Bangkok is famous for its rich history, ancient temples—and nightlife. And after finding the best hotel in Bangkok, it only makes sense to explore what the city offers at night. From local shows to a unique dining experience, here are 13 things to do in Bangkok nightlife.
1. Explore the Bangkok Night Markets
Besides vibrant bars and clubs, the city’s nightlife is also rich in night markets. These places have everything you can think of, whether it’s fresh fruit or souvenirs. So for your first night in Thailand’s capital, it only makes sense to explore a night market.
You can find night markets throughout the city, so it won’t be hard to pass one before going back to your hotel. Here, you get access to local street food, goods, and entertainment. In short, there’s something for everyone! So you can bring your kids with you without worry.
One of the most famous night markets in Bangkok is Talad Rot Fai or the Train Market. You can find this in Ratchada, right in the heart of Bangkok. What’s makes this stand out is its unique stalls and tents that have everything a tourist needs! They even have a dedicated section for vintage goods.
Meanwhile, if you’re ways away from the Train Market, another great pick is JJ Green. Located next to the Chatuchak Weekend Market, JJ Green has various shops, bars, cafes, and stalls. Here, you can find cheaper items, such as secondhand clothes and street food.
Either way, visiting a night market during your first night in Bangkok is ideal. These places offer you a better look into the locals’ lives and a fun way to start your trip. Most places here let you stay until 2 am.
2. Witness Action-packed Muay Thai in Rajadamnern Boxing Stadium
Muay Thai is an essential part of Thailand’s history, so watching an actual fight live is 100% a must-try. And one of the most popular sports arenas in Bangkok is the Rajadamnern Boxing Stadium.
It hosts several tournaments, including modern Muay Thai. What’s more, the arena holds its championship titles and rankings. Beginners and experienced athletes alike do the fights here. So there’s always something new to look forward to when visiting this stadium.
However, if this place is ways away from your hotel, plenty of stadiums also host the sport. After all, Muay Thai is highly famous across the country. Regardless, most Muay Thai fights begin in the evening, so it’s a great nightlife activity to try.
Location: 8 Ratchadamnoen Nok Rd, Pom Prap Sattru Phai, Bangkok
3. Watch a Local Cabaret Show
Cabaret shows are popular across Thailand, livening up Bangkok during the night. Among the most famous plays in the city is the Calypso Cabaret Show. This place welcomes all guests, and the staff here speak different languages. And yes, that includes English.
But what makes this place unique is that the performers here are ladyboys. Like drag queens, they dress up and entertain guests by performing songs and dances. In short, it offers colorful and vibrant performances perfect for guests of all ages. And this is an excellent way to experience a fun night in Bangkok.
You can find this theater near the town square in Bangkok. Plus, it’s adorned in neon lighting, so this place is not hard to spot. The theater can hold up to 350 viewers. That means you can bring your family or guests with you.
Aside from that, the place also offers food. As a result, you get to enjoy good food—and a one-of-a-kind show.
Location: At Asiatique the Riverfront. 2194 Charoenkrung 72-76 Road, Bangkorlaem, Bangkok
4. Visit the Amphawa Floating Market
Not many tourists know, but floating markets are just as fun to visit at night, especially in Bangkok. And a perfect example of this is the Amphawa Floating Market. Although it isn’t as big as the other more well-known markets, it’s famous among locals. It offers an authentic vibe, allowing you to chill with Thai locals.
In this market, you’ll get to enjoy the best seafood dishes and grab the best deals. But what makes it unique is that you can enjoy a firefly-watching experience. If you visit around 5 to 6 pm, you’ll see a couple of fireflies floating around the market. And this makes the entire experience much better.
You can rent out a long-tail boat here, where the driver will stop at different locations. During this, you’ll be able to explore the floating market alongside the fireflies. However, this place is far from Bangkok’s central area, so you’ll need to rent out a car or mini-van to go here.
Overall, it’s a must-try nightlife activity whenever in Bangkok. After all, it’s not like you marvel at fireflies while riding a boat in a market every day. So adding this to the top things to do in Bangkok nightlife helps leave a remarkable memory of your trip.
Location: Amphawa, Amphawa District, Samut Songkhram, Bangkok
5. Eat in Style in a Dinner Cruise at Chao Phraya River
The Chao Phraya River is one of the most prominent rivers in Thailand. Located in Bangkok, this river has become a popular tourist spot in recent years. And what better way to enjoy your time here than going on a dinner cruise?
Several agencies offer dinner cruises set on the Chao Phraya River. So whether you’re going with your partner or family, there’s a cruise out there for you. Most offer Thai cuisine, allowing you to enjoy delicious food—and fantastic views!
Aside from that, these cruises also hold live performances by professionals. As a result, you and your family or partner will be entertained throughout the trip.
Additionally, most boats offering dinner cruises can hold up to 200 guests. With this, you can bring your friends, family, or partner without issues.
