The 13 best cities in the world to enjoy nightlife in 2025-2026
Explore the world's best cities for nightlife, where fun and culture mix in bars, clubs and outdoor events.
Nightlife has evolved enormously in recent years, adapting to new spaces and styles. Today, it is not just about clubs and bars, but an experience that includes everything from live music to night markets and open-air cultural events.
What you will find in this note:
- The 13 cities with the best nightlife in the world
- Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: the queen of the party
- Manila, Philippines: Affordable and vibrant
- Berlin, Germany: the capital of electronics
- Guadalajara, Mexico: the soul of mariachi
- Austin, USA: the city of live music
- Lagos, Nigeria: the birthplace of Afrobeats
- Rotterdam, Netherlands: modern and diverse
- Other must-see citie
Time Out magazine, known for its keen insight into urban trends, has compiled a list of the world's best cities for nightlife . This ranking is based on a global survey of thousands of urban residents, who meticulously evaluated aspects such as the quality and affordability of nightlife in their cities.
It was also complemented by input from editors and writers across Time Out’s global network, who provided insight into the latest trends and hot spots . The result is a guide that reflects not only the diversity of nightlife options, but also the cultural and social authenticity of each destination.
The 13 cities with the best nightlife in the world
Whether you're enjoying a night out, dining out with live music, or exploring the energy of the streets, these cities stand out for their diverse and exciting offerings that promise an unforgettable night out for everyone. Below, we present a list of the 13 best cities in the world to enjoy nightlife , based on expert opinion and the quality of their offerings.
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: the queen of the party-Rio Brazil 2025
Rio de Janeiro, known as the “Marvelous City,” takes the top spot when it comes to nightlife. Its mix of bohemian bars, dance halls, and open-air samba parties is simply unmatched. Plus, the festive atmosphere of the Brazilian Carnival makes this city a must-visit destination for party lovers.
The best of Rio de Janeiro: From the lively Lapa neighborhood to the celebrations on Copacabana Beach, the nightlife is as varied as Brazil itself. The warmth and energy of its people make any night in Rio an unforgettable experience.
Manila, Philippines: Affordable and vibrant
Manila is the capital of affordable entertainment. This city combines the frenetic energy of its streets with a vibrant nightlife in neighborhoods like Poblacion and Bonifacio Global City . Here, night markets and open-air bars fill with locals and tourists enjoying good food, music and dancing.
What stands out in Manila: Affordability is its greatest strength, allowing anyone to enjoy a fun night out without breaking the bank. With a mix of modernity and tradition, Manila is the perfect place to enjoy the night without limits.
The World's Best Cities for Nightlife Right Now in 2025
Berlin, Germany: the capital of electronics
Berlin is synonymous with epic parties and a nightlife that never sleeps. Known as one of the most liberal and eclectic cities in Europe , its offering goes far beyond nightclubs. Here, open-air raves and underground parties in former factories set the tone for a city that has constantly reinvented itself.
Berlin by night: Iconic venues such as Berghain, with its new sound technology, and nightly cultural events in Friedrichshain, make Berlin a must-see destination for those seeking unique experiences.
Guadalajara, Mexico: the soul of mariachi
Guadalajara, known as the birthplace of mariachi and tequila, offers a vibrant and diverse nightlife. From bars with live music to elegant rooftops with panoramic views, the capital of Jalisco has something for everyone. In addition, its lively cultural atmosphere merges with modernity, creating nights full of surprises.
Why visit Guadalajara: With a high rating for nightlife quality, this city invites you to experience nights full of tradition and modernity, where tequila is never missing.
Austin, USA: the city of live music
Austin, the self-proclaimed “live music capital of the world,” offers unrivaled nightlife. From spontaneous concerts in bars to massive festivals, the city breathes music everywhere. Entertainment districts like Sixth Street and Red River are the meeting points for those looking for unforgettable nights.
Austin must-sees: More than 1,000 food trucks complement the music scene with cuisine as diverse as its people. Here, every night is a celebration.
Lagos, Nigeria: the birthplace of Afrobeats
Lagos is the epicentre of Afrobeats music, a rhythm that dominates the global nightlife scene. This port city offers a mix of traditional events and modern offerings , such as salsa parties, club nights and concerts in iconic parks such as Freedom Park.
What makes Lagos stand out: With 80% quality nightlife, Lagos is the perfect place for those looking to dance until dawn.
Rotterdam, Netherlands: modern and diverse
Rotterdam stands out for its accessible and modern nightlife. The city offers unique cultural events, from themed parties to concerts on boats . Plus, its vibrant LGBTQ+ community adds a special touch to the nightlife scene.
Rotterdam nightlife: With its mix of modernity and tradition, Rotterdam is a must-see for fun lovers.
Other must-see cities
After these 7 main cities to enjoy nightlife, Time Out magazine places others that also deserve to be highlighted:
Manchester, UK: Known for its alternative clubs and bars, the nightlife here is exciting and varied.
Budapest, Hungary: Ruin bars and late-night thermal baths are the hallmarks of this city.
Accra, Ghana: Accra's nightlife is a vibrant reflection of contemporary African culture.
Buenos Aires, Argentina: Known for its fascinating blend of European history and Latin American charm, the city offers a nightlife that reflects its rich heritage. At the heart of this dynamic nightlife scene, you'll find bars and clubs that capture the essence of tango and dozens of modern rhythms, as well as a wide variety of culinary and musical offerings.
Taipei, Taiwan : A city with a perfect mix of karaoke, theme bars and night markets.
Singapore, Singapore: Its nightlife scene, while expensive, offers some of the most sophisticated and exclusive experiences in the world.
The nightlife in these cities is an invitation to explore, discover new cultures and, above all, enjoy the night in a unique way.
Best cities for nightlife in the world
World's best city for nightlife
