The hype
Travelers are blown away by the value and the views, often forgiving the noise because the staff is so helpful.
NORN Riverside
$40-90/ night
Book this if You want million-dollar Chao Phraya river views on a backpacker budget and don't mind a little noise.
Why People Love It
- Incredible river views that rival 5-star hotels for a fraction of the price
- Direct access to the Phra Pin Klao pier for easy boat travel
- The 'Rim Nam Moo Krata' BBQ buffet downstairs is a local legend
Quick Take: A riverside gem with killer views and a rooftop bar, but the bridge traffic and BBQ party downstairs mean you'll need earplugs.
Reviewed by @MirelaKolbe: I stayed at NORN Riverside and honestly, the river views from my bed were insane. It’s the perfect base—quiet enough to sleep but a quick boat ride to the wildest street food and rooftop bars. Totally worth it for the vibe alone.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The 'river view' comes with a soundtrack of traffic and grilling pork that lasts well into the night.
- You want to eat authentic Moo Krata (Thai BBQ) right at your hotel
- You plan to use the river boats as your main transport
- You're a heavy sleeper who prioritizes a view over silence
Cleanliness & Maintenance
8.8
- Housekeeping: Daily cleaning is reliable; guests consistently praise the staff for keeping things tidy.
- Bathroom hygiene: Generally sparkling, though some reports of hard water stains or worn grout in older rooms.
- Maintenance: Modern and new feel, but the 'rubbish on the roof' view from some lower rooms is a complaint.
- Linens & towels: Fresh and clean, though the towels can be a bit thin compared to luxury chains.
- Odors & scents: Lobby smells fresh, but hallways and balconies can smell of BBQ smoke or river funk.
Sleepability™
6MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Heavy traffic from the adjacent bridge
- Music and crowd noise from Rim Nam Moo Krata downstairs
- Long-tail boat engines on the river
Before you book
Good to know
- The hotel is on the Thonburi side, so you'll likely take the ferry or a Grab to get to the main tourist sites.
- A 1000 THB cash deposit is often required at check-in.
- The entrance can be tricky for taxis to find; tell them 'Phra Pin Klao Bridge U-turn' or show the Thai address.
What to pack
- High-quality earplugs (non-negotiable)
- Mosquito repellent (for the riverside balcony and laundry area)
- Slip-on shoes for the BBQ restaurant downstairs
Room Genie
Best picks
- Panoramic River View Room with Jacuzzi (best view, worth the splurge)
- Deluxe Balcony Room (high floor) for a private outdoor spot
Rooms to avoid
- Superior rooms on lower floors facing the street/restaurant (maximum noise)
- Bunk bed rooms if you need privacy or softer mattresses
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I am booking a stay and would like to request a room on the highest possible floor, facing away from the BBQ restaurant ventilation if possible, to minimize noise and smoke.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is there a pool?
No. There is no pool at NORN Riverside, though some premium rooms have a private jacuzzi.
Is it close to Khao San Road?
Yes, it's about a 10-15 minute walk across the Phra Pin Klao Bridge, or a quick boat ride.
How bad is the noise?
It's significant. The bridge is a major artery and the restaurant is popular. If you are a light sleeper, this is a dealbreaker.
Is breakfast included?
Usually yes, but reviews are mixed—expect basic American/Asian options. The real food highlight is the dinner BBQ.
Can I get to the BTS Skytrain easily?
Not really. You are better off using the Chao Phraya Express Boat (pier is right there) to connect to the BTS at Saphan Taksin.
Is there an elevator?
Yes, the hotel has an elevator to all guest floors.
Insider Tips
- ✨
The 'Rim Nam Moo Krata' downstairs is cheaper (~300 THB) and more authentic than most tourist buffets—go early (6pm) to snag a riverfront table.
- ✨
Use the Phra Pin Klao Pier right next door for the Chao Phraya Express Boat (Orange Flag) to skip Bangkok traffic.
- ✨
The rooftop bar 'Brewave' on the 4th floor offers the same view as the expensive riverside hotels for the price of a local beer.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'River View' rooms also give you a great view of the bridge's underside and traffic jams.
💡The laundry area is known to be a mosquito hotspot.
💡You might smell grilled pork in the hallways around dinner time.
💡The 'Jacuzzi' in the top-tier rooms is often on a semi-open balcony—great for views, less so for privacy.
💡Taxi drivers often miss the turn-in because it's right at the bridge's U-turn.
Local Playbook
Map
See where NORN Riverside is located and what's nearby.