Bangkok is a vibrant, thrilling place at any time of the day or night, but it just so happens that when the sun drops, the area comes alive. Experience Bangkok at night for the ultimate evening you’ll never forget – and you don’t have to go clubbing to enjoy a night in Bangkok. There are plenty of other options besides the excellent bars and party spots.
Bangkok is a sprawling metropolis with more than its fair share of bars, clubs, and cafes that are open practically all night. When you think of nightlife in Bangkok, you’ll inevitably think of the backpacker bar scene on Khao San Road or the sky bars in the financial district. Another side to Bangkok nightlife is a sedate side featuring relaxed evening meals in fantastic surroundings, shows, cinemas, and culture. Here are some ideas for a night out in Bangkok.
1. Go to the Night Market
There are plenty of night markets all over Bangkok and the rest of Thailand, and one of the best-known is Rot Fai Market. This is a great place to scout for collectibles and antiques, full of exciting souvenirs and quirky bargains. Plus, there are food stalls at this famous market, so you can have a snack while browsing. Patpong Night Market is another promising market for all items, from t-shirts to DVDs.
2. Dine in the Dark
If you are up for a different dining experience, try Dine in the Dark at the Sheraton Grand Sukhumvit Hotel. This is as you would expect from the name of the experience – you dine in the pitch black and rely only on your other senses as you eat your four-course meal.
3. Watch the Siam Niramit Show
Learn a little more about the culture and history of Thailand by attending the Siam Niramit show. This is a different way to experience a night in Bangkok, full of memorable performances and storytelling. You’ll see lots of dancing and costumes, and hear plenty of songs. It is a vast production and certainly one to be remembered.
4. Take Part in a Karaoke Session
One of the most fun ways to spend an evening in Bangkok is at a karaoke bar. You’ll get your private room, so you don’t need to worry about serenading a room full of strangers. And drinks are delivered to your table and all the songs you need on the screen.
5. Go to an IMAX Movie
Why not take some time out of the heat and excellent in the evening in an intelligent, air-conditioned cinema. The Krungsri IMAX Theatre is a great place to go for the latest releases in comfort. You’ll get excellent digital sound and great entertainment with Thai and English films.
6. Climb the Ghost Tower
The old Sathorn Unique Condominium is also referred to as the Ghost Tower. It was started in the 1990s, but construction was halted, and it hasn’t sprung up since, although there are now rumors that ghostly inhabitants have moved in. Climbing the building at sunset is an excellent way to get exceptional views over the city, but be careful as this is at your own risk.
7. Dine at a Sky Restaurant
Enjoy a meal above the clouds or a cocktail in style high above the city at a Bangkok sky bar or restaurant. Some of the town’s beautiful restaurants are high above the hustle and bustle. Check out one sky bar for every evening you are in the city. Some even have revolving observation decks to get a panoramic view over Bangkok.
8. Go to the Mall
Check out the Mall at Asiatique, The Riverfront, which is set on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, the main river that goes through the city. This big bazaar and night market has many stores, restaurants, cafes, and bars. There is a wide range of things on offer here that you can easily spend hours just wandering around. There is also a good cabaret show here with colorful performances by the stars.
9. Cruise the River
Take things at a leisurely pace and enjoy a meal or a drink as you cruise the Chao Phraya River. It’s the perfect way to see Bangkok as the sun sets and the lights begin to sparkle beside the water. There are many different cruise styles available, and you can choose from glamorous, expensive offerings and more economical dining experiences, all from a prime position on board a boat.
Check out more things to do in Bangkok at night with Phuket On. The PhuketOn blog is your destination for Thailand travel and Asia travel adventures in Japan, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, and more.
