Avani+ Riverside Bangkok Hotel

Avani+ Riverside Bangkok Hotel: The most beautiful views of the Chao Phraya River from your room

It was finally happening. After months of anticipation, we were standing at the door of Avani+ Riverside Bangkok Hotel, suitcases in hand and high expectations in mind.

Those expectations had actually started back in 2019, during an invitation to dine at SEEN, the hotel’s iconic rooftop restaurant. That evening we stood on the 26th floor, looked out over the Chao Phraya and both thought the same thing: we have to stay here. The hotel on the quiet Thonburi bank, away from the chaos of the city centre, but with a view that takes your breath away. From that moment on, it was on the list.

We know Avani well. We have stayed at their hotels in Ao Nang and Koh Lanta, and both left a strong impression. But this is their flagship, the first purpose-designed Avani hotel in the world, opened in 2016 as part of the Minor Hotels group. Our first Avani in Bangkok. And after this stay, we are absolutely certain: not the last.

By the end of April it was finally time. And what a stay it turned out to be. A junior suite with views that no photographs can do justice. Dinner at SEEN and cocktails at SIN high above the river. Japanese culinary theatre at Benihana Bangkok Riverside Plaza. A massage at Anantara Spa that made Bangkok completely disappear. And cocktails at Longtail River Bar & Lounge as the sun sank behind the skyline.

Where in Bangkok is Avani+ Riverside located?

Avani+ Riverside looks out over the Thonburi bank of the Chao Phraya, on the quiet side of Bangkok. Let’s be honest about that: this is not Sukhumvit or Silom. The immediate surroundings are not a buzzing neighbourhood filled with restaurants and nightlife. You choose this place deliberately for relaxation, river views and the excellent facilities of the hotel itself. And honestly, that is more than enough.

For those who want to explore the city, the hotel arranges it excellently. The free shuttle boat runs daily from 08:00 to 23:15 between the Anantara pier and Sathorn Pier, the BTS stop at Saphan Taksin, every thirty to sixty minutes. Even better: between 12:25 and 20:25, the shuttle also picks you up at the ICONSIAM pier. Now that is service.

Within walking distance lies Riverside Plaza, with shops, restaurants, cafes and a supermarket. Asiatique, ICONSIAM, Wat Arun, Wat Pho and the Grand Palace are all a short boat or taxi ride away. Districts like Siam, Asok and Phrom Phong can all be reached within half an hour. Suvarnabhumi Airport is approximately one hour by car, Don Mueang Airport slightly closer.

Architecture & (interior) design

The design of Avani+ Riverside is the work of Malaysian architect Vincent Goh of EDC, and it shows. The sleek 26-storey tower deliberately chooses a modern, uncluttered aesthetic. No excess, no decoration for decoration’s sake. Light, space and river views are the key words, and that choice pays off beautifully.

Even on our first visit in 2019, the lobby gave us an instant wow moment. That first impression has not changed since. The lift opens on the 11th floor and before you have put your bag down, you are already looking out over the Chao Phraya. Floor-to-ceiling windows, a panorama of the river and the Bangkok skyline behind it. It is one of the most beautiful arrival moments any hotel in the city has to offer.

The 11th floor has an open, welcoming character. Reception, Long Bar, Skyline restaurant and lounge areas flow seamlessly into one another. Light warm wood tones, neutral shades and carefully chosen furniture create an atmosphere of stylish calm without stiffness. You feel at home immediately.

All 248 rooms and 24 suites look out onto the river, without exception. The rooms are bright and spacious, with large sliding doors to the bathroom that create a playful connection between sleeping and bathing areas. Modern, functional and neutral in colour.

Atmosphere & Guests

The Avani+ Riverside crowd is modern but not over-the-top hip. The atmosphere is best described as urban chic with a relaxed riverside vibe along the Chao Phraya.

During the day it is calm. Guests lounge by the infinity pool on the roof, others relax in the lobby with a coffee and the river as company. The hotel breathes space and leaves you in peace. After sunset the energy shifts. Benihana sets the tone with spectacular teppanyaki at the table, while SEEN and SIN take over with outstanding food, thoughtful cocktails and music that gets the evening going. The guests are into it, and that energy is contagious.

