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Bangkok Crowned The World’s Most Visited City For 2024
Bangkok has done it – they have been officially crowned the world’s most visited city in 2024 with a jaw-dropping 32.4 million international visitors.
Yes, that’s right, a city where traffic jams double as sightseeing tours and street food could probably win a Michelin star if it gave up the pavement, has outshined global heavyweights like London and Istanbul.
Boasting a staggering growth rate of over 30%, Bangkok isn’t just drawing the crowds – it’s practically pulling them in with a magnet. And from bustling markets to golden temples, and a nightlife that never sleeps (even if you should), it’s no wonder the city has clinched the top spot.
Who knew a place could become this popular while still managing to smell faintly of durian? Bangkok, take a bow!
If you would like to see what other cities took the top spots, you can find it on EuroWeekly.
How Bangkok Became the Star of 2024
Before we get into what makes Bangkok so irresistible, can we just take a moment to applaud the city? Jumping ahead of industry darlings like Paris, Dubai, and – gasp – New York City is no small feat.
But how did Bangkok pull this off? Sheer charm? Dumb luck? Nope. It’s a mix of strategy, allure, and good old-fashioned affordability.
Visa Policies That Actually Feel Welcoming
Unlike that one friend who makes you jump through hoops to hang out (looking at you, Schengen area), Thailand has cracked the code on making visitors feel genuinely welcome.
With visa-on-arrival options and extended tourist visas, it’s like they’re saying, “Come for a week, stay for a month, maybe consider never leaving?”
Not to mention, they’ve been adding visa-free agreements faster than you can pack a salak (AKA snake fruit) in your carry-on, making it ridiculously hassle-free for globe-trotters.
Tourism Campaigns That Actually Work
Quick, name a country’s tourism slogan. Can’t? Well, Bangkok’s “Amazing Thailand” campaign has been laser-beaming its message into every screen, billboard, and heart for years.
Between stunning TV ads, social media blitzes, and influencer moments that scream #wanderlust, the Thai Tourism Board clearly knows how to flex its marketing muscles.
And don’t even get me started on their mouthwatering food campaigns – seriously, one look at a perfectly captured photo of som tam (papaya salad), and you’ll hit “book now” faster than tom yum soup hits your taste buds.
A Combination Of Rich Culture and Modern Comforts
Bangkok gives you the best of both worlds.
Dollar for Dollar, an Affordable Paradise
If you’ve got champagne tastes on a beer budget, Bangkok salutes you. A luxury massage here costs less than what you’d pay for a latte in Beverly Hills (not even kidding).
And that cozy boutique riverside hotel with a rooftop bar and a killer skyline view? It won’t cost you half your rent. Combine that with cheap and delicious food, inexpensive public transit, and bargain shopping…and suddenly, your inner accountant is also on vacation.
What to Actually Do Once You’re There (Other Than Eat Pad See Ew for Breakfast)
Thinking about joining the cool crowd of 32.4 million visitors? Here are some Bangkok must-dos that will seal your love for the city.
Explore the Grand Palace
Imagine standing in front of a palace so golden that it makes King Midas look underdressed. Welcome to the Grand Palace, Bangkok’s ultimate show-off piece.
This magical complex includes Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha) and enough ornate architecture to keep your jaw dropped the entire visit.
Word to the wise, though – dress properly. The fashion police are on high alert here, and shorts or tank tops are a no-go. Shoulders and knees must be covered.
Get Elevated (Literally) with the Best Rooftop Bars
Bangkok’s skyline at night is the kind of Instagram fodder that could launch your influencer career. Head to Vertigo, Sky Bar, or Octave, and sip on expertly crafted cocktails while soaking in the neon-lit chaos below.
On our visit to the city in 2014, we hit up Sky Bar for a nightcap. As an added bonus to the already gorgeous views, we watched the late King’s birthday fireworks light up the sky.
Fair warning: the altitude combined with Bangkok’s legendary cocktails may leave you dizzy – but in the best way possible.
Shop Till You Drop at Chatuchak Weekend Market
This market isn’t just for shopaholics – it’s also a cultural experience that should be on every visitor’s list. With over 15,000 stalls selling everything from traditional handicrafts to modern fashion, you can score unique souvenirs or just get lost in the sheer chaos of it all.
Looking for vintage finds? Got you. Wacky home decor? Yep, that too. Oh, and if the shopping wears you out, don’t worry…there’s plenty of delicious street food to keep you fueled.
Partake In The Famous Street Food Scene
Don’t bother with a sit-down restaurant when you can get tastier, more authentic bites on the street. Because street food in Bangkok isn’t just a meal – it’s an experience.
From slurping down a bowl of aromatic coconut chicken soup to savoring sweet mango sticky rice or devouring pad thai cooked right in front of you, there’s no shortage of mouthwatering options.
And if you want to be really adventurous, you can even try tarantulas, snakes, and more.
But our pro tip: Stick to where the locals are crowding – they’re not wrong, and neither will you be.
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