A vibrant city steeped in history, Bangkok’s humid climate means that it only comes to life as the sun starts to set.
From bustling night markets to extravagant restaurants and an enviable bar scene, a night in Bangkok is always one to remember. Cruise down the Chao Phraya River past temples and palaces or take in breathtaking views from one of the city’s impressive rooftop bars.
Here are some of our recommendations for night-time activities in Bangkok.
DINNER AT SALA THAI, INDRA REGENT HOTEL
For an authentic Thai meal with a difference, head to the Indra Regent Hotel in the heart of Bangkok.
Located just minutes from the legendary Siam Square, this traditional hotel is perfectly located for a post-shopping meal.
The fourth floor is home to a teak pavilion, where you can enjoy authentic Thai cuisine. Evenings feature classical dance performances, accompanied by traditional Thai instruments for a truly authentic experience.
DRINKS AT VERTIGO AND MOON BAR
If you’re a fan of impressive views, look no further than Vertigo and Moon Bar in the district of Sathon.
Set 61 storeys high and part of the Banyan Tree Hotel, this outdoor venue offers stunning panoramas of the city. The space is split into high-end restaurant Vertigo and the Moon Bar, which juts out towards the impressive skyscrapers of Bangkok.
DINNER CRUISE ON THE CHAO PHRAYA RIVER
There is no better way to experience Bangkok by dark than by cruising the banks of its river.
Many luxury hotels offer dinner cruises along Chao Phraya, allowing you to take in historic landmarks such as the Temple of Dawn (Wat Arun) and the Grand Palace – spectacularly lit up at night.
Not only that, but most also offer a chance to enjoy a Thai buffet on a teakwood barge – as well as entertainment in the form of traditional music and dance. Dinner cruises from the Mandarin Oriental, Shangri-La and independent operator LoyNava all come highly recommended.
ASIATIQUE NIGHT MARKET
The newest of Bangkok’s bustling night markets, Asiatique features over 1,500 boutiques and 40 restaurants along the banks of the river.
Accessible via free shuttle boat from Taksin Bridge BTS station, this impressive new venue also features a fun cabaret show from Calypso Bangkok as well as the highest ferris wheel in Thailand.
ISSAYA SIAMESE CLUB
One of the most beautiful venues in Bangkok, Issaya Siamese Club in Sathorn is well worth a visit.
The restaurant of celebrity chef Ian Kittichai, it serves exquisite Thai food with a twist in sumptuous 1920s villa surroundings.
Chef Kittichai favors a farm-to-table approach, meaning that many ingredients come directly from the property’s own garden. Visitors can dine al fresco in lush tropical gardens or indoors, where there is a large private dining room and an old school members’ club vibe.
NAHM
Regularly rated as one of the best restaurants in Asia, the Metropolitan Hotel’s Nahm is a culinary experience not to be missed.
Chef David Thompson’s original London version was the first ever Thai restaurant to receive a Michelin star. At Bangkok’s Nahm the quality is equally impressive, with the added benefits of locally sourced produce and native surroundings. Diners can enjoy cuisine inspired by the ages, while gazing out at the hotel’s stunning outdoor pool.