That crowd is international and diverse. Couples and honeymooners feel completely at home here, and that is no surprise. A room with stunning river views, a freestanding bath in the suite, cocktails high above the city, these are the ingredients for a romantic stay that never feels overdone or old-fashioned. Modern and stylish, exactly what this hotel is about.

This is also the perfect hotel for those who want to step away from Bangkok for a while. Not in the middle of the Sukhumvit chaos, but above the river, with the city as backdrop rather than as the noise around you. That appeals to a specific type of traveller: people who appreciate style without needing excess, couples who want to discover the city at their own pace, and business travellers who want to end a long day of meetings with a good glass of wine at Long Bar and/or dinner at SEEN.

Hospitality and exceptional service

The service at Avani+ Riverside is warm, professional and focused on one thing: making sure guests have a wonderful time. That is no coincidence. Minor Hotels, the group behind Avani, are hospitality professionals through and through. They know exactly what hospitality means and how to deliver it every single day, from the first greeting at reception to the last smile at check-out.

At Avani and Anantara you find genuine Thai hospitality at its very best. People who recognise you, who bring a smile and go beyond what is asked. A perfect example: during breakfast, my cappuccino with an extra shot of espresso was simply there waiting for me, without having to ask for it every morning. Once was enough. Thank you, Khun Nui!

The hotel staff speak seven languages: English, Thai, French, German, Chinese, Korean and Japanese. Reception is available 24 hours a day and the room is serviced daily. And then there is Khun Ket from housekeeping. Her care, her personal touch and the way she approached her work are something we will not forget quickly. A big compliment.

Rooms and suites at Avani+ Riverside Bangkok Hotel

Avani+ Riverside Bangkok Hotel offers a unique combination of comfort and style, high above the river with views you will not forget quickly. With 250 modern rooms and 24 luxury suites, all from the 12th floor and above and all facing the Chao Phraya, a beautiful view here is not an upgrade but simply the standard.

And that standard is high. Every room comes with Bose speakers, a 40-inch Smart TV with Netflix, a rain shower with excellent water pressure, a well-stocked minibar, a Nespresso machine, kettle and free WiFi. The pillowtop mattresses and premium bedding do the rest: you sleep here the way you rarely sleep in Bangkok.

Those who want more space can choose from 24 suites, ranging from 58 to 167 m2. All suites have a freestanding bath. The larger options add a separate living room, dining area and, in the biggest suites, multiple bedrooms and a full kitchen with wet bar. Ideal for families, longer stays or simply those who want to live generously above the river.

Rooms

• Avani River View Room, 30 m2, kingsize or twin bed, rain shower (no bath), minibar, safe, Nespresso, WiFi, views of the Chao Phraya
• Avani Panorama River View Room, 30 m2, same facilities, but located from the 16th floor upwards for a completely unobstructed panoramic river view
• Skyline River View Room, 30 m2, highest floors of the hotel, spectacular views of both the Chao Phraya and the full Bangkok skyline, minibar, Bose speakers, Nespresso and Netflix included

Suites

• Avani River View Junior Suite, 65 m2, kingsize bed, freestanding bath and rain shower, dual vanity basins, separate seating area, Nespresso, up to 3 guests
• Panorama River View Junior Suite, 65 m2, kingsize bed with extra daybed, freestanding bath and rain shower, dual vanity basins, seating area, Nespresso, minibar and safe, views of river and city, up to 3 guests
• One Bedroom River View Suite, 58 m2, 25th floor, separate bedroom with living and dining area, freestanding bath and rain shower, bathrobes and slippers, Nespresso and minibar, up to 3 guests
• Two Bedroom River View Suite, 134 m2, 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, kitchenette, living and dining area, up to 5 guests, ideal for families or two couples
• Three Bedroom River View Suite, 167 m2, 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, full kitchen, living and dining area, up to 7 guests

Our Panorama River View Junior Suite in April 2026

During our stay we were in a Junior Suite with views of both the Chao Phraya and the Bangkok skyline. During the day you watch the boat traffic pass by, but it is in the evening that the room truly comes into its own. When the city lights reflect on the water, you catch yourself simply standing still at the window. Just because it is so beautiful.

