Time Out magazine has published a ranking of the world's best cities for nightlife in 2024. The city of Rio de Janeiro is at the top of the list. Find out more about other cities with the best nightlife in the world

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In 2024, Time Out magazine ranked the best cities in the world for nightlife, and Rio de Janeiro topped the list. The second place was taken by Manila, which was noted as the “most affordable city” in this ranking. The top 10 also includes Austin in Texas and Manchester in the UK.

The ranking was based on a survey of thousands of locals who rated their nightlife on several criteria: quality, accessibility, and favorite venues and experiences in their city.

Time Out travel editor Grace Beard noted that nightlife has changed significantly over the past few years. Club closures and the shift to remote work have jeopardized the future of nightlife, but cities have adapted to the new realities. Instead of the superclubs that used to dominate the nightlife scene, music bars, underground raves, and outdoor events are now taking center stage.

Sober clubs are growing in popularity, and country music is taking over dance floors in the US and the UK. Particularly interesting in the new Time Out list are cities where parties are held barefoot.

Local residents were also asked to assess the cost of nightlife in their cities, as nothing spoils an evening like high entrance prices or expensive drinks.

After analyzing the survey results, a list of cities with the highest scores was compiled. Some of them have long been known for their nightlife, while others are just starting to gain popularity. Regardless of which city you choose from this list, each of them promises an unforgettable nightlife adventure. So get ready to dance: these are the best places for nightlife in 2024.

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1. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Rio de Janeiro, the city where the world-famous Rio Carnival takes place, deservedly took first place in the ranking of the best cities for nightlife. Nightlife here received a 90 percent rating for quality and high accessibility. The bustling seaside city attracts tourists from all over the world. What makes nightlife in Rio so special? The answer to this question can be found in the numerous bohemian bars of Lapa, live music, dance halls, and open-air samba parties that take place spontaneously and continuously.

Nightclubs in Rio de Janeiro are no longer the main places for recreation, giving way to more informal establishments. In the Botafogo neighborhood, popular restaurants such as Alba and Vian Cocktail Bar turn into dance floors on weekends, where entertainment lasts until the morning. After the pandemic, the city's streets have been filled with new life, and nightlife has become even more lively.

From the Gloria neighborhood to Rio de Janeiro's port area, the sounds of samba can be heard at every turn, attracting a diverse crowd. Morro do Pinto is becoming an increasingly popular destination, and Lapa continues to retain its bohemian charm. Bar da Cachaça and Beco do Rato remain favorite party spots, and the new Suru bar quickly gained popularity for its Brazilian cocktails and incredible atmosphere, attracting large crowds every night.

2. Manila, Philippines

Manila was ranked second in the ranking of the best cities for nightlife due to its accessibility and versatility. An evening in Manila will not be a big strain on your budget, which makes this city the most economical option in the ranking. The nightlife here received 78% of the points, and locals described it as “incredible”, “vibrant” and “alive”.

Manila is notable for its nightly food markets, such as Divisoria, where you can find anything you want, as well as the lively Poblacion and Bonifacio Global City neighborhoods, which are centers of nightlife.

Local writer Joaquin Hernandez notes that Manila's nightlife can easily compete with such famous places as Hong Kong and Thailand. He lives in the Salcedo Village neighborhood, where L.P. Leviste Street is located, which Time Out magazine called one of the coolest in the world. It is home to many restaurants and bars, including Papillon, which serves modern Asian cuisine and cocktails until the wee hours of the morning.

Other popular venues include the Pablo Bistro at the Picasso Hotel, which is especially lively on Friday nights, and the new Uma Nota restaurant at the BGC, which turns into a bar at night with live music and dancing. And the trendy Cheshire speakeasy in Poblacion offers unique cocktails presented on the menu in the form of a card deck.

3. Berlin, Germany

Berlin has always been known for its legendary club scene, where techno parties and round-the-clock entertainment reign supreme. In a study of European nightlife cities, Berlin was ranked highest, receiving 82% for nightlife quality and 48% for accessibility. Locals and visitors alike continue to rave about the iconic Tresor and Matrix clubs, as well as the lively Friedrichshain and Warschauer Strasse streets, which are the centers of nightlife.

