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By Madmonkey May 8, 2023 Share:

Don’t be fooled by the serene and tranquil atmosphere of Luang Prabang, it’s still a fantastic place to let loose and have a fun night out. You’ll find a variety of bars and clubs all over town, each one with its own unique atmosphere. Is the bar of your dreams more rustic and bohemian? Classy with a streak of grunge? Or is it a little more upbeat with a lively social scene? Despite the legal curfew of 11:30 PM for all bars in the Old Town, there are still ways to keep the party going. Just a 10-minute drive outside of central Luang Prabang, you’ll find many late-night establishments that are more than happy to host backpackers for their fun night out. Check out our Luang Prabang Nightlife Guide for some pre-curfew and post-curfew backpacker favorites:

 

 

Luang Prabang Nightlife Guide for Backpackers in 2019
Luang Prabang nightlife © Courtesy of Shutterstock

 

Before Curfew

Utopia Bar: Best Atmosphere

A popular haunt for travelers, the Utopia Bar strikes that perfect balance of relaxing chilled-out vibes in the day and a vibrant nightlife in the evenings. A backpacker favorite, Utopia sits perched by the Nam Khan river and it’s open every day till curfew for smoothies, food, and cocktails. The bar-restaurant has developed a reputation as one of Luang Prabang’s must-try places for all backpackers, so we definitely recommend starting your party here. And why not come by in the day as well? Sprawl out on the deck and enjoy the gorgeous river view. You’re definitely going to want to stay for a while.

 

Icon Klub: Best Cocktails in Luang Prabang

If you’re looking for a top-notch cocktail and a bar that’s edgier than the rest, look no further. Many locals have voted Icon Klub as the best bar in town. Its atmosphere is a little more low-key than other bars on this list, but as far as high-end liquor goes, it easily has them beat.

As you’d expect, prices are a little steeper here, but we’re willing to bet you’ll think it’s worth it after a drink. The hostess, Lisa, is a talented bartender who can whip up any cocktail to suit your preferences. She’s also known for crafting her own creative signature cocktails, like her latest creation inspired by the TV show, ‘Stranger Things.’ Some past patrons are convinced this would have been Kerouac or Hemingway’s favorite bar in town. Get to know its cool yet classy vibe, and you’ll likely agree.

 

Redbul Bar: Best Sports Bar in Luang Prabang

Choose Redbul Bar if you’re looking for a dive-bar atmosphere and a fun game of pool. A popular haunt for local expats, patrons love Redbul for its cheap beer and good pub food. TVs are always on the sports channel, so if you need a lively place to watch the latest footie match, then grab yourself a pint of cold Beerlao and an empty seat. Past guests insist that if you only have time for one drink in Luang Prabang, you should have it here.

 

After Curfew

Luang Prabang Bowling Alley: Best Party in Luang Prabang

Yes, you read that right! Believe it or not, the Bowling Alley is considered Luang Prabang’s top party spot. Once all the trendy bars have shut their doors in the town center, you can count on the Bowling Alley to welcome you in with cold beer and whiskey running like an open faucet. A hotspot for backpackers looking to have a great time, you’ll meet fellow backpackers from all over the world looking to have a wild night out. And don’t forget, it is a bowling alley – so why not play a round or two with your new friends? Losers can buy drinks for the rest of the night!

 

Must-Try Drinks in Luang Prabang

Snake Whiskey

For thousands of years, snake whiskey has been considered a traditional medicine, an aphrodisiac, and an even a strength-enhancing elixir. But it’s also just a fantastic drink. In Luang Prabang, you’ll find many vendors selling bottles or single shots of snake whiskey. Don’t be alarmed by the very real snake coiled at the bottom of the bottle! How else do you think it got its name? Though tourists are understandably wary at first, most are surprised to find that snake whiskey is absolutely delicious. If you enjoy a good drink, be brave and have a taste!

 

Must-Try Drinks in Luang Prabang - Luang Prabang Nightlife Guide for Backpackers in 2019
Lao Snake Whiskey © Courtesy of Shutterstock

 

Lao Rice Wine

Bars and clubs are probably not going to keep a stock of rice wine, but we recommend picking up a bottle (or two, or three) from the Night Market. Fermented rice wine is well-loved by most parts of Asia. Strength and flavor will vary with the exact type of rice wine, but for the most part, tourists find it smooth and easy to drink. The taste has been likened to kombucha, as it strikes many people as not tasting alcoholic. But don’t be fooled! Despite its mild taste, rice wine has a very high alcohol content. Sip it slowly and enjoy!

 

Beerlao

If you haven’t already, make sure you try Laos’ award-winning beer, Beerlao. This national beer is produced in Vientiane, and made from locally-grown jasmine rice, with hops, malt, and yeast imported from Europe. You’ll find Beerlao absolutely everywhere, from bars and clubs to restaurants and corner shops.

 

Beerlao - Luang Prabang Nightlife Guide for Backpackers in 2019
Things to do in Luang Prabang: try Beerlao © Courtesy of Shutterstock

 

 

More Information About Luang Prabang Nightlife

Did you enjoy this article about Luang Prabang nightlife? Are you looking for even more bars in Luang Prabang? Then check out these other articles about where to go out in this Laos city!

 

About the Author

Mad Monkey is Southeast Asia’s leading hostel operator — born in Cambodia with more properties in Thailand, Indonesia, Australia, Laos, and the Philippines. We pride ourselves in creating meaningful and sustainable travel experiences for our guests, whilst promoting socially responsible tourism.