enorme e si ha una vasta scelta di cibo isaan, thailandese, vietnamita, cinese e internazionale.
High prices
- 16 Gianni, 34/1 Soi Ton Son (fermata skytrain BTS, Chit Lom. Fuori da Phloen Chit), ☎ 66 2 252-1619. 1,000-1,200 baht. 12:00-14:30, 18:00-22:30 Lun-Dom. Uno dei ristoranti italiani più autentici e migliori della città con un’atmosfera formale ma romantica con divani condivisi, per mangiare nel quale bisogna vestirsi bene. I menu pronti a pranzo sono sui 270/320 baht mentre la cena è più costosa.
Where stay
Moderate prices
Di fronte allo stadio si trova Soi Kasemsan 1, una strada tranquilla piena di hotel economici. Gran parte delle guesthouse sono sul lato sinistro arrivando da Rama I Road. Molto vicina a Siam Square e alla casa di Jim Thomson.
- 1 Muangphol Mansion, 931/9 Soi Kasemsan 1 (fermata skytrain BTS, National Stadium), ☎ 66 2 219-4445, @[email protected]. 800-1.100 baht. Questa guesthouse si affaccia su Rama I Road ma si entra da Soi Kasemsan 1. Il piano terreno ha delle postazioni per internet e un ristorante aperto 24 ore.
- 2 Reno Hotel, 40 Soi Kasemsan 1 (fermata skytrain BTS, National Stadium), ☎ 66 2 215-0026-(7), @[email protected]. 780-1.100 baht. Pulito e ristrutturato offre anche la colazione inclusa. Sulla terrazza c’è anche una piscina. Le stranze sul davanti sono buie e un po’ rumorose, quelle sul retro e vicino alla piscina sono molto carine. Il personale è molto gentile. Offrono servizio lavanderia.
- 3 White Lodge, 36/8 Soi Kasemsan 1 (fermata skytrain BTS, National Stadium), ☎ 66 2 215 3041. 600 baht. Probabilmente una delle guesthouse più economiche della strada, perfetta per i viaggiatori che hanno bisogno di una stanza economica senza troppe comodità. Le stanze sono pulite e piuttosto grandi. Personale molto gentile.
Average prices
- 4 A-One Inn, 25/13 Soi Kasemsan 1 (fermata skytrain BTS, National Stadium), ☎ 66 2 215 3029, @[email protected]. 1.200-2.000 baht. Una guesthouse molto famosa tra i viaggiatori zaino in spalla con qualche soldo in più. Hanno una stanza per i bagagli e accesso ad internet via Wi-Fi (l’accesso per 24 ore costa 100 baht per i residenti e 150 per chi non alloggia nella guesthouse).
- 5 Bangkok City Inn, 43/5 Phetchaburi Soi 30 (Vicino al molo Pratunam e alla fermata skytrain BTS, Chit Lom), ☎ 66 2 253 5373. 1.000-1.350 baht. Un albergo a due stelle con colazione inclusa, aria condizionata, TV via cavo e reception aperta 24 ore ma non hanno internet. Le stanze sono piccole e polverose con vecchi arredamenti. Alcune stanze non hanno nessun affaccio se non sul muro dell’edificio di fronte. Ha di buono che è vicino a Ratchaprasong.
- 6 Holiday Inn, 971 Phloen Chit Road (fermata skytrain BTS, Chit Lom), ☎ 66 2 656 1555. 3.730-6.700 baht. In stile Thailandese contemporaneo con una piccola palestra e una piscina.
- 7 Patumwan House, 22 Soi Kasemsan 1 (fermata skytrain BTS, National Stadium), ☎ 66 2 612 3580(-99), @[email protected]. 1.000-1.200 baht. Questo è un edificio con appartamenti e studi in affitto. Si entra con una carta di sicurezza e c’è anche un ascensore. Decisamente non per viaggiatori zaino in spalla.
- 8 Wendy House, 36/2 Soi Kasemsan 1 (fermata skytrain BTS, National Stadium), ☎ 66 2 214 1149, @[email protected]. 1.100-1.650 baht. Molto famoso e quasi sempre pieno. Offrono chiamate internazionali, carte telefoniche, internet alla reception. I computer sono configurati per l’inglese, lo svedese e il giapponese. La colazione è inclusa.
High prices
- 9 Grand Hyatt Erawan, 494 Ratchadamri Road (fermata skytrain BTS, Chit Lom), ☎ 66 2 254 1234. 7.600-23.000 baht. Albergo a 5 stelle con prezzi da 5 stelle. Se si visita il tempio Erawan lì vicino si può dare un’occhiata all’albergo. L’atrio è impressionante. Al piano inferiore c’è il bar Spassos, piuttosto frequentato. Se non si è soli vale la pena spendere i 1.000 baht extra a notte per la "club room" che da accesso ad un servizio migliore e colazione inclusa.
- 10 InterContinental Hotel, 973 Phloen Chit Road (fermata skytrain BTS, Chit Lom), ☎ 66 2 656 0444. 5.440-9.600 baht. L’atrio di quest’albergo è tra i più stravaganti della città. Posizione centrale e tutti i servizi offerti da alberghi di questa categoria.
- 11 Novotel, 392/44 Siam Square Soi 6 (fermata skytrain BTS, Siam), ☎ 66 2 209 8888, @[email protected]. 3.500-12.000 baht. Albergo a 5 stelle con 423 stanze in posizione centrale molto vicino alla fermata dello skytrain. In quanto 5 stelle ci si aspetta grande qualità dei servizi. Hanno servizio in camera, una piscina e Wi-Fi.
- 12 [link not working]Tenface, 81 Ruam Ruedi Soi 2 (fermata skytrain BTS, Phloen Chit, poi si cammina per Ruam Ruedi Road e si prende la sinistra per Ruam Ruedi Soi 2), ☎ 66 2 695 4242, @[email protected]. 14.500 baht. Un piccolo albergo e residenza di servizio. Il concetto architettonico è ispirato al gigante dalle 10 facce del poema epico Rāmāyaṇa.
- 13 Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel, 155 Rajadamri Road, ☎ 66 2 126 8866, @[email protected]. 6.200-20.000 baht. 354 stanze ed offrono smartphone di servizio per i clienti. Kasara Executive Lounge è molto famoso tra i viaggiatori d’affari.
- 14 Anantara Baan Rajprasong Bangkok Serviced Suites, 3 Soi MahaRoadlekluang 3, Rajdamri Road Lumpinee, Pathumwan (a 100 metri di distanza dalla fermata skytrain BTS, Rajdamri), ☎ 66 2 264 6464, @[email protected]. 5.300-7.400 baht. Non molto distante dal Lumpini Park. Offre una piscina all’aperto, una reception aperta 24 ore, una palestra e Wi-Fi gratuito.
How to keep in touch
Other projects
Wikipedia contains an entry concerning Siam Square
Commons contains images or other files on Siam Square
