“If you came to Thailand and didn’t enjoy its nightlife, did you even come at all?”
And when it comes to Chiang Mai nightlife, this place isn’t far behind Bangkok or Phuket. In fact, it offers something even more unique- a perfect mix of charming and buzzing nightlife.
Chiang Mai has many things to do for every night owl. You can enjoy stylish rooftop bars in Nimman, listen to live jazz in the Old City, visit late-night clubs, or discover craft beer spots.
Whether you want to party till 2 AM or wind down with jazz and a drink, Chiang Mai’s nightlife scene is diverse, exciting, and full of surprises. It’s the kind of city where your night can start with a quiet dinner and end on a rooftop dance floor.
Best Areas to Enjoy Chiang Mai Nightlife
Whether you want to enjoy craft cocktails, listen to jazz music, or tap your feet to some jazz music. This land is a wonder that could make even a monk do a double-take and groove to some party music!
As you know, Chiang Mai is a cultural land. By day, it’s all about exploring the peaceful temples and peaceful vibes. But at nightfall, the city turns up the charm and lets you loose with its lively nightlife! Hunt down some irresistible street markets, or live up to those dreamy riverside views, Chiang Mai nightlife is the best!
So, grab your dancing shoes (or flip-flops), and let’s dive into the top spots that make Chiang Mai’s nightlife a total blast! Ready to explore? Let’s go!
Nimmanhaemin Road (Nimman)
Nimman changes into a lively, modern neighbourhood after dark. With twinkling lights, rooftop bars, and stylish cafes, it feels more like Bangkok’s trendy cousin. The streets buzz with energy, and you’ll often hear music drifting from open-air venues.
Nimman is the hub of trendy nightlife, known for chic rooftop bars, craft beer spots, and lounges with a modern vibe.
Things to Do:
- Grab a cocktail at Myst or Rise Rooftop Bar
- Explore beer selections at Beer Lab
- Try fusion food in trendy eateries
- Enjoy DJ sets or live bands
Nimman gives you a cosmopolitan nightlife experience. It’s perfect if you enjoy stylish bars, people-watching, and modern Thai culture in a vibrant setting.
Old City
As darkness falls, the Old City glows with golden temple lights, street performers, and backpacker-friendly bars. It’s more relaxed, with a mix of Thai culture and international traveller vibes.
This area is best known for relaxed bars, reggae music, and cheap drinks. It’s a hotspot for solo travellers and groups looking to meet others in a chill setting.
Things to Do:
- Watch live jazz at North Gate Jazz Co-Op
- Bar-hop around Zoe in Yellow
- Shop at Sunday Night Walking Street Market
- Enjoy local food at late-night stalls
The Old City has a relaxed, friendly vibe with a combination of Thai culture and youthful energy. Great for budget-conscious travellers and night owls alike.
Loi Kroh Road
Loi Kroh Road lights up with neon signs, lively bars, and streets. You’ll hear upbeat music and see people moving between venues. It’s busy and full of action, especially after 9 pm.
This is Chiang Mai’s answer to a party street, with sports bars, live music venues, and the city’s red-light zone. It’s bold, busy, and unapologetically fun.
Things to Do:
- Visit Boy Blues Bar for live music
- Sip cold beers in open-air bars
- Play pool and catch sports matches
- Walk to the Night Bazaar for snacks and shopping
Loi Kroh offers an upbeat, high-energy atmosphere. It’s ideal for those looking for a late-night out with a mix of entertainment, drinks, and people-watching.
Riverside Area
The Riverside area is peaceful and scenic after sunset. Lights shimmer on the water, which creates a romantic and serene atmosphere to enjoy the night.
This area is known for live jazz, riverside dining, and romantic bars. It’s a more refined side of Chiang Mai nightlife, perfect for couples or those looking for something quiet and intimate.
Things to Do:
- Dine with a view at The Riverside Restaurant & Bar
- Enjoy live music with cocktails
- Walk along the riverbank under lantern-lit trees
- Take a Ping River dinner cruise
The Riverside offers a charming, slower-paced evening, perfect for honeymoon couples. It’s also ideal for anyone who prefers good conversation, scenic views, and relaxed surroundings.
Best Night Markets to Enjoy Chiang Mai Nightlife
Chiang Mai comes alive after sunset- not just with bars and nightclubs, but with vibrant, colourful night markets that are perfect for walking, shopping, and sampling local street food.
If you enjoy good food, love finding great deals, or like to take evening walks, these night markets have something for you. They offer tasty street food, unique things to buy on sale, and a lively atmosphere that everyone can enjoy.
Let’s explore the best night markets in Chiang Mai and what makes each one special.
Chiang Mai Night Bazaar
The Chiang Mai Night Bazaar is one of the oldest markets in the city. After sunset, this area on Chang Klan Road turns into a lively stretch of stalls, lights, music, and smells that fill the air.
