As the Lunar New Year approaches, digital travel platform Agoda reveals that Bangkok is the second most sought-after destination for international visitors celebrating the festive season in Asia, while remaining the top choice for domestic travelers.
Agoda’s accommodation search data further highlights Tokyo as the most popular destination for Thai travelers spending the holiday abroad. Meanwhile, Thailand has also emerged as the top destination for outbound travelers from mainland China for the Lunar New Year holiday, overtaking Japan.
Inbound travel to Thailand during the Lunar New Year is led by visitors from China followed by Malaysia, and South Korea. This year, Pattaya breaks into the third position after long-time favorites Bangkok in first place and Phuket in second place, edging out last year’s third-ranked city, Hat Yai.
Travelers flock to Bangkok for Chinatown’s grand festivities, with red lantern–lined streets, lively lion dances, bustling night markets, and pilgrims seeking blessings at Wat Mangkon Kamalawat.
Meanwhile, Phuket offers a mix of Sino-Portuguese heritage and sunset island hopping, and the rise of Pattaya highlights a growing appetite for coastal escapes that pair traditional rituals with modern entertainment.
In terms of domestic travel, Agoda’s data reveals that Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Pattaya are this year’s top three destinations for Thai travelers. This year, Chiang Mai moves up to the second spot, trading places with Pattaya which ranked second last year.
This rise highlights a strong interest in the northern “cool season” charm, where festivities are anchored at Warorot Market and Lao Chow Alley. Furthermore, travelers can experience the city’s heritage through dragon parades that begin at Tha Phae Gate, beauty contests, and cultural performances at the Pung Thao Kong Shrine.
For Thai travelers heading abroad during Lunar New Year, Tokyo, Osaka, and Taipei as a new entrant, have emerged as the top three international destinations this year. Taipei’s rise into the top three highlights a growing interest in short-haul cultural getaways, where visitors often gather at the historic Longshan Temple to seek blessings.
Akaporn Rodkong, Country Director, Thailand at Agoda, said “The Year of the Horse makes Lunar New Year an especially exciting time for travel across Asia, and it is thrilling to see more travelers exploring Thailand, with Bangkok ranking among the most popular destinations in the region.
Bangkok stands out as a top festive hub where different cultures come together, offering travelers a unique blend of old‑world heritage and modern celebrations that make the holiday season truly special. Whether you’re staying in Thailand or venturing abroad, Agoda has amazing deals on flights, stays, and activities to ensure your New Year celebration is unforgettable.”
Looking at the combined preferences of Asian travelers, Japanese cities emerged as favorites for the Lunar New Year holiday, with Tokyo leading, followed by Bangkok (Thailand), Taipei (Taiwan), Osaka (Japan) and Seoul (South Korea) in the top five. Fukuoka (Japan), Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia), Sapporo (Japan), Singapore and Hong Kong round out the top 10.
Embracing the adventurous spirit, travelers planning their Lunar New Year getaways can explore Agoda’s extensive offerings, including over 6 million holiday properties, more than 130,000 flight routes, and over 300,000 activities.
Running from 14 to 28 February, Agoda’s Mega Sale will offer up to 60% off on hotel bookings, with special flash sales of up to 70% on 17 February and exclusive deals on flights and activities. Agoda VIP members will receive early access to deals from 10 to 13 February. The latest deals are available.
