Beijing’s nightlife offers a diverse and vibrant scene that caters to a wide array of tastes and preferences, reflecting the city’s status as a global metropolis. From the neon-lit clubs of Sanlitun to the traditional teahouses that transform into bars by night, there’s something for everyone in Beijing after dark.

Sanlitun: The Expat Haven

Sanlitun is the heartbeat of Beijing’s nightlife and a haven for expats and visitors seeking a vibrant night on the town. This bustling district is renowned for its trendy bars, high-end clubs, and a large selection of eateries that serve both international and local cuisine. The area’s centerpiece, Sanlitun Bar Street, is a long strip where you can find a multitude of bars and pubs catering to diverse tastes. It’s common to see expats mingling with locals, enjoying craft beers, signature cocktails, and live music. Sanlitun is also home to some of the city’s most exclusive shopping destinations, making it an all-in-one locale for those who want to dine, drink, and shop in a cosmopolitan atmosphere.

Houhai: Traditional Meets Trendy

Houhai is a district where the charm of old Beijing fuses with the dynamism of its modern nightlife. The area is famous for its beautiful lakeside setting, with a variety of bars and restaurants lining the shores of the Houhai Lake. At night, the area comes alive with the sound of traditional Chinese music and the buzz of lively conversations. Visitors can explore small, lantern-lit bars that offer a more intimate and laid-back experience, as well as larger venues featuring live bands and dance floors. In Houhai, traditional teahouses and courtyard houses stand side by side with hip new establishments, creating a unique blend that attracts a diverse crowd looking for an authentic yet contemporary night out in Beijing.

Wudaokou: The University District’s Offerings

Wudaokou, in the Haidian District, is known for its dense population of university students and academics due to its proximity to several of China’s top universities. This youthful energy translates into a bustling nightlife scene that is both affordable and energetic. The area is dotted with a variety of bars, clubs, and KTVs (karaoke bars) that are particularly popular among the student crowd. These venues often host themed nights, dance parties, and live performances, all at prices that won’t break the bank. Wudaokou’s laid-back vibe and cultural diversity make it the perfect place for those looking to experience the lively side of Beijing’s student life. Whether it’s a quiet evening with friends at a local café or a night of dancing, Wudaokou has something for every type of night owl.

Beijing offers a plethora of affordable entertainment options for those looking to enjoy the nightlife without breaking the bank. Here are some recommendations to ensure you have a fun-filled night that’s also kind to your wallet:

Happy hours are a budget traveler’s best friend and many bars in Beijing have special deals on drinks, often in the early evening. Establishments like The Local in Sanlitun offer great happy hour deals that include discounts on both food and drinks. It’s a perfect way to start your evening before heading out to more night-time adventures.

For live music fans, venues such as Jianghu Bar, located in the historic Hutong area, occasionally have free entry for performances, especially on weeknights. The laid-back atmosphere and the chance to catch up-and-coming local musicians make this a must-visit spot.

Free entry clubs can also be found around the city if you know where to look. Many clubs in the Wudaokou district cater to students and often have no cover charge, especially early in the night or on specific weekdays. Clubs like Sensation Club and Propaganda frequently host events where entry is free or very affordable.

Street food in Beijing is not only a must-try experience for its flavors but also for its affordability. After enjoying some inexpensive local eats, you can head over to a nearby bar for a drink. Some bars even allow you to bring your food in, which can help save on dining costs.

Additionally, look out for ladies’ night promotions, which are popular in Beijing’s club scene. Venues such as Suzie Wong’s offer free entry and complimentary drinks for women on certain nights, which can be a great deal if you’re traveling in a group.

Lastly, consider purchasing a Beijing nightlife card if you plan on frequenting bars and clubs. These cards offer discounts and deals at various nightlife venues across the city and can save you a significant amount of money in the long run.

For those seeking an opulent night out, Beijing’s luxury nightlife scene promises exclusive experiences that are both sophisticated and unforgettable. The city’s high-end clubs, bars, and lounges are designed to impress, offering impeccable service, a chic atmosphere, and often, strict dress codes to maintain an elite ambiance.

One of the epitomes of luxury nightlife is the ELEMENTS Club. This venue is renowned for its lavish interior design, state-of-the-art sound system, and top-tier DJ performances. ELEMENTS attracts a glamorous crowd and requires patrons to dress to impress—think cocktail dresses, high heels, and tailored suits.

Another beacon of opulence is the China Bar, perched on the top floor of the Park Hyatt Beijing. It offers breathtaking views of the cityscape paired with an extensive selection of vintage wines, premium spirits, and expertly crafted cocktails. The China Bar’s dress code is smart casual, ensuring an elegant environment where guests can unwind in style.

The Bar at Migas Mercado is another high-end option for those who appreciate the finer things in life. This rooftop bar not only provides a panoramic view of the city’s skyline but also serves a curated selection of cocktails and Mediterranean-inspired bites. Its modern, stylish decor and ambient lighting set the perfect scene for an exclusive night out.

