9 cities known for their vibrant nightlife

Attention nightlife enthusiasts: this guide is for you. Whether you enjoy dancing till dawn, hopping between local bars, enjoying exclusive clubs, or savoring craft cocktails on rooftops, exploring the nightlife is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in a city. You may stumble upon the local signature drink, connect with locals in unexpected places, or discover a new music genre. If this sounds appealing, dive into our writers' top picks for outstanding nightlife around the globe.

Tokyo, Japan

Recommended by Winnie Tan

In Tokyo, the nightlife never truly stops. Many bars serve drinks until the last patron leaves, even if it's 6 am. If you’re just getting started at midnight, visit the bustling Kabukichō, where you can enjoy all-you-can-drink and eat options at an izakaya (Japanese-style bar) before exploring the themed bars of Golden Gai. Wrap up your night with a fun karaoke session or a delicious bowl of ramen as the sun rises.

If you love to dance, you’re in luck – the city boasts some of Asia’s top dance clubs, like Shibuya’s WOMB and Cé la Vie. For a more relaxed vibe, Tokyo's cocktail bars (such as the renowned Bar Benfiddich) and intimate venues provide a cozy escape. Music lovers should explore the basements of live houses and jazz clubs in neighborhoods like Shinjuku, Kōenji, and Shimo-kitazawa. With endless options, Tokyo is undeniably one of the world's premier nightlife destinations.

Buenos Aires, Argentina

Recommended by Marisa Paska

In Buenos Aires, nightfall marks the start of an eight-to-ten-hour adventure that continues until dawn. Whether you're after bars, dance clubs, or tango, BA has it all. Seek out one of the city’s speakeasies—if you can locate them and have the right password. You’ll find La Calle (hidden behind La Guitarrita Pizzeria) in the nightlife hub of Palermo, and Florería Atlántico in Retiro, a cozy bar that disguises itself as a lovely flower shop. Prefer dance clubs? Visit Amerika for electronic and Latin rhythms, Club 69 for fabulous drag performances (BA is one of Latin America’s most LGBTQ-friendly cities), or Terrazas del Este, where four dance floors thump with reggaeton, pop, and cumbia all night long. Don’t forget to stop by a milonga (tango house), like Maldita in San Telmo, to dance until the morning.

Berlin, Germany

Recommended by Joel Balsam

Berlin is a city where one experience seamlessly flows into another, leaving you gazing wide-eyed at the blue sky, amazed by the events of the previous night. You might even find yourself extending the celebration into an all-weekend binge. The city’s relaxed rules—permitting public drinking and allowing legendary techno clubs like Berghain, Sisyphus, and Golden Gate to remain open through the weekend—solidify Berlin’s status as one of the world's top nightlife destinations. Additionally, Berlin boasts unique kink venues like the famed Kit Kat Club, featuring an indoor pool, various techno dance areas, and BDSM furniture. Even if techno isn’t your scene, the city’s vibrant counter-culture is infectious. Beyond clubs, enjoy top-notch beer at numerous bierhäuser and biergärten, including the classic Hofbräu Wirtshaus and Golgatha.

Lagos, Nigeria

Recommended by Joel Balsam

West African Afrobeat—a genre blending jazz, soul, funk, hip-hop, Cuban, and traditional African rhythms—has propelled hits by artists like Burna Boy and WizKid. Dive into the heart of Afrobeat in Lagos, where you’ll hear the genre pulsing from cars, shops, and street speakers. For a more intimate and safer experience, step into a bar or club. Lagosians enjoy sipping cocktails at beach clubs and upscale lounges like Club Quilox on Victoria Island, Bay Lounge by the waterfront, or Rhapsody’s in Ikeja—just remember to dress to impress. When in Lagos, seize the opportunity to catch a live concert at New Afrika Shrine, a venue established by the legendary King of Afrobeat, Fela Kuti, hosting diverse shows from artists across Africa. Prefer to sing your heart out? Shaunz Karaoke Bar promises a great time.

Kingston, Jamaica

Recommended by Sheri-kae McLeod

At the vibrant core of Jamaica lies Kingston, the capital city, which thrums with a diverse nightlife that appeals to various tastes. Whether you’re drawn to the lively beats of dancehall or the relaxed vibe of bars and cultural spots, Kingston has it all. As the birthplace of dancehall music, the city features numerous clubs where you can dive into the rhythms of this genre. Don't miss key dancehall venues like Taboo, an adult nightclub; Club Meca, which hosts nightly events; and the Stone Love Headquarters, home to the famed Weddy Weddy street party every Wednesday. Where dancehall thrives, reggae often follows, with venues such as Dubwise Café, Kaya Herbhouse, and Culcha House at Di Lot showcasing live bands weekly. Alongside countless community street parties, numerous restaurants—including Jangas Soundbar, Di Bar at Blue Mahoe Estate, and Ribbiz Ultra Lounge—transform into vibrant entertainment hubs every weekend, featuring DJs and performers across a range of genres.

