Travel Guide with Parking Spots for the Countdown 2026 Event: How to Get There and Back Most Conveniently

The biggest challenge on New Year's Eve isn't deciding where to go, but how to get there and back—especially this year with new landmarks added, which means traffic will be particularly heavy. We've summarized shortcut routes, skytrain lines, and alternative parking spots for five popular venues.

1. ICONSIAM

This area is notorious for heavy traffic. It is best to avoid private cars and instead use the skytrain and boat services.

Skytrain

• Gold Line BTS: Get off at Charoen Nakhon Station (G2), which connects directly to the mall (expect very crowded conditions late at night).
• Silom Line BTS: Get off at Krung Thon Buri Station (S7), then transfer to the Gold Line BTS or use ICONSIAM’s free shuttle bus service.

Boat Services

• Sathorn Pier (connected to BTS Saphan Taksin): Free shuttle boats operate until late, expected to extend service until 2:00 a.m.
• Si Phraya Pier: Ferry services operate throughout the night.

Private Cars and Parking

• Inside ICONSIAM: Parking capacity is limited; it is recommended to arrive by afternoon.
• ICS Building (opposite ICONSIAM): Parking is available with convenient access via skywalk.
• Additional Warehouse Parking: (Awaiting update from management) Usually there is warehouse parking with shuttle vans available.

2. One Bangkok

A new landmark in the city center, notable for its convenient connection to the MRT—easiest in Bangkok.

Skytrain

• Blue Line MRT: Get off at Lumpini Station (Lumpini) and use the exit with a tunnel that connects directly to One Bangkok, avoiding exposure to sun or rain.

Private Cars and Parking

• One Bangkok: Features a large underground parking building with ample capacity.
• Alternative Parking: Lumphini Park (within walking distance but fills up quickly), Q House Lumpini building (paid parking).

3. CentralWorld

Located in the heart of Ratchaprasong, some roads will be partially closed; skytrain is the only reliable option.

Skytrain

• Sukhumvit Line BTS: Get off at Chidlom Station, Exit 1, then walk via skywalk to the mall, or get off at Siam Station and walk via skywalk toward Wat Pathumwan.
• Saen Saeb Canal Boat: Get off at Pratunam Pier and walk across the footbridge to the mall. Note the boats end service earlier than usual, so check schedules before traveling.

Private Cars and Parking (Not recommended near countdown time)

• CentralWorld: Arrive early if you plan to park here.
• Siam Paragon / Siam Center: Accessible via skywalk.
• The Market / Platinum: Connected by R-Walk pedestrian bridge.
• Gaysorn Village: Located across the street, accessible by footbridge.

4. Pattaya Countdown 2026 (Pattaya Beach)

The road along Pattaya Beach will be completely closed for the pedestrian street event and concert stage.

Public Transport

• Take a van or minibus from Bangkok to Pattaya, get off at the van station, then transfer to the "blue songthaew" (shared taxi) to Pattaya City Center or walk to the event.

Private Cars and Parking (walking required afterward)

• Shopping Malls: Terminal 21 Pattaya (easy to reach by songthaew), Central Festival Pattaya Beach (adjacent to event but very heavy traffic), Central Marina, Royal Garden Plaza.
• Government Offices/Temples: Pattaya City School 8, Wat Chaimongkol (easy walk to beach), Lotus Pattaya North.

5. Chiang Mai CAD (Chiang Mai)

The event location is outside the city (Mae On District); travel requires advance planning.

Shuttle Service

• Organizers usually provide shuttle vans from city meeting points (such as MAYA or Tha Phae Gate). It is recommended to "purchase combined shuttle tickets" for convenience, as finding transport back is difficult.

Private Cars

• Set your GPS to "CAD Cultural Center Lanna," which has a large outdoor parking lot in front of the venue.
• Warning: The road is quite dark at night and is a two-way lane; drive carefully.

Precautions

• Road Closures: Around Ratchaprasong (CentralWorld) and Pattaya beach roads will have traffic closures from the evening; check bypass routes before traveling.
• Don’t Drink and Drive: If consuming alcohol, please use public transport or ride-hailing services like Grab or Bolt for your safety and that of others.
• Allow Extra Time for Return Trip: After the countdown event (from 12:30 a.m. onward), skytrain and taxi services may be interrupted and very crowded. Be prepared to rest or wait before heading back.