For a more intimate luxury experience, O’Bar at NUO Hotel Beijing is a top choice. With its sleek, contemporary design and a private cigar lounge, O’Bar offers an exceptional array of drinks, including rare whiskies and classic cocktails. The atmosphere is one of refined comfort, and the dress code reflects this upscale setting.

Xiu, already mentioned as a must-visit rooftop bar, deserves another nod in the realm of luxury nightlife for its VIP rooms and prestigious vibe. With a dress code that encourages chic attire, Xiu provides a space where Beijing’s elite can socialize in a sophisticated environment.

Lastly, no discussion of Beijing’s luxury nightlife would be complete without mentioning the famous Club Sir. Teen. This high-end nightclub is the epitome of luxury, delivering unforgettable experiences with its avant-garde performances, VIP bottle service, and exclusive clientele. Here, dressing to the nines is part of the experience, with formalwear often being the norm among its discerning guests.

Capital Spirits Baijiu Bar & Distillery is the first bar in the world specializing in baijiu (a Chinese alcoholic beverage made from grain). The decoration conveys the Chinese traditional atmosphere.

• Address: 3 Daju Hutong, Dongcheng Beijing, China
• Tell: +86 1064 0933 19

Janes and Hooch is an American-style bar offering a wide range of fabulous cocktails and drinks. The menu of the bar updates weekly, so you can find something new every time you go.

• Address: 4 Gongti Bei Road, Chaoyang Beijing, China
• Tell: +86 1065 0327 57

Jing-A Taproom is a great craft beer destination in Beijing offering a strong selection of beers along with a good meal menu including various Chinese and international dishes such as sliders and grilled cheese sandwiches.

• Address:  1949 The Hidden City, Courtyard 4, Gongti Beilu, Chaoyang District
• Tell: +86 6501 8883

Great Leap Brewing is one of the best and ever-so-popular craft brewing beer destinations in China. Honey Ma Gold and Little General IPA are the most famous specialties of the bar. Here, you don’t have food options; however, you can find the menus of restaurants around the bar.

• Address: No. 6, Doujiao Hutong, Beijing, China
• Tell: +86 010 5717 1399

Almost all Equis customers offer the bar to other travelers. Undoubtedly, you can see one of the best bar decorations in Beijing here with a nice and fantastic drink.

• Address: No.48 Liangmaqiao Road, Beijing 100096 China
• Tell: +86 10 5695 8888

Club Mix is one of the most popular clubs in Beijing with two floors, and each floor offers a specific type of music and performance. Club Mix is great for dancing and having a nice drink. You can see the schedule on the website.

• Address: Workers’ Sports Complex North Road, Chaoyang Qu Beijing Shi, China
• Tell: +861065302889

It’s a pretty fine club in Beijing offering a good menu of drinks as well as nice music and great performance. The price is somehow high, but it’s worth the try.

• Address: 2/F, No.6 Gongti West Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing China
• Tell: +86 185 1828 5425

It’s a Korean-style nightclub in Beijing. DJs are from Korea and the club music of Korea is very popular. Some of the most famous figures in electronic dance music in the world have regular schedules in Modo Ultra Club. You can also taste some of the best cocktails, spirits, and Champaign of Beijing here.

• Address: 4/F U-Town Shopping Mall, Chaowai Dajie, Chaoyang Beijing, China
• Tell: +861085266666

Tang Club was classified as the best club in Beijing in 2007. Here you can enjoy drinking and dancing to the wee hours of the morning.

• Address: 8 Chaoyang Park West Gate, Beijing, China
• Tell: +86 6500 8888

Banana is a European-style club in Beijing offering international and skilled DJs from all over the world. It’s one of the wildest spots in the city.

• Address: 22 Jianguomenwai Dajie, Beijing, China
• Tell: +86 6536 3939

Enjoying Beijing’s nightlife should be an exciting and memorable experience, but it’s important to keep safety in mind to ensure a trouble-free evening. Here are some tips to help you stay safe while exploring the city’s vibrant after-dark offerings:

Firstly, always be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Pickpocketing can occur in busy bars and clubs, so keep your valuables secure and close to your body. Consider using a money belt or a bag with a secure closure that you can wear in front of you.

It’s also wise to stick to well-lit and populated streets if you’re walking at night. Beijing is generally safe, but like any major city, it’s best to avoid dark alleys or quiet areas when alone late at night. If you need to get back to your accommodation, licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps are the safest options. Make sure the taxi is officially marked, and avoid unlicensed cabs.

When it comes to alcohol, know your limits and keep an eye on your drink at all times. Drink spiking can happen, so it’s crucial to accept drinks only from bartenders or people you trust. If you start to feel unwell or disoriented, seek help immediately from the venue staff or a friend.

Understanding local laws and etiquette is equally important for a safe night out in Beijing. Public drunkenness is frowned upon, and there are laws against it. If you’re visiting a club or a bar, it’s common courtesy to dress neatly and follow any dress code that’s in place. Additionally, smoking is banned in many public places, including bars and restaurants, so always check for designated smoking areas.

Lastly, remember that the legal drinking age in China is 18. Carry a form of identification with you, as some venues may ask to see it before serving you alcohol.