The Thai capital earns global recognition for greener urban living while welcoming over 1.12 million foreign visitors in early January
BANGKOK, Thailand — Bangkok has been named the third-best destination in the world to visit in 2026 by The New York Times, reinforcing the city’s growing reputation as a more livable, sustainable, and culturally vibrant global hub.
The prestigious ranking places Bangkok among the world’s most compelling travel destinations, citing the city’s visible transformation in urban planning, environmental initiatives, and transportation systems. According to the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA), the recognition reflects rising international confidence in the Thai capital’s long-term direction.
A Greener, More Livable Bangkok
In its assessment, The New York Times described Bangkok as a dynamic metropolis that is actively evolving toward a greener future. One of the key highlights was the expansion and connection of major green spaces, particularly the link between Lumphini Park and Benjakitti Park via the Green Bridge, creating a rare continuous urban park corridor in the heart of the city.
The city’s growing contemporary arts and culture scene also played a role in the ranking, with new creative venues and exhibitions positioning Bangkok as a regional cultural destination beyond its traditional attractions.
Improvements in urban mobility were another major factor. Ongoing upgrades include AI-powered traffic management, an expanding electric bus network, and stricter safety standards for motorcycle taxi services, all aimed at improving daily life for residents and visitors alike.
Tourism Rebound Gains Momentum
The international recognition comes as Thailand’s tourism sector continues its strong recovery. According to the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, the country recorded more than 1.12 million foreign arrivals between 1–11 January 2026, generating approximately 55 billion baht in tourism revenue.
During the period, the top source markets were Malaysia, China, and Russia, followed by India and South Korea. Officials noted particularly strong week-on-week growth from South Korea, with arrivals jumping by over 47 percent and moving the country into the top five source markets.
Tourism authorities say demand is rebounding across all regions, signaling renewed confidence in Thailand as a safe and attractive destination for international travelers.
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