The last few years have been challenging for Berlin's nightlife, with some favorite spots like Neukölln's Loophole forced to close. However, as Berlin-based writer Anna Geary-Meyer notes, the city is constantly recovering and finding new forms of expression. Street raves, which are organized spontaneously and spread by word of mouth, have become popular again. The former Griessmühle team opened a new club called RSO, which hosts high-quality techno parties that attract the attention of electronic music lovers.

Berlin also offers softer and healthier alternatives to traditional clubs. For example, Fandango's weekly beach parties on the banks of the Plötzensee draw crowds, and Kwia, an ambient music bar, offers visitors to relax without shoes, creating a unique atmosphere.

And, of course, the legendary Berghain remains a symbol of Berlin's club culture. Despite rumors that its popularity is declining, this club with a new sound system continues to be an ideal place for Saturday night dancing.

4. Guadalajara, Mexico

Guadalajara, the capital of the region that gave the world mariachi music and tequila, is a real center of nightlife, where the atmosphere of celebration always reigns. Locals highly rated their city's nightlife, giving it 92% for quality, the highest score of any city in the ranking. Although the affordability of housing here received only 28%, this does not prevent Guadalajara from remaining one of the most attractive vacation destinations.

Among the best locations for nightlife is the Espiatorio, or Tory, as it is called by the locals. This is a place with a more relaxed and cozy atmosphere than traditional club districts. Here you can enjoy impromptu salsa dances in the square, visit numerous bars with unique character and taste local food in stalls that are open until late at night.

You can start a great evening in Espiatorio with a cold cerveza at the rooftop bar El Cardenal, which offers incredible views of the city, and end it with a burrito from the stalls near the church. If you want to continue the night with dancing, join the locals at 1er Piso, a jazz bar located near the university campus. It's a place where live music and a warm atmosphere capture the true spirit of Guadalajara.

5. Austin, USA

Austin, the capital of Texas, has long been known as the world capital of live music, and deservedly took first place among all US cities in the nightlife ranking. In our survey, local residents highly appreciated the quality of nightlife in the city, giving Austin the third highest score for this indicator. The lively streets of 6th Street and Congress Avenue are the most admired, becoming the centers of evening entertainment.

Austin is a city where summer can last for six months, and nightlife is especially important due to the hot climate. As local resident Jillian Anthony notes, on Friday nights, many residents head to Barton Springs, a huge pool of cool fresh water that stays at 68 degrees all year round. Not only is this place popular for relaxing, but it is also considered one of the most romantic date pools in Austin.

After cooling off in Barton Springs, it's time to head to one of the most popular clubs in the city - Cheer Up Charlie's. People of different orientations gather here to enjoy drag shows, Saltburn parties, and hot dancing under the stars. The club's atmosphere is friendly and open to everyone, making it a unique place for a night out.

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6. Lagos, Nigeria

Lagos, the largest city in Nigeria, is known for its deep musical roots, in particular Afrobeat, which has conquered dance floors around the world. Not surprisingly, this city received a high score for the quality of nightlife, scoring 80%. Lagos also remains fairly affordable for locals, scoring 48% for this indicator.

This year, Lagos' nightlife has taken on a special thematic focus, dedicated to both the city's history and future. According to local writer Ade Adeniji, the city witnessed numerous events honoring Lagos' cultural heritage. One such event was the citywide celebration of Nobel laureate Wole Soyinka's 90th birthday, which took place in Freedom Park, where live music was played throughout the night.

Familiar venues such as Freedom Park and The House on Victoria Island are now the centers of new, exciting nightlife events. For example, The House hosts Sunday salsa nights and networking events, and Odyssey House has become a place to explore the new trend of Afro-house music.

In addition, during Pride Month, the Francis Fola Ball was held in honor of the late model Fola Francis, who became the first transgender model at Lagos Fashion Week. This event not only revitalized the city's ball culture, but also honored an important figure in its history.

7. Rotterdam, the Netherlands

Rotterdam, the second largest city in the Netherlands, is known for its high availability of nightlife, ranking second among other cities. Locals point to the industrial club Maassilo and the dance club Annabel as their favorite places to hang out. Although the city's techno and club scene have earned attention, Rotterdam's nightlife is most often described as “laid back.”

