Bangkok crowned world’s best city for nightlife in 2026 by Time Out

Bangkok has taken the No. 1 spot in Time Out’s Best Cities for Nightlife 2026, climbing from 13th place last year and beating famous after-dark destinations including Berlin, New York, Melbourne and São Paulo.

The ranking was based on views from more than 24,000 residents across 150 cities, combined with assessments from Time Out editors and city experts. Factors included nightlife quality, affordability, community, diversity, atmosphere and how safe and welcoming a city feels after dark.

In Bangkok, 73% of locals rated the nightlife as good or amazing, while Time Out’s experts gave the capital a 95% approval score.

Time Out highlighted Bangkok’s variety, from rooftop bars and major clubs to neighbourhood cocktail spots, LGBTQ+ nightlife and late-night street food. The city’s ability to offer very different nights out within the same urban landscape helped push it to the top.

Berlin ranked second, followed by New York, Melbourne and São Paulo.

Bangkok may be famous for its temples and street food by day, but in 2026, Time Out says no city does the night better.