Best nightlife in Bangkok: Great ideas to enjoy for the most memorable night
Discover the best nightlife in Bangkok in our in-depth guide, including dinner cruises, night markets, food tours and more.
Bangkok, a nocturnal playground, offers a kaleidoscope of the best nightlife experiences in Asia. From the relaxed elegance of sky-high bars to the frenetic energy of underground clubs, the city’s nighttime allure is as diverse as it is captivating. But lounges and nightclubs barely scrape the surface of what Bangkok has to offer. This city also hosts a range of unique cultural experiences after dark.
1. Experience a magical sunset on a dinner cruise on the Chao Phraya River
An enchanting way to start your evening is to take a sunset cruise on the Chao Phraya River. Heading out on the water, you can watch the setting sun paint the river with countless colors while the city lights up to welcome nightfall.
During your cruise, you can dine on Thai dishes or international cuisine and enjoy live entertainment. Be sure to bring your camera so you can take photos of the famous Wat Arun “Temple of the Dawn” across the water, as well as the impressive Rama VIII cable-stayed bridge.
Some popular sunset cruises for the best nightlife in Bangkok include the River Star Princess Dinner Cruise: Bangkok Chao Phraya River, the Wonderful Pearl Dinner Cruise in Bangkok, the Meridian Sunset Dinner Cruise – Floating Paradise from ICONSIAM Bangkok, and others.
2. Enjoy a traditional Thai performance at Sala Chalermkrung
This historical theater was built in 1933, and looks quite modern and atypical for its time. King Prajadhipok commissioned it in celebration of the 150th anniversary of Bangkok. The name translates to “Pavilion to Celebrate the City.” Its original purpose was as a cinema. As King Prajadhipok was quite fond of the movies, he even spent 9,000,000 Baht of his own money on the project (alas for him, he did not get to oversee its opening, owing to the Siamese revolution of 1932).
Following a renovation in 1992, Sala Chalermkrung’s purpose moved away from the cinema. Today, you can book a seat there to enjoy a performance of Thai classical dances. While the performances rotate throughout the year, they are all designed to be as accurate to tradition as possible, with respect to the choreography, costumes, and music.
A show at Sala Chalermkrung gives you a rare glimpse into authentic Thai culture that you will always cherish. Most prominent among the types of dance performed at the theater is Khon. During Khon performances, you will watch the stories of Rama brought to life by masked performers evoking artistic traditions that extend back hundreds of years.
3. Take in breathtaking views at Mahanakhon Skywalk and Bar
If you want to experience the most astonishing view possible of Bangkok’s lights in the evening, visit the Mahanakhon Skywalk and Bar at King Power Mahanakhon - one of the most worth-visiting architectures in Thailand. This unusual skyscraper has a cool spiral shape, and will make you think of Minecraft blocks that are twisting apart, but suspended in time.
After taking some time to appreciate the imaginative architecture, travel up the 78 stories to the country’s highest observation deck. There, 314 meters above the city streets, you can walk out onto a glass tray. Beneath your feet, you’ll see nothing but glass, open air, and the lights of the city. Just make sure you get there before 7:00pm, after which the Skywalk closes. And don’t forget to bring the 880 baht entrance fee.
After you experience the skywalk, head to the skyscraper’s famous rooftop bar on the 74th floor for another taste of the best nightlife in Bangkok. This is not only the highest rooftop bar in the city but in the whole of Southeast Asia. From up here, gazing out across the entire city, you’ll feel as if the entire world belongs to you. After you sip a refreshing beverage and soak in a peaceful moment far above the city’s traffic and hubbub, you can head downstairs to discover many exciting dining opportunities at ground level.
4. Shop for souvenirs at bustling night markets
The colorful glow of countless canopy tents makes Bangkok’s night markets a beacon for travelers in search of snacks and souvenirs. In fact, Bangkok is home to quite a few excellent night markets. These include Asiatique the Riverfont, Train Night Market Srinagarindra, Train Night Market Ratchada, Patpong Night Market, and others.
