Bangkok, 9 October 2026 – The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) celebrates Bangkok’s recognition as the World’s Best City in the Condé Nast Traveller 2026 UK Readers’ Choice Awards, earning first place with a score of 97.68. Thailand also secured rankings across five other categories covering gastronomy, islands, beaches, destination spas and hotels, adding to the country’s extensive collection of international tourism awards and accolades.
Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor, said, “These awards reflect the diversity and quality of tourism experiences across Thailand, from Bangkok’s urban culture and gastronomy to island destinations, wellness retreats and world-class hospitality. This recognition supports our direction towards positioning Thailand as ‘Asia’s No. 1 High-Value and Meaningful Destination’, with a focus on quality experiences, sustainable growth and tourism benefits that reach local communities and the wider economy.”
Bangkok’s achievement represents a remarkable rise from 2025, when the Thai capital did not feature among the top 20 cities. Condé Nast Traveller highlighted Bangkok’s combination of architecture, history, Michelin-starred dining, and vibrant street food culture, reflecting the city’s broad appeal to international travellers.
Beyond Bangkok’s top ranking, Thailand placed eighth in the Best Countries for Food category, reflecting the international appeal of Thai gastronomy, from regional culinary traditions and local markets to contemporary fine dining.
Thailand’s coastal destinations also featured strongly, with three islands recognised in the Best Islands in Asia category. Ko Lanta ranked third, followed by Phuket in fourth and Ko Samui in ninth, highlighting destinations that combine marine attractions, coastal landscapes, local culture and hospitality. In the Best Beaches in Asia category, Railay Beach placed second, Ao Nang Beach tenth, Pattaya Beach 16th and Maya Bay 18th, adding four more Thai destinations to the awards.
Wellness tourism brought further recognition, with five Thai properties ranked among the world’s 20 Best Destination Spas. Chiva-Som Hua Hin named first place, followed by Kamalaya Wellness Sanctuary in third, RAKxa Integrative Wellness Retreat in eighth, Absolute Sanctuary in 13th and RXV Wellness Village in 15th.
Thailand’s hospitality sector was equally well represented, with six Bangkok properties recognised among the Best Hotels in Southeast Asia. Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok secured first place, followed by The Sukhothai Bangkok in second, Rosewood Bangkok in fourth, Capella Bangkok in fifth, 137 Pillars Suites & Residences Bangkok in eighth and The Athenee Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Bangkok in 12th.
The Condé Nast Traveller 2026 UK Readers’ Choice Awards drew votes from 296,356 readers in the United Kingdom, covering destinations, accommodation, airlines, spas and travel experiences.
These latest honours add to Thailand’s substantial collection of international tourism awards and accolades, reflecting continued recognition of the country’s destinations, experiences, and hospitality among travellers from the United Kingdom and other international markets.
