Review: Ibis Bangkok Riverside
The Ibis Bangkok Riverside is a three-star hotel that feels like it should have a whole lot more stars. With dedicated family rooms, two pools, and an on-site restaurant, it represents good value for money in Bangkok, particularly for families looking for an international hotel that’s comfortable enough to stay in for a few days or longer.
Location
Located right next to the Chao Phraya River, the Ibis Bangkok Riverside is only a short (free) shuttle ride away from the Krungthonburi BTS Sky Train, a river taxi to Asiatique, and around a 30-minute taxi ride away from the Suvarnabhumi International Airport. It’s around four kilometres from the city centre and 6.5 kilometres from Wat Pho.
Rooms
The family rooms at Ibis Bangkok Riverside comfortably sleep two adults and two children. They have one large double bed and two bunk beds. Comforts from home include a flat-screen TV, fridge, and tea/coffee maker. The WiFi is free and works well, and the kids will love the in-room Play Station.
Double rooms and twin rooms are also available if you’re not travelling with kids or just have one young child who can share your bed.
The only downside to the rooms at the Ibis Bangkok Riverside is that the bathroom is a little on the small side. It was fully functional with everything we needed, but it’s nothing to write home about.
On-site features
The two swimming pools and on-site restaurant with river views are a big drawcard here, particularly if you’re visiting in the hotter months and are looking for a place to escape the Bangkok humidity. If you need some me time, Sala Massage will pamper you. The front desk is crewed 24 hours a day, and tours can be booked from the Ibis Riverside Bangkok as well.
Dining options
The on-site restaurant TASTE is quite enjoyable, with both indoor and outdoor seating and local and international dishes. Drinks and light snacks can be enjoyed at the Lobby Bar. It’s priced for international visitors, so meals are more expensive than if you were to go out to a local restaurant, but I can’t fault the meals or service. There are kid-friendly options on the menu.
Staff and service
The staff and service here are typical of Thai hospitality. Everyone is super friendly and helpful. Children are well-tolerated here, much like the rest of Thailand.
Value for money
At under AUD $150, the Ibis Riverside Bangkok represents excellent value by Western standards, but as an international hotel and the ease of travel that comes with that, it’s not as cheap as a smaller, family-run hotel.
Overall experience
What we loved:
- Bunk beds, play station in the family rooms, pool and location
What could be better:
- The bathroom
Would we recommend the Ibis Riverside Bangkok
Yes, it’s a great hotel for those flying into Bangkok and want a no-fuss, easy-to-find hotel where they can get settled quickly, knowing they’ll be comfortable for the next few days. Likewise, it’s a nice enough hotel to spend your last few days in Thailand before flying out.
Family Holiday Destinations’ Rating
Location
Rooms
Cleanliness
Dining
Staff & service
Value for money
Read next:
- Ibis Styles Bangkok Sukhumvit 50: fun, funky and affordable for families
- We went on a 4WD tour in Northern Thailand and it was EPIC
- Exploring Bangkok with kids – a family-friendly travel guide