Each of these night markets has its own distinct character. For example, the Asiatique the Riverfont market lets you shop right next to the Chao Phraya River and the Observation Wheel, which is beautifully lit up after dark.
Whichever night markets you decide to explore for the best nightlife in Bangkok, you will always remember the sights, sounds, smells and flavors of your shopping adventure.
5. Witness the thrilling spectacle of Muay Thai fights
One uniquely Thai activity you can do at night is to take a seat at one of the city’s arenas to watch a Thai boxing show, known as “Muay Thai.”
Sometimes referred to as the “art of eight limbs,” Thai boxing is different from the western sport of boxing. Along with punching with fists, the fighters are allowed to use their elbows, knees, and shins. It is powerful and exhilarating to behold the incredible form and breathtaking tactics as opponents face off.
If you watch MMA, you may recognize some of the techniques of Muay Thai, because this martial art has contributed a lot to its development.
To see a Muay Thai fight, go to Rajadamnern Boxing Stadium or Lumpinee Boxing Stadium.
6. Savor the delights of a food tour in China Town by tuk-tuk
By now, you may be feeling some hunger pangs. To satisfy your appetite and immerse yourself more fully in Thai culture, you can take a culinary tour of Bangkok in a tuk-tuk.
Riding around in the open-air, three-wheel taxi, you will have a chance to see another side of Bangkok. Enjoy the refreshing nighttime breezes and the beauty of the city’s landmarks aglow with artful illumination. Traffic is less at night, but if you run into any congestion, the tuk-tuk can often go around it.
As you reach China Town in pursuit of the best nightlife in Bangkok, the mouth-watering aromas of delicious street foods will herald your arrival. Your tour guide will take you to the best spots so that you can sample the tastiest cuisine (usually included in the price of the tour). Your guide might also tell you more about cooking and ingredients, making this a great learning opportunity if you want to recreate some of these dishes at home.
Some popular tours include Bangkok: Michelin Guide Street Food Tour by Tuk Tuk, and Bangkok Midnight Food Tuk Tuk Tour. While China Town is a veritable food paradise, some visitors find it a bit touristy. If you are looking for alternative destinations that are less crowded, contact us for personalized Bangkok food tour recommendations.
7. Explore Bangkok’s hidden bars, lounges and nightclubs
After you have tasted the scrumptious street foods of Chinatown, take some time to explore Bangkok’s hidden nightlife venues. A good time to begin the exclusive Exotic Voyages Secret Bar Vibes Bangkok tour is around 6:30 to 7:00 pm.
Hop on a sky train or tuk-tuk to explore Bangkok’s most secretive lounges, bars and nightclubs. These are the venues that don’t advertise openly with signs. They’re hidden behind unassuming doors in unremarkable shophouses, or around secretive corners.
Our local expert will lead you through the city’s labyrinthine streets, telling you stories about local life. Once you arrive at the hidden lounges, you can enjoy tailor-made cocktails and snacks. Every spot you stop at will be completely unique, every drink you taste a whole new experience. You can either end the night at a rooftop bar, or back at your hotel.
8. Experience the Perfect Night Out with Someone Special
If you are trying to surprise your partner with the perfect night out, contact Exotic Voyages about our signature product, “A Special Date Night,” which is exclusively for our guests.
Dress up in your formal best for this romantic night out, and ask your partner to do the same. Your sweetheart will be delighted when we pick you up at your hotel in our private vehicle, and take you to one of Bangkok’s culinary jewels, a restaurant in a century-old house. Learn more about Thailand’s cultural heritage by looking at antiques and vintage photos while you wait for your dinner.
When your meals arrive, you can dine on authentic local dishes featuring traditional recipes and fresh ingredients from all across Thailand.
After your meal, our local expert will guide you to a hidden rooftop bar where you can wrap up the night with tailor-made cocktails and a 360-degree view of the city.