By Expedia Globetrotters, on November 3, 2014

5 best places to party in Bangkok

Over the years, Bangkok has gained a reputation as a global nightlife destination. Few cities scream party more than Bangkok, with its plethora of rooftop bars, exclusive clubs, live music venues and great parties. If you’re heading to Bangkok and are looking for a good time, you’re sure to find it in one of these top-rated venues. All-out club scene or just a laid-back jazz bar, here are some cool bars to check out in Bangkok.

Levels Club & Lounge

Levels Club & Lounge is located in the Sukhumvit area of Bangkok, a neighbourhood well-known for its nightlife options. Levels has a classy vibe consistent with what you’d find in any respectable lounge, according to Bangkok Magazine, but it also offers a clubbing area with spectacular sound and lighting.

Two separate dance floors offer multiple options: Bed Supperclub, located on the sixth floor, houses an outdoor bar and lounge area complete with seating and a balcony, while Levels Club proper boasts two dance areas for those who’d rather move. World-class DJs and artists such as Markus Schulz, DJ Aqeel, Todd Terry, Riva Starr and Boy George have performed at the venue in recent years.

Slim/Flix

Located on Royal City Avenue (known by locals as RCA), Slim/Flix is a nightclub duo that hosts some of Bangkok’s biggest parties.

Vibrant lighting, black leather sofas and elegant chandeliers create an upscale vibe throughout the space, which is incredibly big – but not big enough to hold the overflowing crowds that flock here on Friday and Saturday nights. Flix spins house tunes, while Slim plays mostly hip hop and R&B tunes, according to Lonely Planet.

Cloud 47

Want to enjoy panoramic views of Bangkok? Head to Cloud 47, one of the most popular rooftop bars in the city. The establishment is located on Silom Road, close to the Patpong Night Market, making it a great place to stop after browsing the stands. Gorgeous lighting and floor-to-ceiling windows cast a romantic vibe over the bar, all while allowing for breathtaking views of the city skyline. Cloud 47 also has an extensive wine list and some food options should you get the munchies.

Sky Train Jazz Club

The Victory Monument area of Bangkok has plenty of laid-back pubs and music venues. However, Sky Train Jazz Club isn’t actually known for its music – it’s known as one of the most affordable places to grab a drink in the city. You can head to the rooftop bar for great views and a good time, but don’t expect an upscale vibe – Sky Train Jazz Club has more of a hipster, whimsical feel. You can also enjoy a delicious Thai meal while you’re here.

Saxophone Pub

If you’re looking for some live music, Saxophone Pub is where you want to go. This jazz-centric music venue is also located in the Victory Monument area, and features live music and a healthy dose of cultural appeal.

In business since 1987, the pub boasts two floors, an extensive menu of Thai cuisine, Japanese-style seating and a well-stocked cocktail bar. A number of prominent local jazz artists have taken the stage here, including the T-Bone Band, Koh Mr. Saxman, The Emergency and JRP Little Band. In fact, the establishment is so well-loved it’s been named Best Music Venue, Best Pub in Asia, and Best Pub in Thailand by Best Bangkok Dining and Entertainment Macazine, AsiaExpat.com and Metro Magazine, respectively.

As you can see, Bangkok’s nightlife isn’t just one-size-fits-all. There are plenty of diverse options scattered throughout the city, so you can tailor your night of partying in Bangkok however you please. Just try not to wake up like they did in the Hangover movie.