On arrival we were greeted by a personal welcome card and a plate of four sweet snacks. A small gesture, but exactly the right tone. Modern, warm and personal, just like the hotel itself.

What stays with us most about this suite is how pleasant the space feels. Not because everything is enormous or extravagantly luxurious, but because the layout is clever and the magnificent view is continuously part of your stay.

Whether we were looking out over the river with a morning coffee or gazing into the distance from the window in the evening, the room always felt connected to Bangkok.

For travellers who want to combine a modern city hotel with views, comfort and a touch of luxury, this Junior Suite is an excellent choice.

Living and sleeping area

Right next to the entrance is the minibar, fully stocked with a wine cooler, fridge, snacks and a small cocktail setup. Notably, the prices are friendly for a hotel of this level. A soft drink costs around 60 baht, which for Bangkok five-star is genuinely reasonable.

The junior suite is cleverly laid out. Living and sleeping areas flow seamlessly into one large, open space that can be entered from two sides: through the main entrance or through the spacious bathroom. In the living area you find a comfortable sofa with a small side table, perfect for unwinding after a day in Bangkok.

Next to the seating area stands a multifunctional unit housing the TV, a Nespresso machine with capsules and a selection of teas, plus plenty of workspace for those who want to open the laptop in between. Practical and well thought out.

The automatic Somfy curtains made for a wonderfully gentle morning wake-up and became a subtle highlight of the stay. With one touch you shut the city out or open the room fully to the view. And that view is without doubt the star of the suite. Through the enormous windows you look straight out over the Bangkok skyline, while to the right the Chao Phraya winds its way through the city. During the day the busy boat traffic passes by; in the evening the city transforms into a sea of lights. A painting that is never the same twice.

The bed is generous and comfortable, with lovely pillows and neat bedside tables. Everything feels modern, well cared for and practical. Nothing too much, nothing too little.

The best detail? On the window is a hand-drawn note reading: “Enjoy your Stay”. A small gesture, a big effect. Exactly the kind of personal touch where Minor Hotels excels time and again.

Bathroom

The bathroom is spacious and well considered. The centrepiece is a large freestanding bath positioned right in front of the window, with views of the river. There is also a separate rain shower and a separate toilet. Everything has its own space, nothing feels cluttered or cramped.

On the generous his and hers vanity unit, in the rain shower and beside the bath, Malin + Goetz products are laid out. The fresh bergamot scents fit perfectly with the modern, clean character of the room. All the practical essentials you expect from a luxury hotel are also present: soft slippers, bathrobes, iron, safe and a complete toiletry set.

Facilities

Avani+ Riverside offers everything you would expect from a modern five-star hotel, and we were more than satisfied with everything this hotel provided.

Infinity pool on level 26

On the 26th floor sits the hotel’s showpiece: a 25-metre infinity pool with a view that stops you in your tracks every time. The water appears to flow seamlessly into the Bangkok skyline, with the Chao Phraya as the backdrop. A dedicated pool bar serves cocktails and light snacks. The pool is open from 06:00 to 19:00.

AvaniFit

One floor below the pool you will find AvaniFit, the hotel’s own fitness centre, also with river views. The centre is fully equipped with modern cardio and strength training equipment, and a personal trainer is available for those who want an extra challenge. The gym is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, accessible with your room key.

Welness

The Anantara’s wellness centre is absolutely outstanding. During our stay we used it twice and never regretted it for a moment.

Read more about Anantara Spa and our overall experience in our review of the Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort.

Meetings and events

From a business perspective, Avani+ is a complete MICE venue, with 4,500 m2 of event space, 27 function rooms and a Grand Ballroom with an 11-metre ceiling for up to 1,200 guests.