Overall, going on a dinner cruise for your last night in Bangkok is ideal. It gives a gorgeous and memorable ending to your trip.
Location: Chao Phraya River, Bangkok
6. Enjoy Good Food on a Night Street Food Tour in Bangkok’s Chinatown
Whether you’re visiting Bangkok alone or with friends and family, there’s no better way to enjoy the city’s nightlife than going on a street food tour! Here, you can stroll around the streets of Bangkok and try out food from local food stalls. And most of these are only open at night.
There are plenty of agencies offering a night foodie tour in Bangkok’s Chinatown. All you must do is select one that suits your needs the best. But regardless of your pick, going on these tours let you sample Thai and Chinese dishes.
From chicken satay to Thai suki soup, there’s plenty to try in Chinatown Bangkok. But when in Thailand, the number one food you should try is Pad Thai. So don’t forget to order a bowl to go!
Finally, since local guides lead most of these foodie tours, you can always ask them for suggestions.
Location: Chinatown, Khwaeng Samphanthawong, Khwaeng Chakkrawat; Khet Samphanthawong, Bangkok
7. Drop By at the ASIATIQUE The Riverfront
One of the newer places to visit in Bangkok during the night is ASIATIQUE. This place combines a mall and night market in one, making it a sight to see! And not to mention, explore.
Originally an international trading port, it was recently renovated into a venue for tourists and locals alike. Having more than 40 restaurants and 1500 boutiques, there’s plenty to explore. Here, you can spend an exciting evening with friends, family, or by yourself.
Moreover, you can purchase gifts for your family at home or enjoy local Thai delicacies. There are also late-night performances, such as live bands, keeping guests entertained.
However, what makes this place a must-visit is its location. You can find the ASIATIQUE near one of Bangkok’s rivers, giving you a stunning view and fun times.
Location: ASIATIQUE The Riverfront, 2194 Charoen Krung Rd, Wat Phraya Krai, Bang Kho Laem, Bangkok
8. Splurge Your Cash at the Patpong Night Market
If you love shopping or are looking for souvenirs for your loved ones, visit Patpong Night Market. This place is one of the largest night markets in Bangkok and is famous among tourists. Located in the Silom area, this market offers the best deals in the city.
Plus, thanks to its location, it has become one of the largest nightlife districts in Bangkok. You can find everything here, from shops, restaurants, to Go-Go bars, there’s many to discover. However, since it is a popular spot for tourists, there are plenty of hasslers here.
So when shopping, be wary of your things and negotiate prices. After all, some things here are worth less than their price tags. Therefore, don’t settle into a deal too hastily, and go bargain!
Overall, if good deals and shopping are what you want, visit the Patpong Night Market when in Bangkok. The place usually opens from 6 pm until 12 am.
Location: Patpong Night Market, Thanon Patpong 1, Suriya Wong, Bang Rak, Bangkok
9. Explore the City at Night by Bike
If you’re looking to explore Bangkok during the night, there’s no better way than doing it by bike. Many evening bike tours let you cycle throughout the city supervised, basking in the views. It gives you a chance to see Bangkok from its backstreets to its most famous sights. And the best part about this activity is that it frees you from crowds!
Moreover, bike tours are best done at night since the climate is cooler and less humid. Aside from this, it lets you appreciate a more serene and quiet Bangkok. All you must do is pick the agency of your choice, and they’ll provide you with a bike and guide.
So if nighttime adventure is what you’re looking for, cycle across Bangkok at night!
10. Shop and Dine at the Chang Chui Plane Night Market
Another must-visit night market in Bangkok is the Chang Chui Plane Night Market. It has many dining and shopping outlets adorned with contemporary and unique pieces of art. From haystacks to unique paintings, there’s a lot to marvel at in this night market.
Moreover, most of the pieces of art in the area are made using scrapped or recycled items. So this justifies the entire concept of the market of ‘nothing is useless,’ making it even better!
But the focal point of the place is the enormous plane shell located at the center of activities. You can take pictures outside or book dinner, where you can dine inside the plane!
Aside from that, you can also try Thai delicacies or shop for locally-made souvenirs. Either way, shopping has never been this enthralling. And it’s perfect for solo travelers, families, and couples alike.
So if you’re looking for a unique activity to add to your evening itinerary, go to Chang Chui Plane Night Market.
Location: Chang Chui Plane Night Market, Khwaeng Bang Phlat, Bang Phlat, Bangkok
11. Enjoy Good Music and Good Food at the Saxophone Pub Bangkok
Take a break from clubbing and go-go bars and enjoy sophisticated music, food, and company at the Saxophone Pub. This place hosts live jazz and blues performance, perfect for unwinding after a long day. It’s one of the most prestigious jazz and blues bars in the city, offering good food and endearing music!
Moreover, it’s the oldest jazz club in the city, making it a historic piece of Bangkok. So besides enjoying music and food, you’ll also get a taste of one of the city’s treasures. Although the restaurant opens earlier, the live music gigs start around 11 pm.
