This was published 8 years ago
World's best party cities: The top 10 cities that never sleep
By Ute Junker
After 2am the action shifts to the nightclubs in Buenos Aires.Credit: John Lund
LAS VEGAS
In the ultimate 24/7 city, the gambling never stops and neither does the party. You really will need to stay up all night if you want to sample even a fraction of Vegas' up-late offerings. For something upmarket, there is the Voo Doo Steak and Rooftop Night Club, with its bird's-eye view of the neon city. Or for pure Vegas tack, try the Egyptian-themed Cleopatra's Barge – yes, it's a real boat.
See: The ultimate Sin City experience
The Bellagio Hotel In Las Vegas.Credit: iStock
SAO PAULO
Dinner hour in Brazil doesn't begin till about 10pm, so satisfying the midnight munchies is never a problem. What may be a problem, however, particularly in the see-and-be-seen parts of town, is getting a table. At trendy 24-hour restaurants such as Paris 6, expect queues even in the early hours. The wait is worth it, for the people-watching as much as the food.
See: 20 reasons to visit Sao Paulo
French Quarter nightlife in New Orleans.
HONG KONG
Sleepless in Hong Kong? You are not alone. This city never stops, so whatever craving strikes, there is a way to satisfy it. Fancy a 2am foot massage? No problem: plenty of reflexology parlours stay open into the wee hours. As for food – a national obsession – there are plenty of all-night diners to choose from, particularly in the Wan Chai district.
See: The three-minute guide to Hong Kong
Nanjing Road, in the futuristic nightscape of central Shanghai's Huangpu district. Credit: William Fawcett
NEW ORLEANS
Late nights are a lifestyle in New Orleans, where the good times just keep rolling. Plenty of drinking holes are open 24 hours a day, including the legendary Buffa's Bar, and the live music scene also caters for night owls. Many of the best music venues in town, clustered together on Frenchmen Street, offer a choice of early and late performances, and encourage patrons to kick on afterwards.
See: How New Orleans made a comeback to become America's coolest city
Live music keeps the party going in New Orleans.
BARCELONA
Where did the Latin Americans learn their late-night ways? From the Spanish, of course. So it's only natural that in a city such as Barcelona, late night revellers have plenty of choice. Most bars, including elegant venues such as Muy Buenas, are open till about 2am. For hardcore party people, several under-the-radar bars, such as Papillon in the El Born district, don't even open until 3am.
Shibuya Crossing in Tokyo is one of the best shopping districts and has a bustling nightlife. Credit: iStock
TOKYO
In a city this well ordered, it is no surprise that night owls have plenty of late-night bars and restaurants to choose from. What makes Tokyo special, however, is that it caters to other desires, too. Need a good soak? Many onsen baths are open 22 hours a day, closing for two hours about 7am. There are also 24-hour bowling alleys, golf ranges and gyms. Even some vintage clothing stores open until 1am.
See: Four reasons Tokyo really is the world's most liveable city
Diners at Temple Street Night Market in Hong Kong.Credit: Jenny Jones
BERLIN
Berlin's notorious nightclub scene doesn't get going until after midnight, with iconic clubs such as Berghain, Watergate and Weekend laying down beats until sunrise and beyond. Clubbing not your thing? The thermal baths at Liquidrom are open until midnight, as is Dussmann das Kulturkaufhaus, which stocks Berlin's best selection of English language books.
See: Eight ways to become a hipster in Berlin
NEW YORK CITY
The original city that never sleeps is as restless as ever. Thanks to a subway that runs 24 hours, you can enjoy an eclectic array of experiences across town. Have your hair done on Park Avenue at Hair Party 24 Hours, treat yourself to the delights of a traditional Korean Spa at Juvenex, or satisfy your hunger with tasty bites from late openers such as B.A.D Burger, Cuban food at Coppelia or pastrami from the legendary Katz's Deli.
See: The 20 things you must do in New York
BUENOS AIRES
Heading for a night out in BA? Pace yourself. Book your dinner table for 10pm, which should leave you ready to hit the bars around midnight. They tend to close about 2am, which is when the action shifts to the nightclubs. Clubbing peaks between 3am and 6am, which is when the locals head home – and continue the party there.
See: The best-kept secret of Buenos Aires
SHANGHAI
Forget after-dinner drinks: in Shanghai, where shops are open till 10pm or later, after-dinner shopping is in. By the time the shops are shutting, you may be ready for a small snack; plenty of eateries are open until 3am. Caught your second wind? Several clubs are open until 6am; Shiva Lounge is a favourite.
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