Europe is represented only by Berlin, Brighton, and Amsterdam.
Bangkok has been named the best city in the world for nightlife in 2026. The capital of Thailand topped the ranking compiled by Time Out magazine based on a survey of more than 24,000 local residents in 150 cities around the world.
The survey participants responded, in particular, on how affordable evening entertainment is, as well as whether the city feels lively, diverse, and safe after dark.
A full 73% of Bangkok residents rated their city’s nightlife as good or excellent.
Time Out experts specifically highlighted its diversity – from rooftop bars in skyscrapers to small, atmospheric establishments.
Berlin – the best in Europe
Berlin came in second place in the overall ranking, becoming the leader among European cities. For those who are familiar with the legendary club scene of the German capital, this result is hardly a surprise.
The publication called Berlin a city that “continues to set the standards for nightlife.” 78% of local residents gave it a high rating.
New York took third place. Experts noted its constantly changing nightlife, which keeps things interesting: here you can either calmly have a glass of wine or head to a late‑night rave party in one of the warehouse spaces.Advertisementad
Melbourne in Australia and São Paulo in Brazil also made it into the top five.
Which European cities made it into the top 10?
In addition to Berlin, two more European cities made it into the top ten: Brighton in eighth place and Amsterdam in tenth.
The British seaside resort of Brighton received the highest rating precisely from the local community. 84% of residents stated that it is easy to meet people in the city and feel like part of the local community.
Brighton also ranked second, together with New York, in terms of the number of people who described these cities as both “vibrant” and “diverse and inclusive.” Experts also noted Brighton’s well‑developed LGBTQ+ scene.
Amsterdam made it onto the ranking thanks to its vibrant nightlife, not only in the city center but also beyond its boundaries. Time Out also drew attention to WorldPride 2026, which helped strengthen the reputation of the Netherlands’ capital as one of Europe’s most open and inclusive venues for evening entertainment.
The nightlife is no longer limited to clubs.
According to Grace Beard, travel editor at Time Out, the concept of a “successful evening” has changed significantly by 2026.
“A good evening is no longer defined by one type of place,” she said.
According to her, street parties and rooftop raves are becoming increasingly popular, and local residents no longer necessarily go to just one or two well‑known clubs. Instead, they head to entire nightlife districts where they can move from one bar to another.
Beard emphasized that the distinctive feature of the cities in the ranking is their ability to adapt to people’s new habits. They offer parties for people over 30, secret bars, and venues for connoisseurs of high‑quality music.
“Each city offers an unforgettable experience for any type of evening vacation and any person. This is exactly what a wonderful city life should look like, ” she said.
Top 10 cities in the world in terms of nightlife:
- Bangkok, Thailand
- Berlin, Germany
- New York, USA
- Melbourne, Australia
- Sao Paulo, Brazil
- Medellin, Colombia
- Johannesburg, South Africa
- Brighton, United Kingdom
- Beijing, China
- Amsterdam, the Netherlands
Where to relax cheap
As a reminder, the travel company compared more than 50 popular destinations and compiled a rating of cities where accommodation, food, transport, and entertainment cost less than 100 euros per person per day. The most cost‑effective destination turned out to be the capital of Albania, Tirana, where, on average, one day of vacation costs about 59 euros per person. Accommodation in a three‑star hotel costs about 32 euros per night, dinner at an inexpensive restaurant costs about €8.50, and local beer costs only €1.50.
Konstantin is an acclaimed travel writer, celebrated for transforming ordinary journeys into extraordinary narratives. With years of experience exploring diverse destinations across the globe, his work blends vivid storytelling, cultural insights, and practical advice to inspire wanderlust and guide readers toward unforgettable adventures.
As a key contributor to enjoythetrip.org website, Konstantin has built a loyal readership through their expertise in uncovering both iconic landmarks and off-the-beaten-path treasures. He specializes in providing travelers with honest, actionable tips, whether it’s finding the best resorts in Maldives, exploring cultural hubs like Paris, or diving into the natural wonders of Croatia.