Visiting Bangkok in December is a real treat. The weather is at its best—warm but not stifling—and the city is buzzing with festive lights, Christmas decorations, and countdown parties.
It's also high season, so while you'll enjoy perfect conditions for sightseeing, you'll need to plan ahead for crowds and higher prices. Here's everything you should know before traveling.
Weather in Bangkok in December
December is one of the best months to visit Bangkok. It's the coolest time of the year, yet still warm and slightly humid.
Temperature: Daytime highs average 28-31°C (82-88°F), while evenings are cooler at 22-24°C (72-75°F).
Rain: Almost rain-free, with only about two wet days in the whole month—perfect for outdoor sightseeing.
What to pack: Light summer clothes, sandals, comfortable shoes, and a thin jacket or shawl for breezy nights. (If you're planning a New Year's Eve night out, pack something a little dressy for rooftop bars or gala dinners.)
Compared to the scorching heat of March–May or the heavy rains in September, December offers some of the best travel conditions of the year.
Data source: https://www.accuweather.com/
How Expensive Is It in December in Bangkok?
December is peak season in Bangkok. Flight fares and hotel prices rise sharply from mid-December to early January due to Christmas and New Year.
Hotels: Expect to pay 30–50% more than in the off-season. Mid-range city hotels are around $120–180 per night, while luxury riverside hotels start from $250–400+ during the festive period.
Flights: Domestic flights, such as Bangkok–Chiang Mai, can nearly double in price—from $40–50 in low season to $80–100+ in December. International airfares also rise.
Dining & experiences: Everyday meals and transport are still good value, but special experiences are priced at a premium. For example, a rooftop bar dinner on Christmas Eve or New Year's Eve can cost $100–200 per person, and gala dinners at five-star hotels often start at $250+ per person, including wine and entertainment.
Even though prices in Bangkok are higher during the Christmas and New Year period, it's still better value than the islands. We recommend spending a few days in Bangkok for the festive celebrations, then heading to the islands, where you'll find better value in beach resorts after New Year.
Smart ways to make the most of your budget:
- Book early: Secure hotels and flights months in advance for better rates.
- Prioritize location over luxury: Staying at a well-rated hotel near Sukhumvit or Silom gives you comfort and easy access to attractions without paying riverside premiums. See details about Where to Stay in Bangkok.
- Choose experiences selectively: Splurge on a rooftop dinner for New Year's Eve, but enjoy authentic, affordable meals at stylish night markets or boutique restaurants on other nights.
How Crowded is Bangkok in December?
Damnoen Saduak Floating Market was jammed with boats.December is one of the busiest months in Bangkok, with international tourists and local holiday travelers filling the city. Popular attractions, markets, and shopping areas can get very crowded, especially around Christmas and New Year.
For famous attractions like the Grand Palace or Wat Pho, expect lines for tickets and security checks. Arriving right at opening (around 8:30 am) usually means a 10–20 minute wait, while mid-morning (10–12 pm) can see queues of 30–60 minutes. Arriving early is the best way to avoid the longest waits.
The floating markets also see heavy crowds this month — at Damnoen Saduak, the canals can get jammed with boats, especially mid-morning. If you prefer a calmer vibe, consider the smaller Amphawa Floating Market, which feels more local and less touristy.
At malls like CentralWorld and Siam Paragon, Christmas and New Year decorations attract large crowds. CentralWorld's countdown event hosts tens of thousands, making it difficult to move freely. Opt for weekday visits to markets and malls whenever possible.
If you're not a fan of crowds, consider visiting Bangkok in early to mid-December. Alternatively, combine city sightseeing with nearby escapes, such as Ayutthaya or Kanchanaburi, to enjoy Bangkok without peak-season congestion.
Best Things to Do in Bangkok in December
December's cooler weather makes sightseeing more pleasant, while Christmas and New Year celebrations bring an extra festive atmosphere. Here are some of the best things to experience this month:
1. Experience Christmas and New Year Celebrations
If you're here over the holidays, the atmosphere is surprisingly lively for a Buddhist country. The big malls like Siam Paragon and CentralWorld go all out with decorations and lights for Christmas.
When it comes to New Year's Eve, you're spoiled for choice: the massive countdown party at CentralWorld is wild and full of energy, while the fireworks over the river at IconSiam feel more romantic.
Personally, I think ringing in the New Year with a glass of champagne on a rooftop bar — like Lebua Sky Bar or Octave — is hard to beat. If you prefer something more intimate, many of the luxury hotels or river cruises put on gala dinners with front-row seats for the fireworks.
By the way, since Thailand is a Buddhist nation, Christmas here is just another day of the week. Restaurants and shops don't shut down for it. On New Year's Day, some small local businesses may close so people can join countdown parties, but the majority of tourist-oriented spots—restaurants, big shops, and attractions—remain open as usual. More recommendations to celebrate Christmast & New Year in Thailand.
2. Visit Bangkok's Classic Temples
The Grand Palace and Wat ArunTemple-hopping is always on the list of top things to do in Bangkok. The Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun can feel exhausting under the hot March sun. But in December, the mild weather makes it easy to slow down and really appreciate the details.
Evenings are best spent at markets. Chatuchak is a must on the weekend, while Chinatown (Yaowarat) is buzzing every night with street food, neon lights, and endless energy.
3. Take a Trip to Ayutthaya or Kanchanaburi
Ayutthaya Historical ParkIf you'd like a break from the busy city, consider a day or even an overnight trip to Ayutthaya or Kanchanaburi. Ayutthaya is a dream for history lovers — wandering among the ancient ruins feels much more comfortable in December's cooler weather, even though there's little shade.
Kanchanaburi offers a slower pace with waterfalls and lush nature. After a short hike, taking a dip in the pools isn't too cold at this time of year — most visitors find it pleasantly refreshing.
Explore more getaways from Bangkok.
4. Explore Floating & Railway Markets
Maeklong Railway Market+Damnoen Saduak Floating MarketBangkok's famous Damnoen Saduak Floating Market and the Maeklong Railway Market remain must-sees for their color and unique setting.
December crowds don't take away the charm — they actually add to the buzz if you're in the mood for energy.
But if you'd like something more relaxed, Amphawa Floating Market (weekends only) offers a more local vibe with fewer tour groups.
Recommended Bangkok Tours in December
Experience Bangkok at its most festive without missing the city's secret highlights. Our private, tailor-made tours are designed to balance Christmas and New Year celebrations with authentic local experiences. Contact us to start planning your perfect December getaway.
- 10-Day Best of Thailand New Year Countdown Tour: Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket
- 5-Day Essential Bangkok Tour: Temples, Markets & Ayutthaya Ancient City
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Bangkok Monthly Weather and Travel Tips
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