It’s busy but full of energy, and it stays open late. Known for its mix of tourist-friendly shopping and street food, this market is perfect for first-time visitors.
Things to buy:
- Handcrafted souvenirs
- Imitation brand-name clothing
- Thai silk scarves and bags
- Handmade jewellery
- Paintings and lanterns
Timings: 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM
Sunday Night Walking Street (Ratchadamnoen Road)
On Sundays, Ratchadamnoen Road in the Old City turns into a pedestrian-only zone, filled with hundreds of vendors and live performers. The atmosphere is electric yet peaceful, with soft music, the aroma of food, and a blend of locals and tourists enjoying the evening.
This is the most famous market in Chiang Mai, and it is a must-visit destination for its authentic local vibe, unique handmade goods, and affordable food options.
What to buy:
- Artisan crafts and handmade jewellery
- Soap carvings, candles, and natural products
- Local art and woven goods
- Ethnic hill tribe clothing and textiles
- Sticky Mango Rice and Pad Thai
Timings: 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Saturday Night Market (Wua Lai Road)
Quieter than the Sunday market, the Saturday Night Market on Wua Lai Road is just as charming. The street is lit with hanging lanterns, and the relaxed pace makes it perfect for those who don’t like crowds.
Known for its silverware, handmade goods, and a more local, authentic feel. This market has fewer tourists, making it great for peaceful browsing.
What to buy:
- Silver jewellery and ornaments
- Handmade leather products
- Carved wooden crafts
- Ethnic clothing and scarves
- Fresh coconut ice cream and Thai snacks
Timings: 4:00 PM to 10:30 PM
Ploen Ruedee Night Market
Ploen Ruedee is a night market with a more premier feel. It offers a modern atmosphere and an international vibe. Think of it as a food park with music, drinks, and global cuisine. The lights, live bands, and open-air seating make it a perfect place to hang out.
This market offers international street food, live music, and a relaxed atmosphere, making it perfect for a night out with friends.
What to buy:
- Thai and Western food (burgers, tacos, sushi)
- Local craft beer and cocktails
- Handmade bags and T-shirts
- Small souvenirs and gifts
Timings: 5:00 PM to Midnight
Cultural Shows to Enjoy Chiang Mai Nightlife
If you need a lovely escape from the usual bar crawl in Chiang Mai, consider trading your cocktail for a cultural cocktail instead! A meaningful and relaxing way to spend your evening in Chiang Mai is to watch a traditional cultural show.
Watching a traditional show is like taking a fun trip through Northern Thailand’s culture. The performance includes impressive dance moves, lovely music, and colourful costumes that could make a peacock jealous!
Then, pair that with some delicious local cuisine, and you’ve turned an ordinary evening into an extraordinary feast for the senses.
Who needs a dance floor when you can have a stage full of culture? Here are two of the best places to enjoy cultural shows as part of your Chiang Mai nightlife.
Khantoke Dinner & Dance
The Khantoke Dinner experience gives you a taste of Lanna tradition. Guests sit on floor cushions, enjoy a platter of local dishes, and watch elegant dance performances.
The show features classic Northern Thai dances like the Fingernail Dance, Candle Dance, and Sword Dance. The setting is warm and welcoming, making you feel like a guest in a Thai home.
Highlights:
- Authentic Northern Thai dinner served Khantoke-style
- Live traditional music and dance
- Beautiful costumes and stage settings
- Ideal for families and couples
Time: 7:00 PM
Tip: Book in advance, as it’s a popular cultural attraction
Old Chiang Mai Cultural Centre
One of the oldest and most respected venues for cultural shows, the Old Chiang Mai Cultural Centre offers a truly captivating experience. This is where the modern concept of Khantoke dinner was first introduced to the public in the 1970s.
The show features Lanna dances, tribal performances, and even sword-fighting displays- all inside a beautifully designed open-air hall. The centre also includes a local market where you can shop for handmade crafts before the performance.
Highlights:
- Historic venue with deep cultural roots
- A variety of performances from different Northern Thai tribes
- The Thai food buffet (included)
- Best for cultural lovers and first-time tourists
Time: 7:00 PM
Tip: Arrive early to explore the small craft stalls and take photos
Pubs, Clubs and Rooftop Bars to Enjoy Chiang Mai Nightlife
If you’re in Chiang Mai and skip Pubs, Clubs and Rooftop Bars, did you even really experience the soul of the city? To taste the ultimate fun and Chiang Mai nightlife, let’s take a look at the best renowned pubs, clubs and rooftop bars.
Thapae East
Best for: Live music, outdoor seating, art events
This venue was once a creative warehouse. Now, it is a community hub for artists and musicians. Every night feels like a relaxed festival.
