Where to Watch New Year’s Fireworks 2026 in Bangkok: Best Spots, Tips & Map
Watching New Year’s fireworks 2026 in Bangkok is one of the city’s major highlights. The Bangkok Metropolitan Authority (BMA) has approved 14 official, safe and accessible locations offering great views and a festive ambience.
The 14 Locations for Watching Fireworks 2026 in Bangkok
A tour of the official BMA-approved sites, from iconic malls to riverside viewpoints, to help you choose the perfect place for midnight celebrations.
- CentralWorld — the city’s most famous countdown event, with giant screens and a dense festive crowd.
- One Bangkok — a new urban district offering a modern, spacious setting.
- Seacon Square — a convenient option in the eastern part of the city with family-friendly events.
- Terminal 21 — centrally located and easy to reach by BTS and MRT.
- Iconsiam — one of the best spots along the Chao Phraya River with coordinated pyrotechnic displays.
- Asiatique The Riverfront — festive, walkable and perfect for photos by the Ferris wheel.
- The Salil Hotel Riverside — a calmer and elegant riverside viewpoint.
- Chatrium Hotel Riverside — panoramic views from several floors and riverfront terraces.
- Montien Riverside Hotel — quiet, spacious riverside surroundings ideal for families.
- Chang Chui Creative Park — artsy vibes, live music, and a relaxed atmosphere.
- Nakapirom Park — an open-air option with fewer crowds.
- Rim Lagoon Cafe and Restaurant — casual, friendly and great for groups.
- JC Kevin Hotel — elevated views for a more refined evening.
- Capella Hotel — luxury setting and exceptional riverfront scenery.
Plan Your Evening: Practical Tips
Arriving early remains essential, especially at the busiest locations like CentralWorld and Iconsiam. Public transport will be heavily used, and some roads may be partially closed.
Tips for a smooth night:
- Use BTS, MRT or boats whenever possible.
- Book restaurants or rooftops well in advance.
- Bring water and stay aware of crowd movement.
- For the best photos, position yourself by 11:30 pm.
Extra: Best Riverside Spots for Photos
If you’re looking specifically for the most photogenic angles:
- Iconsiam offers close-up pyrotechnics reflected on the river.
- Asiatique allows wider shots with the Ferris wheel.
- Capella and Chatrium provide some of the cleanest skyline views.
New Year’s Eve Cruises on the Chao Phraya River
A New Year’s cruise on the Chao Phraya River is one of the most spectacular ways to celebrate in Bangkok. These cruises combine dinner, live music, and front-row views of the fireworks launched from Iconsiam, Asiatique, and several riverbank locations.
Types of Cruises Available
Chao Phraya Princess Dinner Cruise
A typical New Year’s Eve cruise on the Chao Phraya lasts about six hours, with round‑trip transfers often included for convenience. Guests enjoy an international buffet featuring seafood, Thai specialties, and familiar Western classics, making it a festive and varied dining experience while watching the fireworks.
High-End 5★ Hotel Cruises
Hosted by luxury riverside hotels such as the Mandarin Oriental, Shangri-La, or Royal Orchid Sheraton.
- Gourmet menus, champagne and cultural performances
- More elegant, refined and intimate atmosphere
- Premium riverfront fireworks viewpoint
Public Festive Cruises
Opting for a river cruise on New Year’s Eve is a relaxed and festive choice. The atmosphere on board is friendly and lively, with DJs or live bands keeping the energy high throughout the evening. Prices are generally more affordable, making these cruises a great option for families and groups of friends who want to celebrate together. Most departures take place between 7 and 8 pm, with the boats returning after midnight once the fireworks have lit up the sky
Why Choose a Cruise for New Year’s Eve?
Spending New Year’s Eve on a Chao Phraya cruise is a simple yet spectacular experience. The boats stop right in front of Iconsiam and Asiatique, giving passengers a direct view of the fireworks. In the background, the illuminated temples and palaces add a unique touch. Onboard, the atmosphere is friendly, with live music, dancing, and sometimes traditional Thai shows. And instead of joining the crowds in the shopping malls, you can enjoy a seated dinner in the comfort of the boat.
Practical Tips
- Book early: seats usually sell out several weeks before December 31
- Dress code: elegant attire is recommended, especially on premium cruises
- Departure points: most cruises leave from River City Pier or Asiatique Pier
- Price range and Booking: generally 2,000–6,000 THB depending on the package — reserve your seats directly to secure the best offers.
