Bangkok has been named the world’s best city for nightlife in 2026, but South Africa also has reason to celebrate, with Johannesburg securing a spot in the global top 10.
Johannesburg cityscape with Nelson Mandela bridge/By: COSMOS-120/Getty Images
The ranking, compiled by Time Out and reported by Euronews, surveyed more than 24,000 residents across 150 cities. Respondents rated their cities on factors including the quality and affordability of nightlife, sense of community, and how lively, welcoming, diverse and safe they feel after dark.
Johannesburg makes the global top 10
Johannesburg claimed seventh place, making it the highest-ranked African city on the list. It finished ahead of nightlife favourites including Brighton and Amsterdam.
The City of Gold was recognised for its constantly evolving after-dark scene, spanning warehouse clubs, Afro-house dance floors, live music venues, cocktail bars and neighbourhood pubs.
According to Time Out, Johannesburg also scored well for affordability, receiving a 66% affordability score. More significantly, 80% of local respondents said it was easy to find connection and community in the city.
The city’s nightlife ranges from established venues and dance floors to the bar and restaurant scenes in neighbourhoods such as Melville and Rosebank. Newtown and Gwigwi Mrwebi Street are also highlighted for their concentration of clubs and music venues.
Bangkok takes the top spot
Bangkok claimed first place, with 73% of residents describing the city’s nightlife as good or amazing.
The Thai capital was praised for its sheer variety, from rooftop bars and mega-clubs to street-side venues, late-night dining and LGBTQ+ nightlife.
Berlin came second, followed by New York City, Melbourne and São Paulo.
Medellín took sixth place, putting Johannesburg directly behind the Colombian city in the rankings.
Only three European cities make the top 10
Despite Europe’s reputation for legendary nightlife, only three European destinations made the top 10.
Berlin was the highest-ranked European city in second place, while Brighton came eighth and Amsterdam tenth.
Brighton stood out for its strong sense of community, with 84% of locals saying it is easy to meet people and feel part of the city. Its LGBTQ+ nightlife was also singled out for praise.
Amsterdam, meanwhile, was recognised for its bustling city-centre nightlife and reputation as an inclusive destination.
The 10 best cities for nightlife in 2026
- Bangkok, Thailand
- Berlin, Germany
- New York City, US
- Melbourne, Australia
- São Paulo, Brazil
- Medellín, Colombia
- Johannesburg, South Africa
- Brighton, UK
- Beijing, China
- Amsterdam, Netherlands
The ranking reflects more than just the number of clubs in a city. Time Out combined local sentiment with assessments from more than 100 editors and city experts, considering nightlife quality, affordability, community and the overall atmosphere after dark.
For South African travellers, Johannesburg’s seventh-place finish is a reminder that the country’s urban travel appeal doesn’t end when the sun goes down.
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