Top 7 Asian Cities for an Unforgettable Nightlife Experiences

Bangkok, Thailand

Bangkok scores highly across all the criteria considered in the top 20. When it comes to nightlife, the Thai capital has something for everyone. From small street-side bars and large nightclubs to rooftop venues with 360-degree views and lively LGBTQ+ nightlife, Bangkok is almost perfect for anyone who enjoys going out after dark.

And Bangkok is not just about partying. The city also boasts an incredible late-night food scene, ranging from upscale restaurants to humble street-food stalls where diners sit on simple plastic stools.

Beijing, China

Perhaps the biggest surprise in the ranking is Beijing, the Chinese capital. Far removed from Bangkok’s high-energy nightlife, evenings in Beijing tend to unfold in small historic alleyways, where people gather over craft beer or cocktails while listening to indie bands.

Another advantage is that Beijing is considered a particularly safe city, making it easy to move from one bar to another across different neighborhoods with peace of mind. According to many travelers, the Chinese capital is also an affordable destination for a night out.

Hong Kong, China

In recent years, Hong Kong’s nightlife scene has shifted more toward cocktails in intimate bars rather than large nightclubs filled with flashing lights. In neighborhoods such as Lan Kwai Fong and Soho, however, new clubs and bars with creative concepts continue to attract visitors.

With 60% approval from Time Out experts, Hong Kong is described as a safe city with a nightlife scene that is well worth exploring.

Hanoi, Vietnam

In Hanoi, a night out often begins with a glass of bia hơi, the local draft beer that can cost as little as 10,000 VND, or around €0.35, or at one of the city’s many craft beer bars.

For a good cocktail or a taste of Hanoi’s club scene, however, you need to know where to look. Some bars are hidden away in the narrow alleys of the Old Quarter. For a livelier atmosphere, head to Ta Hien Street, the famous nightlife street lined with bars and clubs that stay busy until late at night.

Thanks to its friendly atmosphere and strong sense of community, Hanoi also scores highly for the quality and accessibility of its nightlife.

>>> Read more: Ta Hien Street Travel Guide: Hanoi’s Famous Beer Street Explained

Seoul, South Korea

In South Korea, going out often combines food with alcoholic drinks, making Seoul’s nightlife particularly rich and varied. From bars where people raise a glass of soju, a Korean rice-based spirit, or beer, to more intimate speakeasies, cocktail bars and mocktail venues, there is something to suit every mood.

With a low crime rate and buses running until 6 a.m., Seoul’s nightlife is safe, convenient and incredibly diverse.

Bengaluru, India

Ahead of two other major Indian cities, Mumbai and Delhi, Bengaluru has established itself as one of the country’s must-visit destinations for nightlife and bars.

While some locals remain loyal to classics such as retro rock and craft beer, the city’s nightlife has evolved considerably in recent years. Cocktails, jazz music and intimate music-focused venues have all helped make Bengaluru’s nightlife scene particularly interesting to explore.

Singapore

In Singapore, the best nights out are not necessarily found beneath the city’s brightest signs. You need to know where to look. Underground artist collectives, in particular, help bring Singapore’s nightlife to life with creative, alternative events and parties.