Additional services include: concierge on the ground floor, babysitting on request, free parking, EV charging points and wedding facilities. Via the second floor, the neighbouring Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort is directly accessible for additional dining and spa options.

Food & Drinks

You barely need to leave the hotel for good eats and drinks! The hotel has five in-house restaurant and bar concepts plus a small sweet shop: The Pantry for a quick coffee or snack, Long Bar for a drink near the lobby, and Sugar Babies for those with a sweet tooth. Skyline is open daily for breakfast and all-day dining, SEEN Restaurant & Bar on the 26th floor for outstanding food and drinks with rooftop views, and SIN Rooftop Bar on the 27th floor for cocktails, snacks and dancing under the stars.

On the first floor of Riverside Plaza, the shopping centre in the same building, you will find Benihana, the world-famous Japanese teppanyaki restaurant. Technically it is not part of the hotel, but because Benihana is part of the Minor Food Group, the same group behind Avani and Anantara, it feels like a natural extension of the total experience. And honestly, as far as we are concerned, it belongs. We spent a wonderful evening there and would return without hesitation.

Breakfast @ Skyline

Every morning we had breakfast at Skyline, the all-day dining restaurant that more than earns its name. Large floor-to-ceiling windows offer a panorama over the Chao Phraya and part of the city. The service here was exceptionally strong, everyone was helpful and friendly, a wonderful start to the day.

The buffet selection is broad and international. Western hot dishes such as sausages and bacon, Eastern and Thai options, Indian dishes, sushi and a dedicated noodle station. Cereals, fresh juices, yoghurt, salads and healthy options are all well represented. The bread is handled well with fresh rolls, hard rolls and ciabatta. One small note: the fruit selection only offers around four varieties, which feels a little modest for a hotel of this level.

Alongside the buffet, a compact card on the table offers a separate a la carte egg menu. The choice is surprisingly wide: from a classic ham and cheese omelette to an egg white omelette or poached egg on pumpkin bread, from truffle scrambled eggs to an Indian-inspired Eggs Benedict with chickpeas. Trending options such as spinach pancakes with hoisin and pickled eggs complete the offer. You do not need to try everything, but it is great to have the choice.

Long Bar: the lobby bar as social hub

The Long Bar is on the 11th floor, next to the lobby and the Skyline restaurant. It is a warm, contemporary bar with high vaulted ceilings, river views and an atmosphere equally suited to a quiet lunch, a business meeting or a sundowner after a day in Bangkok.

I had a brief meeting there and sipped a Mango Zimbra in the meantime, one of the two signature blended drinks on the menu. A delicious combination of mango, orange, ginger, peach, yuzu, honey and lime. Highly recommended.

SEEN Restaurant & Bar

On the 26th floor of Avani+ Riverside sits SEEN Restaurant & Bar, one of the most complete rooftop experiences Bangkok has to offer. Not just for the breathtaking river panorama over the Chao Phraya, but also for the Portuguese-Brazilian fusion cuisine, award-winning cocktails and an atmosphere that effortlessly shifts from relaxed sunset lounge to stylish evening. After more than fifty rooftop bars visited in Bangkok, SEEN still holds its place firmly in our personal top 10. We have now been twice and written a full separate review. Read it here.

SIN Rooftop Bar

One floor above SEEN, reached via a glass private lift through a corridor flanked by ribbons of red light, SIN Rooftop Bar opened in late 2024. An open terrace on the 27th floor with an almost 180-degree panorama over the Chao Phraya, mysterious design, signature cocktails from an internationally trained mixologist and a DJ programme that slowly brings the night to life. We were there too early and too briefly to fully experience the evening atmosphere, but we saw enough to fall immediately in love with this special concept. We found SIN so good that we have written a separate review. Read it here.

