The hype
Travelers love the style, the free afternoon snacks, and the kind staff, but almost everyone mentions the noise.
Akara Hotel Bangkok
$65-150/ night
Book this if You want a photogenic, design-forward launchpad near the Airport Rail Link and don't mind city noise.
Why People Love It
- Stunning circular bathtubs with floor-to-ceiling city views
- Free afternoon tea and snacks (2-5pm) in the Culinary Library
- Rooftop pool and Barracuda Bar offer great sunset vibes
Quick Take: A visually striking 'Instagram hotel' that nails the aesthetic but struggles with soundproofing and practical maintenance.
Reviewed by @Travel: I skipped the overpriced sky bars for this hotel rooftop and didn't regret it. The sunset views over Bangkok were incredible, the drinks were strong, and the pool vibe was totally chill. Honestly, it felt like a hidden gem in the middle of the chaos.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The '5-star' rating feels generous; it's a solid 4-star boutique with some wear and tear on the fancy tech features.
- You need easy access to Suvarnabhumi Airport (Ratchaprarop station is 3 mins away)
- You prioritize a killer bathroom view for your socials
- You enjoy free flow snacks and a lounge vibe in the afternoon
Cleanliness & Maintenance
8.5
- Housekeeping: Generally reliable daily service, though some reviews note missed dust on high surfaces.
- Bathroom hygiene: Mostly sparkling, but humidity can cause minor mold in grout lines; circular tubs are usually well-scrubbed.
- Maintenance: High-tech room controls are a weak point and prone to glitching; some wear on wood floors.
- Linens & towels: Fresh and crisp, though a few reports of worn towels in older reviews.
- Odors & scents: Lobby smells expensive and floral; some rooms can smell musty if AC isn't run constantly.
Sleepability™
6MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Airport Rail Link trains passing nearby
- Expressway traffic constant hum
- Hallway noise due to thin doors/walls
Before you book
Good to know
- A 2,000 THB refundable deposit is required upon check-in (credit card or cash).
- The hotel offers a free tuk-tuk shuttle to Phaya Thai BTS and King Power Duty Free.
- The 'Culinary Library' on the 2nd floor offers free snacks/drinks from 2-5pm for all guests.
What to pack
- High-quality earplugs or noise-canceling headphones (essential)
- Universal travel adapter (though rooms have USB ports, they can be loose)
- Swimsuit for the rooftop photo op (even if you don't swim)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Akara Deluxe (Corner Room): Features the iconic circular bathtub with panoramic windows.
- High-floor rooms (10th floor+): Slightly less street noise, though train noise travels up.
Rooms to avoid
- Low-floor rooms facing the main road/train line (loudest)
- Rooms near the elevator (hallway noise is an issue)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I am booking specifically for the 'Akara Deluxe' experience. Please assign a high-floor corner room (12th floor or above) away from the elevator to minimize train noise. I would love a room with the circular bathtub view if available.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the hotel noisy?
Yes. Between the Airport Rail Link, the expressway, and thin internal walls, noise is the #1 complaint. Request a high floor.
How close is the airport train?
Very close. Ratchaprarop Station (Airport Rail Link) is a 3-5 minute walk, making it incredibly convenient for BKK airport access.
Is the pool big enough for swimming?
Not really. It's a small saltwater plunge pool, better for cooling off and cocktails than actual swimming.
Does the room have a bathtub?
Only 'Akara Deluxe' rooms and Suites have the bathtub. The standard 'Prarop Deluxe' has a shower only.
Is breakfast included?
Depends on your rate, but it's recommended. The buffet at Fables is well-regarded, though some find the variety repetitive after a few days.
Are there hidden fees?
Just the standard 2,000 THB refundable deposit. No surprise 'resort fees'.
Insider Tips
- ✨
The 'Culinary Library' isn't just for show—guests can actually borrow cookbooks to read while enjoying the free afternoon tea.
- ✨
The touch-screen control panel by the bed has a 'Master Off' button that sometimes resets the AC temperature—check it before sleeping.
- ✨
Walk to 'Kay's Boutique Breakfast' nearby for a trendy local brunch alternative if you skip the hotel buffet.
5 things to know before you go
💡The bathroom layout in some rooms puts the toilet and sink on opposite ends of the room—hygiene logistics can be awkward.
💡The 'city view' from lower floors is mostly just the concrete underside of the expressway.
💡The rooftop bar (Barracuda) prices are high for the area; you're paying for the view.
💡Housekeeping sometimes misses dusting the high shelves and intricate wood decor.
💡The free tuk-tuk service is handy but stops running in the evening—check the schedule at the desk.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Akara Hotel Bangkok is located and what's nearby.