Your ultimate New Year travel guide to Bangkok

Why Celebrate 2025 New Year’s Eve in Bangkok?

New Year in Bangkok combines riverside celebrations, lively countdowns, peaceful temples, and sparkling skyline views. Whether you prefer festive energy or a calm cultural start to the year, this guide brings together the best ways to welcome 2025 in the Thai capital.

Why visit during New Year

Bangkok skyline with Asiatique riverfront and Ferris wheel at sunset.
Bangkok skyline illuminated at night with skyscrapers and city lights.
Woman walking near golden stupa at Wat Phra Kaew, Bangkok.
Lions interacting with a safari vehicle at Safari World Bangkok.
Buddha head entwined in tree roots at Ayutthaya Historical Park, Thailand.
Tourists exploring vibrant rock pools at Sea Life Bangkok.
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Riverside countdowns and festive markets

Riverside promenades come alive with music and street food during New Year week. Night markets offer lively energy and seasonal snacks.

Bangkok Floating Market Tours

Spectacular skyline views

Bangkok’s skyline lights up beautifully during the countdown, especially from rooftop decks and skywalks.

Mahanakhon SkyWalk

Calm mornings at historic temples

Start the new year with a serene temple visit or blessing ceremony at some of the city’s most admired shrines.

Winter weather ideal for attractions

The cooler December and January climate makes it perfect for exploring outdoor parks and open air cultural sites.

Safari World Bangkok

Perfect time for day trips

New Year holidays are a popular time to explore ancient ruins and riverside temples around Ayutthaya.

Ayutthaya Historical Park

Family friendly events across the city

Aquariums, outdoor museums, and theme parks host child friendly programs and seasonal activities during New Year week.

Sea Life Bangkok

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Bangkok skyline view from Mahanakhon Skywalk at sunset with Chao Phraya River.

Ring in the year at Bangkok’s tallest viewpoint

Start your celebration with sweeping sunset views from Mahanakhon SkyWalk. The open air deck offers a dramatic setting to watch the city prepare for the countdown and captures Bangkok’s New Year buzz from above.

Tour guide explaining Grand Palace details to tourists in Bangkok.

Join a temple-focused New Year tradition

New Year’s Day in Bangkok is an important time for temple visits. A guided temple tour helps you understand local customs, while offering a mindful way to welcome new beginnings.

Bangkok Temple Tours
Long-tail boat passing a large Buddha statue on the Bangkok Yai Canal tour.

Take a river-focused sightseeing tour

A canal tour is an enjoyable way to see Bangkok from the water on New Year week. It gives you a closer look at local neighborhoods, bridges, and riverside temples without the daytime crowds.

Bangkok Canal Tour
Performers in elaborate costumes on stage at Golden Dome Cabaret, Bangkok.

Celebrate with a vibrant evening show

Add a high energy finale to your New Year plans with a cabaret performance. Bangkok’s show venues offer colorful choreography, music, and a festive atmosphere ideal for an uplifting night out.

Golden Dome Cabaret
Temple pavilion on a lake with intricate bridge, Ancient Siam, Thailand.

Explore Thailand’s heritage at Ancient Siam

Spend an afternoon wandering through Ancient Siam’s reconstructed palaces, villages, and monuments. Its expansive grounds offer a calm setting to reflect on the new year between scenic gardens and architectural landmarks.

Ancient Siam
Family on elephant ride with guide at Safari World, Bangkok, Thailand.

Enjoy a relaxed wildlife day at Safari World

If you prefer a slower start to the year, Safari World is ideal for families. The park’s shows, open air exhibits, and drive through zones allow you to ease into 2025 at your own pace.

Safari World Bangkok

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Boats navigating the canal at Khlong Lat Mayom Floating Market, Bangkok.

Day 1: December 31

Morning: Begin your last morning of the year with a relaxed visit to Bangkok’s floating markets. Choose a centrally reachable market such as Taling Chan or Khlong Lat Mayom, where you can enjoy boat side snacks, fresh produce, and festive decorations.
Afternoon: Head into the city for a Bangkok Temple Tour. Visit iconic temples like Wat Pho or Wat Arun to experience the cultural calm of the afternoon and learn about the significance of year-end blessings in Thai tradition.
Evening: Make your way to Mahanakhon SkyWalk for the countdown. Arrive before sunset to enjoy the golden hour views, then watch the city light up as fireworks and celebrations begin across the skyline. Stay in the Silom or Sathorn area for dinner and lively New Year street scenes.

Bangkok’s floating markets
Dolphins jumping with trainers in Santa costumes at Safari World Marine Park, Bangkok.

Day 2: January 1

Morning: Start the year with a visit to Safari World. The cooler January morning makes it comfortable to explore the drive through safari zone and enjoy wildlife shows at an easy pace.
Afternoon: Travel to Ancient Siam, where expansive gardens and architectural replicas offer a gentle cultural introduction to the year. The open air layout provides a relaxed way to walk, explore, and take photos.
Evening: Return to the city for a colorful performance at Calypso Cabaret or Golden Dome Cabaret. The upbeat atmosphere, costumes, and music make it a bright, entertaining way to round out your first evening of 2025.

Calypso Cabaret

Frequently asked questions about celebrating New Year's Eve in Bangkok

Is New Year a good time to visit Bangkok?

Yes. The weather is pleasant, attractions remain open, and the city hosts lively countdowns, markets, and cultural celebrations.

What is the weather like during New Year in Bangkok?

Expect temperatures around 25 to 30 degrees Celsius. Light clothing works well, especially for outdoor attractions.

Are attractions open on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day?

Most attractions remain open, including parks, museums, temples, and markets. Some restaurants may require advance reservations.

Where are the best places to see the New Year countdown?

Popular countdown spots include Mahanakhon SkyWalk, IconSiam, Asiatique, and various rooftop bars.

Is Bangkok crowded during New Year?

Yes, especially around riverside promenades and shopping districts. Arrive early for countdown events and make reservations when possible.