Bangkok is a city that never sleeps, and going out after sunset is certainly an awesome experience. You might be thinking nightlife and booze — sure, they’re definitely on the list. But for those who don’t like to get buzzed, where do you go? Well, there are many things you can do at night in Bangkok that do not necessarily have to be in a party district. Find out below!
Street Food Adventure
Day in and day out, Bangkok is a foodie’s heaven. Whether you’re looking for post-drinking recovery food or just a gastronomic adventure for dinner — head to Chinatown, Victory Monument, or Ratchawat Market for some of the best and cheapest grub!
For something more thrilling, find vendors of fried cockroaches, scorpions, and other bugs on skewers at Khao San Road or other food markets!
Romantic Dinner Cruise
Want something a bit more romantic or intimate? Take a dinner cruise along the scenic Chao Phraya River, where you not only get to enjoy delicious meals onboard but also revel in the city night lights reflecting off the river.
Along the river, you can also appreciate views of local heritage sites like the Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew, and Wat Arun.
Exciting Tuk-Tuk Tour
You can find the iconic tuk-tuks scooting around the city throughout the day, but they’re especially fun to ride at night. Especially with their colorful bodywork, flashy lights, and blaring engines — you’ll feel like you’re in your own kind of party on a tuk-tuk as you explore the city’s attractions at night!
Night Market Shopping
Shopping after sunset is also a thrill in Bangkok as the city caters to a wide range of budgets. So even if you’re on a shoestring, you’ll surely find something to take back home! Aside from Chinatown, shoppers shouldn’t miss a shopping spree at the Chatuchak Weekend Market which opens every Friday night.
For more high-end shopping, head to the shopping district of Siam, home to the largest malls in the country such as CentralWorld and Siam Paragon.
Ladyboy Cabaret Shows
The LGBTQ community thrives in Bangkok, and transwomen even have their own stage and limelight. They showcase their beauty, talent, and flair for fine entertainment in ladyboy cabaret shows.
For the uninitiated, Calypso Cabaret and Golden Dome are great places to start. And you’ll be glad to know that they are family-friendly!
Rooftop Bar Hopping
As mentioned, you can’t miss a dash of nightlife in Bangkok, whatever form it is. You don’t have to exhaust yourself at a highly energetic nightclub — you can instead chill at a rooftop bar and admire the city views at night as you sip on a cocktail or two.
There are so many rooftop bars to choose from, but some of the most popular in Bangkok are Sky Bar (featured in Hangover 2 film) and Octave at Marriott Hotel Sukhumvit.
Party and Red-Light Districts
If you’re up for a really wild night, the red-light districts of Bangkok are the best place to be, long after sunset. The most tourist-friendly red-light districts are Soi Cowboy, Patpong, and Nana Plaza — places filled with go-go and ladyboy bars.
Sukhumvit Soi 11 and Khao San Road are also amazing party streets to mingle with both locals and tourists.
Find more adventures in Bangkok, day or night, on KKday!