What makes Rotterdam's nightlife special? It's not concentrated in one neighborhood, but spread throughout the city. The Witte de Witstraat, for example, is known for its cafes, restaurants, and bars, but every corner and canal of the city has something interesting. Regardless of the weather, terraces such as the Biergarten are always crowded with people enjoying “biertjes” - small portions of beer that are an integral part of the Dutch nightlife.

Especially worth paying attention to are the Kaapse Brouwers bars, each of which has its own unique atmosphere and offers its own beer. Rotterdam is also one of the most LGBTQ+ friendly cities in the Netherlands. One of the best places to hang out here is the Ferry bar, which combines early 2000s music with endless pride parties.

8. Manchester, UK

Manchester, one of the most vibrant cities in the UK, has a nightlife that leaves an unforgettable experience. Local residents rated the quality of entertainment in the city at 80%, although accessibility did not receive such high marks, scoring only 28%. Mancunians particularly note the “inclusiveness” and “diversity” of local clubs and bars, which are often described as “bubbly” and “fun”.

Manchester's nightlife is always on the move and evolving. As writer Ian Jones notes, the city's growth has led to the emergence of new clubs, but not all of them meet high standards. Real clubbers avoid corporate places with high prices, preferring establishments reminiscent of early raves. The most interesting evenings take place in hidden places, such as Hidden or The White Hotel, located in industrial zones.

The central part of the city is not far behind: here you can find events in the basements and back rooms of new clubs such as Peste, DBA, and N/OM. In addition, long-standing establishments such as Soup Kitchen, Star & Garter, and Eagle Inn continue to maintain the spirit of the old days with a friendly atmosphere geared toward the queer community.

9. Budapest, Hungary

Budapest is famous for its vibrant nightlife, which offers many options for evening entertainment. Locals have a hard time picking a single favorite spot, as the city has many popular clubs and bars, such as Budapest Park, Remix, Instant-Fogas, CAT, BOB, Peaches and Cream, and Morrison's 2. This shows that the Hungarian capital is literally overflowing with opportunities for a great time. With an 80% quality score, Budapest's nightlife is rightly considered one of the best in Europe.

Recently, a new wave of nightclubs has emerged in the city, characterized by a luxurious atmosphere and stunning views. As Budapest-based writer Peterjohn Cresswell notes, these establishments are often located on the rooftops of lifestyle hotels and iconic buildings, such as Aria, 360, and the new Cloud IX, opened by Australian band TRIBE. Famous venues such as A38 Boat also make the most of the beauty of Budapest's cityscape to organize DJ sets and parties.

These panoramic venues are especially attractive in the summer, when they provide relief from the heat, and in winter they become even cozier with the installation of igloos and the addition of warm seasonal drinks. 

10. Buenos Aires, Argentina

Buenos Aires is a real mecca for those who love nightlife. With its traditional tango clubs, late-night theaters, and lively boliches (nightclubs) where the fun lasts until dawn, this city is rightfully considered one of the best places in the world to party. Nightlife here received a high score of 72%, although low accessibility - only 4% - slightly lowered its position in the ranking.

Buenos Aires really comes to life after sunset. Just take a walk along Avenida Corrientes at 10 pm to feel the energy of the city. Among the modern bars, Mixtape, the first bar for listening to music in Barrio Chino, Punta Mona, opened by the famous bartender Moni Gallosi in Chacarita, and the cozy Al Fondo Bar, hidden at the end of a restaurant in the Nunez district, stand out. Also worth visiting is CoChinChinaBar, which was included in the list of the 50 best bars in the world.

In recent years, Buenos Aires' nightlife has been taken over by themed fiestas that are characterized by a relaxed, inclusive atmosphere. Among the most popular events are the iconic Polenta and Bresh, Club de la Serpiente, and parties at Casa Brandon, the center of the LGBTQ+ community. No less interesting are PAN Percusión, where dancing is accompanied by sign language, and Ecstatic Dance, where talking and wearing shoes are prohibited.

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