NYC, USA

Recommended by John Garry 

Contrary to popular belief, the city that never sleeps has bars that officially close at 4 AM. This is a blessing, as you'll likely need a quick nap if you keep pace with the city's lively crowd. Start your night at Joe's Pub for some cabaret or a jazz spot in the West Village, then navigate through Manhattan's speakeasies or enjoy craft beers at Brooklyn's breweries. Don your most vibrant attire to dance at House of Yes, catch rising stars at Elsewhere, or groove at the EDM hotspot Avant Gardner. The possibilities are limitless.

While other cities may have innovative mixologists and dancehall DJs, NYC reigns supreme in queer nightlife. The city has seen a surge in lesbian bars since 2022, even as such spaces diminish nationwide. Experience the classic vibe at Henrietta Hudson or dance at The Bush. Additionally, there are numerous pop-up parties for the entire LGBTIQ+ community. Bubble_T is a haven for queer Asians, Papi Juice uplifts queer and trans people of color, and you're bound to spot a Drag Race star out and about. For a truly all-night experience, check out the inclusive Nowadays in Ridgewood, Queens, where 'Nonstop' events keep the party going, living up to NYC's nickname.

Miami, Florida 

Recommended by  Chamidae Ford 

Miami is synonymous with nightlife—few cities can match its vibe. With perpetual sunshine, the city's energy is magnetic, making it impossible not to let loose. While every neighborhood boasts its own bars, South Beach stands as the crown jewel of Miami's nightlife. Whether you prefer dancing on the beach at the luxurious Nikki’s Beach Club, catching a drag show at Twist, or sipping cocktails with an ocean view at Serena Rooftop, Miami has it all.

Stay at a classic Art Deco hotel like the Cardozo, recover from a hangover on Miami’s vibrant beaches, or discover other beloved areas like Little Havana and Wynwood. Savor a rejuvenating meal at the beautiful Mandolin Aegean Bistro, where Mediterranean dishes are the perfect remedy for a late night, and then do it all over again.

Melbourne, Australia

Recommended by Jessica Lockhart

The first thing you’ll notice about Melbourne? The city takes its coffee seriously. But don't think it's just because Melburnians are early risers—it's likely their caffeine levels explain why the city never truly sleeps. (One of the city's most famous nightclubs, Revolver, boasts a 24-hour license, allowing you to stroll in on Friday night and not leave until Saturday afternoon). Live music and cocktail bars are plentiful, with bar hopping being a popular pastime in neighborhoods like Brunswick, Thornbury, Collingwood, and Carlton. Even the CBD—home to Caretaker’s Cottage, recognized as one of the World’s 50 Best Bars in 2023—buzzes after dark.

If your idea of nightlife doesn’t include getting “legless” (drunk) and waking up “dusty” (hungover), you can visit Melbourne’s East End Theatre District for Broadway-style productions. Plus, you don’t have to wait for sunset to enjoy yourself. Melbourne loves a good “Sunday session,” which might involve visiting a pub like the Northcote Social Club for a relaxed catch-up or soaking up the sun at a rooftop bar like Fitzroy’s Naked for Satan. No matter where and when you venture out, be sure to order the city’s unofficial cocktail: the espresso martini, naturally.

Bangkok, Thailand

Recommended by Craig Sauers

From wine and craft beer to cocktails, rooftops, and vibrant clubs in red-light districts, Bangkok is a versatile destination. No matter the vibe you’re after, the city delivers. Although alcohol sales technically cease at midnight, the festivities often continue until sunrise, particularly in nightlife hotspots like Sukhumvit Soi 11 and Khao San Road.

If you’re on the hunt for a great drink, Bangkok’s thriving cocktail culture is sure to impress. In 2024, four of its bars made it onto Asia’s 50 Best list, including Mahaniyom, which focuses on showcasing single Thai ingredients in various creative cocktails. For those who enjoy characterful dive bars, Jack’s Bar is a must-visit; this riverside gem features rustic wooden beams and a charming sloshing pier. For a lively atmosphere paired with live music, don’t miss the iconic Saxophone Pub for blues and jazz, and Studio Lam for a taste of Thai funk. Looking for unique nightlife experiences? The LGBTQ+-friendly Stranger Bar offers vibrant drag shows, Sing Sing Theater enhances clubbing with innovative performances, and Octave Rooftop Lounge & Bar boasts delicious drinks with stunning views over Sukhumvit Road.