Chiang Mai’s nightlife is a rich blend of trendy bars, lively music venues, and unforgettable experiences. Known for its serene temples and traditional culture by day, the city’s nighttime scene takes on a modern, energetic charm that attracts both locals and tourists. Nightlife in Chiang Mai has something for everyone: from rooftop lounges with panoramic views to bustling night markets and riverside dining. Let’s explore Chiang Mai’s best spots to enjoy an evening of excitement, great food, and the city’s incredible atmosphere.

Rooftop Bars

Chiang Mai’s rooftop bars are a perfect way to experience the city’s nightlife, offering incredible views of the skyline and surrounding mountains. Each rooftop spot brings a unique vibe and an impressive array of drinks, making them essential stops for any nightlife lover.

Myst Maya Rooftop Bar

Located atop the Maya Shopping Mall, Myst Maya Rooftop Bar is a premier destination for nightlife in Chiang Mai. With its sleek design, creative cocktails, and 360-degree city views, Myst Maya is an ideal spot to start or end your night. Popular with tourists and locals alike, it provides a chic atmosphere, perfect for socializing or a romantic night out.

XANADU Rooftop Bar

Situated at the Furama Hotel, XANADU Rooftop Bar offers an elegant, open-air setting with panoramic views of the city and distant mountains. The bar is known for its laid-back atmosphere and delicious cocktails, making it a favorite for couples and friends looking for a scenic, relaxing evening.

Night Markets

Night markets are an essential part of nightlife in Chiang Mai and one of the top things to do in Chiang Mai at night. Each evening, these bustling hubs fill the streets with lively stalls, enticing street food, and unique handcrafted items, creating an engaging cultural experience. The Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, located along Chang Klan Road, is one of the most popular markets, open from early evening until midnight. Here, visitors can shop for souvenirs, clothing, jewelry, and art, while enjoying delicious treats like grilled meat skewers, mango sticky rice, and northern Thai specialties. Saturday Walking Street on Wualai Road transforms into a pedestrian-friendly market every Saturday from 5 PM, offering an array of handmade crafts, silver jewelry, and local snacks like kanom krok (coconut pancakes) and crispy fried insects for adventurous foodies. For a Sunday experience, the Sunday Walking Street (Tha Pae Walking Street) on Ratchadamnoen Road runs from 4 PM until midnight, making it Chiang Mai’s largest night market. Famous for its vibrant ambiance, live performances, and wide selection of Lanna-style handicrafts and artwork, this market is perfect for spending an evening soaking up Chiang Mai’s creative energy.

Bars and Pubs

For anyone curious about what to do in Chiang Mai at night, the city’s bars and pubs present an exciting array of options, from casual craft beer spots to bustling nightclubs. Beer Lab Chiang Mai, situated on Nimmanhaemin Road, is a go-to for craft beer lovers, featuring a variety of local and international brews in a laid-back, cozy setting perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. Nearby, Warm Up Café has long been a staple of Chiang Mai’s nightlife. This popular venue offers multiple sections, each with its own atmosphere—from live band performances and DJ sets to an outdoor garden area, making it a top pick for socializing or dancing. Another popular choice, Infinity Club, is located close to the city center and boasts a modern design, dance floors, and a dynamic lineup of international DJs, making it ideal for those seeking a vibrant, late-night scene. These diverse bars and pubs highlight Chiang Mai’s dynamic nightlife, making it a fantastic destination for anyone looking to explore the city after dark.

Food & Dining

Chiang Mai’s food and dining scene is a vibrant mix of local street food, cozy riverside restaurants, and late-night markets that make the city a culinary haven after dark. For those wanting a true taste of Northern Thai cuisine, Warorot Market offers some of the city’s best local dishes like khao soi (a spicy coconut curry noodle soup) and sai ua (Chiang Mai’s famous herbal sausage), as well as a variety of snacks and desserts until late at night. Along the Ping River, Riverside Bar & Restaurant offers a relaxing atmosphere, pairing Thai and Western cuisine with nightly live music—a perfect setting for a leisurely evening by the water. Just next door, The Good View Bar and Restaurant serves up fresh seafood and Thai favorites in a lively ambiance, making it popular with larger groups and families.

If you’re looking for quick and authentic bites, Kad Rin Come Night Market near Chiang Mai University is bustling with food stalls, offering everything from grilled meats to local sweets like kanom krok (coconut pancakes). For dessert lovers, the Chang Phuak Gate Night Market is the place to try famous local treats like mango sticky rice, banana pancakes, and traditional Thai iced tea. Another great spot for late-night snacks is Nimmanhaemin Road, where trendy cafes and small eateries offer both Thai fusion dishes and international options well into the night. Whether you’re in search of upscale dining, quick street food, or unique local dishes, Chiang Mai’s food scene has something for everyone to savor after the sun sets.

Night Tours

For a unique way to experience nightlife in Chiang Mai, consider joining a night tour to explore the city from a new perspective.

Khantoke Dinner

For a unique way to experience nightlife in Chiang Mai, consider joining a night tour that offers a new perspective on the city after dark. One of the most culturally immersive options is a Khantoke Dinner. Held at traditional venues like Khum Khan Toke and the Chiang Mai Cultural Center, this dinner offers a feast of Northern Thai dishes served on a “Khantoke” tray while guests enjoy captivating Lanna-style dance and music performances. It’s an authentic way to experience the warmth of Thai culture and flavors in a single evening.

Chiang Mai Night Safari

The Chiang Mai Night Safari offers visitors a close-up look at nocturnal animals like tigers, leopards, and zebras in a safe, natural setting. Open from 6:30 PM, the safari includes tram rides through the park, giving guests a guided experience of the animal habitats. It’s an exciting way for families and wildlife enthusiasts to enjoy a night out in Chiang Mai.

Chiang Mai Tuk Tuk Night Tour

A tuk-tuk night tour is an excellent way to explore Chiang Mai’s landmarks, markets, and nightlife spots. These tours offer stops at temples, night markets, and scenic spots around the old city. Riding in a tuk-tuk with a local guide provides a fun, immersive experience of Chiang Mai’s vibrant nightlife and hidden gems.

Chiang Mai’s nightlife has something for everyone, from scenic rooftop bars and bustling night markets to vibrant clubs and riverside dining. The city’s unique blend of traditional and modern influences creates a captivating night scene where travelers can explore, dine, and enjoy Chiang Mai’s unforgettable charm.