Benihana Japanese Teppanyaki

On the first floor of Riverside Plaza, literally in the same building as the hotel, sits Benihana, the world-famous Japanese teppanyaki restaurant. An evening where the chef is not just a cook but also an entertainer: skilled showmanship, a generous dose of humour and, in between, a perfectly prepared wagyu, Hokkaido scallops and a cheesecake grilled on the teppanyaki as a spectacular finale. The timing of the first courses could have been better, but the moment the chef steps up to the grill and the sparks fly, you quickly forget about that. We found Benihana and the teppanyakki-chef Bo so good that we have written a separate review. 

Read it here. Good chance there will be more Benihana reviews to follow on our website.

Our conclusion

Avani+ Riverside Bangkok is a hotel that has completely stolen our hearts. Not through excess or showiness, but through a combination that is hard to match: guaranteed river views from every room, an infinity pool high above the Chao Phraya, SEEN and SIN as two of the strongest rooftop experiences along the river, a breakfast at Skyline that sets the tone for every morning and an unforgettable dinner at Benihana. On top of that, a service team that knows exactly what hospitality means in every restaurant, bar and room.

We arrived with high expectations, which were more than met, and they still managed to surprise us. The Junior Suite with its enormous bathroom and the freestanding bath right in front of the window. The automatic curtains in the bedroom and living area that revealed Bangkok every morning. The cappuccino that was ready and waiting without us having to ask. These are precisely the details that lift a stay from good to unforgettable.

This was our first night at Avani+ Riverside Bangkok. It will certainly not be the last. We are fans.

Some good reasons to book a stay at Avani+ Riverside Bangkok Hotel

• River views guaranteed for every room: all 250 rooms and suites face the Chao Phraya, without exception and without paying extra
• Best rooftops on the river: SEEN Restaurant & Bar and SIN Rooftop Bar on the 26th and 27th floors are among the strongest culinary and nightlife experiences along the Chao Phraya
• Free shuttle boat: daily from 08:00 to 23:15 to Sathorn Pier, and between 12:25 and 20:25 also directly to and from ICONSIAM, unique in Bangkok
• Access to two hotel resorts in one: via the sky bridge on the second floor you reach the neighbouring Anantara Riverside Resort with extra restaurants, the acclaimed Anantara Spa and Longtail River Bar directly on the water
• Infinity pool with unobstructed river views: 25 metres long on the 26th floor, one of the most beautiful rooftop pools in Bangkok
• Everything under one roof: from The Pantry and Long Bar to Skyline, SEEN, SIN and Benihana, plus Riverside Plaza with shops and supermarket, the hotel is entirely self-sufficient

Some tips and fun facts about the hotel

• Arrive at the infinity pool early: before 09:00 it is quiet, the water cool and the light over the river at its most beautiful
• Sit at the back of Skyline for breakfast: from there you also have views of a neighbouring temple complex
• Ask for iced coffee or chai at breakfast: they are not automatically placed on the table but are available, just ask
• Book SEEN at least 2 to 3 days in advance: earlier at weekends, and ask for a table along the glass outer edge for the most direct river views
• Use the free shuttle boat: the crossing itself is already a mini-attraction and a lovely way to arrive
• Dial 0 from your room: for the You Matter Service, the team will help with any questions or wishes
• First purpose-designed Avani hotel in the world: opened in May 2016 as the flagship of the Minor Hotels group
• The lobby is on the 11th floor, not the ground floor: creating one of the most stunning arrival moments in Bangkok
• Every single room faces the Chao Phraya: there is not one room in the hotel that looks the other way
• SEEN exists in four cities: Sao Paulo, Lisbon, Nice and Koh Samui. Bangkok is the only mainland Asian location
• Two minutes to Anantara: via the sky bridge on the second floor, without stepping outside
• Automatic Somfy curtains in the suites: one touch reveals Bangkok or shuts the city out completely
• Benihana is part of Minor Food Group: the same group behind Avani and Anantara, making it feel like a natural extension of the total experience

General infromation: Avani+ Riverside Bangkok Hotel

Address: 257 Charoen Nakhon Rd, Samre, Thon Buri, Bangkok 10600
Tel: +66 (2) 4319 100
Check-in: 3 PM / Check-out: 12:00 AM
Book your room, or even better, suite via Agoda or Booking.com