Bangkok has a reputation as one of the world’s best cities for nightlife — a reputation that, for the most part, is completely deserved. 2017 was a busy year for nightlife in Bangkok and 2018 is on track to be even busier, with the usual areas retaining their charm and popularity, plus a growing number of new nightlife hotspots popping up throughout the city.

Nana and Asoke

Nana and Asoke are much the same in 2018 as they were last year, with the usual action at Nana Plaza and Soi Cowboy still the major draws for visitors. Nana has a more modern, upmarket feel than in recent years thanks to redevelopment and renovations, while Soi Cowboy offers the same fun it always has. The lower Sukhumvit area has also benefited from a lot of new hotels open, many of which are guest friendly. You can check these hotels for pricing and guest friendly information at GirlFriendlyHotelsBangkok.com. Prices are slightly up from the last few years, with beers from 80 to 180 baht depending on the location (expect to pay slightly more at Soi Cowboy, and slightly less at Nana) and bar fines much the same as previous years. All in all, lower Sukhumvit’s nightlife scene is still going strong and offers a lot of entertainment at prices that, while rising, are still very affordable.

Thonglor

Thonglor is much the same as the last few years — a great mix of upmarket bars, clubs and other watering holes. Most of the action here is still concentrated along Thonglor Soi 10, where electro and early morning parties are the norm. A great option if you’ve got the budget for 300+ baht cocktails and don’t mind a slightly more snooty, pretentious atmosphere. The best place to find Bangkok’s young, rich and interesting people.

Silom

Silom still has all of its old favorites, from rooftop bars like Sirocco and Vertigo to Irish pubs, night markets and other entertainment options. While Patpong isn’t as much of a draw as its counterparts in Sukhumvit, it’s still going strong, with a good variety of go-go bars plus the usual mix of unique options like BarBar. You can still find most of Bangkok’s gay nightlife in this area, with well over 20 options on Soi 4, Soi 2 and Soi Twilight, the latter serving as Silom’s gay equivalent to Nana Plaza or Soi Cowboy.

Ratchada

Ratchada is as exciting as ever, provided you have good enough Thai skills and local know-how to make your way around in an environment where Westerners aren’t the target audience. Most of the action here can be found around Huai Kwang MRT, where a variety of bars and massage parlors run along the main road until the Sutthisan MRT station. A fun place to visit if you’re tired of the nightlife around Sukhumvit and want a more local-focused feel.