Are you a traveler in search of the perfect bar scene? Look no further! In our latest article, we've examined cities around the world to reveal which destinations offer the most bars per capita. Imagine being spoiled for choice before even setting foot on a plane!
While Guadalajara takes the crown as the city with the most bars per capita, Europe dominates the global rankings. Six European cities make it to the top 10, offering travelers an array of choices, with Bologna, Italy taking the European top spot.
Surprisingly, two northern UK cities, Leeds and Liverpool, outshine their larger counterparts, proving that great bar scenes can be found in unexpected places. Meanwhile, Japan showcases its prominence with three cities in the top 10.
Let's take a closer look at the top 10 destinations and their vibrant bar scenes!
1. Guadalajara, Mexico
Bars per capita: 35.3
Located in the vibrant state of Jalisco, Guadalajara captures the essence of Mexican hospitality and revelry. This city boasts a thriving bar scene that caters to all tastes, from trendy cocktail lounges to traditional cantinas.
Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Guadalajara's nightlife as you sip on mezcal or enjoy a refreshing michelada. With 35.3 bars per 100,000 people, Guadalajara promises an unforgettable bar-hopping experience.
Are you considering a trip to Mexico but feeling uncertain about the entry requirements? Worry not! Explore the Mexican travel documents, where you can effortlessly find the precise requirements based on your country of origin.
2. Bologna, Italy
Bars per capita: 19.3
Bologna, the gastronomic capital of Italy, not only delights food enthusiasts but also offers a fantastic bar scene. Known for its vibrant university culture, Bologna combines historic charm with youthful energy.
Explore the city's narrow streets and piazzas, where you'll find an abundance of wine bars, craft beer pubs, and elegant cocktail lounges. With 19.3 bars per 100,000 people, Bologna provides a perfect setting to savour a glass of wine or an expertly crafted cocktail.
3. Prague, Czech Republic
Bars per capita: 18.1
Step into the fairytale-like city of Prague, where medieval architecture blends harmoniously with a buzzing bar culture. From traditional Czech beer halls to trendy underground bars, Prague offers a diverse range of establishments for both locals and tourists.
Stroll through the historic center, indulge in delicious Czech brews, and soak up the lively atmosphere. With 18.1 bars per 100,000 people, Prague invites you to discover its captivating bar scene.
4. Valencia, Spain
Bars per capita: 15.9
Situated on the picturesque Mediterranean coast, Valencia is a city that celebrates the good life. The vibrant Spanish culture comes alive in its bars and pubs, where locals gather to enjoy tapas, paella, and refreshing sangria.
Experience the lively nightlife in the historic Carmen neighborhood or relax at beachfront chiringuitos, sipping on a cool Agua de Valencia cocktail. With 15.9 bars per 100,000 people, Valencia invites you to embrace the joy of Spanish bar culture.
5. Niigata, Japan
Bars per capita: 15.0
Niigata may not be the first city that comes to mind when you think of Japan's bar scene, but it's a hidden gem worth exploring. Located on the country's west coast, Niigata is renowned for its sake production and offers a wealth of sake bars and izakayas.
Savour local brews, paired with fresh seafood and regional delicacies, as you immerse yourself in the warm hospitality of Niigata. With 15.0 bars per 100,000 people, Niigata surprises with its unique and authentic bar experiences.
Are you uncertain about the entry requirements for Japan? If that's the case, we encourage you to explore the Japanese travel documents. By selecting your country of origin, you can easily find the specific requirements that apply to you.
6. Leeds, United Kingdom
Bars per capita: 14.1
Nestled in the heart of Yorkshire, Leeds is a city that effortlessly combines tradition with a modern twist. Its bar scene reflects this eclectic mix, offering everything from historic pubs to trendy cocktail bars.
Explore the vibrant areas of Call Lane and Merrion Street, where you'll find a plethora of venues serving craft beers, inventive cocktails, and live music. With 14.1 bars per 100,000 people, Leeds promises an exciting night out for bar enthusiasts.
7. Liverpool, United Kingdom
Bars per capita: 13.2
Liverpool, the birthplace of The Beatles and a city steeped in cultural heritage, also boasts a dynamic bar culture. From iconic pubs with live music to stylish waterfront bars, Liverpool offers a diverse range of venues to suit all tastes.
Immerse yourself in the city's music history while sipping on a pint of local ale or enjoying a classic cocktail. With 13.2 bars per 100,000 people, Liverpool invites you to explore its vibrant nightlife and experience the spirit of this legendary city.
8. Sapporo, Japan
Bars per capita: 12.2
Sapporo, the capital of Japan's northernmost island of Hokkaido, is renowned for its beer and winter festivals. The city's bar scene reflects its lively and welcoming atmosphere, offering a mix of cosy izakayas, craft beer pubs, and chic cocktail bars.
Warm up with a steaming bowl of ramen paired with a locally brewed Sapporo beer or sample innovative cocktails crafted with Hokkaido's finest ingredients. With 12.2 bars per 100,000 people, Sapporo invites you to experience its unique blend of Japanese hospitality and vibrant nightlife.
9. Tokyo, Japan
Bars per capita: 11.9
As Japan's bustling capital, Tokyo needs no introduction. The city's bar scene is a testament to its cosmopolitan nature, featuring an incredible variety of establishments. From tiny hole-in-the-wall bars to high-end mixology destinations, Tokyo caters to every taste and preference.
Explore the narrow streets of Golden Gai, visit the world-famous Ginza district, or unwind in one of the city's rooftop bars overlooking the dazzling skyline. With 11.9 bars per 100,000 people, Tokyo guarantees a bar-hopping adventure like no other.
10. Krakow, Poland
Bars per capita: 11.3
Krakow, the former royal capital of Poland, effortlessly blends its rich history with a vibrant bar scene. The city's charming streets are dotted with atmospheric pubs, underground cellars, and chic cocktail bars.
Immerse yourself in Krakow's lively nightlife as you sip on local beers, sample traditional Polish vodka, or indulge in inventive cocktails inspired by the city's heritage. With 11.3 bars per 100,000 people, Krakow promises a memorable bar-hopping experience in a setting straight out of a fairy tale.
Europe
In Europe, the city of Bologna takes the top spot with an impressive 19.3 bars per 100,000 people, offering a diverse and vibrant bar scene. Krakow in Poland, Milan in Italy, Palermo in Sicily, Rome in Italy, and Amsterdam in the Netherlands complete the top 10 list, each offering their unique blend of tradition and modernity with their respective bar scenes.
With such an array of choices, Europe proves to be a haven for bar enthusiasts seeking memorable experiences.
North America
In North America, Austin takes the lead with 5.1 bars per 100,000 people, offering a vibrant and diverse nightlife scene that reflects the city's lively atmosphere. Chicago follows closely behind with 4.2 bars, known for its iconic speakeasies and craft breweries.
Calgary in Canada, Quebec City, Columbus, Philadelphia, and NYC complete the top 10 list, each bringing its unique flavors to the bar scene. North America offers a diverse selection of cities, ensuring that bar enthusiasts will find a variety of options to suit their preferences across the continent.
Plan your trip
Choosing a travel destination just got a whole lot easier for bar enthusiasts! Whether you're drawn to the vibrant bar culture of Guadalajara, the historic charm of Bologna, or the dynamic nightlife of Leeds, each destination on our list offers a unique bar-hopping experience.
Don't forget to meet all the travel documents for your chosen destination. Not sure what you need? Let us know via online chat or WhatsApp. We're happy to help!