Although Bangkok was named the world's best city for nightlife in 2026, South Africa also has reason to be proud: Johannesburg has secured a spot in the global top ten.
The ranking, compiled by Time Out and covered by Euronews, surveyed over 24,000 residents across 150 cities. Respondents rated their cities based on criteria such as the quality and accessibility of nightlife, sense of community, and how lively, welcoming, diverse, and safe they feel after dark.
Johannesburg achieved seventh place, becoming the highest-ranked African city on the list. It surpassed nightlife favorites like Amsterdam and Brighton. This 'City of Gold' was recognized for its constantly evolving evening scene, which includes warehouse clubs, Afro-house dance floors, live music venues, cocktail bars, and local pubs.
According to Time Out, Johannesburg also performed well in terms of accessibility, scoring 66% in this parameter. More importantly, 80% of local residents reported that it is easy to find social interaction and a sense of community in the city.
The city's nightlife ranges from established venues and dance floors to bars and restaurants in areas such as Melville and Rosebank. Newtown and Gugulethu Street are also highlighted for their high concentration of clubs and music venues.
Bangkok took first place, with 73% of residents describing the city's nightlife as good or amazing. The Thai capital was noted for its vast diversity, including rooftop bars, mega-clubs, street vendors, late dining, and LGBTQ+ nightlife.
Berlin came in second, followed by New York, Melbourne, and São Paulo. Medellín ranked sixth, placing Johannesburg directly behind the Colombian city in the rankings.
Despite Europe's reputation as a region with legendary nightlife, only three European destinations made the top 10. Berlin was the highest-ranked European city, securing second place, while Brighton was eighth and Amsterdam was tenth.
Brighton stood out for its strong sense of community: 84% of local residents stated that it is easy to meet people and feel part of the city. Its LGBTQ+ nightlife also received praise. Amsterdam, in turn, was recognized for its vibrant downtown nightlife and reputation as an inclusive place.
The ranking reflects not just the number of clubs in a city. Time Out combined local resident opinions with assessments from over 100 editors and urban experts, considering the quality of nightlife, its accessibility, sense of community, and overall atmosphere after dark.
For travelers from South Africa, Johannesburg's seventh place serves as a reminder that the city's tourist appeal does not end when the sun sets.