Located near Thapae Gate, Thapae East is not an average bar. Here you can enjoy music, drinks, and creativity in one cosy corner. With its rustic vibe and vibrant energy, it’s a favourite among locals and indie music lovers.
You can catch live performances from local bands, enjoy poetry nights, or simply sip a drink in a relaxed setting.
Time: 06:00 pm to Midnight
Boy Blues Bar
Best for: Live band performances, rooftop-style deck, drinks menu
Boy, the owner, plays blues guitar. He is a self-taught guitarist and performs almost every night. He often invites audience members to play along with the band.
If you love live music, Boy Blues Bar is a must-visit. Located on the upper floor of the Kalare Night Bazaar, this venue is one of the most well-known blues bars in town. As the name suggests, blues and rock tunes fill the air every night.
Boy himself often performs on stage, and the crowd enjoys it. It’s a chilled-out bar with a heart and soul, meant for anyone who appreciates good music in a friendly setting.
Time: 07:00 pm to Midnight
North Gate Jazz Co-Op
Best for: Live jazz, casual vibe, street-side seating
It began as a small local jazz experiment and has since evolved into a Chiang Mai institution, frequently featured in international jazz travel guides.
No Chiang Mai nightlife guide is complete without mentioning North Gate Jazz Co-Op. This bar is legendary among jazz lovers. From the moment the band starts, the place comes alive with rhythm and soul.
It’s a small venue, often packed, but that’s part of the charm. You can grab a cold beer, stand outside if it’s full, and still feel the magic of the music.
Time: 06:00 pm to Midnight
Rise Rooftop Bar
Best for: Rooftop pool, craft cocktails, stylish lounge seating
The bar shares its rooftop with an infinity pool, meaning you can sip a cocktail just metres away from swimmers enjoying panoramic views of Doi Suthep mountain.
Rise Rooftop Bar, perched atop Akyra Manor Chiang Mai, offers a premium experience with its rooftop pool and panoramic city views. It’s a relaxed yet classy spot to unwind after a day of exploring.
The bartenders here are known for their craft, and the music is always on point. Whether you’re there for date night or just some solo chill time, it’s an excellent place to sip and relax.
Time: 04:30 pm to 11:00 pm
Xanadu Rooftop
Best for: Live music (on weekends), mountain and city views, Thai and Western menu
Its name, “Xanadu,” comes from the mythical paradise, and the bar lives up to it with one of the only full 360-degree views in Chiang Mai.
Xanadu Rooftop Bar is on top of the Furama Hotel and offers 360-degree views of Chiang Mai. It’s a calm place with a relaxed and romantic atmosphere, unlike the trendier bars in the area.
It’s perfect for unwinding with a glass of wine while watching the sun dip behind the mountains. Plus, the spacious terrace means you never feel crowded.
Time: 05:30 pm to Midnight
Warm Up Cafe
Best for: Live music, DJs, outdoor and indoor zones, food service
Despite being a club, it’s also a restaurant during the day, so you can literally stay from dinner to the dance floor without changing venues.
Warm Up Cafe is an energetic nightclub in Chiang Mai, popular with Thai students and younger crowds, featuring multiple rooms that play EDM, hip-hop, and live Thai pop bands.
If you’re looking for high-energy nightlife, this is the place. Arrive early, as it fills up fast, especially on weekends.
Time: 06:00 pm to 01:00 am
Beer Lab
Best for: 100+ beer choices, sports screens, casual dining
Beer Lab offers one of the largest selections of imported and local craft beers in Northern Thailand, with over 100 different labels changing each month!
Located in the Nimman area, Beer Lab is a casual yet lively bar with a huge selection of international and Thai craft beers. It’s ideal for beer lovers who want to enjoy a chilled-out evening with friends or start the night before heading to a club.
You’ll also find plenty of food options here, from burgers to bar snacks, making it a solid all-rounder.
Time: 05:00 pm to Midnight
My Beer Friend
Best for: In-house brewing, friendly staff, food pairings
This Chiang Mai-based craft brewery started as a two-person garage project and now supplies unique brews to bars all over Thailand.
For something more intimate and local, try My Beer Friend. This microbrewery and bar is all about quality over quantity. Tucked in the Santitham neighbourhood, it offers a rotating selection of craft beers made in-house.
It’s casual and friendly, and it offers a real experience of Chiang Mai’s growing craft beer scene.
Time: 05:00 pm to 11:00 pm
Chiang Mai Exclusives to Enjoy Nightlife
Looking for something different to do after dark in Chiang Mai? While bars and markets are great, the city also offers exclusive and unique nightlife activities that you won’t find anywhere else in Thailand. No matter if you love wellness, adventure activities, or culture, there’s something special for you when the sun sets.
