Bangkok provides an astonishing variety of end-year celebrations. You can join massive countdown parties, witness flashy firework shows, dance the night away at one of the city's rooftop bars, or book a dinner cruise on the Chao Phraya river. We've rounded up the best spots to ring in the New Year in style.
NYE countdowns
CentralWorld
One of the biggest countdown parties takes place outside of CentralWorld shopping mall, which happens to be the 11th largest shopping complex in the world! Nearly 100,000 revelers come to enjoy the beer garden, live music by DJs and bands, scrumptious foods, and a splendid firework display. You can get there and back by the BTS Skytrain, which operates past midnight on New Year's Eve.
Asiatique The Riverfront
Bangkok Asiatique, nestled along the Chao Phraya River, is another mall gathering cheerful crowds. NYE countdown festivities at Asiatique start at 5 pm and culminate with the countdown and fireworks when the clock strikes 12. As a bonus, you're likely to spot Thai celebrities, who often appear at the venue. Also, local restaurants offer special NYE menus, but tables are to be reserved in advance. Yet, even if you can't make it, there will be dozens of food stalls and bars to keep you full and happy. Getting to Asiatique is easy on a boat from Saphan Taksin Pier.
ICONSIAM
ICONSIAM shopping mall on the left bank of the Chao Phraya River hosts an equally impressive New Year's Eve countdown party. Expect dazzling pyrotechnics, lighting installations, concerts, eating, and drinking. What's more, this place ranks among the best spots for watching fireworks in the city. To get there, hop on BTS Gold Line's driverless train.
Rooftop parties
An alternative way to salute the New Year is a rooftop party. Bangkok has plenty of these too. The top pick is MahaNakhon Sky Bar, boasting the highest countdown in the city. The restaurant is located on the 78th floor of Thailand's tallest building (1,030 ft or 314 m) and guarantees an exceptional New Year's Eve. You'll behold the fireworks with sweeping cityscapes in the background. Besides MahaNakhon, you may also check out Vertigo or Sky Bar State Tower.
NYE cruises
If you'd rather escape the crowds and have yourself a romantic New Year's Eve, opt for a river cruise and enjoy the last dinner of the year aboard. Bangkok boat cruises traditionally offer Thai-International buffet and seafood, live entertainment, and fireworks over the expansive Chao Phraya River. The trips start from 8 pm on December 31 and finish at about 1 am on January 1. You can embark on a cruise at River City Pier, ICONSIAM, Yod Pimarn River Walk Pier, Asiatique The Riverfront, Sathorn Pier, and Anantara Riverside Resort Pier.
For more information about the cruises and other events' updates, please check the official websites (see External Resources). Also, you can find accommodations nearby and book your stay in Bangkok right from the map below.
