Deputy Government Spokesperson Lalida Persvivatana stated that Bangkok had been ranked the eighth best city in the world for 2026 by Time Out. The city is also preparing to host some international events this year, which are expected to attract travelers from all over the world.

According to the Time Out Best Cities 2026 list, Bangkok came second in Asia, behind Shanghai. The world’s top 10 best cities in 2026 include (1) Melbourne, (2) Shanghai, (3) Edinburgh, (4) London, (5) New York, (6) Cape Town, (7) Mexico City, (8) Bangkok, (9) Seoul, and (10) Tokyo. The ranking also placed Chiang Mai 32nd worldwide and ninth in Asia, giving Thailand two cities on the list. 

One of the word-class events to be organized in Bangkok this year is the Bangkok Art Biennale, scheduled for 29 October 2026 - 28 February 2027. It will be held under the theme “Angels and Mara,” transforming the city into a dynamic stage for contemporary art. 

The Bangkok Art Biennale 2026 will take place in many venues, such as the Bangkok Art and Culture Center, Wat Arun, Wat Phra Chetuphon (Wat Pho), Wat Prayurawongsawas (Wat Prayoon), Museum Siam, National Museum, and National Gallery.

The global music festival Tomorrowland will take place on 11-13 December at Wisdom Valley, Pattaya, Chon Buri Province, with Bangkok positioned as the main gathering point for fans travelling to the event. Tomorrowland Thailand will be presented under the global theme "Consciencia," connecting the editions in Belgium, Thailand, and Brazil within a single narrative universe. The concept reflects six core human emotions – wonder, love, anger, happiness, desire, and sadness –  expressed through music, stage design, and immersive storytelling. 

Thailand believes that the festival will reinforce the Kingdom’s position as a world-class event hub destination and strengthen global confidence in Thailand as a premier host of international events, while giving Thailand a platform to showcase the warmth of Thai hospitality.

And when it comes to sports, Bangkok will be the venue for a Formula One street circuit in Chatuchak District, with plans to host races from 2028 to 2032.