However, if you want to mingle with other tourists and locals, the weekends are the perfect time to visit. It usually gets crowded around 9 pm during this time, so go early!
Overall, even if you don’t like jazz or blues, the place’s ambiance is enough to keep you entertained and relaxed. So pay a quick visit during your stay in Bangkok.
Location: Saxophone Pub and Restaurant, Ratchawithi 11 Alley, Thanon Phaya Thai, Ratchathewi, Bangkok
12. Embrace Your Inner Artist at the Paintbar Bangkok
A unique nightlife activity you can do in Bangkok is visiting the Paintbar. It’s a hobby store that offers painting classes at night. This place is a must-visit, especially if you love art or want to relax.
It combines art and nightlife, giving you a relaxing activity to do after a long day of exploring the city. Also, the classes are managed by professionals, letting you embrace your inner artist.
But that’s not the best part of this hobby store! Since it’s a bar, you can practice painting while sipping on your favorite wine or craft beer. And you can also bring your kids here as they also offer child-friendly drinks. Either way, painting and drinking sound like a good time for adults and kids alike!
Finally, the hobby store also offers light snacks you can munch on while painting. From nachos to meatballs, there’s a lot to keep you full!
Location: Paintbar, Soi Sukhumvit 49, Khlong Tan Nuea, Watthana, Bangkok
13. Laugh and Enjoy Good Company at the Bangkok Comedy Club
If you’re looking for a unique activity to try in Bangkok at night, visit a comedy club! The Bangkok Comedy Club is one of the most famous in the city and is the first one dedicated to English. Here, you can mingle and laugh with locals and tourists alike.
The venue mainly hosts stand-up or improv comedy performances. However, recently, other forms of live comedy have been performed at the club as well. Either way, the place offers laughs, great food, and a good time. So what more can you ask for?
Meanwhile, if comedy isn’t your thing, the place also hosts game shows. Guests can participate in these and even win some prizes. However, these usually only happen once a month.
Finally, you can catch these performances on Friday nights. Albeit, only for now. Who knows? As the club and community of fans grow, these gigs can become an everyday thing. Regardless, if you can, visit the Bangkok Comedy Club for a guaranteed fun time.
Location: Bangkok Comedy Club, Above The Royal Oak, 10 Soi Sukhumvit 33/1, Khlong Tan Nuea, Watthana, Bangkok
Things to Do in Bangkok Nightlife: Tips and Recommendations
To make your night activities more manageable and fun in Bangkok, here are tips to keep in mind:
Getting Around Bangkok at Night
The best way to travel around the city is by BTS Skytrain or MRT. Either one takes you throughout Bangkok faster, safer, and cheaper! If possible, stay at a hotel near a subway station to make traveling around at night more convenient.
However, if you plan on having fun till early in the morning, around 1 am to 5 am, I suggest commuting by taxi. This method is safe and ensured, but it is slightly more expensive.
What You Must Wear When Exploring Bangkok at Night
Bangkok is lax when it comes to attires unless you’re going to religious or royal complexes. But if you’re exploring the city at night, you can wear whatever you want. However, I suggest wearing lighter clothes as it can get humid at night.
Beware of Scammers
Since Bangkok is famous for its nightlife, many scammers have appeared in the city. Most trick tourists for a quick cash grab. And unfortunately, these scams happen more than often. So when traveling around at night, be wary and don’t go alone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Bangkok a great place to visit for nightlife?
A: Thailand’s capital of Bangkok is famous for its nightlife. Filled with clubs, bars, and night markets, it’s a popular spot for nightlife activities. Street parties and red-light districts are also available in the city.
Q: Is Bangkok safe to explore at night?
A: Although Bangkok is generally safe, at night, it’s another story. After all, it is home to debaucherous clubs, bars, and dangerous roads. So it’s not best to explore the city if you’re alone. Otherwise, if you’re going with a group and plan to go to crowded places, it should be safe enough.
Q: What are the things I shouldn’t do in Bangkok at night?
A: To avoid getting scammed in Bangkok nightlife, avoid getting parked taxis. Also, don’t purchase rounds in clubs or bars as most establishments at hidden fees to it. Instead, buy a bottle. Finally, never bring your passport with you during the night as it can get stolen.
Q: Is Bangkok a night party city?
A: Despite being a somewhat religious country, Thailand’s capital Bangkok is filled with party streets. So, you can consider the city as a party town filled with tourists and locals alike!
Q: Where’s the best place in Bangkok for nightlife?
A: Silom is home to Bangkok’s nightlife, filled with restaurants, night markets, and bars. Initially the business district, Silom quickly became the spot for nightlife activities. As such, you can find many tourists and locals alike here.
Final Words
The best things to do in Bangkok nightlife will help you create fun memories and give you a better experience. From shopping at night markets to firefly-watching, there’s plenty to explore in Bangkok at night. So now that you know the best things to do in the city go ahead and have a blast!