Night Temple Walk- Wat Chedi Luang or Wat Phra Singh
As night falls, ancient temples like Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Phra Singh become peaceful, softly-lit sanctuaries. The crowds disappear, leaving behind silence and golden glows from lanterns and floodlights.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Serene, crowd-free atmosphere
- Perfect for night photography
- Peaceful setting for reflection or solo meditation
- Great insight into local Buddhist culture
Best Time: After 8:00 PM for a quieter experience
Tip: Wear respectful attire and bring a camera!
Chiang Mai Night Safari
Unlike a typical zoo, the Chiang Mai Night Safari lets you explore wildlife after dark. Ride through open enclosures and get up close to giraffes, zebras, and even tigers under moonlight. And you know, it is one of the best things to do in Chiang Mai for kids, adults and everyone.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Nighttime tram ride through wildlife zones
- Animal feeding stations and shows
- Kid-friendly and fun for all ages
- A rare chance to see nocturnal animals in action
Time: 5:30 PM to 10:00 PM
Tip: Go early to catch the sunset over the park.
Late-Night Thai Massage
Chiang Mai is famous for its massages, and many parlours stay open until midnight or later. Whether you’re winding down from a hike or just want to treat yourself, a late-night Thai massage is the perfect way to relax.
Fah Lanna, Makkha Health & Spa (Night Bazaar branch), and Srimantra Spa are a few spas in Chiang Mai that offer Thai massages late into the evening or midnight.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Affordable and deeply relaxing
- Great for sore feet after a day of exploring
- Options for Thai, oil, foot, and shoulder massages
- Many places open till midnight
Time: 9:00 AM to Midnight (varies by location)
Tip: Look for well-rated, clean, professional parlours.
Nighttime Yoga or Meditation Class
Relax your body and mind with an evening yoga or meditation class. Some studios and wellness centres in Chiang Mai offer special sessions after sunset for a peaceful end to your day.
The Yoga centres and wellness retreats to visit in Chiang Mai at night are Suan Sati, Aleenta Retreat Chiang Mai, and Chiang Mai Holistic.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Calm, spiritual experience in a tranquil space
- Often includes candlelight or sound healing
- Great for solo travellers seeking inner peace
- Helps beat travel fatigue and jet lag
Time: Usually between 6:30 PM to 9:00 PM
Tip: Check class schedules online and pre-book your spot.
Night Bouldering or Indoor Rock Climbing at Chiang Mai Rock Climbing Adventure (CMRCA)
Want a dose of adrenaline after dark? Chiang Mai Rock Climbing Adventure (CMRCA) offers indoor bouldering and climbing facilities that stay open into the evening.
Reasons why you should take a chance to try this thrilling activity at CMRCA. They have been a trusted leader in local tourism for more than ten years. Even their guides are trained to AMGA (American Mountain Guide Association) standards to ensure tourists’ safety.
Why You’ll Love It:
- A fun, active alternative to bar-hopping
- Safe indoor setting with beginner-friendly walls
- Welcoming the climbing community
- Good option during rainy nights
Time: 9 AM- 8:30 PM
Tip: Wear comfy workout clothes; gear is available to rent.
Conclusion
Chiang Mai has a lively nightlife with many options. You can visit buzzing night markets, riverside bars, live music lounges, or enjoy rooftop views. Whether you want a relaxing evening soaking up Thai culture or a fun night of dancing, Chiang Mai has something for everyone..
So, why wait? Let us help you craft the perfect Chiang Mai adventure- nightlife included! Get in touch with our travel experts today and start planning your unforgettable trip to Thailand.
Book your Chiang Mai experience now- your perfect night out is just a flight away!
Frequently Asked Questions About Chiang Mai Nightlife
What is Chiang Mai nightlife like?
Chiang Mai nightlife is a mix of local charm and lively spots. You’ll find night markets, rooftop bars, live music venues, and even traditional cultural shows- perfect for all types of travellers.
Is Chiang Mai safe at night?
Yes, Chiang Mai is generally very safe at night, especially in popular areas like the Old City, Nimmanhaemin, and near the Night Bazaar. As with any city, keep a close eye on your belongings and stick to well-lit areas.
Are there nightclubs in Chiang Mai?
There are a few nightclubs, but the city is more known for its casual bar scene and live music. Places like Zoe in Yellow and Warm Up Café are popular with locals and travellers alike.
What time do bars and clubs close in Chiang Mai?
Most bars close around midnight to 1 am, though some venues stay open later. Always check ahead, as hours may vary depending on local regulations and seasonal changes.
Do I need to dress up for a night out in Chiang Mai?
Not at all – the vibe is relaxed. Casual, comfortable clothing is perfectly fine in most places, though some rooftop bars may appreciate smart-casual attire.
