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Wat Arun at sunset across the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok, with a royal barge in the foregroundLimestone islands in Phang Nga Bay near Phuket

Bangkok vs Phuket in December

Bangkok and Phuket are close in December. Bangkok averages 23–32°C with high crowds; Phuket 25–32°C with high crowds.

By Daan · Last reviewed October 2026

Bangkok and Phuket

The verdict for December

  • WeatherBangkok has the better weather10/10 vs 9/10
  • CrowdsBangkok is quieterHigh vs High
  • PricesBangkok is cheaper$$$$ vs $$$$$
  • OverallVery similar9/10 vs 9/10
Wat Arun at sunset across the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok, with a royal barge in the foreground

Bangkok in December

Dry, sunny and festive

Temperature
23–32°C
Crowds
High
Prices
$$$$

+Dry, sunny and comfortable by Bangkok standards, with excellent conditions for exploring.

–Christmas and New Year push crowds and hotel rates higher.

Bangkok's best weather, with festive energy on top.

Limestone islands in Phang Nga Bay near Phuket

Phuket in December

Excellent beaches, festive prices

Temperature
25–32°C
Crowds
High
Prices
$$$$$

+Excellent beach weather and festive atmosphere.

–Christmas/New Year is one of the most expensive and crowded periods.

Excellent beach weather and festive atmosphere.

Scores and crowd levels are my own judgement; temperatures are monthly averages. Higher scores are better: quieter, cheaper and more pleasant.