TOP Cities with the Best Nightlife in the World

Some of the world's most iconic cities come alive when the lights go down. From the city of lights to the city that never sleeps, here's a list of the world's best cities at night.

Buenos Aires, Argentina

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Buenos Aires is a city of big meals, late dinners and even late drinks. A night out in the Argentine capital is not for the faint-hearted, with Portenos (as the locals are known) often hitting the bars and clubs well after midnight. The Palermo neighbourhood is the city's best nightlife hotspot, home to trendy cultural hubs, pubs, mural-adorned bars and boliches (nightclubs) such as Niceto, El Quetzal and Verne Cocktail Club. You can party in Buenos Aires seven nights a week, with Mondays reserved for La Bomba de Tiempo ('The Time Bomb'), a raucous percussion night at Ciudad Cultural Konex.

Nighttime entertainment: live music, traditional dancing
Top 3 Nightlife Districts: La Boca, Palermo, Puerto Madero
3 places not to be missed: Crobar (Palermo), Mundo bizarro (Palermo), 878 (Palermo)

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

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In addition to hosting the biggest and most spectacular Carnival in Brazil, Rio de Janeiro is also home to live music and a thriving underground music scene. If you're planning a trip to the city, don't miss the major music event called Rock in Rio, or time your visit during Carnival to see the extravagant costumes that adorn the city in its famous parade.

Nighttime entertainment: live music, street parties
Top 3 nightlife areas: Ipanema, Lapa, Flamengo y Botafogo
3 places not to be missed: Pedra do Sal (Saude), Circo Voador (Lapa), Barra Music (Anil)

Tokyo, Japan

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In Tokyo, you can start your evening at a karaoke bar before heading to the futuristic club scene that is so prevalent in the city. The swirling neon lights, nightclubs and quirky shows make Tokyo one of the most exciting nightlife destinations.

Tokyo's cosmopolitan spirit is reflected in its nightlife. Visitors can find everything from live music to traditional Japanese Kabuki shows. Music lovers can opt for Sweet Basil 139, an upscale jazz club, or for a more colourful experience, head to Kamiya Bar, the city's oldest Western-style bar. The bar is home to Denki Bran, a Tokyo-made liquor made from gin, red wine, brandy and Curacao.

Nightlife type: techno & underground music, vibrant clubs
Top 3 Nightlife Areas: Roppongi, Kabuki-cho, Ginza
3 must-visit clubs: ageHa (Shin-Kiba), Trump Room (Shibuya-ku), V2 (Roppongi)

New Orleans, USA

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The New Orleans music scene is a vibrant mix of brass bands, Zydeco beats and live music. Head to Frenchmen Street for top-notch live music, dance to funk or listen to local bands. Mardi Gras is a must-see. The bars and jazz clubs on Bourbon Street and in the French Quarter are classic New Orleans nightlife destinations.

Located in the heart of the historic Freret Corridor is Cure, an upscale cocktail bar with a Southern flair. The dress code here is strict! Even in August, men are required to wear pants.

Nightlife: Live music, underground music clubs, blues & jazz clubs
Top 3 Nightlife Areas: French Quarter, Garden District, Central Business District (CBD)
3 must-visit clubs: Maple Leaf (Riverbend), One Eyed Jack (French Quarter), Ooh Poo Pah Doo (Treme)

Miami, USA

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In Miami, electronic music lovers can enjoy the city's many festivals, such as the famous Ultra Festival, and ultra-luxe nightclubs like LIV and Story. It's hard to leave Miami's vast, endless beaches, but luckily, much of the city's nightlife takes place right on the beach. Nikki Beach Club is located in the middle of the beach, so you can sip your drinks under large cabanas, in comfortable hammocks, or on beach beds. Every Sunday, the club hosts an outdoor beach party that lasts until well past midnight. Rose Bar, at the Delano Hotel, offers a more glamorous vibe with its pink walls and Venetian chandeliers. Enjoy a cocktail in the bar's lobby or on the outdoor terrace.

Nightlife Type: Live Music, Underground, Hot Club, Dance Party, Festival
Top 3 Nightlife Areas: Miami Beach, Downtown, Upper East Side
3 must-visit clubs: Ball & Chain (Little Havana), Sky Bar (Miami Beach), Liv@FontaineBleau (Miami Beach)