Bangkok: The MOST VISITED CITY IN THE WORLD in 2024!

Bangkok, crowned the queen of global tourist destinations for the year 2023 by the World of Statistics, has garnered attention with an impressive influx of 22.78 million visitors. This distinction holds special significance as Thailand sees not just one, but three of its cities among the top 20 most sought-after destinations. In addition to Bangkok, Phuket and Pattaya have also secured their spots, ranking 14th and 15th respectively.

Written by Tieu Bao (Local Expert) Updated on 21-03-2024

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Bangkok, Thailand — *Ranking of the 20 destinations with the highest number of tourists worldwide 2023 (According to World of Statistics)*

The results were unveiled on December 27, revealing the ranking of the 20 most visited cities worldwide for this year. Bangkok, renowned for its vibrant culture and urban buzz, comfortably retained its top position with no fewer than 22.78 million visitors.

Thailand, Bangkok — *Bangkok is a unique city where traditional and modern beauties harmoniously blend*

Worth knowing: The world knows the Thai capital as Bangkok, but locals call it Krungthep or the 'City of Angels'.
Its full name, consisting of 169 characters, is listed in the Guinness World Record for the longest name of a place. The complete name of Bangkok is Krungthepmahanakhon Amonrattanakosin Mahinthara Yutthaya Mahadilok Phop Noppharat Ratchathani Burirom Udom Ratchaniwet Mahasathan Amonphiman Awatansathit Sakkathattiya Witsanukamprasit.

The two other Thai cities, Phuket and Pattaya, secured the 14th and 15th positions, having respectively welcomed 9.89 million and 9.44 million visitors.

Thailande, Patong, Phuket — *The famous Patong Beach in Phuket*

Worth knowing: Phuket can be visited all year round, but the best time is between November and May when the temperature averages between 22 to 34°C. There are many festivals organized in Phuket such as Loy Krathong (festival of lights) in November, Songkran (water festival) in April, the vegetarian festival in October, and the Patong 'gay pride' which lasts a week at the end of April.

Thailand, Pattaya — *The city of Pattaya is famous for its lively pedestrian streets that remain open all night long*

Worth knowing: Tourism in Pattaya surged during the Vietnam War.
Originally, the city was just a fishing village until the 1960s. Resting American soldiers used this quiet place. In 1959, a large group arrived from a base in Korat and occupied houses at the southern end of the beach, now known as the "Strip". Pattaya's fame then grew, attracting more and more visitors.

Why does Bangkok attract so many tourists?
Let's discover together some of the interesting activities to do when visiting this fascinating city!

Wat Phra Kaew, Bangkok, Thailande — *To visit Wat Phra Kaew*

Worth knowing: Visiting hours and tickets for Wat Phra Kaew
Wat Phra Kaew is open to the public every day. Photography is allowed around the temple, but not inside the main temple. Visiting hours are from 8:30 am to 3:30 pm, and the ticket office also closes at 3:30 pm. An entrance fee is required to obtain a ticket to the Grand Palace, which also includes entry to Wat Phra Kaew. The ticket price is 500 baht (approximately 13-13.5 euros) for foreign visitors.

Khao San Road, Thailand, Bangkok — *Exploring Khao San Road, the mecca for backpackers*

Market, Thailand, Bangkok — *Take a boat ride through the floating markets of Bangkok*

Worth knowing: Top 5 floating markets in Bangkok
Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, Amphawa Floating Market, Taling Chan Floating Market, Khlong Lat Mayom Floating Market, Bang Nam Pheung Floating Market.

Chao Praya, Bangkok, Thailand — *To go on a cruise along the Chao Phraya River*

Street food, Bangkok, Thailand — *Enjoying Bangkok's rich and diverse street food*

Tuktuk, Bangkok, Thailand — *Take a tuk-tuk tour around Bangkok*

Worth knowing: Tuk-tuks got their name from the sound produced by the early models. The engine makes a sound like 'tuk tuk tuk tuk tuk'. With the evolution of technology, the annoying noise of the engine has already been minimized.

Massage, Thailand, Bangkok — *Relax and indulge in a traditional Thai massage*

Worth knowing: Thai massage was not invented recently, a few decades ago, or even centuries ago. This ancient therapy dates back over 2,500 years

Bar rofftop, bangkok,, Thailand — *Savor exclusive cocktails at the city's rooftop bar*

Marché de nuit, Bangkok, Thailande — *The Thai capital is filled with absolutely unique night markets, brimming with incredible finds and entertainment*

Worth knowing: The 11 must-visit night markets in Bangkok
Chang Chui airplane night market, Talad Rot Fai Srinakarin train market, The One Ratchada market, Jodd Fairs market, Chatuchak weekend market, Asiatique the Riverfront market, Indy market, Box Space Ratchayothin market, Hua Mum market, Khaosan Road market.